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HISTORY
OF
Mercer County.
PF.NNSYT.VANTA,
ITS T»^ST J^jsru 1= 12, T] S T3 IT T.
INCLUDING
ITS ABORIGINAL HISTORY; ITS EARLY SETTLEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT;
A DESCRIPTION OF ITS HISTORIC AND INTERESTING LOCALITIES;
SKETCHES OF ITS BOROUGHS, TOWNSHIPS AND VILLAGES;
NEIGHBORHOOD AND FAMILY HISTORIES; PORTRAITS
AND BIOGRAPHIES OF PIONEERS AND REPRE-
SENTATIVE CITIZENS; STATISTICS, ETC.
ALSO
A Condensed History of Pennsylvania.
I LLUSTR ATED.
Chicago, III.:
BROWN, RUNK & CO., PUBLISHERS,
1888.
JOHN MORRIS COMPANY,
PRINTERS,
118 AND 120 MONROE STREET,
CHICAGO, ILL.
PREFACE.
(^,RIOR to the centennial year the Hon. William S. Garvin, editor of the
Ip TFestern Press, collected material for, and commenced the preparation
^ of, a volume embracing the leading points in the pioneer, family, and
official history of Mercer County. Before his plans had been consummated
another work, purporting to contain similar information, was hurriedly pub-
\ lished, which materially interfered with his future operations, and ultimately
'‘thwarted his long-cherished purpose. In fact, the project was finally aban-
doned, and chapters but partially written were left incomplete, and data in
process of being gathered were, at his death in 1883, left in a somewhat
chaotic condition.
The chapters which Mr. Garvin had completed, together with his unfin-
ished manuscripts, notes and memoranda, were purchased from his legal
heirs in August, 1887, by the undersigned, who employed Prof. J. Fraise
Richard to edit and compile the same. What was thus secured, to-
gether with a large amount of additional material since collected, will be
found in the present volume, which also contains a condensed history of the
State from the pen of Prof. Samuel P. Bates, a well known author of Mead-
ville, Penn. The Garvin manuscripts have been carefully edited, and all of
the data which he left has been woven into the narrative at the most suita-
ble points, as necessity required.
Many difficulties beset the preparation of a work of this kind. Official
records are often incomplete or entirely missing, while the periodical press,
that great reservoir of current history, did not exist in early pioneer days to
chronicle passing events. And even when it did appear it was meager in
local news, and its files were rarely preserved. The real pioneers, too, were
not given to preserving records of their lives, their time being entirely
devoted to conquering the forest wilderness and providing homes for their
families. They have long since passed away, and their descendants are
frequently but ill-prepared to recount their trials and experiences. Still it
must be apparent to all, that
“The past — the present race must tell
Of deeds done by their friends of old,
Who at their posts of duty fell,
And left their acts and deeds untold.
To rescue from oblivion’s page
Events that memory has in store.
We’ve sought the men of honored age.
And what, we ask, can man do more?”
One of the most important features of this work are its several chapters
of personal and family biographies. The data for these were obtained from
the original parties or their descendants, to whom the matter was afterward
submitted for correction before publication, thus affording them an oppor-
tunity of insuring accuracy. Those who furnished the data are, therefore,
responsible for its genuineness and authenticity. The future historian will
have in this carefully prepared material a good foundation to build upon in
commencing his work.
It would be impossible to mention here, everyone who has rendered val-
uable aid in the preparation of this volume. Appropriate acknowledge-
ments, however, are due and gladly tendered to the heirs of Mi’. Garvin for
general aid in collecting his papers; to the editors of the several newspapers
of the county for the use of their files and kind words of encouragement; to
the descendants of the pioneers in every township and borough for infor-
mation furnished; to the county officials for courtesies shown; to attorneys,
physicians and other professional men ; to the leading spirits in various soci-
eties; to the pastors of churches; to the owners and managers of manufact-
uring and other business establishments; to those enterprising citizens who
gave us their patronage, and without whose assistance we could not have
succeeded; and, in general, to everyone who has, in any manner, contributed
to the success of the work.
We take pride in the knowledge that we have redeemed our promises,
and furnished our patrons a work which every intelligent citizen can justly
appreciate. Neither time nor money nor labor has been spared to make
the present volume an authentic and reliable source of information, wherein
are perpetuated the trials and achievements of the heroic pioneers, and the
subsequent growth and development of one of the most prosperous and
important counties of Western Pennsylvania.
BEOWN, EUNK & CO.
CONTENTS
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
CHAPTER I. — Introductory. — Coruelis Jacob-
sou Mey, 1634-25. William Van Hulst, 1625
-26. Peter Minuit, 1626-33. David Peter-
sen de Vries, 1633-3.3. Wouter Van Twiller,
16.33-38 15-23
CHAPTER II.— Sir William Keift, 1638^7.
Peter Minuit, 1638-41. Peter Hollandaer,
1641-43. ,Tohn Printz, 1643-53. Peter Stuy-
vesant, 1647-64. John Pappagoya, 1653-M.
John Claude Rysingh, 1654-55 23-33
CHAPTER III.— John Paul Jacquet, 1655-57.
Jacob Alrichs, 1657-59. Goeran Van Dyck,
1657-58. William Beekman, 1658-63. Alex.
D’Hinoyossa, 1659-64 33-35
CHAPTER IV.— Richard Nichols, 1664-67.
Robert Needham, 1664-68. Francis Love-
lace, 1667-73. John Carr, 1668-73. Anthony
Colve, 1673-74. Peter Alrichs, 1673-74 35-41
CHAPTER V.— Sir Edmund Andros, 1674-81.
Edmund Cantwell, 1674-76. John Collier,
1676-77. Christopher Billop, 1677-81 41-50
CHAPTER VI.— WilUam Markham, 1681-82.
William Penn, 1682-84 51-61
CHAPTER VII.— Thomas Lloyd, 1684-86. Five
Commissioners, 1686-88. John Blackwell,
1688-90. Thomas Lloyd, 1690-91. William
Markham, 1691-93. Benjamin Fletcher,
1693-95. William Markham, 1693-99 61-69
CHAPTER VIII.— William Penn, 1699-1701.
Andrew Hamilton, 1701-03. Edward Ship-
pen 1703-04. John Evans, 1704-09. Charles'
Gooken, 1709-17 69-75
PAGE.
CHAPTER IX.— Sir William Keith, 1717-26.
Patrick Gordon, 1726-36. James Logan,
1736-38. George Thomas, 17.38-47. Anthony
Palmer, 1747-48. James Hamilton, 1748-54,
75-89
CHAPTER X. — Robert H. Morris, 1754-56.
William Denny, 1756-59. James Hamilton,
1759-63 89-97
CHAPTER XI. — John Penn, 1763-71. James
Hamilton, 1771. Richard Penn, 1771-73.
John Penn, 1773-76 98-104
CHAPTER XII.— Thomas Wharton, Jr., mi-
78. George Bryan, 1778. Joseph Reed, 1778
-81. William Moore, 1781-82. John Dickin-
son, 1782-85. Benjamin Franklin, 1785-88,
104-114
CHAPTER XIII.— Thomas Mifflin. 1788-99.
Thomas McKean, 1799-1808. Simon Snyder,
1808-17. William Findlay, 1817-20. Joseph
Heister, 1820-2.3. John A. Shulze, 1823-29.
George Wolfe, 1829-35. Joseph Kitner, 1835
-39 114-121
CHAPTER XIV.— David R. Porter, 1839-45.
Francis R. Shunk, 1845-48. William F.
Johnstone, 1848-52. William Bigler, 1852-
55. James Pollock, 185.5-58. William F.
Packer, 1858-61. Andrew G. Curtin, 1861-
67. John W. Geary, 1867-73. John F\
Hartranft, 1873-78. Henry F. Hoyt, 1878-
82. Robert E. Pattison, 1882-86. James A.
Beaver, 1886 122-131
Gubernatorial Table 132
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
CHAPTER I.— Physical Features and Sub-
divisions.— Boundaries and Area — Topog-
raphy— Drainage — Tide Elevations — Soil —
Vegetation — Act Creating the County —
First Election Districts — Original Town-
ships and their Progeny— Population of the
County by Decades 137-142
CHAPTER II. — Land Titles.— Penn’s Title
not Recognized by the Indians — Treaties at
Forts Stanwix and McIntosh— Surveyors
endeavor to locate claims of Revolutionary
Soldiers — Conference of the Seneca Chiefs,
Cornplanter, Halt-Town and Big Tree, with
President 'Washington — Wayne’s Victory
over the Savages at Fallen Timbers — Treaty
of Greenville — Depreciation Lands — Bounty
or Donation Lands — Terms of Settlement —
,Tohn Carmichael’s effort in Worth Town-
ship— John Nicholson and the Pennsyl-
vania Population Company — John and Da-
vid Hoge — Holland and North American
Land Companies — Dr. Nathaniel Bedford —
Lodge, Probst and Walker — Litigation
growing out of ConHictiug Claims — Land
Warrants, Patents and Deeds 113-146
CHAPTER III. — Pioneers. — Their Nationality
and Character — Lists of Taxables by Town-
ships— Neshannock for 1800, 1801 and 1802 —
Irvin for 1800 — North Beaver for 1800 — Sa-
lem for 1801 and 1802 — Sandy Lake for 1801
— Cool Spring for 1801 and 1802 — Sandy
Creek for 1802 — Pymatuning for 1802 — Wolf
Creek for 1802 147-158
CHAPTER IV -Organization and Adminis- ■
tration. — Where the first courts were held
and the Officials and Lawyers Present — First
Grand Jury— Public Buildings, First Courts
and Statistics- Court-houses and Jails—
County Farm— First Courts and Cases— Sta-
tistics— Roster of Public Officials — Members
of Congress — State Senators — State Rejire-
sentatives — President Judges — Associate
Judges — District Attorneys — Commission-
ers— Prothonotaries — Registers and Record-
ers— Clerks of Court — Sherills — Treasurers —
Auditors — Coroners — Poor Directors — Canal
Commissioners — Jury Commissioners — Sur-
veyors 1.58-172
CHAPTER V. — Internal Aefaius. — First
VI
CONTENTS.
Roads Laid Out and by Whom Located — Mer-
cer and Meadville Turnpike — Beaver and
Erie Canal — Efforts Made to Have It Built —
Its Construction, Prosperity and Final Aban-
donment— Railroads — Early Railroad Agita-
tion— Erie & Pittsburgh — Erie Lines — Lake
Shore Branches — Sharpsville Road — Westi
ern, New York & Pennsylvania — Pittsburgh,
Shenango & Lake Erie — Proposed Railroad
from Mercer to Big Bend in 1847 — Early Inns
and Innkeepers — Tavern Keepers in Mercer
County from 1804 to 1834 — Post-offices and
Postmasters — Pioneer Mail Routes and Rates
of Postage — Growth of the System — List of
Post-offices aud Postmasters since the Organ-
ization of the County — Present Offices 172-190
CHAPTER VI. — Iron, Steel andCoal Indus-
tries.— Pioneer Furnaces of Mercer Counly
— Clay— West Middlesex — Oregon — Big Bend
— Esther — Greenville — Hamburg — Sharon —
Sharpsville — Mazeppa — Present Iron and
Steel Interests — Greenville Rolling Mills —
Furnaces in Sharpsville — Iron and Steel In-
dustries of Sharon — Iron Statistics for 1887—
A Question of Controversy — Coal Interests
of the County — First Coal Discovered aud
Used — Other Early Banks — Growth aud De-
velopment of the Coal Industry in the Vicin-
ity of Sharon and West Middlesex — Daily
Output in 1864 and 1865 — Mines near Stone-
boro, Pardoe and Grove City— Output for
1887 — Product not Reported 191-207
CHAPTER VII. — Agricultural. — Sources of
Wealth aud Their Relationship — Dignity of
the Farmer’s Calling — First Importation of
Domestic Animals into America — Vegetable
Products — Introduction of VVheat,Rye,Corn,
Oats, Buckwheat, Barley aud Potatoes into
this Country — Farm Implements and Im-
provements Made Therein — Fertilizers and
Drainage — Gilkey Potato — Agricultural Soci-
eties— Mercer Agricultural Societies of the
Past and Present— Shenango Valley Agri-
cultural and Manufacturing Society of
Greenville — Wool Growers’ Association —
Mercer County Agricultural Society of
Stoneboro — Jamestown Agricultural and
Manufacturing Association — Keystone and
Buckeye Fair Association of Sharon — Agri-
cultural Paper — The Grange 207-216
CHAPTER VIII. — Educational. — Necessity of
Rudimentary Education — Pioneer Schools
and Buildings — School Furniture — Text
Books — Branches Taught — Methods of In-
struction— Early Teachers in Mercer County
— James Hanavan’s Recollections — Common
School System of 1834 — Condition of the
Schools in 1846 — Office of County Superin-
tendent Established, and James C. Brown
Elected as its First Incumbent in Mercer
County — Teachers’ Institutes — List of Coun-
ty Superintendents 216-226
CHAPTER IX. — Political.— Civil Government
a Divine Appointment — Duties Imposed by
American Citizenship — National Adminis-
trations and Formation of Political Parties
— Washington the Unanimous Choice of the
People — Electoral Vote Cast for Each Presi-
dent since the Foundation of the Govern-
ment— The Democratic Party and Its Oppo-
nents— Anti-Masonic Period — Nullification
Excitement — Tariff Discussion Which it Pro-
duced— Prominent National Campaigns —
Know-nothingism— Birth of the Republican
Party — Its First Campaign in Mercer Coun-
ty— Subsequent Local Standing of Political
Parties 226-231
CHAPTER X. — The Press. — Its Great Power
and Influence — Early Modes of Dissemina-
ting News— Birth of the Newspaper, and its
Struggle for Free Speech — First Newspai>er
Published in America — Its First Relig-
PAGE.
ious Paper — Number of Periodicals Pub-
lished in the United States in 1886 — Mercer
Newspapers — Western Press— Mercer Lu-
minary — Free Presbyterian American
Freeman — Mercer Dispatch — Mercer Whig
— Whig and Dispatch — Mercer Republican
— Dispatch and Republican — Freemen’s
Monitor — Mercer County Farmer — Inde-
pendent Democrat — Democratic Register —
Mercer Index — Mercer Signal— Greenville
Papers — West Greenville Gazette— Visitor —
Weekly Express — Independent Press — West
Greenville Times — Rural Argus — Shenango
Valley Argus — Advance— Advance Argus —
Union Democrat — Greenville Progress —
Shenango Valley News — Independent —
Sharon Papers — Sharon Herald — Sharon
Times — Gospel Temperance Advocate— Shar-
on Eagle — Evening Eagle — Sharpsville Pa-
pers — Sharpsville Advertiser — Sharpsville
Times — Other Papers — .Tamestown Sun, Era,
Democrat and Sentinel — Grove City Tele-
phone-Sandy Lake News— Lake Local...231-247
CHAPTER XI. — Bench and Bar. — The Law
Profession — The Bench — Sketches of Presi-
dent Judges— Associate Judges — The Bar —
Brief Biographies of Deceased Attorneys
who Practiced at the Mercer Bar — Present
Bar of Mercer County 247-265
CHAPTER XII. — Religious. — Predominant
Faith of the First Settlers — Their Efforts to
Establish Churches and Schools — Sketches
of the First Presbyterian Organizations—
Call Extended to Rev. Daniel McLean in
1801 — Who Signed the Call — Methodist
Church — Beginning of Methodism in Mer-
cer County — Bishop Roberts and Cotempo-
rary Methodists — First Class Organized in
the County — Growth of the Church — Sala-
ries Paid Methodist Preaciiers from 1800 to
1816 — Itinerants of the Shenango Circuit —
Other Denominations Establish Churches
— An Attempt Made to Organize a Mormon
Church — First Bible Society— Early Mis-
sionary Society 265-271
CHAPTER XIII.- Medical. — Physiology —
Projier Knowledge and Observance of Phy-
sical Laws Necessary to a Sound Body and
Mind — Ignorance the Main Cause of Most
Human Infirmities — Senseopathy — Progress
in Medical Science — The Old-fashioned Doc-
tor— Pioneer Physicians of Mercer County
— Brief Sketches of the Best Remembered
Practitioners of Pioneer Days — Epidemics—
Medical Societies — First Medical Society of
Mereer — Organization of the Mercer County
Medical Society in 1848 — Its Demise and
Reorganization— Officers of the Society since
1882 271-284
CHAPTER XIV.— Philanthropic and Patri-
otic Movements. — Temperance — Early
Temperance Agitation — Organization of the
Mercer Temperance Society— The Leading
Spirit in the Movement — Its Rules and Sup-
porters— The Influence It Wielded— Counter
Agitation — Resolutions Passed at an Anti-
Temperance Meeting in Sheakleyville
Growth of the Temperance Cause — Prohibi-
tion Movement of 1854-55 — Temperance
Convention in Mercer — Other Temperance
Movements — The Crusade — Woman’s Chris-
tian Temperance Union — Murphy Move-
ment-Prohibition— Anti-Slavery Agitation
in Mercer County— A Society Organized —
Its Principles and Declarations— Growth of
the Abolition Sentiment —Underground
Railroad^— Assistance rendered the Irish
People in 1847 by Mercer County Citizens—
Strong Protest against the Desecration of
the Lord’s Day — Fourth of July Celebra-
tions.... 284-293
CHAPTER XV.— Military.— The Revolution,
War of 1812 and Mexican War — Condition
CONTENTS.
of Western Pennsylvania during the Eevo-
lution — Period of Settlement — Revolution-
ary Soldiers who Settled in Mercer County
— War of 1812 — Early Incidents of the Strug-
gle— Military Organization in the County
before the War — Rosters of Companies from
Mercer County — Character of the Troops—
Events of that Period — Some Veterans
whose Names do not Appear on the Rosters
— Mexican War— Opposition of the Whig
Leaders to the War — Enthusiasm of the
People — A Company Raised in Mercer, and
its Services Tendered the President— Public
Meetings Held to Sustain the Government,
294-304
CHAPTER XVI.— War op the Rebellion. —
The Seed of Discord Planted with the Colon-
ial Settlements — Growth of the “ Irrepressi-
ble Conflict,” and its Final Culmination-
Some Causes Accounting for the Intensity
and Duration of the Rebellion — Events Pre-
ceding Its Commencement — Partisanship in
Mercer at the Beginning of the War — Sub-
lime Patriotism of the People Irrespective
of Party— Their Devotion to the Union —
Prosecution of the War — Troops Furnished
by Mercer County- Regimental Sketches
and Rosters of Companies — Thirty-ninth —
Fifty - seventh — Seventy - sixth — Seventy-
seventh — One Hundredth — One Hundred
and Thirty-ninth — One Hundred and Forti-
eth-One Hundred and Forty-Second — One
Hundred and Forty-fifth — One Hundred
and Sixty-ninth — Two Hundred and Elev-
enth— Miscellaneous Troops— Closing Events
of the War 304-330
CHAPTER XVII.— Historical Notes. — Local
Indian Tribes — Some Indian Reminiscences
— Pre-Historic Remains — Indian Mound at
Greenville — The Old Indian Fort in W esl Sa-
lem Township — Slaves in Mercer County —
Natural Occurrences — Wolf Killing Among
the Pioneers — A Veritable Snake Story —
AEare Surgical Operation — AVhy Lawrence
County was Erected — Mercer County’s
Phrenology — Distinguished Visitors — An
Incident of President Taylor’s Visit to
Sheakleyville— Men of Mark — First Piano
in Mercer County — Muster Days 330-339
CHAPTER XVIII.— Borough of Mercer.-
The Town Laid Out — Derivation of Name —
Sketch of Dr. Hugh Mercer — Streets and
Alleys — Public Square — Incidents that Oc-
curred in Laying Out the Town — Sale of
Lots — Size, Shape and Location — First House
Erected-r-Hotels of the Past and Present —
Early Settlers and Business Interests — Man-
ufacturers— Incorporation and Borough Ofli-
cers — Fire Department — Churches — Schools
— Pioneer Schools and Teachers — Mercer
Academy— Public Schools — Soldiers’ Orphan
School — Secret and other Societies — Bank-
ing Institutions — Gas and Water Companies
— Cemeteries — Population 340-373
CHAPTER XIX. — Borough op Sharon.— Loca-
tion— Pioneers — First Mill — The Town Laid
Out — Early Business Interests— First Physi-
cians— First Justice of the Peace — Manu-
factures— Additions Made to the Town— In-
corporation and Borough Officers— Schools —
Their Progress and Government — Old Bap-
tist Academy— Hall Institute — Churches —
Secret and Other Societies — Fire Department
and Fires — Banking Institutions — Gas and
Water Companies — Cemeteries — Growth
and Population 373-406
CHAPTER XX.— Borough op Greenville.-
Location and Original Land Claims — West
Greenville Laid Out and Origin of Name-
Shank’s Ford — The Town Re-surveyed and
Lots Sold — Pioneers — Keck’s Addition to
West Greenville — First Lot Owners in that
vii
Page.
Addition — Early Business Interests — West
Greenville in 1833 — Residents of that Period
— Additions to theTown — Incorporation and
Borough Officials — Schools — First Schools
and Teachers — Greenville Academy — Union
Schools — Thiel College — Churches — Ceme-
teries— Secret and other Societies — Manufac-
tures— Banks — Building and Loan Associa-
tion, and Board of Trade — Gas and Water
Companies — Local Insurance Companies —
Fire Department and Most Destructive Fires
— Bridges — Railroads — Name Changed to
Greenville — Effort to Obtain the County
Seat — Growth and Appearance 406-447
CHAPTER XXI. — Borough of Sharpsville.
— Location and Pojtulation— Name -Original
Settlers — Early Mills — Growth and Prosper-
ity— Manufactures — Railroads — 'Incorpora-
tion and Borough Officers — Schools — Early
Schools — Their Progress and Development —
Churches — Societies and Associations — Riv-
erside Cemetery — Iron Banking Company,
447^9
CHAPTER XXII. — Boroughs op Sandy Lakh
AND Stoneboro.— Brownsville Laid Out —
The Village Incorporated— Name Changed
to Sandy Lake — Derivation of Name — De-
scription of the Lake — First Settler on the
Town Site— First Things — Schools — Church-
es— Societies — Banks — Manufactures— Pop-
ulation— Stoneboro — Negro Colony — Sale of
Site — Town Laid Out — Chapter of First
Things — Schools — Incorporation and Bor-
ough Officers Churches — Secret Societies —
Manufactures — Population 400-472
CHAPTER XXIII.— Boroughs of Sheakley-
ville AND New Lebanon. — History of the
Name of Sheakleyville Traced — Its First
Election — Original Settlers — First Houses
Built— Early Physicians — Schools — Pioneer
Teachers — Progress of the Schools — Church-
es— Societies— Population — New Lebanon —
Location — First Settlers — Village Laid Out —
First Btiildings and Business Interests —
Physicians — Schools— Progress of Education
in the Borough — McElwain Institute — Early
Settlers of that Vicinity — Incorporation—
A Political Event — Societies— Population,
472-482
CHAPTER XXIV.— Boroughs op West Mid-
dlesex, Wheatland and Bethel. — Loca-
tion and Early History of West Middlesex —
The Town Laid Out — Name Given — Business
Interests — Manufactures — Incorporation —
Bridges — Schools — Churches — Societies —
Population — Wheatland— Borough Laid Out,
Named and Incorporated — First Officers-
Early Settlers — Schools — Manufactures —
Churches — Bethel — Early History — Incor-
poration— First Settlers and Business Inter-
ests— Churches and Schools — First Election
and Officials — First Postmaster 483-491
CHAPTER XXV.— Boroughs op Jamestown
AND Clarksville. — Location of J amestowu
—First Settler on its Site— First Grist-mill
and Dwellings Erected — First Merchant,
Justice of the Peace and Postmaster — James-
town Laid Out and Incorporated — First
Mechanics — Early Physicians — -Historic Ad-
dress— Railroads— Sehools — Old Academy —
Jamestown Seminary — Public Schools— Re-
cent Fires— Banks — Societies — Churches —
Cemeteries — Population — Clarksville Laid
Out — Incorporation and First Officials —
Location— Early Settlers — Indian Villilge —
First Medical Practitioners— Pioneer School-
house — Secret and other Societies — Churches
— Population 492-504
CHAPTER XXVI.— Boroughs of Grove City
and Frbdonia. — The Former Laid Out and
Named Pino Grove — Change of N(tme to
Till
CONTENTS.
Grove City— Incorporation — First Settlers of
that Vicinity — Pioneer Grist and Saw-mills
— Cunningham Family — Early Business In-
terests of the Village — Pioneer Schools and
Teachers — Progress of Education — Grove
City College — Bank — Manufactures —
Churches — Societies — Growth and Popula-
tion.— Fredonia — Location — First Settle-
ment on Its Site — Arnold’s Mills Erected —
First Birth — Other Settlers — The Village
Laid Out — Its Growth and Progress — Busi-
ness Interests and Manufactures — Churches
—Schools — Societies — Incorporation and
Population 504-514
CHAPTER XXVII. — Township Sketches and
Population — Cool Spring— Deer Creek —
Delaware — East Laokawannoek — Fairview
— Findley — French Creek — Greene — Hemp-
field — Hickory — J ackson — Jefferson — Lack-
awaunock— Lake — Liberty —Mill Creek-
New Vernon — Otter Creek — Perry — Pine —
Pymatuniug — Salem — Sandy Creek — Sandy
Lake— Shenango — Springfield — Sugar Grove
— West Salem — Wilmin^on — Wolf Creek —
Worth — Official Census by Decades since
1850 515-624
CHAPTER XXVIII.— Thirty Years op
Township Officials. — Value of such a
Record — Character of the Men Chosen —
List of First Justices — Township Officers in
1804 — The Pioneers who Annually Filled
the Offices in each Township from 1806 to
1831, inclusive 625-650
CHAPTER XXIX. — Biographies of Mercer,
651-703
CHAPTER XXX. — Biographies op Sharon,
703-770
PAGE.
CHAPTER XXXI.— Biographies op Green-
ville 771-835
CHAPTER XXXII. — Biographies of Sharps-
VILLE 835-847
CHAPTER XXXIII. — Biographies of She-
nango AND Hickory 847-878
CHAPTER XXXIV. — Biographies of Lacka-
WANNOCK, East Lackawannock and
Wilmington 879-902
CHAPTER XXXV. — Biographies op Pyma-
TUNiNG, Delaware and Jefferson 902-932
CHAPTER XXXVI. — Biographies of Spring-
field AND Findley 932-973
CHAPTER XXXVII.— Biographies op Cool
Spring, Fairview, Lake and Jackson,
973-1020
CHAPTER XXXVIII.— Biographies op Wolf
Creek, Pine and Liberty 1020-1042
CHAPTER XXXIX.— Biographies op Sandy
Lake, Worth, Mill Creek and French
Creek 1043-1094
CHAPTER XL. — Biographies op Sandy
Creek, Deer Creek, New Vernon and
Perry 1094-1128
CHAPTER XLI. — Biographies op Salem,
Sugar Grove, Hbmppield and Otter
Creek 1128-1166
CHAPTER XLII. — Biographies of West
Salem and Greene .....1167-1210
MISCELLANEOUS.
Outline Map of Mercer County 10-11
Map Showing tlie Various Purchases from the
Indians 113
Table Showing Amount of Anthracite Coal
Produced in Each Region since 1820 119
Diagram Showing Proportionate Annual Pro-
duction of Anthracite Coal in Pennsyl-
vania since 1820 118
Population of Townships and Boroughs by De-
cades since 1850 624
ILLUSTRATIONS.
PORTRAITS.
Allen, F 223
Anderson, William 349
Anderson, D. C 619
Ashton, John 385
Bonner, .Jeremiah 475
Brown, J. F 583
Byerly, Andrew 45
Byerly, Joseph 611
Cole, Isaac D 457
Cossitt, H. D. La 277
Curtis, Joel B 169
Egbert, Lewis 295
Fell, William S 601
Frampton, D. A 493
Fruit, Richard 367
Garvin, Wiiliam S 136
Gibson, T. C Facing 771
Henderson, B. H 403
Koonce, Charles 331
Laird, William 421
Linn, David 313
Mathers, James 439
McClure, Joseph Facing 703
McCrumb, John W 529
McDermitt, A 259
McDowell, J. H 547
Morford, Nathan 151
Ormsby, J. W 187
Pettitt, N. R 565
Pierce, James 205
Reimold, George Jacob 79
Spearman, J. J 241
Trunkey, John Facing 651
Till
CONTENTS.
Grove City — Incorporation — First Settlers of
that Vicinity — Pioneer Grist and Saw-mills
— Cunningham Family — Early Business In-
terests of the Village — Pioneer Schools and
Teachers — Progress of Education — Grove
City College — Bank — Manufactures —
Churches— Societies — Growth and Popula-
tion.— Fredonia — Location — First Settle-
ment on Its Site — Arnold’s Mills Erected —
First Birth — Other Settlers — The Village
Laid Out — Its Growth and Progress — Busi-
ness Interests and Manufactures — Churches
— Schools — Societies — Incorporation and
Population 504-514
CHAPTER XXVII. — Township Sketches and
Population — Cool Spring— Deer Creek —
Delaware — East Lackawannock— Fairview
— Findiey — French Creek — Greene — Hemp-
fieid — Hickory— J ackson — Jefferson — Lack-
awaunock— Lake — Liberty — Mill Creek —
New Vernon — Otter Creek — Perry — Pine —
Pymatuning — Salem — Sandy Creek — Sandy
Lake — Shenango — Springfield — Sugar Grove
— West Salem — Wilmington — Wolf Creek —
Worth — Official Census by Decades since
1850 515-624
CHAPTER XXVIII.— Thirty Years op
Township Officials. — Value of such a
Record — Character of the Men Chosen —
List of First Justices — Township Oflicers in
1804 — The Pioneers who Annually Filled
the Offices in each Township from 1806 to
1831, inclusive 625-650
CHAPTER XXIX. — Biographies of Mercer,
651-703
CHAPTER XXX.— Biographies op Sharon,
703-770
PAGE.
CHAPTER XXXI.— Biographies op Green-
ville 771-835
CHAPTER XXXII. — Biographies op Sharps-
VILLE 835-847
CHAPTER XXXIII. — Biographies op She-
nango AND Hickory 847-878
CHAPTER XXXIV. — Biographies op Lacka-
wannock, East Lackawannock and
Wilmington 879-902
CHAPTER XXXV.— Biographies op Pyma-
tuning, Delaware and Jepperson 902-932
CHAPTER XXXVI.— Biographies op Spring-
field and Findley 932-973
CHAPTER XXXVII.— Biographies of Cool
Spring, Fairview, Lake and Jackson,
973-1020
CHAPTER XXXVIII.— Biographies op Wolf
Creek, Pine and Liberty 1020-1042
CHAPTER XXXIX. — Biographies op Sandy
Lake, Worth, Mill Creek and French
Creek 1043-1094
CHAPTER XL. — Biographies op Sandy
Creek, Deer Creek, New Vernon and
Perry 1094-1128
CHAPTER XLL — Biographies op Salem,
Sugar Grove, Hempfield and Otter
Creek 1128-1166
CHAPTER XLII. — Biographies of West
Salem and Greene ..........1167-1210
MISCELLANEOUS.
Outline Map of Mercer County 10-11
Map Showing the Various Purchases from the
Indians 113
Table Showing Amount of Anthracite Coal
Produced in Each Region since 1820 119
Diagram Showing Proportionate Annual Pro-
duction of Anthracite Coal in Pennsyl-
vania since 1820 118
Population of Townships and Boroughs by De-
cades since 1850 624
ILLUSTRATIONS.
PORTRAITS.
Allen, F 223
Anderson, William 349
Anderson, D. C 619
Ashton, John 385
Bonner, Jeremiah 475
Brown, J. F 583
Byerly, Andrew 45
Byerly, Joseph 511
Cole, Isaac D 457
Cossitt, H. D. La 277
Curtis, Joel B 169
Egbert, Lewis 295
Fell, William S 601
Frampton, D. A 493
Fruit, Richard 367
Garvin, William S 1.36
Gibson, T. C Facing 771
Henderson, B. H 403
Koonce, Charles 331
Laird, William 421
Linn, David 313
Mathers, James 439
McClure, Joseph Facing 703
McCrumb, John W 529
McDermitt, A 259
McDowell, J. H 547
Morford, Nathan 151
Ormsby, J. W 187
Pettitt, N. R 565
Pierce, James 205
Reimold, George Jacob 79
Spearman, J. J 241
Trunkey, John Facing 651
1IST0RY«'PENNSYLVANIA,
BY SAMUEL P. BATES.
" God, that has given it me through many difficulties, will, I believe,
bless and make it the seed of a nation. I shall have a tender care to the
government that it be well laid at first. _ - _ - _ I do, therefore,
desire the Lord’s wisdom to guide me, and those that may be concerned
with me, that we may do the thing that is truly wise and just.”
WILLIAM PENN.
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
CHAPTER I.
Introductory — CoRNELis Jacobson Mey, 1624-25— William Van Hulst, 1625-
26— Peter Mtntttt, 1626-33— David Petersen de Vries, 1632-33 — AVouter
Van Twiller, 1633-38.
IN the early colonization upon the American continent, two motives were
principally operative. One was the desire of amassing sudden wealth
without great labor, which tempted adveiiturous spirits to go in search of gold,
to trade valueless trinkets to the simple natives for rich furs and skins, and even
to seek, amidst the wilds of a tropical forest, for the fountain whose healing
waters could restore to man perpetual youth. The other was the cherished
purpose of escaping the unjust restrictions of Government, and the hated ban
of society against tlie worship of the Supreme Being according to the honest
dictates of conscience, which incited the humble devotees of Christianity to
forego the comforts of home, in the midst of the best civilization of the age,
and make for themselves a habitation on the shores of a new world, where they
might erect altars' and do homage to their God in such habiliments as they
preferred, and utter praises in such note as seemed to them good. This pur-
pose was also incited by a certain romantic temper, common to the race, es-
pecially noticeable in youth, that invites to some uninhabited] spot, and Kas-
selas and Robinson Crusoe- like to begin life anew.
William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, had felt the heavy hand of
persecution for religious opinion’s sake. As a gentleman commoner at Ox-
ford, he had been fined, and finally expelled from that venerable seat of learn-
ing for non-comformity to the established worship. At home, he was whipped
and turned out of doors by a father who thought to reclaim the son to the
more certain path of advancement at a licentious court. He was sent to prison
by the Mayor of Cork. For seven months he languiohed in the tower of Lon-
don, and, finally, to complete his disgrace, he was cast into Newgate with com-
mon felons. Upon the accession of James II, to the throne of England, over
fourteen hundred persons of the Quaker faith were immured in prisons for a
conscientious adherence to their religious convictions. To escape this harassing
persecution, and find peace and quietude from this sore proscription, was the
moving cause which led Penn and his followers to emigrate to America.
Of all ffibse who have been founders of States in near or distant ages, none
have manifested so sincere and disinterested a spirit, nor have been so fair ex-
emplars of the golden rule, and of the Redeemer’s sermon on the mount, as
William Penn. In his preface to the frame of government of his colony, he
says: “ The end of government is first to terrify evil-doers; secondly, to cher-
ish those who do well, which gives government a life beyond corruption, and
16
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
makes it as durable in tbe world, as good men shall be. So that government
seems to be a part of religion itself, a thing sacred in its institution and end.
For, if it does not directly remove the cause, it crushes the effects of evil, and
is an emanation of the same Divine power, that is both author and object of
pure religion, the difi'erence lying here, that the one is more free and mental,
the other more corporal and compulsive in its operations; but that is only to
evil-doers, government itself being otherwise as capable of kindness, goodness
and charity, as a more private society. They weakly err, who think there is no
other use of government than correction, which is the coarsest part of it.
Daily experience tells us, that the care and regulation of many other affairs
more soft, and daily necessary, make up much the greatest part of government.
Governments, like clocks, go from the motion men give them, and as govern-
ments are made and moved by men, so by them are they ruined, too. Where-
fore, governments rather depend upon men, than men upon governments. Let
men be good, and the government cannot be bad. If it be ill, they will cure
it. But if men be bad, let the government be never so good, they will endeavor
to warp and spoil to their turn. * * * That, therefore, which makes a good
constitution, must keep it, men of wisdom and virtue, qualities, that because they
descend not with worldly inheritances, must be carefully propagated by a vir-
tuous education of youth, for which, after ages will owe more to the care and
prudence of founders and the successive magistracy, than to their parents for
their private patrimonies. * * * We have, therefore, with reverence to God,
and good conscience to men, to the best of our skill, contrived and composed the
Frame and Laws of this government, viz. : To support power in reverence
with the people, and to secure the people from the abuse of power, that they
may be free by their just obedience, and the magistrates honorable for their
just administration. For liberty without obedience is confusion, and obedi-
ence without liberty is slavery.”
Though born amidst the seductive arts of the great city, Penn’s tastes were
rural. He hated the manners of the corrupt court, and delighted in the homely
labors and innocent employments of the farm. “ The country,” he said, “is
the philosopher’s garden and library, in which he reads and contemplates the
power, wisdom and goodness of God. It is his food as well as study, and gives
him life as well as learning.” And to his wife he said upon taking leave of
her in their parting interview: “Let my children be husbandmen, and house-
wives. It is industrious, healthy, honest, and of good report. This leads to
consider the works of God, and diverts the mind from being taken up with vain
arts and inventions of a luxurious world. Of cities and towns of concourse,
beware. The world is apt to stick close to those who have lived and got wealth
there. A country life and estate I love best for my children.”
Having thus given some account at the outset of the spirit and purposes of
the founder, and the motive which drew him to these shores, it will be in
place, before proceeding with the details of the acquisition of territory, and
the coming of emigrants for the actual settlement under the name of Pennsyl-
vania, to say something of the aborigines who were found in possession of the
soil when first visited by Europeans, of the condition of the surface of the
country, and of the previous attempts at settlements before the coming of Penn.
The surface of what is now known as Pennsylvania was, at the time of the
coming of the white men, one vast forest of hemlock, and pine, and beech,
and oak, unbroken, except by an occasional rocky barren upon the precipitous
mountain side, or by a few patches of prairie, which had been reclaimed by
annual burnings, and was used by the indolent and simple-minded natives for
the culture of a little maize and a few vegetables. The soil, by the annual
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
17
accumulations of leaves and abundant growths of forest vegetation, was luxu-
rious, and the trees stood close, and of gigantic size. The streams swarmed
with fish, and the forest abounded with game. Where now are cities and
hamlets filled with busy populations intent upon the accumulation of wealth,
the mastery of knowledge, the pursuits of pleasure, the deer browsed and
sipped at the water’s edge, and the pheasant drummed his monotonous note.
Where now is the glowing furnace from which day and night tongues of flame
are bursting, and the busy water wheel sends the shuttle flashing through the
loom, half-naked, dusky warriors fashioned their spears with rude implements
of stone, and made themselves hooks out of the bones of animals for -alluring
the finny tribe. Where now are fertile fields, upon which the thrifty farmer
turns his furrow, which his neighbor takes up and runs on until it reaches
from one end of the broad State to the other, and where are flocks and herds,
rejoicing ini’ich meadows, gladdened by abundant fountains, or reposing at the
heated noontide beneath ample shade, not a blow had been struck against the
giants of the forest, the soil rested in virgin purity, the streams glided on in
majesty, un vexed by wheel and unchoked by device of man.
Where now the long train rushes on with the speed of the wind over
plain and mead, across streams and under mountains, awakening the echoes of
the hills the long day through, and at the midnight hour screaming out its
shrill whistle in fiery defiance, the wild native, with a fox skin wrapped about
his loins and a few feathers stuck in his hair, issuing from his rude hut, trot-
ted on in his forest path, followed by his squaw with her infant peering forth
from the rough sling at her back, pointed his canoe, fashioned from the barks
of the trees, across the deep river, knowing the progress of time only by the
rising and setting sun, troubled by no meridians for its index, starting on his
way when his nap was ended, and stopping for rest when a spot was reached
that pleased his fancy. Where now a swarthy population toils ceaselessly deep
down in the bowels of the earth, shut out trom the light of day in cutting out
the material that feeds the fires upon the forge, and gives genial warmth to the
lovers as they chat merrily in the luxurious drawing room, not a mine had
been opened, and the vast beds of the black diamond rested unsunned beneath
the superincumbent mountains, where they had been fashioned by the Creator’s
hand. Rivers of oil seethed through the impatient and uneasy gases and vast
pools and lakes of this pungent, parti -colored fluid, hidden away from the
coveting eye of man, guarded well their own secrets. Not a derrick protruded
its well-balanced form in the air. Not a drill, with its eager eating tooth de-
scended into the flinty rock. No pipe line diverted the oily tide in a silent,
ceaseless current to the ocean’s brink. The cities of iron tanks, filled to burst-
ing, had no place amidst the forest solitudes. Oil exchanges, with their vex-
ing puts and calls, shorts and longs, bulls and bears, had not yet come to dis-
turb the equanimity of the red man, as he smoked the pipe of peace at the
council fire. Had he once seen the smoke and soot of the new Birmingham of
the West, or snuffed the odors of an oil refinery, he would willingly have for-
feited his goodly heritage by the forest stream or the deep flowing river, and
sought for himsilf new hunting grounds in less favored regions.
It was an unfortxinate circumstance that at the coming of Europeans the
territory now known as Pennsylvania was occupied by some of the most bloody
and revengeful of the savage tribes. They were known as the Lenni Lenapes,
and held sway from the Hudson to the Potomac. A tradition was preserved
among them, that in a remote age their ancestors had emigrated eastward from
beyond the Mississippi, exterminating as they came the more civilized and
peaceful peoples, the Mound -Builders of Ohio and adjacent States, and who
18
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
were held among the tribes by whom they were surrounded as the progenitors,
the grandfathers or oldest people. They came to be known by Europeans as
the Delawares, after the name of the river and its numerous branches along
which they principally dwelt. The Monseys or Wolves, another tribe of the
Lenapes, dwelt upon the Susquehanna and its tributaries, and, by their war-
like disposition, won the credit of being the fiercest of their nation, and the
guardians of the door to their council house from the North.
Occupying the greater part of the teritory now known as New York, were
the five nations — the Senacas, the Mohawks, the Oneidas, the Cayugas, and
the Onondagas, which, from their hearty union, acquired great strength and
■came to exercise a commanding influence. Obtaining firearms of the Dutch
at Albany, they repelled the advances of the French from Canada, and by
their superiority in numbers and organization, had overcome the Lenapes,
and held them for awhile in vassalage. The Tuscaroras, a tribe which had
been expelled from their home in North Carolina, were adopted by the Five Na-
tions in 1712, and from this time forward these tribes were known to the English
as the Six Nations, called by the Lenapes, Mingoes, and by the French, Iroquois.
There was, therefore, properly a United States before the thirteen colonies
achieved their independence. The person and character of these tribes were
marked. They were above the ordinary stature, erect, bold, and commanding,
of great decorum in council, and when aroused showing native eloquence. In
warfare, they exhibited all the bloodthirsty, revengeful, cruel instincts of the
savage, and for the attainment of their purposes were treacherous and crafty.
The Indian character, as developed by intercourse with Europeans, exhibits
some traits that are peculiar While coveting what they saw that pleased
them, and thievish to the last degree, they were nevertheless generous. This
may be accounted for by their habits. “ They held that the game of the for-
est, the dsh of the rivers, and the grass of the field were a common heritage,
3ind free to all who would take the trouble to gather them, and ridiculed the
idea of fencing in a meadow.” Bancroft says: “ The hospitality of the Indian
Las rarely been questioned. The stranger enters his cabin, by day or by'
might, without asking leave, and is entertained as freely as a thrush or a
Blackbird, that regales himself on the luxuries of the fruitful grove. He
will take his own rest abroad, that he may give up his own skin or mat of
sedge to his guest. Nor is the traveler questioned as to the purpose of his
wisit. He chooses his own time freely to deliver his message.” Penn, who,
from frequent intercourse came to know them well, in his letter to the society
<of Free Traders, says of them: “In liberality they excel; nothing is too good
for their friend. Give them a fine gun, coat or other thing, it may pass
twenty hands before it sticks; light of heart, strong aflections, but soon spent.
The most merry creatures that live; feast and dance perpetually. They never
have much nor want much. Wealth circulateth like the blood. All parts
partake; and though none shall want what another hath, yet exact observers
of property. Some Kings have sold, others presented me with several parcels
of land. The pay or presents I made them, were not hoarded by the particu-
lar owners, but the neighboring Kings and clans being present when the
goods were brought out. the parties chiefly concerned consulted what and to
whom they should give them. To every King, then, by the hands of a per-
son’ for that work appointed is a proportion sent, so sorted and folded, and
with th at gravity that is admirable. Then that King subdivideth it in like man-
ner among his dependents, they hardly leaving themselves an equal share
with one of their subjects, and be it on such occasions as festivals, or at their
common meals, the Kings distribute, and to themselves last. They care for
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
19
little because they vfant but little, and the reason is a little contents them. In
this they are sufficiently revenged on us. They are also free from our pains.
They are not disquieted with bills of lading and exchange, nor perplexed
with chancery suits and exchequer reckonings. “We sweat and toil to live;
their pleasure feeds them; I mean their hunting, fishing and fowling, and
this table is spread everywhere. They eat twice a day, morning and evening.
Their seats and table are the ground. Since the Europeans came into these
parts they are grown great lovers of strong liquors, rum especially, and for it
exchange the richest of their skins and furs. If they are heated with liquors,
they are restless till they have enough to sleep. That is their cry, ‘ Some
more and I will go to sleep; ’ but when drunk one of the most wretched spec-
tacles in the world.”
On the 28th of August, 1609, a little more than a century from the time
of the first discovery of the New World by Columbus, Hendrick Hudson, an
English navigator, then in the employ of the Dutch East India Company, hav-
ing been sent out in search of a northwestern passage to the Indies, discovered
the mouth of a great bay, since known as Delaware Bay, which he entered and
partially explored. But finding the waters shallow, and being satisfied that
this was only an arm of the sea which received the waters of a great river,
and not a passage to the western ocean, he retired, and, turning the prow of
his little craft northward, on the 2d of September, he discovered the river
which bears his name, the Hudson, and gave several days to its examination.
Not finding a passage to the W est, which was the object of his search, he returned
to Holland, bearing the evidences of his adventures, and made a full report of
his discoveries in which he says, “ Of all lands on which I ever set my foot,
this is the best for tillage.”
A proposition had been made in the States General of Holland to form a
West India Company with purposes similar to those of the East India Com-
pany; but the conservative element in the Dutch Congress prevailed, and while
the Government was unwilling to undertake the risks of an enterprise for
which it would be responsible, it was not unwilling to foster private enter-
prise, and on the 27th of March, 1614, an edict was passed, granting the
privileges of trade, in any of its possessions in the New World, during four
voyages, founding its right to the territory drained by the Delaware and
Hudson upon the discoveries by Hudson. Five vessels were accordingly
fitted by a company composed of enterprising merchants of the cities of Am-
sterdam and Hoorn, which made speedy and prosperous voyages under com-
mand of Cornelia Jacobson Mey, bringing back with them, fine furs and rich
woods, which so excited cupidity that the States General was induced on the
14th of October, 1614, to authorize exclusive trade, for four voyages, extend-
ing through three years, in the newly acquired possessions, the edict designat-
ing them as New Netherlands.
One of the party of this first enterprise, Cornelia Hendrickson, was left
behind with a vessel called the Unrest, which had been built to supply the
place of one accidentally burned, in which he proceeded to explore more fully
the bay and river Delaware, of which he made report that was read before the
States General on the 19th of August, 1616. This report is curious as dis-
closing the opinions of the first actual explorer in an official capacity: “He
hath discovered for his aforesaid masters and directors certain lands, a bay,
and three rivers, situate between thirty-eight and forty degrees, and did their
trade with the inhabitants, said trade consisting of sables, furs, robes and
other skins. He hath found the said country full of trees, to wit, oaks, hick-
ory and pines, which trees were, in some places, covered with vines. He hath
20
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
seen in said country bucks and does, turkeys and partridges. He hath found
the climate of said country very temperate, judging it to be as temperate as
this country, Holland. He also traded for and bought from the inhabitants,
the Minquas, three persons, being people belonging to this company, which
three persons were employed in the service of the Mohawks and Machicans,
giving fur them kettles, beads, and merchandise.”
This second charter of privileges expired in January, 1618, and daring its
continuance the knowledge acquired of the country and its resources promised
so much of success that the States General was ready to grant broader privi-
leges, and on the 3d of June, 1621, the Dutch West India Company was in-
corporated, to extend for a period of twenty-four years, with the right of
renewal, the capital stock to be open to subscription by all nations, and
“privileged to trade and plant colonies in Africa, from the tropic of Cancer
to the Cape of Good Hope, and in America from the Straits of Magellan to the
remotest north.” The past glories of Holland, though occupying but an in-
significant patch of Europe, emboldened its Government to pass edicts for the
colonizing and carrying on an exclusive trade with a full half of the entire
world, an example of the biting off of more than could be well chewed. But
the light of this enterprising people was beginning to pale before the rising
glories of the stern race in their sea girt isle across the channel. Dissensions
were arising among the able statesmen who had heretofore guided its affairs,
and before the periods promised in the original charter of this colonizing com-
pany had expired, its supremacy of the sea was successfully resisted, and its
exclusive rights and privileges in the New World had to be relinquished.
The principal object in establishing this West India Company was to
secure a good dividend upon the capital stock, which was subscribed to by the
rich old burgomasters. Th^ fine furs and products of the forests, which had
been taken back to Holland, had proved profitable. But it was seen that if
this trade was to be permanently secured, in face of the active competition of
other nations, and these commodities steadily depended upon, permanent set-
tlements must bo provided for. Accordingly, in 1623, a colony of about forty
families, embracing a party of Walloons, protestant fugitives from Belgium,
sailed for the new province, under the leadership of Cornel is Jacobson Mey and
Joriz Tienpont. Soon after their arrival, Mey, who had been invested with
the power of Director General of all the territory claimed by the Dutch, see-
ing, no doubt, the evidences of some permanence on the Hudson, determined
to take these honest minded and devoted Walloons to the South River, or Del-
aware, that he might also gain for his country a foothold there. The testi-
mony of one of the women, Catalina Tricho, who was of the party, is
curious, and sheds some light upon this point. “ That she came to this prov-
ince either in the year 1623 or 1624, and that four women came along with
her in the same ship, in which Gov. Arien Jorissen came also over, which four
women were married at sea, and that they and their husbands stayed about
three weeks at this place (Manhattan) and then they with eight seamen more,
went in a vessel by orders of the Dutch Governor to Delaware River, and
there settled.” Ascending the Delaware some fifty miles, Mey landed
on the eastern shore near where now is the town of Gloucester, and built a
fort which he called Nassau. Having duly installed his little colony, he re-
turned to Manhattan; but beyond the building of the fort, which served as a
trading post, this attempt to plant a colony was futile; for these religious
zealots, tiring of the solitude in which they were left, after a few months
abandoned it, and returned to their associates whom they had left upon the
Hudson. Though not successful in establishing a permanent colony upon the
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
21
Delaware, ships plied regularly between the fort and Manhattan, and this
became the rallying point for the Indians, who brought thither their commodi-
ties for trade. At about this time, 1626, the island of Manhattan estimated
to contain 22,000 acres, on which now stands the city of New York with its
busy population, surrounded by its forests of masts, was bought for the insig-
nificant sum of sixty guilders, about $24, what would now pay for scarcely a
square inch of some of that very soil. As an evidence of the thrift which had
begun to mark the progress of the colony, it may be stated that the good ship
“ The Arms of Amsterdam, ” which bore the intelligence of this fortunate pur-
chase to the assembly of the XIX in Holland, bore also in the language of
O’Calaghan, the historian of New Netherland, the “ information that the col-
ony was in a most prosperous state, and that the women and the soil were
both fruitful. To prove the latter fact, samples of the recent harvest, consist-
ing of wheat, rye, barley, oats, buckwheat, canary seed, were sent forward,,
together with 8,130 beaver skins, valued at over 45,000 guilders, or nearly
$19,000.” It is accorded by another his!orian that this same ship bore also
“ 853 Jotter skins, eighty-one mink skins, thirty-six wild cat skins and thirty-four
rat skins, with a quantity of oak and hickory timber.” From this it may be
seen what the commodities were which formed the subjects of trade. Doubt-
less of wharf rats Holland had enough at home, but the oak and hickory tim-
ber came at a time when there was sore need of it.
Finding that the charter of privileges, enacted in 1621, did not give suffi-
cient encouragement and promise of security to actual settlers, further con-
cessions were made in 1629, whereby “ all such persons as shall appear and
desire the same from the company, shall be acknowledged as Patroons [a sort
of feudal lord] of New Netherland, who shall, within the space of fom- years
next after they have given notice to any of the chambers of the company here,
or to the Commander or Council there, undertake to plant a colony there of
fifty souls, upward of fifteen years old; one-fourth part within one year, and
within three years after sending the first, making together four years, the re-
mainder, to the full number of fifty persons, to be shipped from hence, on pain,
in case of willful neglect, of being deprived of the privileges obtained.” * *
“ The Patroons, by virtue of their power, shall be permitted, at such places as they
shall settle their colonies, to extend their limits four miles along the shore, or
two miles on each side of a river, and so far into the country as the situation
of the occupiers will permit.”
Stimulated by these flattering promises, Goodyn and Bloemmaert, two
wealthy and influential citizens, through their agents — Heyser and Coster—
secured by purchase from the Indians a tract of land on the western shore,
at the mouth of the Delaware, sixteen miles in length along the bay front, and
extending sixteen miles back into the country, giving a square of 256 miles.
Goodyn immediately gave notice to the company of their intention to plant a
colony on their newly acquired territory as patroons. They were joined by an
experienced navigator, De Vries, and on the 12th of December, 1630, a vessel,
the Walrus, under command of De Vries, was dispatched with a company of
settlers and a stock of cattle and farm implements, which arrived safely in,
the Delaware. De Vries landed about three leagues within the capes, “ near
the entrance of a fine navigable stream, called the Hoarkill,” where he pro-
ceeded to build a house, well surrounded with cedar palisades, which served
the purpose of fort, lodging house, and trading post. The little settlement,
which consisted of about thirty persons, was christened by the high sounding
title of Zwanendal — Valley of Swans. In the spring they prepared their fields
and planted them, and De Vries returned to Holland, to make report of his
proceedings.
22
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
But a sad fate awaited the little colony at Zwanendal. lu accordance with
the custom of European nations, the commandant, on taking possession of the
new purchase, erected a pust, and affixed thereto a piece of tin on which was
traced the arms of Holland and a legend of occupancy. An Indian chieftain,
passing that way, attracted by the shining metal, and not understanding the
object of the inscription, and not having the fear of their high mightinesses,
the States General of Holland before his eyes, tore it down and proceeded to
make for himself a tobacco pipe, considering it valuable both by way of orna-
ment and use. When this act of trespass was discovered, it was regarded by
the doughty Dutchman as a direct insult to the great State of Holland, and
so gteat an ado was raised over it that the simple minded natives became
frightened, believing that their chief had committed a mortal offense, and in
the strength and sincerity of their friendship immediately proceeded to dis-
patch the offending chieftain, and brought the bloody emblems of their deed to
the head of the colony. This act excited the anger of the relatives of the mur-
dered man, and in accordance with Indian law, they awaited the chance to
take revenge. O’Calaghan gives the following account of this bloody massa-
cre which ensued: “The colony at Zwanendal consisted at this time of thirty-
four persons. Of these, thirty- two were one day at work in the fields, while
Commissary Hosset remained in charge of the house, where another of the set-
tlers lay sick abed. A large bull dog was chained out of doors. On pretence
of selling some furs, three savages entered the house and murdered Hosset
and the sick man. They found it not so easy to dispatch the mastiff. It was
not until they had pierced him with at least twenty-five arrows that he was
destroyed. The men in the fields were then set on, in an equally treacherous
manner, under the guise of friendship, and every man of them slain.” Thus
was a worthless bit of tin the cause of the cutting off and utter extermination
of the infant colony.
De Vries was upon the point of returning to Zwanendal when he received
intimation of disaster to the settlers. With a large vessel and a yacht, he set
sail on the 24th of May, 1632, to carry succor, provided with the means of
prosecuting the whale fishery which he had been led to believe might be made
wery profitable, and of pushing the production of grain and tobacco. On ar-
riving in the Delaware, he fired a signal gun to give notice of his approach.
The report echoed through the forest, but, alas! the ears which would have
been gladened with the sound were heavy, and no answering salute came from
the shore. On landing, he found his house destroyed, the palisades burned,
and the skulls and bones of his murdered countrymen bestrewing the earth,
aad relics of the little settlement, which had promised so fairly, and warning
tokens of the barbarism of the natives.
De Vries knew that he was in no position to attempt to punish the guilty
parties, and hence determined to pursue an entirely pacific policy. At his
invitation, the Indians gathered in with their chief for a conference. Sitting
down in a circle beneath the shadows of the somber forest, their Sachem in
the centre, De Vries, without alluding to their previous acts of savagery,
concluded with them a treaty of peace and friendship, and presented them in
token of ratification, “some duffels, bullets, axes and Nuremburg trinkets.”
In place of finding his colony with plenty of provisions for the immediate
needs of his party, he could get nothing, and began to be in want. He accord-
ingly sailed up the river in quest of food. The natives were ready with
their furs for barter, but they had no supplies of food with which they wished
to part. Game, however, was plenty, and wild turkeys were brought in weigh-
ing over thirty pounds. One morning after a frosty night, while the little
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
23
craft was up the stream, the party was astonished to find the waters frozen
over, and their ship fast in the ice. Judging by the mild climate of their own
country, Holland, they did not suppose this possible. For several weeks they
were held fast without the power to move their fioating home. Being in need
of a better variety of food than he found it possible to obtain, De Vries sailed
away with a part of his followers to Virginia, where he was hospitably enter-
tained by the Governor, who sent a present of goats as a token of friendship to
the Dutch Governor at Manhattan. Upon his return to the Delaware, De
Vries found that the party he had left behind to prosecute the whale fishery
had only taken a few small ones, and these so pooi- that the amount of oil ob-
tained was insignificant. He had been induced to embark in the enterprise of
a settlement here by the glittering prospect of prosecuting the whale fishery
along the shore at a great profit. Judging by this experience that the hope
of great gains from tiiis source was groundless, and doubtless haunted by a
superstitious dread of making their homes amid the relics of the settlers of the
previous year, and of plowing fields enriched by their blood who had been
so utterly cut off, and a horror of dwelling amongst a people so revengeful and
savage, De Vries gathered all together, and taking his entire party with him
sailed away to Manhattan and thence home to Holland, abandoning utterly the
settlement.
The Dutch still however sought to maintain a foothold upon the Dela-
ware, and a fierce contention having sprung up between the powerful patroons
and the Director General, and they having agreed to settle differences by
the company authorizing the purchase of the claims of the patroons, those upon
the Delaware were sold for 15,600 guilders. Fort Nassau was accordingly re oc-
cupied and manned with a small military force, and when a party from Con-
necticut Colony came, under one Holmes to make a settlement upon the Dela-
ware, the Dutch at Nassau were found too strong to be subdued, and Holmes
and his party were compelled to surrender, and were sent as prisoners of war
to Manhattan.
CHAPTER II.
Sm William Keift, 1638^7— Peter Minuit, 1638-41— Peter Hollandaer, 1641-43—
John Printz, 1648-53 — Peter Stutvesant, 1647-64 — John Pappagota, 1653-54 —
John Claude Rysingh, 1654-55.
At this period, the throne of Sweden was occupied by Gustavus Adolphus,
a monarch of the most enlightened views and heroic valor. Seeing the
activity of surrounding nations in sending out colonies, he proposed to his
people to found a commonwealth in the New World., not for the mere purpose
of gain by trade, but to set up a refuge for the oppressed, a place of religious
liberty and happy homes that should prove of advantage to “ all oppressed
Christendom.” Accordingly, a company with ample privileges was incorpo
rated by the Swedish Government, to which the King himself pledged $400,000
of the royal treasure, and men of every rank and nationality were invited- to
join in the enterprise. Gustavus desired not that his colony should depend
upon serfs or slaves to do the rough work. “ Slaves cost a great deal, labor
with reluctance, and soon perish from hard usage. The Swedish nation is
laborious and intelligent, and surely we shall gain more by a free people with
wives and children.”
24
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
In the meantime, the fruits of the reformation in Germany were menaced,
and the Swedish monarch determined to unsheath his sword and lead his
people to the aid of Protestant faith in the land where its standard had been
successfully raised. At the battle of Ltitzen, where for the cause which he had
espoused, a signal victory was gained, the illustrious monarch, in the flower
of life, received a mortal wound. Previous to the battle, and while engaged in
active preparations for the great struggle, he remembered the interests of his
contemplated colony in America, and in a most earnest manner commended
the enterprise to the people of Germany.
Oxenstiern, the minister of Gustavus, upon whom the weight of govern-
ment devolved during the minority of the young daughter, Christina, declared
that he was but the executor of the will of the fallen King, and exerted him-
self to further the interests of a colony which he believed would be favorable to
“all Christendom, to Europe, to the whole world.” Four years however
elapsed before the project was brought to a successful issue. Peter Minuit,
who had for a time been Governor of New Netherlands, having been displaced,
sought employment in the Swedish company, and was given the command of
the first colony. Two vessels, the Key of Calmar and the Griffin, early in the
year 1638, with a company of Swedes and Fins, made their way across the
stormy Atlantic and arrived safely in the Delaware. They purchased of the
Indians the lands from the ocean to the falls of Trenton, and at the mouth of
Christina Creek erected a fort which they called Christina, after the name of
the youthful Queen of Sweden. The soil was fruitful, the climate mild, and
the scenery picturesque. Compared with many parts of Finland and Sweden,
it was a Paradise, a name which had been given the point at the entrance of
the bay. As tidings of the satisfaction of the first emigrants were borne back
to the fatherland, the desire to seek a home in the new country spread rap-
idly, and the ships sailing were unable to take the many families seeking pas-
sage.
The Dutch were in actual possession of Fort Nassau when the Swedes
first arrived, and though they continued to hold it and to seek the trade of the
Indians, yet the artful Minuit was more than a match for them in Indian bar-
ter. William Keift, the Governor of New Netherland, entered a vigorous
protest against the encroachments of the Swedes upon Dutch territory, in
which he said “ this has been om’ property for many years, occupied with
forts and sealed by our blood, which also was done when thou wast in the
service of New Netherland, and is therefore well known to thee.” But Minuit
pushed forward the work upon his fort, regardless of protest, trusting to the
respect which the flag of Sweden had inspired in the hands of Banner and
Torstensen. For more than a year no tidings were had from Sweden, and no
supplies from any source were obtained; and while the fruits of their labors
were abundant there were many articles of diet, medicines and apparel, the
lack of which they began to sorely feel. So pressing had the want become,
that application had been made to the authorities at Manhattan for permission
to remove thither with all their effects. But on the very day befoi’e that on
which they were to embark, a ship from Sweden richly laden with provisions,
cattle, seeds and merchandise for barter with the natives came joyfully to their
relief, and this, the first permanent settlement on soil where now are the States
of Delaware and Pennsylvania, was spared. The success and prosperity of the
colony during the first few years of its existence was largely due to the skill
and policy of Minuit, who preserved the friendship of the natives, avoided an
open conflict with the Dutch, and so prosecuted trade that the Dutch Governor
reported to his government that trade had fallen off 30,000 beavers. Minuit
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
25
■was at the head of the colony for about three years, and died in the midst
of the people whom he had led.
Minuit was succeeded in the government by Peter Hollandaer, who had
previously gone in charge of a company of emigrants, and who was now, in
1641, commissioned. The goodly lands upon the Delaware were a constant
attraction to the eye of the adventurer; a party from Connecticut, under the lead-
ership of Robert Cogswell, came, and squatted without authority upon the site
of the present town of Salem, N. J. Another company had proceeded up the
river, and, entering the Schuylkill, had planted themselves upon its banks.
The settlement of the Swedes, backed as it was by one of the most powerful
nations of Europe, the Governor of New Netherland was not disposed to
molest; but when these irresponsible wandering adventurers came sailing past
their forts and boldly planted themselves upon the most eligible sites and fer-
tile lands in their territory, the Dutch determined to assume a hostile front,
and to drive them away. Accordingly, Gen. Jan Jansen Van Ilpendam — his
very name was enough to frighten away the emigrants — was sent with two
vessels and a military force, who routed the party upon the Schuylkill, destroy-
ing their fort and giving them a taste of the punishment that was likely to be
meted out to them, if this experiment of trespass was repeated. The Swedes
joined the Dutch in breaking up the settlement at Salem and driving away the
New England intruders.
In 1642, Hollandaer was succeeded in the government of the Swedish
Colony by John Printz, whose instructions for the management of affairs were
drawn with much care by the officers of the company in Stockholm. “ He was.
first of all, to maintain friendly relations with the Indians, and by the advan-
tage of low prices hold their trade. His next care was to cultivate enough
grain for the wants of the colonists, and when this was insured, turn his atten-
tion to the culture of tobacco, the raising of cattle and sheep of a good species,
the culture of the grape, and the raising of silk worms. The manufacture of
salt by evaporation, and the search for metals and minerals were to be prose-
cuted, and inquiry into the establishment of fisheries, with a view to profit,
especially the whale fishery, was to be made.” It will be seen from these in-
structions that the far-sighted Swedish statesmen had formed an exalted con-
ception of the resources of the new country, and had figured to themselves
great possibilities from its future development. Visions of rich silk products,
of the precious metals and gems from its mines, flocks upon a thousand hills
that should rival in the softness of their downy fleeces the best products of the
Indian looms, and the luscious clusters of the vine that could make glad the
palate of the epicure filled their imaginations.
With two vessels, the Stoork and Renown, Printz set sail, and arrived at
Fort Christina on the 15th of February, 1643. He was bred to the profession
of arms, and was doubtless selected with an eye to his ability to holding posses-
sion of the land against the conflict that was likely to arise. He had been a
Lieutenant of cavalry, and was withal a man of prodigious proportions, “ who
weighed,” according to De Vries, “ upward of 400 pounds, and drank three
drinks at every meal.” He entertained exalted notions of his dignity as Govern-
or of the colony, and prepared to establish himself in his new dominions with
some degree of magnificence. He brought with him from Sweden the bricks
to be used for the construction of his royal dwelling. Upon an inspection of
the settlement, he detected the inherent weakness of the location of Fort
Christina for commanding the navigation of the river, and selected the island
of Tinacum for the site of a new fort, called New Gottenburg, which was
speedily erected and made strong with huge hemlock logs. In the midst of
26
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
the island, he built his royal residence, which was surrounded with trees and
shubbery. He erected another fort near the mouth of Salem Creek,
called Elsinborg, which he mounted with eight brass twelve- pounders,
and garrisoned. Here all ships ascending the river were brought to,
and required to await a permit from the Governor before proceeding
to their destination. Gen. Van Hpendam, who had been sent to drive
away the intruders from New England, had remained after executing
his commission as commandant at Fort Nassau; but having incurred the dis-
pleasure of Director Keift, be had been displaced, and was succeeded by An-
dreas Hudde, a crafty and politic agent of the Dutch Governor, who had no
sooner arrived and become settled in his place than a conflict of authority
sprang up between himself and the Swedish Governor. Dutch settlers secured
a grant of land on the west bank of Delaware, and obtained possession by pur-
chase from the Indians. This procedure kindled the wrath of Printz, who
tore down the ensign of the company which had been erected in token of
the power of Holland, and declared that he would have pulled down the
colors of their High Mightinesses had they been erected on this the Swed-
ish soil. That there might be no mistake about his claim to authority, the
testy Governor issued a manifesto to his rival on the opposite bank, in which
were these explicit declarations; *
“ Andreas Hudde! I remind you again, by this written warning, to discon-
tinue the injuries of which you have been guilty against the Royal Majesty
of Sweden, my most gracious Queen; against Her Royal Majesty’s rights, pre-
tensions, soil and land, without showing the least respect to the Royal Majes-
ty’s magnificence, reputation and dignity; and to do so no more, considering
how little it would be becoming Her Royal Majesty to bear such gross violence,
and what great disasters might originate from it, yea, might be expected. *
* * All this I can freely bring forward in my own defense, to exculpate me
from all future calamities, of which we give you a warning, and place it at
your account. Dated New Gothenburg, 3d September, stil, veteri 1646.”
It will be noted from the repetition of the high sounding epithets applied
to the Queen, that Printz had a very exalted idea of his own position as the
Vicegerent of the Swedish monarch. Hudde responded, saying in reply: “ The
place we possess we hold in just deed, perhaps before the name of South River
was heard of in Sweden.” This paper, upon its presentation, Printz fixing to
the ground in contempt, and when the messenger, who bore it, demanded an
answer, Printz unceremoniously threw him out doors, and seizing a gun would
have dispatched the Dutchman had he not been arrested; and whenever any of
Hudde’s men visited Tinicum they were sure to be abused, and frequently came
back “ bloody and bruised. ” Hudde urged rights xicquired by prior posses-
sion, but Printz answered: “ The devil was the oldest possessor in hell, yet he,
notwithstanding, would sometimes admit a younger one.” A vessel which had
come to the Delaware from Manhattan with goods to barter to the Indians, was
brought to, and ordered away. In vain did Hudde plead the rights acquired
by previous possession, and finally treaty obligations existing between the
two nations. Printz was inexorable, and peremptorily ordered the skipper
away, and as his ship was not provided with the means of fighting its way up
past the frowning battlements of Fort Elsinborg, his only alternative was to
return to Manhattan and report the result to his employers.
Peter Stuyvesant, a man of a good share of native talent and force of char-
acter, succeeded to the chief authority over New Netherland in May, 1647.
The affairs of his colony were not in an encouraging condition. The New
England colonies were crowding upon him from the north and east, and the
HISTORY" OF PENNSYLVANIA.
2T
Swedes upon the South River were occupying the territory which the Dutch
for many years previous to the coming of Christina’s colony had claimed.
Amid the thickening complications, Stuyvesant had need of all his power of
ai’gumentand executive skill. He entered into neg«)tiations with the New En-
gland colonies for a peaceful settlement of their difficulties, getting the very
best terms he could, without resorting to force; for, said his superiors, the
officers of the company in Holland, who had an eye to dividends, “War can-
not be for our advantage; the New England people are too powerful for us.”
A pacific policy was also preserved toward the Swedes. Hudde was retained
at the head of Dutch affairs upon the Delaware, and he was required to make
full reports of everything that was transpiring there in order that a clear in-
sight might be gained of the policy likely to be pursued. Stuyvesant was en-
tirely too shrewd a politician for the choleric Printz. He recommended to the
company to plant a Dutch colony on the site of Zwanendal at the mouth of
the river, another on the opposite bank, which, if effectually done, would com-
mand its navigation; and a third on the upper waters at Beversreede, which
would intercept the intercourse of the native population. By this course of
active colonizing, Stuyvesant rightly calculated that the Swedish power would
be circumscribed, and finally, upon a favorable occasion, be crushed out.
Stuyvesant, that he might ascertain the nature and extent of the Swedish
claims to tho country, and examine into the complaints that were pouring in
upon him of wrongs and indignities suffered by the Dutch at the hands of the
Swedish power, in 1651 determined to visit the Delaware in his official capac-
ity. He evidently went in some state, and Printz, who was doubtless impressed
with the condecension of the Governor of all New Netherland in thus coming,
was put upon his good behavior. Stuyvesant, by his address, got completely
on the blind side of the Swedish chief, maintaining the garb of friendship
and brotherly good-will, and insisting that the discussion of rights should be
carried on in a peaceful and friendly manner, for we are informed that they
mutually promised “ not to commit any hostile or vexatious acts against one
another, but to maintain together all neighborly friendship and correspond-
ence, as good friends and allies aro bound to do. ’ ’ Printz was thus, by this
agreement, entirely disarmed and placed at a disadvantage; for the Dutch
Governor took advantage of the armistice to acquire lands below Fort Chris-
tina, where he proceeded to erect a fort only five miles away, which he named
Fort Oasimir. This gave the Dutch a foothold upon the south bank, and in
nearer proximity to the ocean than Fort Christina. Fort Nassau was dis-
mantled and destroyed, as being no longer of use. In a conference with the
Swedish Governor, Stuyvesant demanded to see documental proof of his right
to exercise authority upon he Delaware, and the compass of the lands to
which the Swedish Government laid claim. Printz prepared a statement in
which he set out the “Swedish limits wide enough.” But Stuyvesant de-
manded the documents, under the seal of the company, and characterized this
writing as a “subterfuge,” maintaining by documentary evidence, on his part,
the Dutch West India Company’s right to the soil.
Printz was great as a blusterer, and preserver of authority when personal
abuse and kicks and cuffs could be resorted to without the fear of retaliation;
but no match in statecraft for the wilj' Stuyvesant. To the plea of pre-occu-
pancy he had nothing to answer more than he had already done to Hudde’s
messenger respecting the government of Hades, and herein was the cause of
the Swedes inherently weak. In numbers, too, the Swedes were feeble com-
pared with the Dutch, who had ten times the population. But in diplomacy
he had been entirely overreached. Fort Casimir, by its location, rendered
"28
HISTORY OP PENNSYLVANIA
the rival Fort Elainborg powerless, and under plea that the mosquitoes had be-
■come troublesome there, it was abandoned. Discovering, doubtless, that a cloud
of complications was thickening over him, which he would be unable with the
forces at his command to successfully withstand, he asked to be relieved, and,
without awaiting an answer to his application, departed for Sweden, leaving
his son-in-law, John Pappegoya, who had previously received marks of the
royal favor, and been invested with the dignity of Lieutenant Governor, in
supreme authijrity.
The Swedish company had by this time, no doubt, discovered that forcible
opposition to Swedish occupancy of the soil upon Delaware was destined soon
to come, and accordingly, as a precautionary measure, in November, 1653, the
College of Commerce sent John Amundson Besch, with the commission of
Captain in the Navy, to superintend the construction of vessels. Upon his
arrival, he acquired lands suitable for the purpose of ship building, and set
about laying his keels. He was to have supreme authority over the naval force,
and was to act in conjunction with the Governor in protecting the interests of
the colony, but in such a manner that neither should decide anything without
■consulting the other.
On receiving the application of Printz to be relieved, the company ap-
pointed John Claude Eysingh, then Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce,
as Vice Director of New Sweden. He was instructed to fortify and extend
the Swedish possessions, but without interrupting the friendship existing
with the English or Dutch. He was to use his power of persuasion in induc-
ing the latter to give up Fort Casimir, which was regarded as an intrusion
upon Swedish possessions, but without resorting to hostilities, as it was better
to allow the Dutch to occupy it than to have it fall into the hands of the En-
glish, “who are the more powerful, and, of course, the most dangerous in that
■country.” Thus early was the prowess of England foreshadowed. Gov.
Eysingh arrived in the Delaware, on the last day of May, 1654, and immediately
demanded the surrender of Fort Casimir. Adriaen Van Tienhoven, an aide-
de-camp on the staff of the Dutch commandant of the fort, was sent on board
the vessel to demand of Gov. Eysingh by what right he claimed to dis-
possess the rightful occupants; but the Governor was not disposed to discuss
the rpatter, and immediately landed a party and took possession without more
opposition than wordy protests, the Dutch Governor saying, when called on to
make defense, “What can I do? there is no powder.” Eysingh, however, in
justification of his course, stated to Teinhoven, after he had gained possession
of the fort, that he was acting under orders from the crown of Sweden, whose
■embassador at the Dutch Court, when remonstrating against the action of Gov.
Stuyvesant in erecting and manning Fort Casimir had been assured, by
the State’s General and the offices of the West India Company, that they had
not authorized the erection of this fort on Swedish soil, saying, “ if our people
are in your Excellency’s way, drive them off.’’ “Thereupon the Swedish
Governor slapped Van Teinhoven on the breast, and said, ‘ Go! tell your Gov-
ernor that.’” As the capture was made on Trinity Sunday, the name was
changed from Fort Casimir to Fort Trinity.
Thus were the instructions of the new Governor, not to resort to force, but
to secure possession of the fort by negotiation, complied with, but by a forced
interpretation. For, although he had not actually come to battle, for the very
good reason that the Dutch had no powder, and were not disposed to use
"their lists against fire arms, which the Swedes brandished freely, yet, in mak-
ing his demand for the fort, he had put on the stern aspect of war.
Stuyvesant, on learning of the loss of Fort Casimir, sent a messenger to the
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
Delaware to invite Gov. Rysingh to come to Mant attan to hold friendly confer-
ence upon the subject of their difficulties. This Rysingh refused to do, and the
Dutch Governor, probably desiring instructions from the home Governmeat be-
fore proceeding to extremities, made a voyage to tbe West Indies for the purpose
of arranging favorable regulations of trade with the colonies, though without
the instructions, or even the knowledge of the States General. Cromwell,
who was now at the head of the English nation, by the policy of his agents,
rendered this embassy of Stuyvesant abortive.
As soon as information of the conduct of Rysingh at Zwanendal was
known in Holland, the company lost no time in disclaiming the representa-
tions which he had made of its willingness to have the fort turned over to the
Swedes, and immediatelj’ took measures for restoring it and wholly dispossess-
ing the Swedes of lands upon the Delaware. On the 16th of November, 1655^
the company ordered Stuyvesant “ to exert every nerve to avenge the insult,
by not only replacing matters on the Delaware in their former position, but
by driving the Swedes from every side of the river,” though they subsequent-
ly modified this order in such manner as to allow the Swedes, after Fort Casi-
mir had been taken, “to hold the land on which Fort Christina is built,” with
a garden to cultivate tobacco, because it appears that they had made the pur-
chase with the previous knowledge of the company, thus manifesting a disin-
clination to involve Holland in a war with Sweden. “Two armed ships were
forthwith commissioned; ‘the drum was beaten daily for volunteers’ in the
streets of Amsterdam; authority was sent out to arm and equip, and if neces-
sary to press into the company’s service a sufficient number of ships for the
expedition.” In the meantime, Gov. Rysingh, who had inaugurated his
reign by so bold a stroke of policy, determined to ingratiate himself into the
favor of the Indians, who had been soured in disposition by the arbi-
trary conduct of the passionate Printz. He accordingly sent out on all sides
an invitation to the native tribes to assemble on a certain day, by their chiefs
and principal men, at the seat of government on Tinicum Island, to brighten
the chain of friendship and renew their pledges of faith and good neighbor-
hood.
On the morning of the appointed day, ten grand sachems with their at-
tendants came, and with the formality characteristic of these native tribes, the
council opened. Many and bitter were the complaints made against the Swedes
for wrongs suffered at their hands, “ chief among which was that many of
their number had died, plainly pointing, though not explicitly saying it, to the
giving of spirituous liquors as the cause.” The new Governor had no answer
to make to these complaints, being convinced, probably, that they were but too
true. "Without attempting to excuse or extenuate the past, Rysingh brought
forward the numerous presents which he had taken with him from Sweden for
the purpose. The sight of the piled up goods produced a profound impression
upon the minds of the native chieftains. They sat apart for conference before
making any expression of their feelings. Naaman, the fast friend of the white
man, and the most consequential of the warriors, according to Campanius,
spoke: “ Look,” said he, “and see what they have brought to us.” So say-
ing, he stroked himself three times down the arm, which, among the Indians,
was a token of friendship; afterward he thanked the Swedes on behalf of his
people for the presents they had received, and said that friendship should be
observed more strictly between them than ever before; that the Swedes and
the Indians in Gov. Printz’s time were as one body and one heart, striking his
breast as he spoke, and that thenceforward they should be as one head; in
token of which he took hold of his head with both hands, and made a motion
2
30
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
as if he were tying a knot, and then he made this comparison; “ That, as ttie
calabash was round, without any crack, so they should be a compact body with-
out any fissure; and that if any should attempt to do any harm to the Indians,
the Swedes should immediately inform them of it; and, on the other hand, the
Indians would give immediate notice to the Christians, even if it were in the
middle of the night.” On this they were answered that that would be indeed
a true and lasting friendship, if every one would agree to it; on which they
gave a general shout in token of consent. Immediately on this the great guns
were fired, which pleased them extremely, and they said, “Poo, hoo, hoo;
mokerick picon,'” that is to say “Hear and believe; the great guns are fired.”
Bysingh then produced all the treaties which had ever been concluded between
them and the Swedes, which were again solemnly confirmed. “ When those
who had signed the deeds heard their names, they appeared to rejoice, but,
when the names were read of those who were dead, they hung their heads in
sorrow.”
After the first ebulition of feeling had subsided on the part of the Dutch
Company at Amsterdam, the winter passed without anything further being
done than issuing the order to Stuyvesant to proceed against the Swedes. In
the spring, however, a thirty-six-gun brig was obtained from the burgomasters
of Amsterdam, which, with four other crafts of varying sizes, was prepared for
duty, and the little fleet set sail for New Netherland. Orders were given for
immediate action, though Director General Stuyvesant had not returned from
the West Indies. Upon the arrival of the vessels at Manhattan, it was an-
nounced that “ if any lovers of the prosperity and security of the province of
New Netherland were inclined to volunteer, or to serve for reasonable wages,
they should come forward,” and whoever should lose a limb, or be maimed, was
assured of a decent compensation. The merchantmen were ordered to furnish
two of their crews, and the river boatmen were to be impressed. At this junct-
ure a grave question arose: “Shall the Jews be enlisted?” It was decided
in the negative; but in lieu of service, adult male Jews were taxed sixty-five
stivers a head per month, to be levied by execution in case of refusal.
Stuyvesant bad now arrived from his commercial trip, and made ready for
opening the campaign in earnest. A day of prayer and thanksgiving was held
to beseech the favor of Heaven upon the enterprise, and on the 5th of Septem-
ber, 1655, with a fleet of seven vessels and some 600 men, Stuyvesant hoisted
sail and steered for the Delaware. Arrived before Fort Trinity (Casimir), the
Director sent Capt. Smith and a drummer to summon the fort, and ordered a
flank movement by a party of fifty picked men to cut off communication with
Fort Christina and the headquarters of Gov. Bysingh. Swen Schute, the com-
mandant of the garrison, asked permission to communicate with Bysingh,
which was denied, and he was called on to prevent bloodshed. An interview
in the valley midway between the fort and the Dutch batteries was held, when
Schute asked to send an open letter to Bysingh. This was denied, and for a
third time the fort was summoned. Impatient of delay, and in no temper for
parley, the great guns were landed and the Dutch force ordered to advance.
Schute again asked for a delay until morning, which was granted, as the day
was now well spent and the Dutch would be unable to make the necessary
preparations to open before morning. Early on the following day, Schute went
on board the Dutch flag- ship, the Balance, and agreed to terms of surrender
very honorable to his flag. He was permitted to send to Sweden, by the first
opportunity, the cannon, nine in number, belonging to the crown of Sweden,
to march out of the fort with twelve men, as his body guard, fully accoutered,
and colors flying; the common soldiers to wear their side arms. The com-
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
31
mandant and other officers were to retain their private property, the muskets
belonging to the crown wore to be held until sent for, and finally the fort was
to be surrendered, with all the cannon, ammunition, materials and other goods
belonging to the West India Company. The Dutch entered the fort at n,oon
with all the formality and glorious circumstance of war, and Dominie Megap-
olensis, Chaplain of the expedition, preached a sermon of thanksgiving on the
following Sunday in honor of the great triumph.
While these signal events were transpiring at Casimir, Gov. Rysing, at his
royal residence on Tinicum, was in utter ignorance that he was being despoiled
of his power. A detachment of nine men had been sent by the Governor to
Casimir to re-enforce the garrison, which came unawares upon the Dutch lines,
and after a brief skirmish all but two were captured. Upon learning that the
fort was invested. Factor Ellswyck was sent with a flag to inquire of the in-
vaders the purpose of their coming. The answer was returned “ To recover
and retain our property.” Rysingh then communicated the hope that they
would therewith rest content, and not encroach further upon Swedish territory,
having, doubtless, ascertained by this time that the Dutch were too strong for
him to make any effectual resistance. Stuyvesant returned an evasive answer,
but made ready to march upon Fort Christina. It will be remembered that
by the terms of the modified orders given for the reduction of the Swedes,
Fort Christina was not to be disturbed. But the Dutch Governor’s blood was
now up, and he determined to make clean work while the means were in his
hands. Discovering that the Dutch were advancing, Rysingh spent the whole
night in strengthening the defenses and putting the garrison in position to
make a stout resistance. Early on the following day the invaders made their
appearance on the opposite bank of Christina Creek, where they threw up de
fenses and planted their cannon. Forces were landed above the fort, and the
place was soon invested on all sides, the vessels, in the meantime, having been
brought into the mouth of the creek, their cannon planted west of the fort and
on Timber Island. Having thus securely shut up the Governor and his garri-
son, Stuyvesant summmoned him to surrender. Rysingh could not in honor
tamely submit, and at a council of war it was resolved to make a defense and
“ leave the consequence to be redressed by our gracious superiors.” But their
supply of powder barely sufficed for one round, and his force consisted of only
thirty men. In the meantime, the Dutch soldiery made free with the property
of the Swedes without the fort, killing their cattle and invading their homes.
“At length the Swedish garrison itself showed symptoms of mutiny. The
men were harassed with constant watching, provisions began to fail, many
were sick, several had deserted, and Stuyvesant threatened, that, if they held
out much longer, to give no quarter.” A conference was held which ended
by the return of Rysingh to the fort more resolute than ever for defense.
Finally Stuyvesant sent in his ultimatum and gave twenty-four hours for a
final answer, the generous extent of time for consideration evincing the humane
disposition of the commander of the invading ai-my, or what is perhaps more
probable his own lack of stomach for carnage. Before the expiration of the
time allowed, the garrison capitulated, “ after a siege of fourteen days, dur-
ing which, vei’y fortunately, there was a great deal more talking than cannon-
ading, and no blood shed, except those of the goats, poultry and swine, which
the Dutch troops laid their hands on. The twenty or thirty Swedes then
marched out with their arms; colors flying, matches lighted, drums beating,
and fifes playing, and the Dutch took possession of the fort, hauled down the
Swedish flag and hoisted their own.”
By the terms of capitulation, the Swedes, who wished to remain in the
32
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
country, were permitted to do so, on taking the oath of allegiance, and rights
of property were to be respected under the sway of Dutch law. Gov. Ry-
singh, and all others who desired to return to Europe, were furnished passage,
and by a secret provision, a loan of £300 Flemish was made to Rysingh, to be
refunded on bis arrival in Sweden, the cannon and other property belonging
to the crown remaining in the hands of the Dutch until the loan was paid.
Before withdrawing Stuyvesant offered to deliver over Fort Christina and the
lands immediately about it to Rysingh, but this olfer was declined with dig-
nity, as the matter had now passed for arbitrament to the courts of the two na-
tions.
The terms of the capitulation were honorable and liberal enough, but the
Dutch authorities seem to have exercised little care in carrying out its provis-
ions, or else the discipline in the service must have been very lax. For Ry-
singh had no sooner arrived at Manhattan, than he entered most vigorous pro-
tests against the violations of the provisions of the capitulation to Gov. Stuy-
vesant. He asserted that the property belonging to the Swedish crown had
been left without guard or protection from pillage, and that be himself had
not been assigned quarters suited to his dignity. He accused the Dutch
with having broken open the church, and taken away all the cordage and sails
of a new vessel, with having plundered the villages, Tinnakong, Uplandt, Fin-
land, Printzdorp and other places. “ In Christina, the women were violently
torn from their houses; whole buildings were destroyed; yea, oxen, cows, hogs
and other creatures were butchered day after day; even the horses were not
spared, but wantonly' shot; the plantations destroyed, and the whole country
so desolated that scarce any means were left for the subsistence of the inhab-
itants.” “Your men carried off even my own property, ” said Rysingh,
“ with that of my family, and we were left like sheep doomed to the knife,
without means of defense against the wild barbarians.”
Thus the colony of Swedes and Fins on the South River, which had been
planned by and had been the object of solicitude to the great monarch himself,
and had received the fostering care of the Swedish Government, came to an
end after an existence of a little more than seventeen years — 1638-1655. But
though it no longer existed as a colony tinder the government of the crown of
Sweden, many of the colonists remained and became the most intelligent and
law-abiding citizens, and. constituted a vigorous element in the future growth
of the State. Some of the best blood of Europe at this period flowed in the
veins of the Swedes. “A love for Sweden,” says Bancroft, “ their dear
mother country, the abiding sentiment of loyalty toward its sovereign, con-
tinued to distinguish the little band. At Stockholm, they remained for a
century the objects of disinterested and generous regard; affection united them
in the New World; and a part of their descendants still preserve their altar
and their dwellings around the graves of their fathers.”
This campaign of Stuyvesant, for the dispossessing of the Swedes of terri-
tory upon the Delaware, furnishes Washington Irving subject for some of the
most inimitable chapters of broad humor, in his Knickerbocker’s New York, to
be found in the English language. And yet, in the midst of his side-splitting
paragraphs, he indulges in a reflection which is worthy of remembrance.
“He who reads attentively will discover the threads of gold which run
throughout the web of history, and are invisible to the dull eye of ignorance.
* * * By the treacherous surprisal of Fort Casimir, then, did the crafty
Swedes enjoy a transient triumph, but drew upon their heads the vengeance
of Peter Stuyvesant, who wrested all New Sweden from their hands. By the
conquest of New Sweden, Peter Stuyvesant aroused the claims of Lord Balti-
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
33
more, who appealed to the cabinet of Great Britain, who subdued the whole
province of New Netherlands. By this great achievement, the whole extent of
North America, from Nova Scotia to the Floridas, was rendered one entire
dependency upon the British crown. But mark the consequence: The hith-
erto scattered colonies being thus consolidated and having no rival colonies to
check or keep them in awe, waxed great and powerful, and finally becoming
too strong for the mother country, were enabled to shake off its bonds. But
the chain of efiects stopped not here; the successful revolution in America pro-
duced the sanguinary revolution in France, which produced the puissant
Bonaparte, who produced the French despotism. ”
In March, 1656, the ship “Mercury,” with 130 emigrants, arrived, the
' government at Stockholm having had no intimation of the Dutch conquest.
An attempt was made to prevent a landing, and the vessel was ordered to
report to Stuyvesant at Manhattan, but the order was disregarded and the col-
onists debarked and acquired lands. The Swedish Government was not dis-
posed to submit to these high-handed proceedings of the Dutch, and the min-
isters of the two courts maintained a heated discussion of their differences.
Finding the Dutch disposed to hold by force their conquests, the government
of Sweden allowed the claim to rest until 1664. In that year, vigorous meas-
ures were planned to regain its claims upon the Delaware, and a fleet bearing
a military force was dispatched for the purpose. But, having been obliged to
put back on account of stress of weather, the enterprise was abandoned.
CHAPTEE III.
John Paul Jacquet, 1655-57— Jacob Alrichs, 1657-59— Goeran Van Dyck, 1657
-58— William Beekman, 1658-63— Alexander D’Hinoyossa, 1659-64.
^T^HE colonies upon the Delaware being now under exclusive control of the
Dutch, John Paul Jaquet was appointed in November, 1655, as Vice
Director, Derek Smidt having exercised authority after the departure of Stuy-
vesant. The expense of fitting out the expedition for the reduction of the
Swedes was sorely felt by the AVest India Company, which had been obliged
to borrow money for the purpose of t?ae city of Amsterdam. In payment of
this loan, the company sold to the city all the lands upon the south bank of
the Delaware, from the ocean to Christina Creek, reaching back to the lands
of the Minquas, which was designated Nieur Amstel. Again was there di-
vided authority upon the Delaware. The government of the new possession
was vested in a commission of forty residents of Amsterdam, who appointed
Jacob Alrichs as Director, and sent him with a force of forty soldiers and 150
colonists, in three vessels, to assume the government, whereupon Jaquet relin-
quished authority over this portion of his territory. The company in commu-
nicating with Stuyvesant upon the subject of his course in dispossessing the
Swedes, after duly considering all the complaints and remonstrances of the
Swedish government, approved his conduct, “ though they would not have been
displeased had such a formal capitulation not taken place,” adding as a paren-
thetical explanation of the word formal “ what is written is too long preserved,
and may be produced when not desired, whereas words not recorded are, in the
lapse of time, forgotten, or may be explained away.”
34
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
Stuyvesant still remained in supreme control over both the colony of the
city and the colony of the company, to the immediate governorship of the lat-
ter of which, G-oeran Van Dyck was appointed. But though settlements in
the management of affairs were frequently made, they would not remain set-
tled. There was conflict of authority between Alrichs and Van Dyck. The
companies soon found that a grievous system of smuggling had sprung up.
After a searching examination into the irregularities by Stuyvesant, who vis-
ited the Delaware for the purpose, he recommended the appointment of one
general agent who should have charge of all the reveniies of both colonies,
and William Beekman was accordingly appointed. The company of the city
seems not to have been satisfied with the profits of their investment, and ac-
cordingly made new regulations to govern settlement, by which larger returns-
would 'accrue. This action created discontent among the settlers, and many
who were meditating the purchase of lands and the acquisition of homes, de-
termined to go over into Maryland where Lord Baltimore was offering far more
libei’al terms of settlement. To add to the discomforts of the settlers, “ the
miasms which the low alluvial soil and the rank and decomposed vegetation
of a new country engenders, ’ ’ produced wasting sicknesses. When the planting
was completed, and the new soil, for ages undisturbed, had been thoroughly
stirred, the rains set in which descended almost continuously, producing fever
and ague and dysentery. Scarcely a family escaped the epidemic. Six in
the family of Director Alrichs were attacked, and his wife died. New colo-
nists came without provisions, which only added to the distress. “ Scarcity of
provisions,” says O’Calaghan, “naturally followed the failure of the crops;
900 schepels of grain had been sown in the spring. They produced scarcely
600 at harvest. Rye rose to three guilders the bushel; peas to eight guilders
the sack; salt was twelve guilders the bushel at New Amsterdam; cheese and
butter were not to be had, and when a man journeys he can get nothing but
dry bread, or he must take a pot or kettle along with him to cook his victuals.”
“ The place had now got so bad a name that the whole river could not wash it
clean.” The exactions of the city company upon its colony, not only did not
bring increased revenue, but by dispersing the honest colonists, served to
notify Lord Baltimore — who had laid claim to the lands upon Delaware, on
account of original discovery by Lord De la War, from whom the river takes
its name, and from subsequent charter of the British crown, covering territory
from the 38th to the 40th degree of latitude — of the weakness of the colonies,
and persuade him that now was a favorable opportunity to enforce his claims.
Accordingly, Col. Utie, with a number of delegates, was dispatched to demand
that the Dutch should quit the place, or declare themselves subjects of Lord
Baltimore, adding, “ that if they hesitated, they should be responsible for
whatever innocent blood might be shed.”
Excited discussions ensued between the Dutch authorities and the agents
of the Maryland government, and it was finally agreed to refer the matter to
Gov. Stuyvesant, who immediately sent Commissioners to the Chesapeake to
settle differences, and enter into treaty regulations for the mutual return of
fugitives, and dispatched sixty soldiers to the Delaware to assist in preserving
order, and resisting the English, should an attempt be made to dispossess the
Dutch.
Upon the death of Alrichs, which occurred in 1659, Alexander D’Hinoyossa
was appointed Governor of the city colony. The new Governor was a man of
good business capacity, and sought to administer the affairs of his colony for
the best interests of the settlers, and for increasing the revenues of the com-
pany. To further the general prosperity, the company negotiated a new loan
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
35
with which to strengthen and improve its resources. This liberal policy had
the desired effect. The Swedes, who had settled above on the river, moved
down, and acquired homes on the lands of the city colony. The Fins and dis-
contented Dutch, wh D had gone to Maryland, returned and brought with them
some of the English settlers.
Discouraged by the harassing conflicts of authority which seemed inter-
minable, the West India Company transferred all its interests on the east side
of the river to the colony of the city, and upon the visit of D’Hinoyossa to
Holland in 1663, he secured for himself the entire and exclusive government
of the colonies upon the Delaware, being no longer subject to the authority of
Stuyvesant.
Encouraged by liberal terms of settlement, and there being now a prospect
of stable government, emigrants were attracted thither. A Mennonite commu-
nity came in a body. “ Clergymen were not allowed to join them, nor any
‘ intractable people such as those in communion with the Roman See, usurious
Jews, English stiff-necked Quakers, Puritans, foolhardy believers in the mil-
lennium, and obstinate modern pretenders to revelation.’ ” They were obliged
to take an oath never to seek for an office; Magistrates were to receive no com-
pensation, “ not even a stiver. ” The soil and climate were regarded as excel-
lent, and when sufficiently peopled, the country would be the “ finest on the
face of the globe.”
CHAPTER lY.
Richard Nichols, 1664-67— Robert Needham, 1664-68— Francis Lovelace;
1667-73— John Carr, 1668-73— Anthony Colve, 1673-74— Peter Alrichs,.
1673-74.
Affairs were scarcely arranged upon the Delaware, and the dawning of
a better day for the colonists ushered in, before new complications
began to threaten the subversion of the whole Dutch power in America. The
English had always claimed the entire Atlantic seaboard. Under Cromwell,
the Navigation act was aimed at Dutch interests in the New World. Captain.
John Scott, who had been an officer in the army of Charles I, having
obtained some show of authority from the Governor of Connecticut, had visited
the towns upon the west end of Long Island, where was a mixed population of
Dutch and English, and where he claimed to have purchased large tracts of
land, and had persuaded them to unite under his authority in setting up a
government of their own. He visited England and “ petitioned the King to be
invested with the government of Long Island, or that the people thereof’ be
allowed to choose yearly a Governor and Assistants.” By his representation,
an inquiry was instituted by the King’s council, “ as to his majesty’s title to the
premises; the intrusions of the Dutch; their deportment; management of the
country; strength, trade and government; 'and lastly, of the means necessary
to induce or force them to acknowledge the King, or if necessary, to expel
them together from the country. ” The visit of Scott, and his prayer to the
King for a grant of Long Island, was the occasion of inaugurating a policy,
which resulted in the overthrow of Dutch rule in America. But the attention
of English statesmen had for some time been turned to the importance of the
territory which the Dutch colonies had occupied, and a bwlief that Dutcli trade
in the New World was yielding great returns, stimulated inquiry. Jameses
36
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
Duke of York, brother of the King, who afterward himself became King, was
probably at this time the power behind the throne that was urging on action
looking to the dispossession of the Dutch. The motive which seemed to actuate
him was the acquisition of personal wealth and power. He saw, as he
thought, a company of merchants in Amsterdam accumulating great wealth out
of these colonies, and he meditated the transfer of this wealth to himself. He
was seconded in this project by the powerful influence of Sir George Downing,
who had been Envoy at The Hague, under Cromwell, and was now under Charles
II. “Keen, bold, subtle, active, and observant, but imperious and unscrupulous,
disliking and distrusting the Dutch,” he had watched every movement of the
company’s granted privileges by the States General, and had reported every-
thing to his superiors at home. “The whole bent,” says O’Calaghan, ’’ of this
man’s mind was constantly to hold up before the eyes of his countrymen the
growing power of Holland and her commercial companies, their immense
wealth and ambition, and the danger to England of permitting these to pro
gress onward unchecked.’’
After giving his testimony before the council. Scott returned to America
with a letter from the King recommending his interests to the co-operation nnd
protection of the New England colonies. On arriving in Connecticut, he was
■commissioned by the Governor of that colony to incorporate Long Island under
Connecticut jurisdiction. But the Baptists, Quakers and Menuonites, who formed
a considerable part of the population, “ dreaded falling into the hands of the
Puritans.” In a quaint document commencing, “In the behalfe of sum hun-
dreds of English here planted on the west end of Long Island wee address,”
etc.,” they besought Scott to come and settle their difficulties. On his arrival
he acquainted them with the fact, till then unknown, that King Charles had
granted the island to the Duke of York, who would soon assert his rights.
Whereupon the towns of Hemstede, Newwarke, Crafford, Hastings, Folestone
and Gravesend, entered into a “combination” as they termed it, resolved to
sleet deputies to draw up laws, choose magistrates, and empowered Scott to
■act as their President; in short set up the first independent State in America.
Scott immediately set out at the head of 150 men, horse and foot, to subdue
the island.
On the 22d of March, 1664, Charles II made a grant of the whole of Long
Island, and all the adjoining country at the time in possession of the Dutch,
to the Duke of York. Borrowing four men-of-war of the king, James sent
them in command of Col. Richard Nicholls, an old officer, with whom was as-
sociated Sir Robert Carr, Sir George Cartwright, and Samuel Maverick, Esq.,
and a force of 450 men, to dispossess the Dutch. To insure the success of the
■expedition, letters were addressed to each of the Governors of the New England
colonies, enjoining upon them to unite in giving aid by men and material to
Nicholls. The fleet sailed directly for Boston, where it was expected, and
whence, through one Lord, the Dutch were notified of its coming. The great-
est consternation was aroused upon the receip>t of this intelligence, and the
most active preparations were making for defense. But in the midst of these
preparations, notice was received from the Chambers at Amsterdam, doubtless
inspired by the English, that “ no apprehension of any public enemy or dan-
ger from England need be entertained. That the King was only desirous to
reduce the colonies to uniformity in church and state, and with this view was
dispatching some Commissioners with two or three frigates to New England to
introduce Episcopacy in that quarter. ” Thrown completely off his guard by
this announcement, the Director General, Stuyvesant abandoned all preparations
for resistance, and indulged in no anticipations of a hostile visitation. Thus
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
37
were tliree full weeks lost in which the colonies might have been put in a verj-
good state of defense.
Nicholls on arriving in American waters, touched at Boston and Connecti-
cut, v/here some aid was received, and then hastened foward to Manhattan.
Stnyvesant had but a day or two before learned of the arrival, and of the hos-
tile intent. Scarcely had he issued ordei-s for bringing out his forces and for
fortifying before Nicholls scattered proclamations through the colony promis-
ing to protect all who submitted to his Brittanic majesty in the undisturbed
possession of their property, and made a formal summons upon Stayvesant to
surrender the country to the King of Great Britain. The Director found that
he had an entirely different enemy to treat with from Eysingh, and a few half-
armed Swedes and Fins upon the Delaware. Wordy war ensued between the
Commissioners and the Director, and the English Governor finding that Stuy-
vesant not in the temper to yield, landed a body of his soldiers upon the lower end
of the island, and ordered Hyde, the commander of the fleet, to lay the frigates
broadside before the city. It was a critical moment. Stnyvesant was stand-
ing on one of the points of the fort when he saw the frigates approaching.
The gunner stood by with burning match, prepared to lire on the fleet, and
Stnyvesant seemed on the point of giving the order. But he was restrained,
and a fm’ther communication was sent to Nicholls, who would listen to nothing
short of the full execution of his mission. Still Stnyvesant held out. The
inhabitants implored, but rather than surrender “ he would be carried a corpse
to his grave.” The town was, however, in qo condition to stand a siege. The
powder at the fort would only suffice for one day of active operations. Pro-
visions were scarce. The inhabitants were not disposed to be sacrificed, and
the disaffection among them spread to the soldiers. They were overheard mut-
tering, “ Now we hope to pepper those devilish traders who have so long
salted us; we know where booty is to be found, and where the young women
live who wear gold chains. ”
The Rev. Jannes Myapoleuses seems to have been active in negotiations and
opposed to the shedding of blood. A remonstrance drawn by him was finally
adopted and signed by the principal' men, and presented to the Director Gen-
eral, in which the utter hopelessness of resistance was set forth, and Stuyve-
sant finally consented to capitulate. Favorable terms were arranged, and
Nicholls promised that if it should be finally agreed between the English and
Dutch governments that the province should be given over to Dutch rule, he
would peacefully yield his authority. Thus without a gun being fired, the En-
glish made conquest of the Manhattoes.
Sir Robert Carr, with two frigates and an ample force, was dispatched to
the Delaware to reduce the settlements thei'e to English rule. The planters,
whether Dutch or Swedes, were to be insured in the peaceable possession of
their property, and the magistrates were to be continued in office.
Sailing past the fort, he disseminated among the settlers the news of the
surrender of Stnyvesant, and the promises of protection which Nicholls had
made use of. But Gov. D’Hinoyossa was not disposed to heed the demand
for surrender without a struggle. Whereupon Carr landed his forces and
stormed the place. After a fruitless but heroic resistance, in which ten were
wounded and three were killed, the Governor was forced to surrender. Thus
was the complete subversion of the State’s General in America consummated,
and the name of New Amsterdam gave place to that of New York, from the
name of the English proprietor, James, Duke of York.
The resistance offered by D’Hinoyossa formed a pretext for shameless
plunder. Carr, in his report which shows him to have been a lawless fel-
38
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
low, says, “ Ye soldiers never sloping untill they stormed ye fort, and sae con-
sequoiitly to plundering; the seamen, noe less given to that sport, wereqniekly
within, and have g^tton good store of booty.” Carr seized the fai’m of
D’Hinoyossa, hi: broker, John Carr, that of Sheriff Sweringen, and Ensign
Stock that of Peter Alrichs. The produce of the land for that year was seized,
together with a cargo of goods that was unsold. “ Even the inoffensive Men-
nonists, though non-combatant from principle, did not escape the sack and
plunder to which the whole river was subjected by Carr and his marauders.
A boat was dispatched to their settlement, which was stripped of everything,
to a very naile.”
Nicholls, on hearing of the rapacious conduct of his subordinate, visited
the Delaware, removed Carr, and placed Robert Needham in command. Pre-
vious to dispatching his fleet to America, in June, 1664, the Duke of York had
granted to John, Lord Berkeley, Baron of Stratton, and Sir George Carteret,
of Saltrum in Devon, the territory of New Jersey, bounded substantially as the
present State, and this, though but little settled by the Dutch, had been in-
cluded in the terms of surrender secured by Nicholls. In many ways, he
showed himself a man of ability and discretion. He drew up with signal
success a body of laws, embracing most of the provisions which had been in
force in the English colonies, which were designated the Duke’s Laws.
In May, 1667, Col. Francis Lovelace was appointed Governor in place of
Nicholls, and soon after taking charge of affairs, drew up regulations for the
government of the territory upon the Delaware, and dispatched Capt. John
Carr to act there as his Deputy Governor. It was provided that whenever
complaint duly sworn to was made, the Governor was to summon “ the schout,
Hans Block, Israel Helm, Peter Rambo, Peter Cock and Peter Alrichs, or any
two of them, as counsellors, to advise him, and determine by the major vote
what is just, equitable and necessary in the case in question. ” It was further
provided that all men should be punished in an exemplary manner, though
with moderation; that the laws should be frequently communicated to the
counsellors, and that in cases of difficulty recourse should be had to the Gov-
ernor and Council at New York.
In 1668, two murders were perpetrated by Indians, which caused consider-
able disturbance and alarm throughout the settlements. These capital crimes
appear to have been committed while the guilty parties were maddened by
liquor. So impressed were the sachems and leading warriors of the baneful
effects of strong drink, that they appeared before the Council and besought its
authority to utterly prohibit the sale of it to any of their tribes. These re-
quests were repeated, and finally, upon the advice of Peter Alrichs, “ the
Governor (Lovelace) prohibited, on pain of death, the selling of powder, shot
and strong liquors to the Indians, and writ to Carr on the occasion to use the
utmost vigilance and caution.”
The native murderers were not apprehended, as it was difficult to trace
them; but the Indians themselves were determined to ferret them out. One
was taken and shot to death, who was the chief offender, but the other escaped
and was never after heard of. The chiefs summoned their young men, and in
presence of the English warned them that such would be the fate of all offend-
ers. Proud justly remarks: “This, at a time when the Indians were numer-
ous and strong and the Europeans few and weak, was a memorable act of jus-
tice, and a proof of true friendship to the English, greatly alleviating the
fear, for which they had so much reason among savages, in this then wilder-
ness country.”
In 1669, a reputed son of the distinguished Swedish General, Connings-
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
39
marke, commonly called the Long Fin, with another of his nationality, HenYy
Coleman, a man of property, and familiar with the language and habits of the
Indians, endeavored to incite an insurrection to throw off the English rule and
establish the Swedish supremacy. The Long Fin was apprehended, and Avas
condemned to die; but upon reconsideration his sentence was commuted to
whipping and to branding with the letter R. He was brought in chains to
New York, where he was incarcerated in the Stadt-house for a year, and was
then transported to Barbadoes to be sold. Improvements in the modes of
administering justice were from time to time introduced. New Castle was
made a corporation, to be governed by a Bailiff and sis associates. Duties on
importations were laid, and Capt. Martin Pringer was appointed to collect and
make due returns of them to Gov. Lovelace.
In 1673, the French monarch, Louis XIV, declared war against the Neth-
erlands, and with an army of over 200,000 men moved down upon that de-
voted country. In conjunction with the land force, the English, with a 230wer-
ful armament, descended upon the Dutch waters. The aged Du Ruyter and
the youthful Van Tromp put boldly to sea to meet the invaders. Thi’ee great
naval battles were fought upon the Dutch Coast on the 7th and 14th of June,
and the 6th of August, in which the English forces were finally rejmlsed and
driven from the coast. In the meantime, the inhabitants, abandoning their
homes, cut the dikes which held back the sea, and invited inundation. Deem-
ing this a favorable opportunity to regain their possessions wrenched from them
in the New World, the Dutch sent a small fleet under Commodores Cornelius
Evertse and Jacobus Benkes, to New York, to demand the surrender of all
their previous possessions. Gov. Lovelace happened to be absent, and his
representative, Capt. John Manning, surrendered with but brief resistance,
and the magistrates from Albany, Esopus, East Jersey and Long Island, on
being summoned to New York, swore fealty to the returning Dutch power.
Anthony Colve, as Governor, was sent to Delaware, where the magistrates
hastened to meet him and submit themselves to his authority. Property in
the English Government was confiscated; Gov. Lovelace retm’ned to England,
and many of the soldiers were carried prisoners to Holland. Before their de-
parture, Commodores Evertse and Benkes, who styled themselves ‘ ‘ The honora-
ble and awful council of war, for their high mightinesses, the State’s General
of the United Netherlands,* and his Serene Highness, the Prince of Orange,”
commissioned Anthony Colve, a Captain of foot, on the 12th of August, 1673,
to be Governor General of “New Netherlands, with all its appendences,”
and on the 19th of September following, Peter Alrichs, who had manifested
his subserviency and his pleasure at the return of Dutch ascendancy, was ap-
pointed by Colve Deputy Governor upon the Delaware. A body of laws was
drawn up for his instruction, and three courts of justice were established, at
New Castle, Chester and Lewistown. Capt. Manning on his return to En-
gland was charged with treachery for delivering up the fort at New York with-
out resistance, and was sentenced by a court martial “to have his sword broken
over his head in public, before the city hall, and himself rendered incaj)able
of wearing a sword and of serving his Majesty for the future in any jiublie
trust in the Government. ”
But the revolution which had been affected so easily was of short duration.
On the 9th of February, 1674, peace was concluded between England and
Holland, and in the articles of pacification it was provided “that whatsoever
countries, islands, towns, ports, castles or forts, have or shall be taken, on both
sides, since the time that the late unhappy war broke out, either in Europe, or
elsewhere, shall be restor^ed to the former lord and proprietor, in the same con-
40
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
diiion they shall be in when the peace itself shall be proclaimed, after which
time there shall be no spoil nor plunder of the inhabitants, no demolition
of fortifications, nor carrying away of guns, powder, or other military stores
which belonged to any castle or port at the time when it was taken.” This
left no room for controversy about possession. But that there might be no legal
bar nor loophole for question of absolute right to his possessions, the Duke of
York secured from the Kiog on the 29th of June following, a new patent cov-
ering the former grant, and two days thereafter sent Sir Edmund Andros, to
possess and govern the country. He arrived at New York and took peaceable
possession on the 31st of October, and two days thereafter it was resolved in
council to reinstate all the officers upon Delaware as they were at the surrender
to the Dutch, except Peter Alrichs, who for his forwardness in yielding his
power was relieved. Capt. Edmund Cantwell and William Tom were sent to
occupy the fort at New Castle, in the capacities of Deputy Governor and Sec-
retary. In May, 3675, Gov. Andros visited the Delaware, and held court at
New Castle “ in which orders were made relative to the opening of roads, the
regulation of church property and the support of preaching, the prohibition
of the sale of liquors to the Indians, and the distillation thereof by the inhab-
itants.” On the 23d of September, 1676, Cantwell was superseded by John
Collier, as Vice Governor, when Ephraim Hermans became Secretary.
As was previously observed, Gov. Nicholls, in 1664, made a complete di-
gest of all the laws and usages in force in the English-speaking colonies in
America, which were known as the Duke’s Laws. That these might now be
made the basis of judicature throughout the Duke’s possessions, they were, on
the 25th of September, 1676, formally proclaimed and published by Gov.
Lovelace, with a suitable ordinance introducing them. It may here be ob-
served, that, in the administration of Gov. Hartranft, by act of the Legislature
of June 12, 3878, the Duke’s Laws were published in a handsome volume, to-
gether with the Charter and Laws instituted by Penn, and historical notes
covering the early history of the State, under the direction of John B. Linn,
Secretary of the commonwealth, edited by Staughton George, Benjamin M.
Nead, and Thomas McCamant, from an old copy preserved among the town rec-
ords of Hempstead, Long Island, the seat of the independent State which
had been set up there by John Scott before the coming of Nicholls. The num-
ber of taxable male inhabitants between the ages of sixteen and sixty years,
in 1677, for Upland! and New Castle, was 443, which by the usual estimate of
seven to one would give the population 3,101 for this district. Gov. Collier
having exceeded his authority by exercising judicial functions, was deposed
by Andros, and Capt. Christopher Billop was appointed to succeed him. But
the change resulted in little benefit to the colony; for Billop was charged
with many irregularities, “ taking possession of the fort and turning it into
a stable, and the court room above into a hay and fodder loft; debarring the
court from sitting in its usual place in the fort, and making use of soldiers for
his own private purposes. ”
The hand of the English Government bore heavily upon the denomination
of Christians called Friends or Quakers, and the earnest-minded, conscientious
worshipers, uncompromising in their faith, were eager for homes in a land
where they should be absolutely free to worship the Supreme Being. Berke-
ley and Carteret, who had bought New Jersey, were Friends, and the settle-
ments made in their territory were largely of that faith. In 1675, Lord Ber-
keley sold his undivided half of the province to John Fenwicke, in trust for
Edward Byllinge, also Quakers, and Fenwicke sailed in the Griffith, with a
company of Friends who settled at Salem, in West Jprsey. Byllinge, having
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
il
become involved in debt, made an assignment of bis interest for the benetit of
his creditors, and William Penn was induced to become trustee jointly with
Gowen Lawrie and Nicholas Lucas. Penn was a devoted Quaker, and he was
of that earnest nature that the interests of his friends and Christian devotees
were like his own personal interests. Hence he became zealous in promoting
the welfare of the colony. For its orderly government, and that settlers might
have assurance of stability in the management of affairs, Penn drew up “ Con-
cessions and agreements of the proprietors, freeholders and inhabitants of West
New Jersey in America” in forty- four chapters. Foreseeing difficulty from
divided auth<)rity, Penn secured a division of the province by “ a line of par-
tition from the east side of Little Egg Harbor, straight north, through the
country to the utmost branch of the Delaware River.” Penn’s half was called
New West Jersey, along the Delaware side, Carteret’s New East Jersey along the
ocean shore. Penn’s purposes and disposition toward the settlers, as the
founder of a State, are disclosed by a letter which he wrote at this time to a
Friend, Richard Hartshorn, then in America; “We lay a foundation for
after ages to understand their liberty, as men and Christians; that they may
not be brought into bondage, but by their own consent; for we put the power
in the people. * * So every man is capable to choose or to be chosen ; no man
to be arrested, condemned, or molested, in his estate, or liberty, but by twelve
men of the neighborhood; no man to lie in prison for debt, but that his estate
satisfy, as far as it will go, and he be set at liberty to work; no man to be
called in question, or molested for his conscience.” Lest any should be in-
duced to leave home and embark in the enterprise of settlement unadvisedly,
Penn wrote and published a letter of caution, “ That in whomsoever a desire to
be concerned in this intended plantation, such would weigh the thing before
the Lord, and not headily, or rashly, conclude on any such remove, and that
they do not offer violence to the tender love of their near kindred and relations,
but soberly, and conscientiously endeavor to obtain their good wills; that
whether they go or stay, it may be of good savor before the Lord and good
people.”
OHAPTEE Y.
Sir Edmund Andros, 1674-81— Edmund Cantwell, 1674-76— John Collier, 1676-
77— Christopher Billop, 1677-81.
WILLIAM PENN, as Trustee, and finally as part owner of New Jersey,
became much interested in the subject of colonization in America.
Many of his people had gone thither, and he had given much prayerful study
and meditation to the amelioration of their condition by securing just laws for
their government. His imagination pictured the fortunate condition of a
State where the law-giver should alone study the happiness of his subjects, and
his subjects should be chiefly intent on rendering implicit obedience to
just laws. From his experience in the management of the Jerseys, he had
doubtless discovered that if he would carry out his ideas of government suc-
cessfully, he must have a province where his voice would be potential and his
will supreme. He accordingly cast about for the acquirement of such a land in
the New World.
Penn had doubtless been stimulated in his desires by the very roseate ac-
counts of the beauty and excellence of the country, its salubrity of climate, its
42
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
balmy airs, the fertility of its soil, and the abundance of the native fish, flesh
and fowl. In 1680, one Malhon Stacy wrote a letter which was largely circu-
lated in England, in which he says: “ It is a country that produceth all things
for the support and furtherance of man, in a plentiful manner. * * * j
have seen orchai’ds laden with fruit to admiration; their very limbs torn to
pieces with weight, most delicious to the taste, and lovely to behold. I have
seen an apple tree, from a pippin- kernel, yield a bai-rel of curious cider; and
peaches in such plenty that some people took their carts a peach gathering; I
could not but smile at the conceit of it; they are very delicious fruit, andhang
almost like our onions, that are tied on ropes. I have seen and know, this
summer, forty bushels of bold wheat of one bushel sown. From May till
Michaelmas, great store of very good wild fruits as strawberries, cranberries
and hurtleberries, which are like om- billberries in England, only far sweeter;
the cranberries, much like cherries for color and bigness, which may be
kept till fruit comes again; an excellent sauce is made of them for venison,
turkeys, and other great fowl, and they are better to make tarts of than either
gooscoerries or cherries; we have them brought to our houses by the Indians
in great plenty. My brother Robert had as many cherries this year as would
have loaded several carts. As for venison and fowls, we have great plenty;
we have brought home to our countries by the Indians, seven or eight fat bucks
in a day. We went into the river to catch herrings after the Indian fashion.
* * vVe could have filled a three-bushel sack of as good large herrings
as ever I saw. And as to beef and pork, here is great plenty of it, and good
sheep. The common grass of this country feeds beef very fat. Indeed, the
country, take it as a wilderness, is a brave country.”
The father of William Penn had arisen to distinction m tne British Navy.
He was sent in Cromwell’s time, with a considerable sea and land force, to the
West Indies, where he reduced the Island of Jamaica under English rule. At
the restoration, he gave in his adhesion to the royal cause. Under James,
Duke of York, Admiral Penn commanded the English fleet which descended
upon the Dutch coast, and gained a great victory over the combined naval
forces led by Van Opdam. For this great service to his country, Penn was
knighted, and became a favorite at comd, the King and his brothor, the Duke,
holding him in cherished remembrance. At his death, there was due him
from tbe crown the sum of £16,000, a portion of which he himself had ad-
vanced for the sea service. Filled with the romantic idea of colonization, and
enamored with the sacred cause of his people, the son, who had come to be re-
garded with favor for his great father’s sake, petitioned King Charles II to
grant him, in liquidation of this debt, “ a tract of land in America, lying
north of Maryland, bounded east by the Delaware River, on the west limited
as Maryland, and northward to extend as far as plantable.” There were con-
flicting interests at this time which were being warily watched at court. The
petition was submitted to the Privy Council, and afterward to the Lords of
the committee of plantations. The Duke of York already held the counties of
New Castle, Kent and Sussex. Lord Baltimore held a grant upon the south,
with an indefinite northern limit, and the agents of both these territories
viewed with a jealous eye any new grant that should in any way trench upon
their rights. These claims were fully debated and heard by the Lords, and,
being a matter in which the King manifested special interest, the Lord Chief
Justice, North, and the Attorney General, Sir William Jones, were consulted
both as to the grant itself, and the form or manner of making it. Finally,
after a careful study of the whole subject, it was determined by the highest
authority in the Government to grant to Penn a larger tract than he had asked
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
43
for, and the charter was drawn with unexampled liberality, in unequivocal
tei’ms of gift and perpetuity of holding, and with remarkable minuteness of
detail, and that Penn should have the advantage of any double meaning con-
veyed in the instrument, the twenty- third and last section provides: “And,
if perchance hereafter any doubt or question should arise concerning the true
sense and meaning of any word, clause or sentence contained in this our present
charter, we will ordain and command that at all times and in all things such
interpretation be made thereof, and allowed in any of our courts whatsoever
as shall be adjudged most advantageous and favorable unto the said William
Penn, his heirs and assigns.”
It was a joyful day for Penn when he finally reached the consummation of
his wishes, and saw himself invested with almost dictatorial power over a
country as large as England itself, destined to become a populous empire.
But his exultation was tempered with the roost devout Christian spirit, fearful
lest in the exercise of his great power he might be led to do something that
should be displeasing to God. To his dear friend, Robert Turner, he writes
in a modest way: “ My true love in the Lord salutes thee and dear friends
that love the Lord’s precious truth in those parts. Thine I have, and for my
business' here know that after many waitings, watchings, solicitings and dis-
putes in council, this day my country was confirmed to me under the great seal
of England, with large powers and privileges, by the name of Pennsylvania, a
name the King would give it in honor of my father. I chose New Wales, be-
ing, as this, a pretty hilly country; but Penn being Welsh for a head, asPen-
manmoire in Wales, and Penrith in Cumberland, and Penn in Buckingham-
shire, the highest land in England, called this Pennsylvania, which is the high
or head woodlands; for I proposed, when the Secretary, a Welshman, refused
to have it called New Wales, Sylvania, and they added Penn to it; and though
I much opposed it, and went to the King to have it struck out and altered, he
said it was past, and would take it upon him; nor could twenty guineas move
the Under Secretary to vary the name; for I feared lest it should be looked on
as a vanity in me, and not as a respect in the King, as it truly was to my
father, whom he often mentions with praise. Thou mayest communicate my
grant to Friends, and expect shortly my proposals. It is a clear and just
thing, and my God, that has given it me through many difiiculties, will, I be-
lieve, bless and make it the seed of a nation. I shall have a tender care to the
government, that it be well laid at first.”
Penn had asked that the western boundary should be the same as that of
Maryland; but the King made the width from east to west five full degrees.
The charter limits were “ all that tract, or part, of land, in America, with the
islands therein contained as the same is bounded, on the east by Delaware
River, from twelve miles distance northwards of New Castle town, unto the
three and fortieth degree of northern latitude. ^ *
The said land to extend westward five degrees in longitude, to be computeil
from the said eastern bounds; and the said lands to be bounded on the north
by the beginning of the three and fortieth degree of northern latitude, and,
on the south, by a circle drawn at twelve miles distance from New Castle
northward and westward unto the beginning of the fortieth degree of northern
latitude; and then by a straight line westward to the limits of longitude above
mentioned.”
It is evident that tne royal secretaries did not well understand the geogra-
phy of this section, for by reference to a map it will be seen that the begin-
ning of the fortieth degree, that is, the end of the thirty- ninth, cuts the
District of Columbia, and hence Baltimore, and the greater part of Maryland
44
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
and a good slice of Virginia would have been included in the clear terms of
the chartered limits of Pennsylvania, But the charters of Maryland and Vir-
ginia antedated this of Pennsylvania. Still, the terms of the Penn charter
were distinct, the beginning of the fortieth degree, whereas those of Maryland
were ambiguous, the northern limit being fixed at the fortieth degree ; but whether
at the beginning or at the ending of the fortieth was not stated. Penn
claimed three full degrees of latitude, and when it was found that a contro-
versy was likely to ensue, the King, by the hand of his royal minister, Con-
way, issued a further declaration, dated at Whitehall, April 2, 1681, in which
the wording of the original chartered limits fixed for Pennsylvania were
quoted verbatim, and his royal pleasure declared that these limits should be
respected “ as they tender his majesty’s displeasure.” This was supposed to
settle the matter. But Lord Baltimore still pressed his claim, and the ques-
tion of southern boundary remained an open one, causing much disquietude
to Penn, requiring watchful care at court for more than half a century, and
until after the proprietor’s death.
We gather from the terms of the charter itself that the King, in making
the grant, was influenced “by the commendable desire of Penn to enlarge our
British Empire, and promote such useful commodities as may be of benefit
to us and our dominions, as also to reduce savage nations by just and gentle
manners, to the love of civil society and Christian religion,” and out of “re-
gard to the memory and merits of his late father, in divers services, and par-
ticularly to his conduct, courage and discretion, under our dearest brother,
James, Duke of York, in the signal battle and victory, fought and obtained,
against the Dutch fleet, commanded by the Herr Van Opdam in 1665.”
The motive for obtaining it on the part of Penn may be gathered from the
following extract of a letter to a friend: “For my country I eyed the Lord in
obtaining it; and more was I drawn inward to look to Him, and to owe it to His
hand and power than to any other way. I have so obtained and desire to keep
it, that I may be unworthy of His love, but do that which may answer His
kind providence and people.”
The charter of King Charles II was dated April 2, 1681. Lest any
trouble might arise in the future from claims founded on the grant previously
made to the Duke of York, of “Long Island and adjacent territories occupied
by the Dutch,” the prudent forethought of Penn induced him to obtain a deed,
dated August 31, 1682, of the Duke, for Pennsylvania, substantially in the
terms of the royal charter. But Penn was still not satisfied. He was cut off
from the ocean except by the uncertain navigation of one narrow stream. He
therefore obtained from the Duke a grant of New Castle and a district of
twelve miles around it, dated on the 24th of August, 1682, and on the same
day a further grant from the Duke of a tract extending to Cape Henlopen,
embracing the two counties of Kent and Sussex, the two grants comprising
what were known as the territories, or the three lower counties, which were
for many years a part of Pennsylvania, but subsequently constituted the State
of Delaware.
Being now satisfied with his province, and that his titles were secure, Penn
drew up such a description of the country as from his knowledge he was able
to give, which, together with the royal charter and proclamation, terms of
settlement, and other papers pertaining thereto, he published and spread
broadcast through the kingdom, taking special pains doubtless to have the
documents reach the Friends. The terms of sale of lands were 40 shillings for
100 acres, and 1 shilling per acre rental. The question has been raised, why
exact the annual payment of one shilling per acre. The terms of the grant by
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIi.
47
the royal charter to Penn were made absolute on the “ payment therefor to us,
our heirs and successors, two beaver skins, to be delivered at our castle in
Windsor, on the 1st day of January in every year,” and contingent payment
of one-fifth part of all gold and silver which shall from time to time happen
to be found clear of all charges.” Penn, therefore, held his title only upon
the payment of quit-rents. He could consequently give a valid title only by
the exacting of quit-rents.
Having now a great province of his own to manage, Penn was obliged to
relinquish his share in West New Jersey. He had given largely of his time and
energies to its settlement; he had sent 1,400 emigrants, many of them people
of high character; had seen farms reclaimed from the forest, the "town of
Burlington built, meeting houses erected in place of tents for worship, good
Government established, and the savage Indians turned to peaceful ways.
With satisfaction, therefore, he could now give himself to reclaiming and set-
tling his own province. He had of course in his published account of the
country made it appear a desirable place for habitation. But lest any should
regret having gone thither when it was too late, he added to his description a
caution, “ to consider seriously the premises, as well the inconveniency as
future ease and plenty; that so none may move rashly or from a fickle, but from
a solid mind, having above all things an eye to the providence of God in the
disposing of themselves.” Nothing more surely points to the goodness of
heart of W^illiam Penn, the great founder of our State, than this extreme
solicitude, lest he might induce any to go to the new country who should af-
terward regret having gone.
The publication of the royal charter and his description of the country
attracted attention, and many purchases of land were made of Penn before
leaving England. That these purchasers might have something binding to
rely upon, Penn drew up what he termed “conditions or concessions ” between
himself as proprietor and purchasers in the province. These related to the
settling the country, laying out towns, and especially to the treatment of the
Indians, who were to have the same rights and privileges, and careful regard
as the Europeans. And what is perhaps a remarkable instance of provident
forethought, the eighteenth article provides “ That, in clearing the ground,
care be taken to leave one acre of trees for every five acres cleared, especially
to preserve oak and mulberries, for silk and shipping.” It could be desired
that such a provision might have remained operative in the State for all
time.
Encouraged by the manner in which his proposals for settlement were
received, Penn now drew up a frame of government, consisting of twenty-
four articles and forty laws. These were drawn in a spirit of unexampled
fairness and liberality, introduced by an elaborate essay on the just rights of
government and governed, and with such conditions and concessions that it
should never be in the power of an unjust Governor to take advantage of the
people and practice injustice. “ For the matter of liberty and privilege, I pur-
pose that which is extraordinary, and leave myself and successors no power of
doing mischief, that the will of one man may not hinder that of a whole coun-
try. This frame gave impress to the character of the early government. It im-
planted in the breasts of the people a deep sense of duty, of right, and of obli-
gation in all public affairs, and the relations of man with man, and formed a
framework for the future constitution. Penn himself had felt the heavy hand
of government for religious opinions and practice’ sake. He determined, for
the matter of religion, to leave all free to hold such opinions as they might
elect, and hence enacted for his State that all who “ hold themselves obliged
3
48
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
in conscience, to live peaceably and justly in civil society, shall, in no ways,
be molested, nor prejudiced, for their religious persuasion, or practice, in mat-
ters of faith and worship, nor shall they be compelled, at any time, to fre-
quent, or maintain, any religious worship, place, or ministry whatever. ” At
this period, such govermental liberality in matters of religion was almost un-
known, though Koger Williams in the colony of Rhode Island had previously,
under similar circumstances, and having just escaped a like persecution, pro-
claimed it, as had likewise Lord Baltimore in the Catholic colony of Mary-
land
The mind of Penn was constantly exercised upon the affairs of his settlement.
Indeed, to plant a colony in a new country had been a thought of his boyhood,
for he says in one of his letters; “I had an opening of joy as to these parts in
the year 1651, at Oxford, twenty yeax’s since.” Not being in readiness to go
to his pi’ovince during the first year, he dispatched three ship loads of set-
tlers, and with them sent his cousin, William Markham, to take formal pos-
session of the country and act as Deputy Governor Markham sailed for New
York, and upon his arrival there exhibited his commission, bearing date March
6, 1681, and the King’s charter and proclamation. In the absence of Gov. An-
dros, who, on having been called to account for some complaint made against
him, had gone to England, Capt. Anthony Brockholls, Acting Governor, re-
ceived Mai'kham’s papers, and gave him a letter addi’essed to the civil officers
on the Delaware, infoi’ming them that Markham’s authority as Governor had
been examined, and an official record made of it at New York, thanking them
for their fidelity, and requesting them to submit themselves to the new author-
ity. Aimed with this letter, which was dated June 21, 1681, Markham pro-
ceeded to the Delaware, where, on exhibiting his papers, he was kindly re-
ceived, and allegiance was cheerfully transferi’ed to the new government. In-
deed so frequently had the power changed hands that it had become quite a
matter of habit to transfer obedience from one authority to another, and they
had scarcely laid their heads to rest at night but with the consciousness that
the morning light might bring new codes and new officers.
Markham was empowei’ed to call a council of nine citizens to assist him in
the government, and over whom he was to preside. He brought a letter ad-
dressed to Lord Baltimore, touching the boundary between the two grants, and
exhibiting the terms of the charter for Pennsylvania. On receipt of this let-
ter, Lord Baltimore came to Upland to confer with Markham. An observation
fixing the exact latitude of Upland showed that it was twelve miles south of
the forty-first degree, to which Baltimore claimed, and that the beginning of
the fortieth degi'ee, which the royal charter explicitly fixed for the southern
boundary of Pennsylvania, would include nearly the entire State of Mai’yland,
and cut the limits of the present site of the city of Washington. “If this be
allowed, ” was significantly asked by Baltimore, “where is my province? ’’
He returned to his colony, and from this time forwai'd an active contention
was begun before the authorities in England for possession of the disputed
territory, which required all the arts and diplomatic skill of Penn.
Markham was accompanied to the province by four Commissioners sent
out by Penn — William Crispin, John Bezer, William Haige and Nathaniel
Allen. The first named had been designated as Surveyor General, but he
having died on the passage, Thomas Holme was appointed to succeed him.
These Commissioners, in conjunction with the Governor, had two chief duties
assigned them. The fii’st was to meet and preserve friendly relations with the
Indians and acquire lands by actual purchase, and the second was to select the
site of a great city and make the necessary surveys. That they might have a
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
49
suitable introduction to the natives from him, Penn addressed to them a dec-
laration of his purposes, conceived in a spirit of brotherly love, and expressed
in such simple terms that these children of the forest, unschooled in book
learning, would have no difficulty in apprehending his meaning. The refer-
ring the source of all power to the Creator was fitted to produce a strong im-
pression upon their naturally superstitious habits of thought. “ There is a
great God and power, that hath made the world, and all things therein, to
whom you and I, and all people owe their being, and well being; and to whom
you and I must one day give an account for all that we do in the world. This
great God hath written His law in our hearts, by which we are taught and com-
manded to love, and help, and do good to one another. Now this great God hath
been pleased to make me concerned in your part of the world, and the King
of the country where I live hath given me a great province therein; but I de-
sire to enjoy it with your love and consent, that we may always live together,
as neighbors and friends; else what would the great God do to us, who hath
made us, not to devour and destroy one another, but to live soberly and kindly
together in the world ? Now I would have you well observe that I am very
sensible of the unkindness and injustice that have been too much exercised
toward you by the people of these parts of the world, who have sought them-
selves, and to make great advantages by you, rather than to be examples of
goodness and patience unto you, which I hear hath been a matter of trouble
to you, and caused great grudging and animosities, sometimes to the shedding
of blood, which hath made the great God angry. But I am not such a man,
as is well known in my own country. I have great love and regard toward
you, and desire to gain your love and friendship by a kind, just and peaceable
life, and the people I send are of the same mind, and shall in all things be-
have themselves accordingly; and if in anything any shall offend you or
your people, you shall have a full and speedy satisfaction for the same by an
equal number of just men on both sides that by no means you may have just
occasion of being offended against them. I shall shortly come to you myself,
at which time we may more largely and fr<3ely confer and discourse of these
matters. In the meantime, I have sent my Commissioners to treat with you
about land, and form a league of peace. Let me desire you to be kind to
them and their people, and receive these presents and tokens which I have sent
you as a testimony of my good will to you, and my resolution to live justly,
peaceably and friendly with you.”
In this plain but sublime statement is embraced the whole theory of Will
iam Penn’s treatment of the Indians. It was the doctrine which the Savior
of mankind came upon earth to promulgate — the estimable worth of every
human soul. And when Penn came to propose his laws, one was adopted
which forbade private trade with thenatives in which they might be overreached;
but it was required that the valuable skins and furs they had to sell should be
hung up in the market place where all could see them and enter into compe-
tition for their purchase. Penn was offered £6,000 for a monopoly of trade.
But he well knew the injustice to which this would subject the simple-minded
natives, and he refused it saying: “As the Lord gave it me over all and
great opposition, I would not abuse His love, nor act unworthy of His provi-
dence, and so defile what came to me clean a sentiment worthy to be treas-
ured with the best thoughts of the sages of old. And to his Commissioners be
gave a letter of instructions, in which he says: “Be impartially just to all;
that is both pleasing to the Lord, and wise in itself. Be tender of offending
the Indians, and let them know that you come to sit down lovingly among
them. Let my letter and conditions be read in their tongue, that they may see
50
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
we have their good in our eye. Be grave, they love not to be smiled on.”
Acting upon these wise and just considerations, the Commissioners had no diffi-
culty in making large purchases of the Indians of lands on the right bank of
the Delaware and above the mouth of the Schuylkill.
But they found greater difficulty in settling the piace for the new city.
Penn had given very minute instructions about this, and it was not easy
to find a tract which answered all the conditions. For seven weeks they kept
up their search. Penn had written, “ be sure to make your choice where it is
most navigable, high, dry and healthy; that is, where most ships may bestride,
of deepest draught of water, if possible to load and unload at the bank or
key’s side without boating and lightening of it. It would do well if the river
coming into that creek be navigable, at least for boats up into the country,
and that the situation be high, at least dry and sound and not swampy, which
is best known by digging up two or three earths and seeing the bottom.” By
his instructions, the site of the city was to be between two navigable streams,
and embrace 10,000 acres in one block. “ Be sure to settle the figure of the
town so that the streets hereafter may be uniform down to the water from the
country bounds. Let every house be placed, if the person pleases, in the
middle of its plat, as to the breadth way of it, that so there may be ground on
each side for gardens or orchards or fields, that it may be a green country town,
which will never be burnt and always wholesome.” The soil was examined,
the streams were sounded, deep pits were dug that a location might be found
which should gratify the desires of Penn. All the eligible sites were inspected
from the ocean far up into the country. Penn himself had anticipated that
Chester or Upland would be adopted from all that he could learn of it; but
this was rejected, as was also the ground upon Poquessing Creek and that at
Pennsbury Manor above Bristol which had been carefully considered, and the
present site of Philadelphia was finally adopted as coming nearest to the
requirements of the proprietor. It had not 10,000 acres in a solid square, but
it was between two navigable streams, and the soil was high and dry, being for
the most part a vast bed of gravel, excellent for drainage and likely to prove
healthful. The streets were laid Out regularly and crossed each other at
right angles. As the ground was only gently rolling, the grading was easily
accomplished. One broad street, Market, extends from river to river through
the midst of it, which is crossed at right angles at its middle point by Broad
street of equal width. It is 120 miles from the ocean by the course of the
river, and only sixty in a direct line, eighty-seven miles from New York,
ninety-five from Baltimore, 136 from Washington, 100 from Harrisburg and
300 from Pittsburgh, and lies in north latitude 39° 56' 54", and longitude 75°
8' 45" west from Greenwich The name Philadelphia (brotherly love), was
one that Penn had before selected, as this founding a city was a project which
he had long dreamed of and contemplated with never-ceasing interest.
HlSTOEr OF PENNSYLVANIA.
51
CHAPTER YI.
William Markham, 1681-82— AVilliam Penn, 1682-84.
Having now made necessary preparations and settled his affairs in En-
gland, Penn embarked on board the ship Welcome, in August, 1682, in
company with about a hundred planters, mostly from his native town of Sussex,
and set his prow for the New World. Before leaving the Downs, he addressed
a farewell letter to his friends whom he left behind, and another to his wife
and children, giving them much excellent advice, and sketching the way of
life he wished them to lead. With remarkable care and minuteness, he points
out the way in which he would have his children bred, and educated, married,
and live. A single passage from this remarkable document will indicate its
general tenor. “ Be sure to observe,” in educating his children, “ their genius,
and do not cross it as to learning ; let them not dwell too long on one thing ;
but let their change be agreeable, and let all their diversions have some little
bodily labor in them. When grown big, have most care for them ; for then
there are more snares both within and without. When marriageable, see that
they have worthy persons in their eye ; of good life and good fame for piety
and understanding. I need no wealth but sufficiency ; and be sure their love
be dear, fervent and mutual, that it may be happy for them.” And to his
children he said, “ Betake yourselves to some honest, industrious course of
life, and that not of sordid covetousness, but for example and to avoid idle-
ness. * * * 5K Love not money nor the world ; use them only,
and they will serve you ; but if you love them you serve them, which will
debase your spirits as well as offend the Lord. * * * * * Watch
against anger, neither speak nor act in it ; for, like drunkenness, it makes a
man a beast, and throws people into desperate inconveniences.” The entire
letters are so full of excellent counsel that they might with great profit be
committed to memory, and treasured in the heart.
The voyage of nearly six weeks was prosperous ; but they had not been
long on the ocean before that loathed disease — the virulent small-pox — broke
out, of which thirty died, nearly a third of the whole company. This, added"
to the usual discomforts and terrors of the ocean, to most of whom this was
probably their first experience, made the voyage a dismal one. And here was
seen the "nobility of Penn. “For his good conversation” says one of them,
“ was very advantageous to all the company. His singular care was manifested
in contributing to the necessities of many who were sick with the small-pox
then on board.”
His arrival upon the coast and passage up the river was hailed with dem-
onstrations of joy by all classes, English, Dutch, Swedes, and especially by his
own devoted followers. He landed at New Castle on the 24th of October, 1682,
and on the following day summoned the people to the court house, where pos-
session of the country was formally made over jO him, and he renewed the
commissions of the magistrates, to whom and to the assembled people he an-
nounced the design of his coming, explained the nature and end of truly good
government, assuring them that their religious and civil rights should be re-
spected, and recommended them to live in sobriety and peace. He then pro-
52
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
ceeded to Upland, hencefoward known as Chester, where, on the 4th of Novem-
ber, he called an assembly of the people, in which an equal number of votes
was allowed to the province and the territories, l^icholas Moore, President of
the Free Society of Traders, was chosen speaker. As at New Castle, Penn
addressed the assembly, giving them assurances of his beneficent intentions,
for which they returned their grateful acknowledgments, the Swedes being
especially demonstrative, deputing one of their number, Lacy Cock, to say
“ That they would love, serve and obey him with all they had, and that this
was the best day they ever saw.” We can well understand with what satisfac-
tion the settlers upon the Delaware hailed the prospect of a stable government
established in their own midst, after having been so long at the mercy of the
government in New York, with allegience trembling between the courts of
Sweden, Holland and Britain.
The proceedings of this first assembly were conducted with great decorum,
and after the usages of the English Parliament. On the 7th of December,
1682, the three lower counties, what is now Delaware, which had previously
been under the government of the Duke of York, were formerly annexed to the
province, and became an integral part of Pennsylvania. The frame of govern-
ment, which had been drawn with much deliberation, was submitted to the
assembly, and, after some alterations and amendments, was adopted, and be-
came the fundamental law of the State. The assembly was in session only
three days, but the work they accomplished, how vast and far-reaching in its
influence!
The Dutch, Swedes and other foreigners were then naturalized, and the
government was launched in fair running order: That some idea may be had
of its character, the subjects treated are here given: 1, Liberty of conscience;
2, Qualification of officers; 3, Swearing by God, Christ or Jesus; 4, Swearing
by any other thing or name; 5, Profanity; 6, Cursing; 7, Fornication; 8, In-
cest; 9, Sodomy; 10, Rape; 11, Bigamy; 12, Drunkenness; 13, Suffering
drunkenness; l4, Healths drinking; 15, Selling liquor to Indians; 16, Arson;
17, Burglary; 18, Stolen goods; l9, Forcible entry; 20, Riots; 21, Assaulting
parents; 22, Assaulting Magistrates; 23, Assaulting masters; 24, Assault and
battery; 25, Duels; 26, Riotous sports, as plays; 27, Gambling and lotteries;
28, Sedition; 29, Contempt; 30, Libel; 31, Common scolds; 32, Charities;
33, Prices of beer and ale; 34, Weights and measures; 35, Names of days and
months; 36, Perjury; 37, Court proceedings in English; 38, Civil and crim-
inal trials; 39, Fees, salaries, bribery and extortion; 40, Moderation of fines;
41, Suits avoidable; 42, Foreign arrest; 43, Contracts; 44, Charters, gifts,
grants, conveyances, bills, bonds and deeds, when recorded; 45, Wills; 46,
Wills ot non compos mentis-, 47, Registry of Wills; 48, Registry for servants;
49, Factors; 50, Defacers, corruptors and embezzlers of charters, conveyances
and records; 51, Lands and goods to pay debts; 52, Bailable offenses; 53,
Jails and jailers; 54, Prisons to be workhouses; 55, False imprisonment; 56,
Magistrates may elect between fine or imprisonment; 57, Freemen; 58, Elec-
tions; 59, No money levied but in pursuance of law; 60, Laws shall be printed
and taught in schools; 61, All other things, not provided for herein, are re-
ferred to the Governor and freemen from time to time.
Very soon after his arrival in the colony, after the precept had been issued,
but before the convening of the Assembly, Penn, that he might not be wanting
in respect to the Duke of York, made a visit to New York, where he was kind-
ly received, and also after the adjournment of the Assembly, journeyed to Mary-
land, where he was entertained by Lord Baltimore with great ceremony. The
settlement of the disputed boundaries was made the subject of formal confer-
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
5a
ence. But after two days spent in fruitless discussion, the weather becoming
severely cold, and thus precluding the possibility of taking observations or
making the necessary surveys, it was agreed to adjourn further consideration
of the subject until the milder weather of the spring. We may imagine that
the two Governors were taking the measure of each other, and of gaining all
possible knowledge of each other’s claims and rights, preparatory to that
struggle for possession of this disputed fortieth degree of latitude, which was
destined to come before the home government.
With all his cares in founding a State and providing a government over a
new people, Penn did not forget to preach the “blessed Gospel,” and wherever
he went he was intent upon his “ Master’s business.” On his return from
Maryland, Lord Baltimore accompanied him several miles to the house of
William Richardson, and thence to Thomas Hooker’s, where was a religious
meeting, as was also one held at Choptauk. Penn himself says: “I have
been also at New York, Long Island, East Jersey and Maryland, in which I
have had good and eminent service for the Lord.” And again he says: “As to
outward things, we are satisfied — the land good, the air clear and sweet, the
springs plentiful, and provisions good and easy to come at, an innumerable
quantity of wild fowl and fish; in fine, here is what an Abraham, Isaac and
Jacob would be well contented with, and service enough for God: for the
fields are here white for the harvest. O, how sweet is the quiet of those parts,
freed from the anxious and troublesome solicitations, hurries and perplexities
of woeful Europe! * * * Blessed be the Lord, that of twenty-three ships,
none miscarried; only two or three had the small-pox; else healthy and swift-
passages, generally such as have not been known; some but twenty-eight days,
and few longer than six weeks. Blessed be God for it; my soul fervently
breathes that in His heavenly guiding wisdom, we may be kept, that we may
serve Him in our day, and lay down our heads in peace.” And then, as if re-
proached for not having mentioned another subject of thankfulness, he adds in
a postscript, “Many women, in divers of the ships, brought to bed; they and
their children do well.”
Penn made it his first care to take formal possession of his province, and
adopt a frame of government. When this was done, his chief concern was
to look to the establishment of his proposed new city, the site of which had
already been determined on by his Commissioners. Accordingly, early in
November, at a season when, in this section, the days are golden, Penn em-
barked in an open barge with a number of his friends, and was wafted
leisurely up the Delaware to the present site of the city of Philadel-
phia, which the natives called Coaquannock. Along the river was a bold shore,
fringed with lofty pines, which grew close down to the water’s edge, so much
so that when the first ship passing up with settlers for West Jersey had brushed
against the branches, the passengers remarked that this would be a good place
for a city. It was then in a wild state, the deer browsing along the shore and
sipping the stream, and the coneys burrowing in the banks. The scattered
settlers had gathered in to see and welcome the new Governor, and when he
stepped upon the shore, they extended a helping hand in assisting him up the
rugged bluff. Three Swedes had already taken up tracts within the limits of
the block of land chosen for the city. But they were given lands in exchange,
and readily relinquished their claims. The location was pleasing to Penn, and
was adopted without further seai'ch, though little could be seen of this then
forest-encumbered country, where now is the home of countless industries, the
busy mart, the river bearing upon its bosom the commerce of many climes,
and the abiding place of nearly a million of people. But Penn did not con-
64
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
sider that he had as yet any just title to the soil, holding that the Indiana
were its only rightful possessors, and until it was fairly acquired by purchase
from them, his own title was entirely void.
Hence, he sought an early opportunity to meet the chiefs of the tribes and
cultivate friendly relations with them. Tradition fixes the first great treaty
or conference at about this time, probably in November, and the place under
the elm tree, known as the “ Treaty Tree,” at Kensington. It was at a sea-
son when the leaves would still be upon the trees, and the assembly was called
beneath the ample shade of the wide-sweeping branches, which was pleasing
to tne Indians, as it was their custom to hold all their great deliberations and
smoke the pipe of peace in the open air. The letter which Penn had sent had
prepared the minds of these simple-hearted inhabitants of the forest to regard
him with awe and reverence, little less than that inspired by a descended god.
His coming had for a long time been awaited, and it is probable that it had
been heralded and talked over by the wigwam fire throughout the remotest
bounds of the tribes. And when at length the day came, the whole popula-
tion far around had assembled.
It is known that three tribes at least were represented — the Lenni Lenape,
living along the Delaware; the Shawnees, a tribe that had come up from the
South, and were seated along the Lower Susquehanna; and the Mingoes,
sprung from the Six Nations, and inhabiting along the Conestoga. Penn was
probably accompanied by the several officers of his Government and his most
trusted friends. There were no implements of warfare, for peace was a cardi-
nal feature of the Quaker creed
No veritable account of this, the great treaty, is known to have been made;
but from the fact that Penn not long after, in an elaborate treatise upon the
country, the inhabitants and the natives, has given the account of the manner
in which the Indians demean themselves in conference, we may infer that he
had this one in mind, and hence we may adopt it as his own description of the
scene.
“ Their order is thus; The King sits in the middle of a half moon, and
hath his council, the old and wise, on each hand; behind them, or at a little
distance, sit the younger fry in the same figure. Having consulted and re-
solved their business, the King ordered one of them to speak to me. He stood
up, came to me, and, in the name of the King, saluted me; then took me by
th-ij hand and told me he was ordered by the King to speak to me; and now it
was not he, but the King that spoke, because what he would say was the
King's mind. * * * * During the time that this person spoke, not
a man of them was observed to whisper or smile; the old grave, the young
reverant, in their deportment. They speak little, but fervently, and with ele-
gance.”
In response to the salutation from the Indians, Penn makes a reply in
suitable terms: “The Great Spirit, who made me and you, who rules the
heavens and the earth, and who knows the innermost thoughts of men, knows
that I and my friends have a hearty desire to live in peace and friendship
with you, and to serve you to the uttermost of our power. It is not our custom
to use hostile weapons against our fellow-creatures, for which reason we have
come unarmed. Our object is not to do injuiy, and thus provoke the Great
Spirit, birt to do good. We are mtjt on the broad pathway of good faith and
good will, so that no advantage is to be taken on either side; but all to be open-
ness, brotherhood and love.” Having unrolled his parchment, he explains to
them through an interpreter, article by article, the nature of the business, and
laying it upon the ground, observes that the ground shall be for the use of
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
55
both people. “ I ■will not do as the Marylanders did, call you children, or
brothers dcly; for parents are apt to whip their children too severely, and
brothers sometimes will differ; neither will I compare the friendship between
us to a chain, for the rain may rust it, or a tree may fall and break it; but I
will consider you as the same flesh and blood with the Christians, and the same
as if one man’s body were to be divided into two parts.” Having ended his
business, the speaker for the King comes forwa-’d and makes great promises
“of kindness and good neighborhood, and that the Indians and English must
live in love as long as the sun gave light.” This ended, another Indian makes
a speech to his own people, flrst to explain to them what had been agreed on,
and then to exhort them “to love the Christians, and particularly live in peace
with me and the people under my government, that many Governors had been
in the river, but that no Governor had come himself to live and stay here be-
fore, and having now such an one, that had treated them well, they should never
do him nor his any wrong.” At every sentence they shouted, as much as to
say, amen.
The Indians had no system of writing by which they could record their
dealings, but their memory of events and agreements was almost miraculous.
Heckewelder records that in after years, they were accustomed, by means of
strings, or belts of wampum, to preserve the recollection of their pleasant in-
terviews with Penn, after he had departed for England. He says, “ They fre-
quently assembled together in the woods, in some shady spot, as nearly as pos-
sible similar to those where they used to meet their brother Miquon (Penn), and
there lay all his words and speeches, with those of his descendants, on a
blanket, or clean piece of bark, and with great satisfaction go successively
over the whole. This practice, which I have repeatedly witnessed, continued
until the year 1780, when disturbances which took place put an end to it,
probably forever.”
The memory of this, the “Great Treaty,” was long preserved by the na-
tives, and the novel spectacle was reproduced upon canvas by the genius of
Benjamin West. In this picture, Penn is represented as a corpulent old man,
whereas he was at this time but thirty-eight years of age, and in the very
height of manly activity. The Treaty Tree was preserved and guarded from
injury with an almost superstitious care. During the Revolution, when Phila-
delphia was occupied by the British, and their parties were scouring the coun-
try for firewood, Gen. Simcoe had a sentinel placed at this tree to protect it
from mutilation. It stood until 1810, when it was blown down, and it was
ascertained by its annual concentric accretions to be 283 years old, and was,
consequently, 155 at the time of making the treaty. The Penn Society erected
a substantial monument on the spot where it stood,
Penn drew up his deeds for lands in legal form, and had them duly exe-
cuted and made of record, that, in the dispute possible to arise in after times,
there might be proof definite and positive of the purchase. Of these purchases
there are two deeds on record executed in 1083. One is for land near Nesha-
miny Creek, and thence to Penypack, and the other for lands lying between
Schuylkill and Chester Rivers, the first bearing the signature of the great
chieftain, Taminend. In one of these purchases it is provided 'that the tract
“shall extend back as far as a man could walk in three days. ” Tradition
runs that Penn himself, with a number of his friends, walked out the half this
purchase with the Indians, that no advantage should be taken of them by mak-
ing a great walk, and to show his consideration for them, and that he was not
above the toils and fatigues of such a duty.” They began to walk out this
land at the mouth of the Neshaminy, and walked up the Delaware; in one day
56
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
and a half they got to a spruce tree near the mouth of Baker’s Creek, when
Penn, concluding that this would include as much land as he would want at
present, a line was run and marked from the spruce tree to Neshaminy, and
the remainder left to be walked when it should be wanted. They proceed-
ed after the Indian manner, walking leisurely, sitting down sometimes to
smoke their pipes, eat biscuit and cheese, and drink a bottle of wine. In the
day and a half they walked a little less than thirty miles. The balance of the
purchase was not walked until September 20, 1783, when the then Governor of
Pennsylvania offered a prize of 500 acres of land and £5 for the man who
would walk the farthest. A distance of eighty-six miles was covered, in
marked contrast with the kind consideration of Penn.
During the first year, the country upon the Delaware, from the falls of
Trenton as far as Chester, a distance of nearly sixty miles, was rapidly taken up
and peopled. The large proportion of these were Quakers, and devotedly attached
to their religion and its proper observances. They were, hence, morally, of the
best classes, and though they were not generally of the aristocracy, yet many
of them were in comfortable circumstances, had valuable properties, were of
respectable families, educated, and had the resources within themselves to live
contented and happy. They were provident, industrious, and had come hither
with no fickle purpose. Many brought servants with them, and well supplied
wai’drobes, and all necessary articles which they wisely judged would be got
in a new country with difficulty.
Their religious principles were so peaceful and generous, and the govern-
ment rested so lightly, that the fame of the colony and the desirableness of
settlement therein spread rapidly, and the numbers coming hither were unpar-
alleled in the history of colonization, especially when we consider that a broad
ocean was to be crossed and a voyage of several weeks was to be endui’ed. In
a brief period, ships with passengers came from London, Bristol, Ireland,
Wales, Cheshire, Lancashire, Holland, Germany, to the number of about fifty.
Among others came a company of German Quakers, from Krisheim, near
Worms, in the Palatinate. These people regarded their lot as particularly
fortunate, in which they recognized the direct interposition and hand of Provi-
dence. For, not long afterward, the Palatinate was laid waste by the French
army, and many of their kindred whom they had left behind were despoiled of
their possessions and reduced to penury. There came also from Wales a com-
pany of the stock of ancient Britons.
So large an influx of population, coming in many cases without due pro-
vision for variety of diet, caused a scarcity in many kinds of food, especially
of meats. Time was required to bring forward flocks and herds, more than
for producing grains. But Providence seemed to have graciously considered
their necessities, and have miraculously provided for them, as of old was pro
vision made for the chosen people. For it is recorded that the “wild pigeons
came in such great numbers that the sky was sometimes darkened by their
flight, and, flying low, they were frequently knocked down as they flew, in
great quantities, by those who had no other means to take them, whereby the}
supplied themselves, and, having salted those which they could not immedi-
ately use, they preserved them, both for bread and meat.” The Indians were
kind, and often furnished them with game, for which they would receive no
compensation.
Their first care on landing was to bring their household goods to a place’
of safety, often to the simple protection of a tree. For some, this was their
only shelter, lumber being scarce, and in many places impossible to obtain^
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
5T
Some made for themselves caves in the earth until better habitations could be
secured.
John Key, who was said to have been the first child born of English par-
ents in Philadelphia, and that in recognition of which William Penn gave
him a lot of ground, died at Kennet, in Chester County, on July 5, 1768,
in the eighty-fifth year of his age. He was born in one of these caves upon
the river bank, long afterward known by the name of Penny-pot, near Sassa-
fras street. About sis years before his death, he walked from Kennet to the
city, about thirty miles, in one day. In the latter part of his life he went
under the name of h irst Born.
The contrasts between the comforts and conveniences of an old settled
country and this, where the heavy forests must be cleared away and severe la-
bors must be endured before the sun could be let in sufficiently to produce
anything, must have been very marked, and caused repining. But they had
generally come with meek and humble hearts, and they willingly endured
hardship and privation, and labored on earnestly for the spiritual comfort
which they enjoyed. Thomas Makin, in some Latin verses upon the early set-
tlement, says (we quote the metrical translation):
‘‘Its fame to distant countries far has spread,
And some for peace, and some for profit led;
Born in remotest climes, to settle liere
They leave their native soil and all that’s dear.
And still will flock from far, here to be free.
Such powerful charms has lovely liberty.”
But for their many privations and sufferings there were some compensat-
ing conditions. The soil was fertile, the air mostly clear and healthy, th©
streams of water were good and plentiful, wood for fire and building unlimit-
ed, and at certain seasons of the year game in the forest was abundant. Rich-
ard Townsend, a settler at Germantown, who came over in the ship with Penn,
in writing to his friends in England of his first year in America, says: “I,
with Joshua Tittery, made a net, and caught great quantities of fish, so that,
notwithstanding it was thought near three thousand persons came in the first
year, we were so providentially provided for that we could buy a deer for
about two shillings, and a large turkey for about one shilling, and Indian corn
for about two shillings sixpence a bushel.”
In the same letter, the writer mentions that a young deer came out of the
forest into the meadow where he was mowing, and looked at him, and when
he went toward it would retreat; and, as he resirmed his mowing, would come
back to gaze upon him, and finally ran forcibly against a tree, which so
stunned it that he was able to overmaster it and bear it away to his home, and
as this was at a time when he was suffering for the lack of meat, he believed
it a direct interposition of Providence.
In the spring of 1683, there was great activity throughout the colony, and
especially in the new city, in selecting lands and erecting dwellings, the Sur-
veyor General, Thomas Holme, laying out and marking the streets. In the
center of the city was a public square of ten acres, and in each of the four
quarters one of eight acres. A large mansion, which had been undertaken be-
fore his arrival, was built for Penn, at a point twenty-six miles up the river,
called Pennsbury Manor, where he sometimes resided, and where he often met
the Indian sachems. At this time, Penn divided the colony into counties,
three for the province (Bucks, Philadelphia and Chestei') and three for the
Territories (New Castle, Kent and Sussex). Having appointed Sheriffs and
other proper officers, he issued writs for the election of members of a General
58
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
Assembly, three from each county for the Council or Upper House, and nine
from each county for the Assembly or Lower House.*
This Assembly convened and organized for business on the lOth of Jan-
uary, 1683, at Philadelphia. One of the first subjects considered was the
revising some provisions of the frame of government which was effected, re-
ducing the number of members of both Houses, the Council to 18 the As-
sembly to 30, and otherwise amending in unimportant particulars. In
an assembly thus convened, and where few, if any, had had any experience in
serving in a deliberative body, we may reasonably suppose that many crude
and impracticable propositions would be presented. As an example of these
the following may be cited as specimens: That young men should be obliged
to marry at, or before, a certain age; that two sorts of clothes only shall be
worn, one for winter and the other for summer. The session lasted twenty two
days.
The first grand jury in Pennsylvania was summoned for the 2d of Feb-
ruary, 1683, to inquire into the cases of some persons accused of issuing
■counterfeit money. The Governor and Council sat as a court. One Picker-
ing was convicted, and the sentence was significant of the kind and patriarchal
nature of the government, “that he should make full satisfaction, in good
and current pay, to every person who should, within the space of one month,
bring in any oE this false, base and counterfeit coin, and that the money
brought in should be melted down before it was returned to him, and that he
should pay a fine of forty pounds toward the building a court house, stand
committed till the same was paid, and afterward find security for his good
behavior.”
The Assembly and courts having now adjourned, Penn gave his attention
to the grading and improving the streets of the new city, and the managing
the affairs of his land office, suddenly grown to great importance. For every
section of land taken up in the wilderness, the purchaser was entitled to a
certain plot in the new city. The River Delaware at this time was nearly a
mile broad opposite the city, and navigable for ships of the largest tonnage.
The tide rises about six feet at this point, and flows back to the falls of
Trenton, a distance of thirty miles. The tide in the Schuylkill flows only
about five miles above its confluence with the Delaware. The river bank along
the Delaware was intended by Penn as a common or public resort. But in
his time the owners of lots above Front street pressed him to allow them to
construct warehouses upon it, opposite their properties, which importunity in-
duced him to make the following declaration concerning it; “The bank is a
top common, from end to end; the rest next the water belongs to front-lot
men no m-ore than back- lot men. The way bounds them; they may build stairs,
and the top of the bank a common exchange, or wall, and against the street,
common wharfs may be built freely; but into the water, and the shore is no
purchaser’s.” But in future time, this liberal desire of the founder was dis-
regarded, and the bank has been covered with immense warehouses.
*It may be a matter of curiosity to know the names of the members of this first regulariy elected Legis-
lature in Pennsylvania, and they are accordingly appended as given in official records:
Council: William Markham, Christopher Taylor, Thomas Holme, Lacy Cock, William Haige, John Moll,
Ralph Withers, John Simcoek, Edward Cantwell, William Clayton, William Biles, James Harrison, William
Clark, Francis Whitewell, John Richardson, John Hillyard.
Assembly: From Bucks, William Yardly, Samuel Darke, Robert Lucas, Nicholas Walne, John Wood, .John
Clowes, Thomas Fitzwater, Robert Hall, James Boyden ; from Philadelphia, John Longhurst, John Hart, Wal-
ter King, Andros Binkson, ,Tohn Moon, Thomas Wynne (Speaker), Griffith Jones, William Warner, .Swan Swan-
son; from Chester, John Hoskins, Robert Wade, George Wood, John Blunston, Dennis Kochford, Thomas
Bracy, John Bezer, John Harding, Joseph Phipps; from New Castle, John Cann, John Darby, Valentine Holl-
ingsworth, Gasparus Herman, John Dchoaef, James Williams, William Guest, Peter Alrich, Henrick Williams;
from Kent, .John Biggs, Simon Irons, Thomas HafTold John Curtis, Robert Bedwell, William Windsmore, John
Brinkloe, Daniel Brown, Benony Bishop; from Sussex, Luke Watson, Alexander Draper, William Futcher,
Henry Bowman, Alexander Moleston, John Hill, Robert Bracy, John Kipshaven, Cornelius Verhoof.
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
59^
Seeing now his plans of government and settlement fairly in operation, as
autnmn approached, Penn wrote a letter to the Free Society of Traders in
London, which had been formed to promote settlement in his colony, in which
he touched upon a great variety of topics regarding his enterprise, extending to
quite a complete treatise. The great interest attaching to the subjects dis-
cussed, and the ability with which it was drawn, makes it desirable to insert
the document entire; but its great length makes its use incompatible with the
plan of this work. A few extracts and a general plan of the letter is all that
can be given. He first notices the injurious reports put in circulation in En-
gland during his absence: “ Some persons have had so little wit and so much
malice as to report my death, and, to mend the matter, dead a Jesuit, too.
One might have reasonably hoped that this distance, like death, would have
been a protection against spite and envy. * * * However, to the great sorrow
and shame of the inventors, I am still alive and no Jesuit, and, I thank God,
very well.” Of the air and waters he says: “ The air is sweet and clear, the
heavens serene, like the south parts of France, rarely overcast. The waters
are generally good, for the rivers and brooks have mostly gravel and stony bot-
toms, and in number hardly credible. We also have mineral waters that
operate in the same manner with Barnet and North Hall, not two miles from
Philadelphia.” He then treats at length of the four seasons, of trees, fruits,
grapes, peaches, grains, garden produce; of animals,beasts, birds, fish, whale fish-
ery, horses and cattle, medicinal plants, flowers of the woods; of the Indians
and their persons. Of their language he says: “It is lofty, yet narrow; but,
like the Hebrew, in signification, full, imperfect in their tenses, wanting in their
moods, participles, adverbs, conjunctions, interjections. I have made it my busi-
ness to understand it, and I must say that I know not a language spoken in Europe
that hath words of more sweetness or greatness in accent and emphasis than
theirs.” Of their customs and their children; “ The children will go very young,
at nine months, commonly; if boys, they go a fishing, till ripe for the woods, which
is about fifteen; then they hunt, and, after having given some proofs of their
manhood by a good return of skins, they may marry, else it is a shame to think
of a wife. The girls stay with their mother and help to hoe the ground, plant
corn and carry burdens. When the young women are fit for marriage, they
wear something upon their heads as an adverlisment; but so, as their faces hardly
to be seen, but when they please. The age they marry at, if women, is about
thirteen and fourteen; if men, seventeen and eighteen; they are rarely elder.”
In a romantic vein he speaks of their houses, diet, hospitality, revengefulness
and concealment of resentment, great liberality, free manner of life and
customs, late love of strong liquor, behavior in sickness and death, their re-
ligion, their feastings, their government, their mode of doing business, their
manner of administering justice, of agreement for settling difficulties entered into
with the pen, their susceptibility to improvement, of the origin of the Indian race
their resemblance to the Jews. Of the Dutch and Swedes whom he found set-
tled here when he came, he says; “ The Dutch applied themselves to traffick,
the Swedes and Finns to husbandry. The Dutch mostly inhabit those parts
that lie upon the bay, and the Swedes the freshes of the Delaware. They are
a plain, strong, industrious people; yet have made no great progress in culture
or propagation of fruit trees. They are a people proper, and strong of body,
so they have fine children, and almost every house full; rare to find one of them
without three or four boys and as many girls — some, six, seven and eight sons,
and I must do them that right, I see few young men more sober and laborious.”
After speaking at length of the organization of the colony and its manner of
government, he concludes with his own opinion of the country: “I say little
60
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
of the town itself; but this I will say, for the good providence of God, that
of all the many places I have seen in the world, I remember not one better
seated, so that it seems to me to have been appointed for a town, whether we
regard the rivers or the conveniency of the coves, docks, springs, the loftiness
and soundness of the land and the air, held by the people of these parts to be
very good. It is advanced within less than a year to about fourscore houses
and cottages, where merchants and handicrafts are following their vocations
as fast as they can, while the countrymen are close at their farms. * * * i
bless God I am fully satisfied with the countiy and entertainment I got in it;
for I find that particular content, which hath always attended me, where God in
His providence hath made it my place and service to reside.”
As we have seen, the visit of Penn to Lord Baltimore soon after his arrival
in America, for the purpose of settling the boundaries of the two provinces, after
a two days’ conference, proved fruitless, and an adjournment was had for the
winter, when the efforts for settlement were to be resumed. Early in the
spring, an attempt was made on the part of Penn, but was prevented till May,
when a meeting was held at New Castle. Penn proposed to confer by the aid
of counselors and in writing. But to this Baltimore objected, and, complain-
ing of the sultryness of the weather, the conference was broken up. In the
meantime, it had come to the knowledge of Penn that Lord Baltimore had
issued a proclamation offering settlers more land, and at cheaper rates than
Penn had done, in portions of the lower counties which Penn had secured
from the Duke of York, but which Baltimore now claimed. Besides, it was
ascertained that an agent of his had taken an observation, and determined the
latitude without the knowledge of Penn, and had secretly made an ex parte
statement of the case before the Lords of the Committee of Plantations in En-
gland, and was pressing for arbitrament. This state of the case created much
uneasiness in the mind of Penn, especially as the proclamation of Lord Balti-
more was likely to bring the two governments into conflict on territory mutu-
ally claimed. But Lord Baltimore was not disposed to be content with diplo-
macy. He determined to pursue an aggressive policy. He accordingly com-
missioned his agent, Col. George Talbot, under date of September 17, 1683,
to go to Schuylkill, at Delaware, and demand of William Penn “ all that part
of the land on the west aide of the said river that lyeth to the southward of
the fortieth degree.” This bold demand would have embraced the entire colony,
both the lower counties, and the three counties in the province, as the fortieth
degree reaches a considerable distance above Philadelphia. Penn was absent
at the time in New York, and Talbot made his demand upon Nicholas Moore,
the deputy of Penn. Upon his return, the proprietor made a dignified but
earnest rejoinder. While he felt that the demand could not be justly sus-
tained, yet the fact that a controversy for the settlement of the boundary was
likely to arise, gave him disquietude, and though he was gratified with the
success of his plans for acquiring lands of the Indians and establishing friendly
relations with them, the laying-out of his new city and settling it, the adop-
tion of a stable government and putting it in successful operation, and, more
than all, the drawing thither the large number of settlers, chiefly of his own
religious faith, and seeing them contented and happy in the new State, he
plainly foresaw that his skill and tact would be taxed to the utmost to defend
and hold his claim before the English court. If the demand of Lord Balti-
more were to prevail, all that he had done would be lost, as his entire colony
would be swallowed up by Maryland.
The anxiety of Penn to hold from the beginning of the 40° of latitude was
not to increase thereby his territory by so much, for two degrees which he
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
61
securely had, so far as amount of land was concerned, would have entirely
satisfied him; but he wanted this degree chiefly that he might have the free
navigation of Delaware Bay and River, and thus open communication with the
ocean. Bje desired also to hold the lower counties, which were now well
settled, as well as his own counties rapidly being peopled, and his new city of
Philadelphia, which he regarded as the apple of his eye. So anxious was he
to hold the land on the right bank of the Delaware to the open ocean, that at
his second meeting, he asked Lord Baltimore to set a price per square mile on
this disputed ground, and though he had purchased it once of the crown and
held the King’s charter for it, and the Duke of York’s deed, yet rather than
have any further wrangle over it, he was willing to pay for it again. But this
Lord Baltimore refused to do.
Bent upon bringing matters to a crisis, and to force possession of his
claim, early in the year 1684 a party from Maryland made forcible entry
upon the plantations in the lower counties and drove off the owners. The
Governor and Council at Philadelphia sent thither a copy of the answer of
Penn to Baltimore’s demand for the land south of the Delaware, with orders
to William Welch, Sherilf at New Castle, to use his influence to reinstate the
lawful owners, and issued a declaration succinctly stating the claim of Penn,
for the purpose of preventing such unlawful incursions in future.
The season opened favorably for the continued prosperity of the young
colony. Agriculture was being prosecuted as never before. Goodly flocks
and herds gladdened the eyes of the settlers. An intelligent, moral and in-
dustrious yeomanry was springing into existence. Emigrants were pouring
into the Delaware from many lands. The Government was becoming settled
in its operations and popular with the people. The proprietor had leisure to
attend to the interests of his religious society, not only in his own dominions,
but in the Jei’seys and in New York.
Thomas Lloyd, 1684-86— Five Commissionees, 1686-88— John Blackwell, 1688
-90— Thomas Lloyd, 1690-91— William Markham, 1691-93— Benjamin
Fletcher, 1693-95— William Markham, 1693-99.
UT the indications, constantly thickening, that a struggle was likely soon
to be precipitated before the crown for possession of the disputed terri-
tory, decided Penn early in the summer to quit the colony and return to En-
gland to defend his imperiled interests. There is no doubt that he took this
step with unfeigned regret, as he was contented and happy in his new country,
and was most usefully employed. There were, however, other inducements
which were leading him back to England. The hand of persecution was at
this time laid heavily upon the Quakers. Over 1,400 of these pious and in-
offensive people were now, and some of them had been for years, languishing
in the prisons of England, for no other offense than their manner of worship.
By his friendship with James, and his acquaintance with the King, he might
do something to soften the lot of these unfortunate victims of bigotry.
He accordingly empowered the Provincial Council, of which Thomas
Lloyd was President, to act in his stead, commissioned Nicholas Moore, Will-
iam Welch, William Wood, Robert Turner and John Eckley, Provincial
CHAPTER VII.
62
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
Judges for two years; appointed Thomas Lloyd, James Claypole and Robert
Turner to sign land patents and warrants, and William Clark as Justice of
the Peace for all the counties; and on the 6th of June, 1684, sailed for Europe.
His feelings on leaving his colony are exnibited by a farewell address which
he issued from on board the vessel to his people, of which the following are
brief extracts: “My love and my life is to you, and with you, and no water
can quench it, nor distance wear it out, nor bring it to an end. I have been
with you, cared over you and served over you with unfeigned love, and you
are beloved of me, and near to me, beyond utterance. I bless you in the
name and power of the Lord, and may God bless you with His righteousness,
peace and plenty all the land over. * * * Oh! now are you come to a
quiet land; provoke not the Lord to trouble it. And now liberty and author-
ity are with you, and in your hands. Let the government be upon His
shoulders, in all your spirits, that you may rule for Him, under whom the
princes of this world will, one day, esteem their honor to govern and serve in
their places * * * thou, Philadelphia, the virgin settlement of
this province, named before thou wert born, what love, what care, what serv-
ice and what travail has there been, to bring thee forth, and preserve thee from
such as would abuse and defile thee! * * * go, dear friends, my love
again salutes you all, wishing that grace, mercy and peace, with all temporal
blessings, may abound richly among you — so says, so prays, your friend and
lover in the truth. William Penn.”
On the 6th of December of this same year, 1684, Charles II died, and was
succeeded by his brother James, Duke of York, under the title of James II.
James was a professed Catholic, and the people were greatly excited all over
the kingdom lest the reign of Bloody Mary should be repeated, and that the
Catholic should become the established religion. He had less ability than
his brother, the deceased King, but great discipline and industry. Penn en-
joyed the friendship and intimacy of the new King, and he determined to use
his advantage for the relief of his suffering countrymen, not only of his sect,
the Quakers, but of all, and especially for the furtherance of universal liberty.
But there is no doubt that he at this time meditated a speedy return to his
province, for he writes: “Keep up the peoples’ hearts and loves; I hope to be
with them next fall, if the Lord prevent not. I long to be with you. No
temptations prevail to fix me here. The Lord send us a good meeting.” By
authority of Penn, dated 18th of January, 1685, William Markham, Penn’s
cousin, was commissioned Secretary of the province, and the proprietor’s Sec-
retary.
That he might be fixed near to court for the furtherance of his private as
well as public business, he secured lodgings for himself and family, in 1685, at
Kensington, near London, and cultivated a daily intimacy with the King, who,
no doubt, found in the strong native sense of his Quaker friend, a valued ad-
viser upon many questions of difficulty. His first and chief care was the set-
tlement of his disagreement with Lord Baltimore touching the boundaries of
their provinces. This was settled in November, 1685, by a compromise, by
which the land lying between the Delaware and Chesapeake Bays was divided
into two equal parts — that upon the Delaware was adjudged to Penn, and that
upon the Chesapeake to Lord Baltimore. This settled the matter in theory;
but when the attempt was made to run the lines according to the language of
the Royal Act, it was found that the royal secretaries did not understand the
geography of the country, and that the line which their language described was
an impossible one. Consequently the boundary remained undetermined til’i
1732. The account of its location will be given in its proper place.
HISTORY OP PENNSYLVANIA.
63
Having secured this important decision to his satisfaction, Penn applied
himself with renewed zeal, not only to secure the release of his people, who
were languishing in prisons, but to procure for all Englishmen, everywhere,
enlarged liberty and freedom of conscience. His relations with the King fa-
vored his designs. The King had said to Penn before he ascended the throne
that he was opposed to persecution for religion. On the first day of his reign,
he made an address, in which he proclaimed himself opposed to all arbitrary
principles in government, ‘and promised protection to the Church of England.
Early in the year 1686, in consequence of the King’s proclamation for a gen-
eral pardon, over thirteen hundred Quakers were set at liberty, and iu April,
1687, the King issued a declaration for entire liberty of conscience, and sus-
pending the penal laws in matters ecclesiastical. This was a great step in ad-
vance, and one that must ever throw a luster over the brief reign of this un-
fortunate monarch. Penn, though holding no official position, doubtless did
as much toward securing the issue of this liberal measure as any Englishman.
Upon the issue of these edicts, the Quakers, at their next annual meeting,
presented an address of acknowledgment to the King, which opened in these
words; “We cannot but bless and praise the name of Almighty God, who
hath the hearts of princes in His hands, that He hath inclined the King to hear
the cries of his suffering subjects for conscience’ sake, and we rejoice that he
hath given us so eminent an occasion to present him our thanks.” This ad-
dress was presented by Penn in a few well -chosen words, and the King re-
plied in the following, though brief, yet most expressive, language: “Gentle-
men— I thank you heartily for your address. Some of you know (I am sure
you do Mr. Penn), that it was always my principle, that conscience ought not
to be forced, and that all men ought to have the liberty of their consciences.
And what I have promised in my declaration, I will continue to perform so
long as I live. And I hope, before I die, to settle it so that after ages shall
have no reason to alter it.”
It would have been supposed that such noble sentiments as these from a
sovereign would have been hailed with delight by the English people. But
they were not. The aristocracy of Britain at this time did not want liberty of
conscience. They wanted comformity to the established church, and bitter
persecution against all others, as in the reign of Charles, whii L tilled the
prisons with Quakers. The warm congratulations to James, and fervent prayers
for his welfare, were regarded by them with an evil eye. Bitter reproaches
were heaped upon Penn, who was looked upon as the power behind the throne
that was moving the King to the enforcing of these principles. He was ac-
cused of having been educated at St. Omer’s, a Catholic college, a place which
he never saw in his life, of having taken orders as a priest in the Catholic
Church, of having obtained dispensation to marry, and of being not only a
Catholic, but a Jesuit in disguise, all of which were pure fabrications. Butin
the excited state of the public mind they were believed, and caused him to be
regarded with bitter hatred. The King, too, fell rapidly into disfavor, and so
completely had the minds of his people become alienated from him, that upon
the coming of the Prince of Orange and his wife Mary, in 1688, James was
obliged to flee to France for safety, and they were received as the rulers of
Britain.
But while the interests of the colony were thus prospering at court, they
were not so cloudless in the new country. There was needed the strong hand
of Penn to check abuses and guide the course of legislation in proper chan-
nels. He had labored to place the government entirely in the hands of the
people — an idea, in the abstract, most attractive, and one which, were the entire
4
64
HISTOKY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
population wise and just, would result fortunately: yet, in practice, he found
to his sorrow the results most vexatious. The proprietor had not long been
gone before troubles arose between the two Houses of the Legislature relative
to promulgating the laws as not being in accordance with the requirements of
the charter Nicholas Moore, the Chief Justice, was impeached for irregular-
ities in imposing fines and in other ways abusing his high trust. But though
formally arraigned and directed to desist from exercising his functions, he suc-
cessfully resisted the proceedings, and a final judgment was never obtained.
Patrick Robinson, Clerk of the court, for refusing to produce the records in the
trial of Moore, was voted a public enemy. These troubles in the government
were the occasion of much grief to Penn, who wrote, naming a number of the
most influential men in the colony, and beseeching them to unite in an endeavor
to check further irregularities, declaring that they disgraced the province,
“ that their conduct had struck back hundreds, and was £10,000 out of his
way, and £1U0,000 out of the country.”
In the latter part of the year 1686, seeing that the whole Council was too
unwieldy a body to exercise executive power, Penn determined to contract the
number, and accordingly appointed Thomas Lloyd, Nicholas Moore, James
Claypole, Robert Turner and John Eckley, any three of whom should consti-
tute a quorum, to be Commissioners of State to act for the proprietor. In
place of Moore and Claypole, Arthur Cook and John Simcock were appointed.
They were to compel the attendance of the Council; see that the two Houses
admit of no parley; to abrogate nil laws except the fundamentals; to dismiss
the Assembly and call a new one, and finally he solemnly admonishes them,
“ Be most just, as in the sight of the all-seeing, all-searching God.” In a
letter to these Commissioners, he says: “ Three things occur to me eminently:
First, that you be watchful that none abuse the King, etc. ; secondly, that you
get the custom act revived as being the equalest and least ofifensive way to
support the government; thirdly, that you retrieve the dignity of courts and
sessions.”
In a letter to James Harrison, his confidential agent at Pennsbury Manor,
he unbosoms himself more freely respecting his employment in London than
in any of his State papers or more public communications, and from it can be
seen how important were his labors with the head of the English nation. “ I
am engaged in the public business of the nation and Friends, and those in au-
thority would have me see the establishment of the liberty, that I was a small
instrument to begin in the land. The Lord has given me great entrance and
interest with the King, though not so much as is ^aid; and I confess I should
rejoice to see poor old England fixed, the penal laws repealed, that are now
suspended, and if it goes well with England, it cannot go ill with Pennsyl-
vania, as unkindly used as I am; and no poor slave in Turkey desires more
earnestly, I believe, for deliverance, than I do to be v/ith you.” In the sum-
mer of 1687, Penn was in company with the King in a progress through the
counties of Berkshire, Glocestershire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Cheshire,
Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire and Hampshire, during which he
held several religious meetings with his people, in some of which the King ap-
pears to have been present, particularly in Chester.
Since the departure of Penn, Thomas Lloyd had acted as President of
the Council, and later of the Commissioners of State. He had been in effect
Governor, and held responsible for the success of the government, while pos-
sessing only one voice in the disposing of affairs. Tiring of this anomalous
position, Lloyd applied to be relieved. It was difficult to find a person of
sufficient ability to fill the place; but Penn decided to relieve him, though
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
65
showing hia entire confidence by notifying him that he intended soon to ap-
point him absolute Governor. In his place, he indicated Samuel Carpenter,
or if he was unwilling to serve, then Thomas Ellis, but not to be President, his
will being that each should preside a month in turn, or that the oldest mem-
ber should be chosen.
Penn foresaw that the executive power, to be efficient, must be lodged in
the hands of one man of ability, such as to command the respect of his people.
Those whom he most trusted in the colony had been so mixed up in the wran-
gles of the executive and legislative departments of the government that he
deemed it advisable to appoint a person who had not before been in the col
ony and not a Quaker. He accordingly commissioned John Blackwell, July
27, 1688, to be Lieutenant Governor, who was at this time in New England,
and who had the esteem and confidence of Penn. With the (iomraission, the
proprietor sent full instructions, chiefly by way of caution, the last one being;
“ Rule the meek meekly; and those that will not be ruled, rule with authority.”
Though Lloyd had been relieved of power, he still remained in the Council,
probably because neither of the persens designated were willing to serve.
Having seen the evils of a many-headed executive, he had recommended the
appointment of one person to exercise executive authority. It was in con
formity with this advice that Blackwell was appointed. He met the Assembly
in March, 1689; but either his conceptions of business were arbitrary and im-
perious, or the Assembly had become accustomed to great latitude and lax
discipline; for the business had not proceeded far before the several branches
of the government were at variance. Lloyd refused to give up the great seal,
alleging that it had been given him for life. The Governor, ai’bitra-
rily and without warrant of law, imprisoned officers of high rank, denied the
validity of all laws passed by the Assembly previous to his administration, and
set on foot a project for organizing and equipping the militia, under the plea
of threatened hostility of France. The Assembly attempted to arrest his
proceedings, but he shrewdly evaded their intents by organizing a party
among the members, who persistently absented themselves. His reign
was short, for in January, 1690, he left the colony and sailed away for En-
gland, whereupon the government again devolved upon the Council, Thomas
Lloyd, President. Penn had a high estimation of the talents and integrity
of Blackwell, and adds, “ He is in England and Ireland of great repute for
ability, integrity and virtue.”
Three forms of administering the executive department of the government
had now been tried, by a Council consisting of eighteen members, a commission of
five members, and a Lieutenant Governor. Desirous of leaving the government
as far as possible in the hands of the people who were the sources of all
power, Penn left it to the Council to decide which form should be adopted.
The majority decided for a Deputy Governor. This was opposed by the mem-
bers from the provinces, who preferred a Council, and who, finding themselves
outvoted, decided to withdraw, and determined for themselves to govern the
lower counties until Penn should come. This obstinacy and falling out be-
tween the councilors from the lower counties and those from the province
was the beginning of a controversy which eventuated in a separation, and
finally in the formation of Delaware as a separate commonwealth. A deputa-
tion from the Council was sent to New Castle to induce the seceding members
to return, but without success. They had never regarded with favor the re-
moval of the sittings of the Council from New Castle, the first seat of gov-
ernment, to Philadelphia, and they were now determined to set up a govern-
ment for themselves.
66
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
In 1689, the Friends Public School in Philadelphia was first incorporated,
confirmed by a patent from Penn in 1701, and another in 1708, and finally,
with greatly enlarged powers, from Penn personally, November 29, 1711. The
preamble to the charter recites that as “the prosperity and welfare of any
people depend, in great measure, upon the good education of youth, and their
early introduction in the principles of true religion and virtue, and qualifying
them to serve their country and themselves, by breeding them in reading,
writing, and learning of languages and useful arts and sciences suitable to
their sex, age and degree, which cannot be effected in any manner so well as
by erecting public schools,” etc. George Keith was employed as the first mas-
ter of this school. He was a native of Aberdeen, Scotland, a man of learning,
and had emigrated to East Jersey some years previous, whore he was Surveyor
General, and had surveyed and marked the line between East and West New
Jersey. He only remained at the head of the school one year, when he was
succeeded by his usher, Thomas Makin. This was a school of considerable
merit and pretension, where the higher mathematics and the ancient lan-
guages were taught, and was the first of this high grade. A school of a pri-
mary grade had been established as early as 1683, in Philadelphia, when
Enoch Flower taught on the following terms: “To learn to read English,
four shillings by the quarter; to write, six shillings by ditto; to read, write and
cast accounts, eight shillings by the quarter; boarding a scholar, that is to
say, diet, lodging, washing and schooling, £10 for oneAvhole year,’’ from which
it will be seen that although learning might be highly prized, its cost in
hard cash was not exorbitant.
Penn’s favor at court during the reign of James II caused him to be sus-
pected of disloyalty to the government when William and Mary had come to
the throne. Accordingly on the 10th of December, 1688, while walking in
White Hall, he was summoned before the Lords of the Council, and though
nothing was found against him, was compelled to give security for his appear-
ance at the next term, to answer any charge that might be made. At the sec-
ond sitting of the Council nothing having been found against him, he was
cleared in open coirrt. In 1690, he was again brought before the Lords on
the charge of having been in coi’respondence with the late King. He ap
pealed to King William, who, after a hearing of two hours, was disposed to
release him, but the Lords decided to hold him until the Trinity term, when
he was again discharged. A third time he was arraigned, and this time with
eighteen others, charged with adhering to the kingdom’s enemies, but was
cleared by order of the King’s Bench. Being now at liberty, and these vexa-
tious suits apparently at an end, he set about leading a large party of settlers
to his cherished Pennsylvania. Proposals were published, and the Govern-
ment, regarding the enterprise of so much importance, had ordered an armed
convoy, when he was again met by another accusation, and now, backed by
the false oath of one William Fuller, whom the Parliament subsequently de-
clared a “ cheat and an imposter.” Seeing that he must prepare again for his
defense, he abandoned his voyage to America, after having made expensive
preparations, and convinced that his enemies were determined to prevent his
attention to public or private affairs, whether in England or America, he with-
drew himself during the ensuing two or three years from the public eye.
But though not participating in business, which was calling loudly for his
attention, his mind was busy, and several important treatises upon religious
and civil matters were produced that had great influence upon the turn of
public affairs, which would never have been written but for this forced retire-
ment. In his address to the yearly meeting of Friends in London, he says:
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 0j
“ My enemies are yours. My privacy is not because men have sworn truly,
but falsely against me. ”
His personargrievances in England were the least which he suffered. For
lack of guiding influence, bitter dissensions had sprung up in his colony,
which threatened the loss of all. Desiring to secure peace, he had commis-
sioned Thomas Lloyd Deputy Governor of the province, and William Mark-
ham Deputy Governor of the lower counties. Penn’s grief on account of this
division is disclosed in a letter to a friend in the province; “I left it to them,
to choose either the government of the Council, five Commissioners ora deputy.
What could be tenderer? Now I perceive Thomas Lloyd is chosen by the
three upper, but not the three lower counties, and sits down with this broken
choice. This has grieved and wounded me and mine, I fear to the hazard of
a21] * * * fQj. gjgg Governor of New York is like to have all, if he
has it not already.”
But the troubles of Penn in America were not confined to civil affairs.
His religious society was torn with dissension. George Keith, a man of con-
siderable power in argumentation, but of overweauing self-conceit, attacked the
Friends for the laxity of their discipline, and drew off some followers. So
venomous did he become that on the 20th of April, 1692, a testimony of de-
nial was drawn up against him at a meeting of ministers, wherein he and his
conduct were publicly disowned. This was confirmed at the next yearly meet-
ing. He drew off large numbers and set up an independent society, who
termed themselves Christian Quakers. Keith appealed from this action of the
American Church to the yearly meeting in London, but was so intemperate in
speech that the action of the American Church was confirmed. Whereupon
he became the bitter enemy of the Quakers, and, uniting with the Church of
England, was ordained a Vicar by the Bishop of London. He afterward re-
turned to America where he wrote against his former associates, but was final-
ly fixed in a benefice in Sussex, England. On his death bed, he said, “ I wish
I had died when I was a Quaker, for then I am sure it would have been well
with my soul.”
But Keith had not been satisfied with attacking the principles and prac-
tices of his church. He mercilessly lampooned the Lieutenant Governor, say-
ing that "'He was not fit to be a Governor, and his name would stink,” and of
the Council, that “ He hoped to God he should shortly see their power taken
from them.” On another occasion, he said of Thomas Lloyd, who was reputed
a mild-tempered man, and had befriended Keith, that he was “ an impu-
dent man and a pitiful Governor,” and asked him “why he did not send him
to jail,” saying that “his back (Keith’s) had long itched for a whipping, and
that he would print and expose them all over America, if not over Europe. ”
So abusive had he finally become that the Council was obliged to take notice
of his conduct and to warn him to desist.
Penn, as has been shown, was silenced and thrown into retirement in En-
gland. It can be readily seen what an excellent opportunity those troubles
in America, the separation in the government, and the schism in the church,
gave his enemies to attack him. They represented that he had neglected his
colony by remaining in England and meddling with matters in which he had
no business; that the colony in consequence had fallen into great disorder,
and that he should be deprived of his proprietary rights. These complaints
had so much weight with William and Mary, that, on the 21st of October, 1692,
they commissioned Benjamin Fletcher, Governor of New York, to take the
province and territories under his government. There was another motive
operating at this time, more potent than those mentioned above, to induce the
C8
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
King and Queen to put the government of Pennsylvania under the Governor
of New York. The French and Indians from the north were threatening the
English. Already the expense for defense had become burdensome to New
York. It was believed that to ask aid for the common defense from Penn,
with his peace principles, would be fruitless, but that thi’ough the influence of
Gov. Fletcher, as executive, an appropriation might be secured.
Upon receiving his commission, Gov. Fletcher sent a note, dated April 19,
1693, to Deputy Gov. Lloyd, informing him of the grant of the royal commis-
sion and of his intention to visit the colony and assume authority on the 29th
inst. He accordingly came with great pomp and splendor, attended by a
numerous retinue, and soon after his arrival, submission to him having been
accorded without question, summoned the Assembly. Some differenceshaving
arisen between the Governor and the Assembly about the manner of calling and
electing the Representatives, certain members united in an addx’ess to the Gov-
ernor, claiming that the constitution and laws were still in full force and
must be administered until altered or repealed; thac Pennsylvania had just as
good a right to be governed according lo the usages of Pennsylvania as New
York had to be governed according to the usages of that province. The Leg-
islature being finally organized, Gov. Fletcher presented a letter from the
Queen, setting forth that the expense for the preservation and defense of Albany
against the French was intolerable to the inhabitants there, and that as this
was a frontier to other colonies, it was thought but just that they should help
bear the burden. The Legislature, in firm but respectful terms, maintained
that the constitution and laws enacted under them were in full force, and
when he, having flatly denied this, attempted to intimidate them by the threat
of annexing Pennsylvania to New Y^'ork, they mildly but firmly requested that
if the Governor had objections to the bill which they had passed and would
communicate them, they would try to remove them. The business was now
amicably adjusted, and he in compliance with their wish dissolved the Assembly,
and after appointing William Markham Lieutenant Governor, departed to his
government in New Y"ork, doubtless well satisfied that a Quaker, though usu-
ally mild mannered, is not easily frightened or coerced.
Gov. Fletcher met the Assembly again in March, 1694, and dm’ing this
session, having apparently failed in his previous endeavors to induce the Assem-
bly to vote money for the common defense, sent a communication setting forth
the dangers to be apprehended from the French and Indians, and concluding in
these words : “That he considered their principles ; that they could not carry arms
nor levy money to make war, though for their own defense, yet he hoped that
they would not refuse to feed the hungry and clothe the naked; that was to
supply the Indian nations with such necessaries as may influence their contin-
ued friendship to their provinces.” But notwithstanding the adroit sugar-
coating of the pill, it was not acceptable and no money was voted. This and a
brief session in September closed the Governorship of Pennsylvania by
Fletcher. It would appear from a letter written by Penn, after hearing of
the neglect of the Legislatm’e to vote money for the purpose indicated, that
he took an entirely different view of the subject from that which was antici-
pated; for he blamed the colony for refusing to send money to New York for
what he calls the common defense.
Through the kind offices of Lords Rochester, Ranelagh, Sidney and Somers,
the Duke of Buckingham and Sir John Trenchard, the king was asked to
hear the case of William Penn, against whom no charge was proven, and who
would two years before have gone to his colony had he not supposed that he
would have been thought to go in defiance of the government. King William
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
69
answered that William Penn was his old acquaintance as well as theirs, that
he might follow his business as freely as ever, and that he had nothing to say
to him. Penn was accordingly reinstated in his government by letters patent
dated on the 20th of August, 1694, whereupon he commissioned William Mark-
ham Lieutenant Governor.
When Markham called the Assembly, he disregarded the provisions of the
charter, assuming that the removal of Penn had annulled the grant. The
Assembly made no objection to this action, as there were provisions in the old
charter that they desired to have changed. Accordingly, when the appropria-
tion bill was considered, a new constitution was attached to it and passed.
This was approved by Markham and became the organic law, the third consti-
tution adopted under the charter of King Charles. By the provisions of this
instrument, the Council was composed of twelve members, and the Assembly
of twenty-four. During the war between France and England, the ocean
swarmed with the privateers of the former. When peace was declared, many of
these crafts, which had richly profited by privateering, were disposed to con-
tinue their irregular practices, which was now piracy. Judging that the peace
principles of the Quakers would shield them from forcible seizure, they were
accustomed to run into the Delaware for safe harbor. Complaints coming
of the depredations of these parties, a proclamation was issued calling on
magistrates and citizens to unite in breaking up practices so damaging to the
good name of the colony. It was charged in England that evil-disposed per-
sons in the province were privy to these practices, if not parties to it, and that
the failure of the Government to break it up was a proof of its inefficiency,
and of a radical defect of the principles on which it was based. Penn was
much exercised by these charges, and in his letters to the Lieutenant Governor
and to his friends in the Assembly, urged ceaseless vigilance to effect reform.
William Penn, 1699-1701— Andrew Hamilton. 1701-3— Edward Shippen
EING free from harassing persecutions, and in favor at court, Penn de-
termined to remove with his family to Pennsylvania, and now with the ex-
pectation of living and dying here. Accordingly, in July, 1699, he set sail,
and, on account of adverse winds, was three months tossed about upon the
ocean. Just before his arrival in his colony, the yellow fever raged there with
great virulence, having been brought thither from the West Indies, but had
been checked by the biting frosts of autumn, and had now disappeared. An
observant traveler, who witnessed the effects of this scourge, writes thus of it
in his journal: “Great was the majesty and hand of the Lord. Great was
the fear that fell upon all flesh. I saw no lofty nor airy countenance, nor
heard any vain jesting to move men to laughter, nor witty repartee to raise
mirth, nor extravagant feasting to excite the lusts and desires of the flesh
above measure; but every face gathered paleness, and many hearts were hum-
bled, and countenances fallen and sunk, as such that waited every moment to
be summoned to the bar and numbered to the grave. ”
Great joy was everywhere manifested throughout the province at the arriv-
CHAPTER YIII.
1703-4— John Evans, 1701-9— Charles Gookin, 1709-17.
70
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
al of the proprietor and his family, fondly believing that he had now come to
stay. He met the Assembly soon after landing, but, it being an inclement
season, he only detained them loQg enough to pass two measures aimed against
piracy and illicit trade, exaggerated reports of which, having been spread
broadcast through the kingdom, had caused him great uneasiness and vexation.
At the first monthly meeting of Friends in 1700, he laid before them his
concern, which was for the welfare of Indians and Negroes, and steps’ were
taken to instruct them and provide stated meetings for them where they could
hear the Word. It is more than probable that he had fears from the first that
his enemies in England would interfere in his affairs to such a degree as to re-
quire his early return, though he had declared to his friends there that he
never expected to meet them again. His greatest solicitude, consequently,
was to give a charter to his colony, and also one to his city, the very best that
human ingenuity could devise. An experience of now nearly twenty years
would be likely to develop the weaknesses and impracticable provisions of the
first constitutions, so that a frame now drawn with all the light of the past,
and by the aid and suggestion of the men who had been employed in admin-
istering it, would be likely to be enduring, and though he might be called
hence, or be removed by death, their work would live on from generation to
generation and age to age, and exert a benign and preserving influence while
the State should exist.
In February, 1701, Penn met the most renowned and powerful of the In-
dian chieftains, reaching out to the Potomac, the Susquehanna and to the Ononda-
goes of the Five Nations, some forty in number, at Philadelphia, where he
renewed with them pledges of peace and entered into a formal treaty of active
friendship, binding them to disclose any hostile intent, confirm sale of lands,
be governed by colonial law, all of which was confirmed on the part of the In-
dians “by five parcels of skins;” and on the part of Penn by “ several English
goods and merchandises.”
Several sessions of the Legislature were held in which great harmony pre-
vailed, and much attention was giving to revising and recomposing the consti-
tution. But in the midst of their labors for the improvement of the organic
law, intelligence was brought to Penn that a bill had been introduced in the
House of Lords for reducing all the proprietary governments in America to
regal ones, under pretence of advancing the prerogative of the crown, and
the national advantage. Such of the owners of land in Pennsylvania as hap-
pened to be in England, remonstrated against action upon the bill until Penn
could return and be heard, and wrote to him urging his immediate coming
hither. Though much to his disappointment and sorrow, he determined to
go immediately thither. He promptly called a session of the Assembly, and
in his message to the two Houses said, “I cannot think of such a voyage
without great reluctancy of mind, having promised myself the quietness of a
wilderness. For my heart is among you, and no disappointment shall ever be
able to alter my love to the country, and resolution to return, and settle my
family and posterity in, it. * * Think therefore (since all men are mortal),
of some suitable expedient and provision for yoiii’ safety as well in your privi-
leges as property. Review again your laws, propose new ones, and you will
find me ready to comply with whatsoever may render us happy, by a nearer
union of our interests.” The Assembly returned a suitable response, and then
proceeded to draw up twenty-one articles. The first related to the appoint-
ment of a Lieutenant Governor. Penn proposed that the Assembly should
choose one. But this they declined, preferring that he should appoint one.
Little trouble was experienced in settling everything broached, except the
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
71
union of the province and lower counties. Penn used his best endeavors to
reconcile them to the union, but without avail. The new constitution was
adopted on the 28th of October, 1701. The instrument provided for the
union, but in a supplementary article, evidently granted with great reluctance,
it was provided that the province and the territories might be separated at any
time within three years. As his last act before leaving, he presented the city
of Philadelphia, now grown to be a considerable place, and always an object
of his affectionate regard, with a charter of privileges. As his Deputy, he ap-
pointed Andrew Hamilton, one of the proprietors of East New Jersey, and
sometime Governor of both East and "West Jersey, and for Secretary of the
province and Clerk of the Council, he selected James Logan, a man of sin-
gular urbanity and strength of mind, and withal a scholar.
Penn set sail for Europe on the 1st of November, 1701. Soon after his
arrival, on the I8th of January, 1702, King William died, and Anne of Den-
mark succeeded him. He now found himself in favor at court, and that he
might be convenient to the royal residence, he again took lodgings at Kensing-
ton. The bill which had been pending before Parliament, that had given him
so much uneasiness, was at the succeeding session dropped entirely, and was
never again called up. During his leisure hours, be now busied himself in
writing ‘ ‘ several useful and excellent treatises on divers subjects.”
Gov. Hamilton’s administration continued only till December, 1702, when
he died. He was earnest in his endeavors to induce the territories to unite
with the province, they having as yet not accepted the new charter, alleging
that they had three years in which to make their decision, but without success.
He also organized a military force, of which George Lowther was commander,
for the safety of the colony.
The executive authority now devolved upon the Council, of which Edward
Shippen was President. Conflict of authority, and contention over the due in-
terpretation of some provisions of the new charter, preventea the accomplish-
ment of much, by way of legislation, in the Assembly which convened in 1703;
though in this body it was finally determined that the lower counties should
thereafter act separately in a legislative capacity. This separation proved
final, the two bodies never again meeting in common.
Though the bill to govern the American Colonies by regal authority failed,
yet the clamor of those opposed to the proprietary Governors was so strong
that an act was finally passed requiring the selection of deputies to have the
royal assent. Hence, in choosing a successor to Hamilton, he was obliged to
consider the Queen’s wishes. John Evans, a man of parts, of Welsh extrac-
tion, only twenty-six years old, a member of the Queen’s household, and not a
Quaker, nor even of exemplary morals, was appointed, who arrived in the col-
ony in December, 1703. He was accompanied by William Penn, Jr., who was
elected a member of the Council, the number having been increased by author-
ity of the Governor, probably with a view to his election.
The first care of Evans was to unite the province and lower counties,
though the final separation had been agreed to. He presented the matter so
well that the lower counties, from which the difficulty had always come, were
willing to return to a firm union. But now the provincial Assembly, having
become impatient of the obstacles thrown in the way of legislation by the dele-
gates from these counties, was unwilling to receive them. They henceforward
remained separate in a legislative capacity, though still a part of Pennsylvania,
under the claim of Penn, and ruled by the same Governor, and thus they con-
tinued until the 20th of September, 1776, when a constitution was adopted,
and they were proclaimed a separate State under the name of Delaware.
72
HISTORY OP PENNSYLVANIA.
During two years of the government of Evans, there was ceaseless discord be •
tween the Council, headed by the Grovernor and Secretary Logan on the one
side, and the Assembly led by David Lloyd, its Speaker, on the other, and
little legislation was effected.
Eealizing the defenseless condition of the colony, Evans determined to
organize the militia, and accordingly issued his proclamation. “In obedience
to her Majesty’s royal command, and to the end that the inhabitants of this
government may be in a posture of defense and readiness to withstand and
repel all acts of hostility, I do hereby strictly command and require all per-
sons residing in this government, whose persuasions will, on any account, per-
mit them to take up arms in their own defense, that forthwith they do pro-
vide themselves with a good firelock and ammunition, in order to enlist them-
selves in the militia, which I am now settling in this government. ” The Gov-
ernor evidently issued this proclamation in good faith, and with a pure pur-
pose. The French and Indians had assumed a threatening aspect upon the north,
and while the other colonies had assisted New York liberally, Pennsylvania had
done little or nothing for the common defense. But his call fell stillborn.
The “ fire-locks” were not brought out, and none enlisted.
Disappointed at this lack of spirit, and embittered by the factious temper of
the Assembly, Evans, who seems not to have had faith in the religious prin-
ciples of the Quakers, and to have entirely mistook the nature of their Christian
zeal, formed a wild scheme to test their steadfastness under the pressure of
threatened danger. In conjunction with his gay associates in revel, he agreed
to have a false alarm spread of the approach of a hostile force in the river,
whereupon he was to raise the alarm in the city. Accordingly, on the day of
the fair in Philadelphia, 16th of March, 1706, a messenger came, post haste
from New Castle, bringing the startling intelligence that an armed fleet of the
enemy was already in the river, and making their way rapidly toward the city.
Whereupon Evans acted his part to a nicety. He sent emissaries through the
town proclaiming the dread tale, while he mounted his horse, and in an ex-
cited manner, and with a drawn sword, rode through the streets, calling upon all
good men and true to rush to arms for the defense of their homes, their wives
and children, and all they held dear. The rase was so well played that it
had an immense effect. “ The suddenness of the surprise,’’ says Proud, “ with
the noise of precipitation consequent thereon, threw manj' of the people into
very great fright and consternation, insomuch that it is said some threw their
plate and most valuable effects down their wells and little houses; that others
hid themselves, in the best manner they could, while many retired further up
the river, with what they could most readily carry off; so that some of the
creeks seemed full of boats and small craft; those of a larger size running as
far as Burlington, and some higher up the river; several women are said to
have miscarried by the fright and terror into which they were thrown, and
much mischief ensued.”
The more thoughtful of the people are said to have understood the
deceit from the first, and labored to allay the excitement; but the seeming
earnestness of the Governor and the zeal of his emissaries so worked upon the
more inconsiderate of the population that the consternation and commotion
was almost past belief. In an almanac published at Philadelphia for the next
year opposite this date was this distich:
“Wise men wonder, good men grieve.
Knaves invent and fools believe.”
Though this ruse was played upon all classes alike, yet it was generally
believed to have been aimed chiefly at the Quakers, to try the force of their
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
73
principles, and see if they would not rush to arms when danger should really
appear. But in this the Governor was disappointed. For it is said that only
four out of the entire population of this I’eligious creed showed any disposition
to falsify their faith, It was the day of their weekly meeting, and regardless
of the dismay and consternation which were everywhere manifest about them,
they assembled in their accustomed places of worship, and engaged in their
devotions as though nothing unusual was transpiring without, manifesting
such unshaken faith, as Whittier has exemplified in verse by his Abraham
Davenport, on the occasion of the Dark Day;
Meanwhile in the old State House, dim as ghosts,
Sat the law-givers of Connecticut,
Trembling beneath their legislative robes.
‘It is the Lord’s great da}d Let us adjourn,’
Some said; and then, as with one accord.
All eyes were turned on Abraham Davenport.
He rose, slow, cleaving with his steady voice
The intolerable hush. ‘ This well may be
The Day of Judgment which the world awaits;
But be it so or not, I only know
My present duty, and my Lord’s command
To occupy till He come. So at the post.
Where He Rath set me in His Providence,
I choose, for one, to meet Him face to face.
No faithless servant frightened from iny task.
But ready when the Lord of the harvest calls;
And therefore, with all reverence, I would say,
Let God do His work, we will see to ours.
Bring in the candles.’ And they brought them in.”
In conjunction with the Legislature of the lower counties, Evans was in.
strumental in having a law passed for the imposition of a tax on the tonnage
of the river, and the erection of a fort near the town of New Castle for com-
pelling obedience. This was in direct violation of the fundamental compact,
and vexatious to commerce. It was at length forcibly resisted, and its impo-
sition abandoned. His administration was anything but efficient or peaceful,
a series of contentions, of charges and counter-charges having been kept up
between the leaders of the two factions, Lloyd and Logan, which he was pow-
erless to properly direct or control. “ He was relieved in 1709. Possessed of
a good degree of learning and refinement, and accustomed to the gay society
of the British metropolis, he found in the grave and serious habits of the
Friends a type of life and character which he failed to comprehend, and with
which he could, consequently, have little sympathy. How widely he mistook
the Quaker character is seen in the result of his wild and hair-brained experi-
ment to test their faith. His general tenor of life seems to have been of a
piece with this. Watson says: ‘The Indians of Connestoga complained of
him when there as misbehaving to their women, and that, in 1709, Solomon
Cresson, going his rounds at night, entered a tavern to suppress a riotous as-
sembly, and found there John Evans, Esq., the Governor, who fell to beat-
ing Cresson.’ ”
The youth and levity of Gov. Evans induced the proprietor to seek for a
successor of a more sober and sedate character. He had thought of proposing
his son, but finally settled upon Col. Charles Gookin, who was reputed to be a
man of wisdom and prudence, though as was afterward learned, to the sorrow
of the colony, he was subject to fits of derangement, which toward the close of
his term were exhibited in the most extravagant acts. He had scarcely ar-
rived in the colony before charges were preferred against the late Governor,
and he was asked to institute criminal proceedings, which he declined. This
74
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
was the occasion of a renewal of contentions between the Governor and his
Council and the Assembly, which continued during the greater part of his ad-
ministration. In the midst of them, Logan, who was at the head of the Coun-
cil, having demanded a trial of the charges against him, and failed to secure
one, sailed for Europe, where he presented the difficulties experienced in ad-
ministering the government so strongly, that Penn was seriously inclined to
sell his interest in the colony. He had already greatly crippled his estate by
expenses he had incurred in making costly presents to the natives, and in set-
tling his colony, for which he had received small return. In the year 1707,
he had become involved in a suit in chancery with the executors of his former
steward, in the course of which he was confined in the Old Baily during this
and a part of the following year, when he was obliged to mortgage his colony
in the sum of £6,600 to relieve himself. Foreseeing the great consequence
it would be to the crown to buy the rights of the proprietors of the several
English colonies in America before they would grow too powerful, negotia-
tions had been entered into early in the reign of William and Mary for their
purchase, especially the ‘‘fine province of Mr. Penn.” Borne down by these
troubles, and by debts and litigations at home, Penn seriously entertained the
proposition to sell in 1712, and ofiered it for £20,000. The sum of £12,000
was offered on the part of the crown, which was agreed upon, but before the
necessary papers were executed, he was stricken down with apoplexy, by which
he was incapacitated for transacting any business, and a stay was put to fur-
ther proceedings until the Queen should order an act of Parliament for con-
summating the purchase.
It is a mournful spectacle to behold the great mind and the great heart of
Penn reduced now in his declining years, by the troubles of government and
by debts incurred in the bettering of his colony, to this enfeebled condition.
He was at the moment writing to Logan on public affairs, when his hand was
suddenly seized by lethargy in the beginning of a sentence, which he never
finished. His mind was touched by the disease, which he never recovered,
and after lingering for six years, he died on the 30th of May, 1718, in the
seventy- fourth year of his age. With great power of intellect, and a religious
devotion scarcely matched in all Christendom, he gave himself to the welfare
of mankind, by securing civil and religious liberty through the operations of
organic law. Though not a lawyer by profession, he drew frames of govern-
ment and bodies of laws which have been the admiration of succeeding gener-
ations, and are destined to exert a benign influence in all future time, and by
his discussions with Lord Baltimore and before the Lords in Council, he
showed himself familiar with the abstruse principles of law. Though but a
private person and of a despised sect, he was received as the friend and confi-
dential advisee of the ruling sovereigns of England, and some of the princi-
ples which give luster to British law were engrafted there through the influ-
ence of the powerful intellect and benignant heart of Penn. He sought to
know no philosophy but that propaulgated by Christ and His disciples, and
this he had sounded to its depths, and in it were anchored his ideas of public
law and private and social living. The untamed savage of the forest bowed in
meek and loving simplicity to his mild and resistless sway, and the members
of the Society of Friends all over Europe flocked to his City of Brotherly Love.
His prayers for the welfare of his people are the beginning and ending of all
his public and private correspondence, and who will say that they have not
been answered in the blessings which have attended the commonwealth of his
founding? And will not the day of its greatness be when the inhabitants
throughout all its borders shall return to the peaceful and loving spirit of
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
75
Pena ? In the midst of a licentious court, and with every prospect of advance-
ment in its sunshine and favor, inheriting a great name and an independent
patrimony, he turned aside from this brilliant track to make common lot with
a poor sect under the ban of Government; endured stripes and imprisonment
and loss of property; banished himself to the wilds of the American continent
that he might secure to his people those devotions which seemed to them re-
quired by their Maker, and has won for himself a name by the simple deeds of
love and humble obedience to Christian mandates which shall never perish.
Many have won renown by deeds of blood, but fadeless glory has come to
William Penn by charity.
CHAPTER IX.
Sir William Keith, 1717-28— Patrick Gordon, 1726-36— James Logan, 1736-38
— George Thomas, 1738-47— Anthony Palmer, 1747-48— James Hamilton,
1748-54.
IN 1712, Penn had made a will, by which he devised to his only surviving
son, William, by his first marriage, all his estates in England, amounting
to some twenty thousand pounds. By his first wife, Gulielma Maria Springett,
he had issue of three sons — William, Springett and William, and four daugh-
ters— Gulielma, Margaret, Gulielma and Letitia; and by his second wife,
Hannah Callowhill, of four sons — John, Thomas, Richard and Dennis. To
his wife Hannah, who survived him, and whom he made the sole executrix of
his will, he gave, for the equal benefit of herself and her children, all his
personal estate in Pennsylvania and elsewhere, after paying all debts, and
alloting ten thousand acres of land in the Province to his daughter Letitia, by
his first marriage, and each of the three children of his son William.
Doubts having arisen as to the force of the provisions of this will, it was
finally determined to institute a suit in chancery for its determination. Before
a decision was reached, in March, 1720, William Penn, Jr., died, and while
still pending, his son Springett died also. During the long pendency of this
litigation for nine years, Hannah Penn, as executrix of the will, assumed the
proprietary powers, issued instructions to her Lieutenant Governors, heard
complaints and settled difficulties with the skill and the assurance of a veteran
diplomatist. In 1727, a decision was reached that, upon the death of William
Penn, Jr., and his son Springett, the proprietary rights in Pennsylvania de-
scended to the three surviving sons — John, Thomas and Richard — issue by the
second marriage; and that the proprietors bargain to sell his province to the
crown for twelve thousand pounds, made in 1712, and on which one thousand
pounds had been paid at the confirmation of the sale, was void. Whereupon
the three sons became the joint proprietors.
A year before the death of Penn, the lunacy of Gov, Gookin having be-
come troublesome, he was succeeded in the Government by Sir William Keith,
a Scotchman who had served as Surveyor of Customs to the English Govern
ment, in which capacity he had visited Pennsylvania previously, and knew
something of its condition. He was a man of dignified and commanding
bearing, endowed with cunning, of an accommdating policy, full of faithful
promises, and usually found upon the stronger side. Hence, upon his
arrival in the colony, he did not summon the Assembly immediately^
76
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
assigning as a reason in his first message that he did not wish to inconvenience
the country members by calling them in harvest time. The disposition thus
manifested to favor the people, and his advocacy of popular rights on several
occasions in opposition to the claims of the proprietor, gave great satisfaction
to the popular branch of the Legislatui’e which manifested its appreciation of
his conduct by voting him liberal salaries, which had often been withheld from
his loss accommodating predecessors. By his artful and insinuating policy,
he induced the Assembly to pass two acts which had previously met with un-
compromising opposition— one to establish a Court of Equity, with himself as
Chancellor, the want of which had been seriously felt; and another, for organ-
izing the militia. Though the soil was fruitful and produce was plentiful,
yet, for lack of good markets, and on account of the meagerness of the cir-
culating medium, prices were very low, the toil and sweat of the husbandman
being little rewarded, and the taxes and payments on land were met with great
difficulty. Accordingly, arrangements were made for the appointment of in-
spectors of provisions, who, from a conscientious discharge of duty, soon
caused the Pennsylvania brands of best products to be much sought for, and
to command ready sale at highest prices in the West Indies, whither most of
the surplus produce was exp()rted. A provision was also made for the issue of
a limited amount of paper money, on the establishment of ample securities,
which tended to raise the value of the products of the soil and of manufact-
ures, and encourage industry.
By the repeated notices of the Governors in their messages to the Legis-
lature previous to this time, it is evident that Indian hostilities had for some-
time been threatened. The Potomac was the dividing line between the
Northern and Southern Indians. But the young men on either side, when out
in pursuit of game, often crossed the line of the river into the territory of the
other, when fierce altercations ensued. This trouble had become so
violent in 1719 as to threaten a great Indian war, in which the pow-
erful confederation, known as the Five Nations, would take a hand.
To avert this danger, which it was foreseen would inevitably involve
the defenseless familes upon the frontier, and perhaps the entire colony.
Gov. Keith determined to use his best exertions. He accordingly made
a toilsome journey in the spring of 1721 to confer with the Governor of
Virginia and endeavor to employ by concert of action such means as would
allay further cause of contention. His policy was well devised, and enlisted
the favor of the Governor. Soon after his return, he summoned a council of
Indian Chieftains to meet him at Conestoga, a point about seventy miles west
of Philadelphia. He went in considerable pomp, attended by some seventy
or eighty horsemen, gaily caparisoned, and many of them armed, arriving
about noon, on the 4th of July, not then a day of more note than other days.
He went immediately to Capt. Civility’s cabin, where were assembled four
deputies of the Five Nations and representatives of other tribes. The Gov-
ernor said that he had come a long distance from home to see and speak to
representatives of the Five Nations, who had never met the Governor of Penn-
sylvania. They said in reply that they had heard much of the Governor, and
would have come sooner to pay him their respects, but that the wild conduct of
some of their young men had made them ashamed to show their faces. In the
formal meeting in the morning, Ghesaont, chief of the Senecas, spoke for all
the Five Nations. He said that they now felt that they were speaking to the
same effect that they would were William Penn before them, that they had not
forgotten Penn, nor the treaties made with him, and the good advice he gave
■them; that though they could not write as do the English, yet they could keep
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
77
all these transactions fresh in their memories. After laying down a belt of
wampum upon the table as if by way of emphasis, he began again, declaring
that “all their disorders arose from the use of rum and strong spirits, which
took away their sense and memory, that they had no such liquors,” and desired
that no more be sent among them. Here he produced a bundle of dressed
skins, by which he would say, “you see how much in earnest we are upon this
matter of furnishing fiery liquors to us.” Then he proceeds, declaring that
the Five Nations remember all their ancient treaties, and they now desire that
the chain of friendship may be made so strong that none of the links may
ever be broken, This may have been a hint that they wanted high-piled
and valuable presents; for the Quakers had made a reputation of brightening
and strengthening the chain of friendship by valuable presents which had
reached so far away as the Five Nations. He then produces a bundle of raw
skins, and observes “that a chain may contract rust with laying and become
weaker; wherefore, he desires it may now be so well cleaned as to remain
brighter and stronger than ever it was before.” Here he presents another par-
cel of skins, and continues, “ that as in the firmament, all clouds and dark-
ness are removed from the face of the sun, so they desire that all misunder-
standings may be fully done away, so that when they, who are now here, shall
be dead and gone, their whole people, with their children and posterity, may en-
joy the clear sunshine with us forever.” Presenting another bundle of skins,
he says, “that, looking upon the Grovernor as if William Penn were present,
they desire, that, in case any disorders should hereafter happen between their
young people and ours, we would not be too hasty in resenting any such acci-
dent, until their Council and ours can have some opportunity to treat amicably
upon it, and so to adjust all matters, as that the friendship between us may
still be inviolably preserved.” Here he produces a small parcel of dressed
skins, and concludes by saying “ that we may now be together as one people,
treating one another’s children kindly and affectionately, that they are fully
empowered to speak for the Five Nations, and they look upon the Governor as
the representative of the Great King of England, and therefore they expect
that everything now stipulated will be made absolutely firm and good on both
sides.” And now he presents a different style of present and pulls out a
bundle of bear skins, and proceeds to put in an item of complaint, that “ they^
get too little for their skins “and furs, so that they cannot live by hunting ;
they desire us, therefore, to take compassion on them, and contrive some way
to help them in that particular. Then producing a few furs, he speaks only
for himself, “to acquaint the Governor, that the Five Nations having heard
that the Governor of Virginia wanted to speak with them, he himself, with
some of his company intended to proceed to Virginia, but do not know the
way how to get safe thither.”
To this formal and adroitly conceived speech of the Seneca chief, Gov.
Keith, after having brought in the present of stroud match coats, gunpowder,
lead, biscuit, pipes and tobacco, adjourned the council till the following day,
when, being assembled at Conestoga, he answered at length the items of the
chieftain’s speech. His most earnest appeal, however, was made in favor of
peace. “ I have persuaded all my [Indian] brethren, in these parts, to con-
sider what is for their good, and not to go out any more to war ; but your
young men [Five Nations] as they come this way, endeavor to force them ;
and, because they incline to the counsels of peace, and the good advice of their
true friends, your people use them ill, and often prevail with them to go out
to their own destruction. Thus it was that their town of Conestoga lost their
good king not long ago. Their young children are left without parents ;
78
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
their wives without husbands ; the old men, contrary to the course of nature,
mourn the death of their young ; the people decay and grow weak ; we lose
our dear friends and are afflicted. Surely you cannot propose to get either
riches, or possessions, by going thus out to war ; for when you kill a deer, you
have the flesh to eat, and the skin to sell ; but when you return from war, you
bring nothing home, but the scalp of a dead man, who perhaps was husband
to a kind wife, and father to tender children, who never wronged you, though,
by losing him, you have robbed them of their help and protection, and at the
same time got nothing by it. If I were not your friend, I would not take the
trouble to say all these things to you.” When the Governor had concluded
his address, he called the Senaca chieftain (Ghesaont) to him, and presented a
gold coronation medal of King George I, which he requested should be taken
to the monarch of the Five Nations, “ Kannygooah,” to be laid up and kept as
a token to our children’s children, that an entire and lasting friendship is now
established forever between the English in this country and the great Five
Nations.” Upon the return of the Governor, he was met at the upper ferry of
the Schuylkill, by the Mayor and Aldermen of the city, with about two hun-
dred horse, and conducted through the streets after the manner of a conqueror
of old returning from the scenes of his triumphs.
Gov. Keith gave diligent study to the subject of finance, regulating the
currency in such a way that the planter should have it in his power to dis-
charge promptly his indebtedness to the merchant, that their mutual interests
might thus be subserved. He even proposed to establish a considerable settle-
ment on his own account in the colony, in order to carry on manufactures, and
thus consume the grain, of which there was at this time abundance, and no
profitable market abroad.
In the spring of 1722, an Indian was barbarously murdered within the
limits of the colony, which gave the Governor great concern. After having
cautioned red men so strongly about keeping the peace, he felt that the honor
of himself and all his people was compromised by this vile act. He immedi-
ately commissioned James Logan and John French to go to the scene of the
murder above Conestoga, and inquire into the facts of the case, quickly appre-
hended the supposed murderers, sent a fast Indian runner (Satcheecho) , to
acquaint the Five Nations with his sorrow for the act, and of his determination
to bring the guilty parties to justice, and himself set out with three of his
Council (Hill, Norris and Hamilton), for Albany, where he had been invited
by the Indians for a conference with the Governors of all the colonies, and
where he met the chiefs of the Five Nations, and treated with them upon the
subject of the murder, besides making presents to the Indians. It was on this
occasion that the gi’and sachem of this great confederacy made that noble,
and generous, and touching response, so different from the spirit of revenge
generally attributed to the Indian character. It is a notable example of love
that begets love, and of the mild answer that turneth away wrath. He said :
“ The great king of the Five Nations is sorry for the death of the Indian
that was killed, for he was of his own flesh and blood. He believes that the
Governor is also sorry ; but, now that it is done, there is no help for it, and
he desires that Cartlidge [the murderer] may not be put to death, nor that he
should be spared for a time, and afterward executed ; one life is enough to be
lost ; there should not two die. The King’s heart is good to the Governor and
all the English.”
Though Gov. Keith, during the early part of his term, pursued a pacific
policy, yet the interminable quarrels which had been kept up between the As-
sembly and Council during previous administrations, at length broke out with
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
81
more virulence than ever, and he who in the first flush of power had declared
“That he should pass no laws, nor transact anything of moment relating to
the public affairs without the advice and approbation of. the Council,” took it
upon himself finally to act independently of the Council, and even went so
far as to dismiss the able and trusted representative of the proprietary inter-
ests, James Logan, President of the Council and Secretary of the Province,
from the duties of his high office, and even refused the request of Hannah
Penn, the real Governor of the province, to re-instate him. This unwarranta-
ble conduct cost him his dismissal from office in July, 1726. Why he should
have assumed so headstrong and unwarrantable a course, who had promised at
the first so mild and considerate a policy, it is difficult to understand, unless it
be the fact that he found that the Council was blocking, by its obstinacy,
wholesome legislation, which he considered of vital importance to the pros-
perity of the colony, and if, as he alleges, he found that the new constitution
only gave the Council advisory and not a voice in executive power.
The administration of Gov. Keith was eminently successful, as he did not
hesitate to grapple with important questions of judicature, finance, trade,
commerce, and the many vexing relations with the native tribes, and right
manfully, and judiciously did he effect their solution. It was at a time when
the colony was filling up rapidly, and the laws and I’egulations which had been
found ample for the management of a few hundred families struggling for a
foothold in the forest, and when the only traffic was a few skins, were entirely
inadequate for securing protection and prosperity to a seething and jostling
population intent on trade and commerce, and the conflicting interests which
required wise legislation and prudent management. No colony on the Ameri-
can coast made such progress in numbers and improvement as did Pennsylvania
during the nine years in which William Keith exercised the Gubernatorial
office. Though not himself a Quaker, he had secured the passage of an act of
Assembly, and its royal affirmation for allowing the members of the Quaker
sect to wear their hats in court, and give testimony under affirmation instead
of oath, which in the beginning of the reign of Queen Anne had been with-
held from them. After the expiration of his term of office, he was immedi-
ately elected a member of the Assembly, and was intent on being elected
Speaker, “ and had his support out- doors in a cavalcade of eighty mounted
horsemen and the resounding of many guns fired;” yet David Lloyd was
elected with only three dissenting voices, the out- door business having perhaps
been overdone.
Upon the recommendation of Springett Penn, who was now the prospective
heir to Pennsylvania, Patrick Gordon was appointed and confirmed Lieutenant
Governor in place of Keith, and arrived in the colony and assumed authority
in July, 1726. He had served in the army, and in his first address to the
Assembly, which he met in August, he said that as he had been a soldier, he
knew nothing of the crooked ways of professed politicians, and must rely on a
straightforward manner of transacting the duties devolving upon him. George
I died in June, 1727, and the Assembly at its meeting in October prepared
and forwarded a congratulatory address to his successor, George II. By the
decision of the Court of Chancery in 1727, Hannah Penn’s authority over the
colony was at an end, the proprietary interests having descended to John,
Richard and Thomas Penn, the only surviving sons of William Penn, Sr.
This period, from the death of Penn in 1718 to 1727, one of the most pros-
perous in the history of the colony, was familiarly known as the “ Reign of
Hannah and the Boys.”
Gov. Gordon found the Indian troubles claiming a considerable part of his
5
82
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
attention. In 1728, worthless bands, who had strayed away from their proper
tribes, incited by strong drink, had become implicated in disgraceful broils, in
which several were killed and wounded. The guilty parties were apprehended,
but it was for.iid difficult to punish Indian offenders without incurring the
wrath of their relatives. Treaties vv^ere frequently renewed, on which occa-
sions the chiefs expected that the chain of friendship would be polished “ with
English blankets, broadcloths and metals.” The Indians found that this
“brightening the chain” was a profitable business, which some have been un-
charitable enough to believe was the moving cause of many of the Indian diffi-
culties.
As early as 1732, the French, who were claiming all the territory drained
by the IMississippi and its tributaries, on the ground of priority of discovery
of its mouth and exploration of its channel, commenced erecting trading posts
in Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers, and invited the Indians
living on these streams to a council for concluding treaties with them at Mon-
treal, Canada. To neutralize the influence of the French, these Indians were
summoned to meet in council at Philadelphia, to renew treaties of friendship,
and they were invited to remove farther east. But this they were unwill-
ing to do. A treaty was also concluded with the Six Nations, in which they
pledged lasting friendship for the English.
Hannah Penn died in 1733, when the Assembly, supposing that the pro-
prietary power was still in her hands, refused to recognize the power of Gov. Gor-
don. But the three sons, to whom the proprietary possessions had descended,
in 1727, upon the decision of the Chancery case, joined in issning a new com-
mission to Gordon. In approving this commission the King directed a clause
to be inserted, expressly reserving to himself the government of the lower
counties This act of the King was the beginning of those series of encroach-
ments which finally culminated in the independence of the States of America.
The Judiciary act of 1727 was annulled, and this was followed by an attempt
to pass an act requiring the laws of all the colonies to be submitted to the
Crown for approval before they should become valid, and that a copy of all
laws previously enacted should be submitted for approval or veto. The agent
of the Assembly, Mr. Paris, with the agents of other colonies, made so vigor-
ous a defense, that action was for the time stayed.
2n 1732, Thomas Penn, the youngest son, and two years later, John Penn,
the eldest, and the only American born, arrived in the Province, and were re-
ceived with every mark of respect and satisfaction. Soon after the arrival of
the latter, news was brought that Lord Baltimore had made application to have
the Provinces transferred to his colony, A vigorous protest was made against
thio by Quakers in England, headed by Richard Penn; but lest this protest
might prove ineffectual, John Penn very soon went to England to defend the
proprietary rights at court, and never again returned, he having died a bach-
elor in 1746. In August, 1736, Gov. Gordon died, deeply lamented, as an
honest, upright and straightforward executive, a character which he expressed
the hope he would be able to maintain when he assumed authority. His term
had been one of prosperity, and the colony had grown rapidly in numbers,
trade, commerce and manufactures, ship-building especially having assumed ex-
tensive proportions.
James Logan was President of the Council and in effect Governor, during
the two years which elapsed between the death of Gordon and the arrival of
his successor. The Legislature met regularly, but no laws were passed for
lack of an executive. It was during this period that serious trouble broke out
near the Maryland border, west of the Susquehanna, then Lancaster, now
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
83
"Xork County. A number of settlers, in order to evade the payment of taxes,
had secured titles to their lands from Maryland, and afterward sought to be
reinstated in their rights under Pennsylvania authority, and plead protection
from the latter. The Sheriff of the adjoining Maryland County, with 300
followers, advanced to drive these settlers from their homes. On hearing of
this movement, Samuel Smith, Sheriff of Lancaster County, with a hastily sum-
moned posse, advanced to protect the citizens in their rights. Without a con-
flict, an agreement was entered into by both parties to retire. Soon afterward,
however, a band of fifty Marylanders again entered the State with the design
of driving out the settlers and each securing for himself 200 acres of land.
They were led by one Cressap. The settlers made resistance, and in an en-
counter, one of them by the name of Knowles was killed. The Sheriflf of
Lancaster again advanced with a posse, and in a skirmish which ensued one
of the invaders was killed, and the leader Cressap was wounded and taken
prisoner. The Governor of Maryland sent a commission to Philadelphia to
demand the release of the prisoner. Not succeeding in this, he seized four of
the settlers and incarcerated them in the jail at Baltimore. Still determined
to effect their purpose, a party of Marylanders, under the leadership of one
Higginbotham, advanced into Pennsylvania and began a warfare upon the
settlers. Again the Sheriff of Lancaster appeared upon the scene, and drove
out the invaders. So stubbornly were these invasions pushed and resented
that the season passed without planting or securing the usual crops. Finally
a party of sixteen Marylanders, led by Richard Lowden, broke into the Lan-
caster jail and liberated the Maryland prisoners. Learning of these disturb-
ances, the King in Council issued an order restraining both parties from fur-
ther acts of violence, and afterward adopted a plan of settlement of the vexed
boundary question.
Though not legally Governor, Logan managed the affairs of the colony
with great prudence and judgment, as he had done and continued to do for a
period of nearly a half century. He was a scholar well versed in the ancient
languages and the sciences, and published several learned works in the Latin
tongue. His Experimenta Melctemata de plantarum generatione, written in
Latin, was published at Leyden in 1739, and afterward, in 1747, republished
in London, with an English version on the opposite page by Dr. J. Fothergill.
Another work of his in Latin was also published at Leyden, entitled, Canonum
pro inveniendis refractionum, turn simplicium turn in lentibus duplicum focis,
demonstrationis geometricae. After retiring from public business, he lived at
his country seat at Stenton, near Germantown, where he spent his time among
his books and in correspondence with the literati of Eiirope. In his old age
he made an English translation of Cicero’s De Senectute, which was printed at
Philadelphia in 1744 with a preface by Benjamin Franklin, then rising into
notice. Logan was a Quaker, of Scotch descent, though born in Ireland, and
came to America in the ship with William Penn, in his second visit in 1699,
when about twenty-five years old, and died at seventy- seven. He had held the
offices of Chief Commissioner of property. Agent for the purchase and sale of
lands, Receiver General, Member of Council, President of Council and Chief
Justice. He was the Confidential Agent of Penn, having charge of all his vast
estates, making sales of lands, executing conveyances, and making collections.
Amidst all the great cares of business so pressing as to make him exclaim, “I
know not what any of the comforts of life are,” he found time to devote to the
delights of learning, and collected a large library of standard works, which he
bequeathed, at his death, to the people of Pennsylvania, and is known as the
Loganian Library.
84
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
George Thomas, a planter from the West Indies, was appointed Governor
in 1737, but did not arrive in the colony till the following year. His first care
was to settle tiie disorders in the Cumberland Valley, and it was finally agreed
that settlers from either colony should owe allegiance to the Governor of that
colony wherever settled, until the division line which had been provided for
was surveyed and marked. War was declared on the 23d of October, 1739,
between Great Britain and Spain. Seeing that his colony was liable to be
encroached upon by the enemies of his government, he endeavored to organ-
ize the militia, but the majority of the Assembly was of the peace element, and
it could not be induced to vote money. Finally he was ordered by the home
government to call for volunteers, and eight companies were quickly formed,
and sent down for the coast defense. Many of these proved to be servants for
whom pay was demanded and finally obtained. In 1740, the great evangelist,
Whitefield, visited the colony, and created a deep religious interest among all
denominations. In his first intercourse with the Assembly, Gov. Thomas en-
deavored to coerce it to his views. But a more stubborn set of men never met
in a deliberative body than were gathered in this Assembly at this time.
Finding that he could not compel action to his mind, he yielded and con-
sulted their views and decisions. The Assembly, not to be outdone in mag-
nanimity, voted him £1,500 arrearages of salary, which had been withheld be-
cause he would not approve their legislation, asserting that public acts should
take precedence of appropriations for their own pay. In March, 1744, war
was declared between Great Britain and France. Volunteers were called
for, and 10,000 men were rapidly enlisted and armed at their own expense.
Franklin, recognizing the defenseless condition of the colony, issued a pamph-
let entitled Plain Truth, in which he cogently urged the necessity of organ-
ized preparation for defense. Franklin was elected Colonel of one of the
regiments, but resigned in favor of Alderman Lawrence. On the 5th of May,
1747, the Governor communicated intelligence of the death of John Penn, the
eldest of the proprietors, to the Assembly, and his own intention to retire from
the duties of his office on account of declining health.
Anthony Palmer was President of the Council at the time of the with-
drawal of Gordon, and became the Acting Governor. The peace party in the As-
sembly held that it was the duty of the crown of England to protect the colony,
and that for the colony to call out volunteers and become responsible for their
payment was burdening the people with an expense which did not belong to
them, and which the crown was willing to assume. The French were now
deeply intent on securing firm possession of the Mississippi Valley and the en-
tire basin, even to the summits of the Alleghanies in Pennsylvania, and were
busy establishing trading posts along the Ohio and Allegheny RiverSo They
employed the most artful means to win the simple natives to their interests,
giving showy presents and laboring to convince them of their great value.
Pennsylvania had won a reputation among the Indians of making presents of
substantial worth. Not knowing the difference between steel and iron, the
French distributed immense numbers of worthless iron hatchets, which the
natives supposed were the equal of the best English steel axes. The Indians,
however, soon came to distinguish between the good and the valueless. Un-
derstanding the Pennsylvania methods of securing peace and friendship, the
the natives became very artful in drawing out “ well piled up ” presents. Tfie
government at this time was alive to the dangers which threatened from the
insinuating methods of the French. A trusty messenger, Conrad Weiser, was
sent among the Indians in the western part of the province to observe the
plans of the French, ascertain the temper of the natives, and especially to
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
85
magnify the power of the English, and the disposition of Pennsylvania to give
great presents. This latter policy had the desired effect, and worthless and
wandering bands, which had no right to speak for the tribe, came teeming in,
desirous of scouring the chain of friendship, intimating that the French were
making great offers, in order to induce the government to large libei’ality,
until this “ brightening the chain,” became an intolerable nuisance. At a sin-
gle council held at Albany, in 1747, Pennsylvania distributed goods to the
value of £1,000, and of such a character as should be most serviceable to the
recipients, not worthless gew-gaws, but such as would contribute to their last-
ing comfort and well being, a protection to the person against the bitter frosts
of winter, and sustenance that should minister to the steady wants of the
body and alleviation of pain in time of sickness. The treaty of Aix-la-Cha-
pelle, which was concluded on the 1st of October, 1748, secured peace between
Great Britain and France, and should have put an end to all hostile encoun-
ters between their representatives on the American continent. Palmer re-
mained at the head of the government for a little more than two years. He
was a retired merchant from the West Indies, a man of wealth, and had come
into the colony in 1708. He lived in a style suited to a gentleman, kept a
coach and a pleasure barge.
On the 23d of November, 1748, James Hamilton arrived in the colony from
England, bearing the commission of Lieutenant Governor. He was born in
America, son of Andrew Hamilton, who had for many years been Speaker of
the Assembly. The Indians west of the Susquehanna had complained that set-
tlers had come upon their best lands, and were acquiring titles to them, where-
as the proprietors had never purchased these lands of them, and had no claim
to them. The first care of Hamilton was to settle these disputes, and allay the
rising excitement of the natives. Richard Peters, Secretary of the colony, a
man of great prudence and ability, was sent in company with the Indian in-
terpreter, Conrad Weiser, to remove the intruders. It was firmly and fear-
lessly done, the settlers giving up their tracts and the cabins which they had
built, and accepting lauds on the east side of the river. The hardship was in
many cases great, but when they were in actual need, the Secretary gave
money and placed them upon lands of his own, having secured a tract of
2,000,000 of acres.
But these troubles were of small consequence compared with those that
were threatening from the West. Though the treaty of Aix was supposed to
have settled all difficulties between the two courts, the French were determined
to occupy the whole territory drained by the Mississippi, which they claimed
by priority of discovery by La Salle. The British Ambassador at Paris entered
complaints before the French Court that encroachments v/ere being made by
the French upon English soil in America, which were politely heard, and
promises made of restraining the French in Canada from encroaching upon
English territory. Formal order’s were sent out from the home government to
this effect; but at the same time secret intimations were conveyed to them that
their conduct in endeavoring to secure and hold the territory in dispute was
not displeasing to the government, and that disobedience of these orders would
not incur its displeasure. The French deemed it necessary, in order to estab-
lish a legal claim to the country, to take formal possession of it. Accordingly,
the Marquis de la Galissoniere, who was at this time Governor General of
Canada, dispatched Capt. Bienville de Celei’on with a party of 215 French and
fifty-live Indians, to publicly proclaim possession, and bury at prominent
points plates of lead bearing inscriptions declaring occupation in the najue of
the French King. Celeron started on the 15th of June, 1749, from La Chine,
86
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
following the southern shores of Lakes Ontario and Erie, until he reached a
point opposite Lake Chautauqua, where the boats were drawn up and were taken
bodily over the dividing ridge, a distance of ten miles, with all the impedimenta
of the expedition, the pioneers bavin first opened a road. Following on down
the lake and the Conewango Greek, they arrived at W arren near the confluence
of the creek with the Allegheny River. Here the first plate was buried.
These plates were eleven inches long, seven and a half wide, and one-eighth
of an inch thick. The inscription was in French, and in the following terms,
as fairly translated into English: “In the year 1749, of the reign of Louis
XIV, King of France, We Celeron, commander of a detachment sent by
Monsieur the Marquis de la Galissouim-e, Governor General of New France,
to re-establish tranquillity in some Indian villages of these cantons, have
buried this plate of lead at the confluence of the Ohio with the Chautauqua,
this 29th day of July, near the River Ohio, otherwise Belle Riviere, as a mon-
ument of the renewal of the possession we have taken of the said River Ohio,
and of all those which empty into it, and of all the lands on both sides as far
as the sources of the said river, as enjoyed or ought to have been enjoyed by
the King of France preceding, and as they have there maintained themselves
by arms and by treaties, especially those of Ryswick, Utrecht and Aix-la-
Chapelle.” The burying of this plate was attended with much form and cer-
emony. All the men and officers of the expedition were drawn up in battle
array, when the Commander, Celeron, proclaimed in a loud voice, “ Vive le
Roi,” and declared that possession of the country was now taken in the name
of the King. A plate on which was inscribed the arms of France was aifixed
to the nearest tree.
The same formality was observed in planting each of the other plates, the
second at the rock known as the “Indian God,” on which are ancient and un-
known inscriptions, a few miles below Franklin, a third at the mouth of
Wheeling Creek: a fourth at the mouth of the Muskingum; a fifth at the mouth
of the Great Kanawha, and the sixth and last at the mouth of the Great Miami.
Toilsomely ascending the Miami to its head- waters, the party burned their
canoes, and obtained ponies for the march aci’oss the portage to the head- waters
of the Maumee, down which and by Lakes Erie and Ontario they returned
to Fort Frontenac, arriving on the 6th of November. It appears that the In-
dians through whose territory they passed viewed this planting of plates with
great suspicion. By some means they got possession of one of them, gener-
ally supposed to have been stolen from the party at the very commencement of
their journey from the mouth of the Chautauqua Creek.
Mr. O. H. Marshall, in an excellent monograph upon this expedition, made
up from the original manuscript journal of Celeron and the diary of Father
Bonnecamps, found in the Department de la Marine, in Paris, gives the fol-
lowing account of this stolen plate:
“ The first of the leaden plates was brought to the attention of the public
by Gov. George Clinton to the Lords of Trade in London, dated New York,
December 19, 1750, in which he states that he would send to their Lordships
in two or three weeks a plate of lead full of writing, which some of the upper
nations of Indians stole from Jean Coeur, the French interpreter at Niagara,
on his way to the River Ohio, which river, and all the lands thereabouts, the
French claim, as will appear by said writing. He further states ‘that the lead
plate gave the Indians so much uneasiness that they immediately dispatched
some of the Cayuga chiefs to him with it, saying that their only reliance was
on him, and earnestly begged he would communicate the contents to them,
which he had done, much to their satisfaction and the interests of the English.*
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
87
The Governor concludes by saying that ‘ the contents of the plate may be of
great importance in clearing up the encroachments which the French have
made on the British Empire in America.’ The plate was delivered to Colonel,
afterward Sir William Johnson, on the 4th of December, 1750, at his resi-
dence on the Mohawk, by a Cayuga sachem, who accompanied it by the follow-
ing speech:
“ ‘ Brother Cor lear and War-i'agh-i-ya-ghey! I am sent here by the Five
Nations with a piece of writing which the Senecas, our brethren, got by some
artifice from Jean Coeur, earnestly beseeching you will let us know what it
means, and as we put all our confidence in you, we hope you will explain it
ingeniously to us.’
“ Col. Johnson replied to the sachem, and through him to the Five Na-
tions, returning a belt of wampum, and explaining the inscription on the
plate. He told them that ‘it was a matter of the greatest consequence, involv-
ing the possession of their lands and hunting grounds, and that Jean Coeur
and the French ought immediately to be expelled from the Ohio and Niagara.’
In reply, the sachem said that ‘he had heard with great attention and surprise
the substance of the “devilish writing” he had brought, and that Col. Johnson’s
remarks were fully approved.’ He promised that belts from each of the Five
Nations should be sent from the Seneca’s castle to the Indians at the Ohio, to
warn and strengthen them against the French encroachments in that direc-
tion.” On the 29th of January, 1751, Clinton sent a copy of this inscription
to Gov. Hamilton, of Pennsylvania.
The French followed up this formal act of possession by laying out a line
of military posts, on substantially the same line as that pursued by the Cele-
ron expedition; but. instead of crossing over to Lake Chautauqua, they kept
on down to Presque Isle (now Erie), where was a good harbor, where a fort
was established, and thence up to Le Boeuf (now Waterford), where another
post was placed; thence down the Venango River (French Creek) to its mouth
at Franklin, establishing Fort Venango there; thence by the Allegheny to
Pittsburgh, where Port Du Quesne was seated, and so on down the Ohio.
To counteract this activity of the French, the Ohio Company was char-
tered, and a half million of acres was granted by the crown, to be selected
mainly on the south side of the Ohio, between the Monongalia and Kanawha
Rivers, and the condition made that settlements (100 families within seven
years), protected by a fort, should he made. The company consisted of a
number of Virginia and Maryland gentlemen, of whom Lawrence Washington
was one, and Thomas Hanbury, of London.
In 1752, a treaty was entered into with the Indians, securing the right of
occupancy, and twelve families, headed by Capt. Gist, established themselves
upon the Monongalia, and subsequently commenced the erection of a fort,
where the city of Pittsburgh now is. Apprised of this intrusion into the
very heart of the territory which they were claiming, the French built a fort
at Le Boeuf, and strengthened the post at Franklin.
These proceedings having been promptly reported to Lieut. Gov. Dinwid-
die, of Virginia, where the greater number of the stockholders of the Ohio
Company resided, he determined to send an official communication — protesting
against the forcible interference with their chartered rights, granted by the
crown of Britain, and pointing to the late treaties of peace entered into be-
tween the English and French, whereby it was agreed that each should respect
the colonial possessions of the other — to the Commandant of the French, who
had his headquarters at Fort Le Boeuf, fifteen miles inland from the present
site of the city of Erie.
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
«8
But who should be the messenger to execute this delicate and responsible
duty? It was winter, and the distance to be traversed was some 500 miles,
through an unbroken wilderness, cut by rugged mountain chains and deep and
rapid streams. It was proposed to several, who declined, and was finally
accepted by George Washington, a youth barely twenty-one years old. On
the last day of November, 1753, he bade adieu to civilization, and pushing on
through the forest to the settlements on the Monongalia, where he was joined
by Capt. Gist, followed up the Allegheny to Fort Venango (now Franklin) ;
thence up the Venango to its head- waters at Fort Le Boeuf, where he held
foi’raal conference with the French Commandant, St. Pierre. The French
officer had been ordered to hold this territory on the score of the dis-
covery of the Mississippi by La Salle, and he had no discretion but to execute
his orders, and referred Washington to his superior, the Governor General of
Canada. Making careful notes of the location and strength of the post and
those encountered on the way, the young embassador returned, being twice
tired at on his journey by hostile Indians, and near losing his life by being
thrown into the freezing waters of the Allegheny. Upon his arrival, he made
a full report of the embassage, which was widely published in this country
and in England, and was doubtless the basis upon which action was predicted
that eventuated in a long and sanguinary war, which finally resulted in the
expulsion of the power of France from this continent.
Satisfied that the French were determined to hold the territory upon the
Ohio by force of arms, a body of 150 men, of which Washington was second
in command, was sent to the support of the settlers. But the French, having
the Allegheny River at flood- tide on which to move, and Washington, without
means of transportation, having a rugged and mountainous country to over-
come, the former first reached the point of destination. Contracoeur, the
French commander, with 1,000 men and tield pieces on a fleet of sixty boats and
300 canoes, dropped down the Allegheny and easily seized the fort then being
constructed by the Ohio Company at its mouth, and proceeded to erect there
an elaborate work which he called Fort Du Quesne, after the Governor Gen-
eral. Informed of this proceeding, Washington pushed forward, and finding
that a detachment of the French was in his immediate neighborhood, he made
a forced march by night, and coming upon them unawares killed and captured
Ihe entire party save one. Ten of the French, including their commander,
Jumonville, were killed, and twenty-one made prisoners. Col. Fry, the com-
mander of the Americans, died at Will’s Creek, where the command devolved
on Washington. Though re -enforcements had been dispatched from the sev-
eral colonies in response to the urgent appeals of Washington, none reached
him but one company of 100 men under Capt. Mackay from South Carolina.
Knowing that he was confronting a vastly superior force of the French, well
supplied with artillery, he threw up works at a point called the Great
Meadows, which he characterizes as a “ charming tield for an encounter, ” nam-
ing his hastily built fortification Fort Necessity. Stung by the loss of their
leader, the French came out in strong force and soon invested the place. Unfor-
tunately onepartof Washington’s position was easily commanded by the artil-
lery of the French, which they were not slow in taking advantage of. The ac-
tion opened on the 3d of July, and was continued till late at night. A capit-
ulation was proposed by the French commander, which Washington reluctantly
accepted, seeing all hope of re -enforcements reaching him, cut off, and on the
4th of July marched out with honors of war and fell back to Fort Cumberland.
Gov. Hamilton had stronglyrecommended.before hostilities opened, that the
Assembly should provide for defense and establish a line of block-houses along
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
89
the frontier. But the Assembly, while willing to vote money for buying peace
from the Indians, and contributions to the British crown, from which protec-
tion was claimed, was unwilling to contribute directly for even defensive war-
fare. In a single year, £8,000 were voted for Indian gratuities. The proprie-
tors were appealed to to aid in bearing this burden. But while they were
willing to contribute liberally for defense, they would give nothing for Indian
gratuities. They sent to the colony cannon to the value of £400.
In February, 1753, John Penn, grandson of the founder, son of Eichard,
arrived in the colony, and as a mark of respect was immediatelychosen a mem-
ber of the Council and made its President. In consequence of the defeat of
Washington at Fort Necessity, Gov. Hamilton convened the Assembly-in extra
session on the 6th of August, at which money was freely voted; but owing to
the instructions given by the proprietors to their Deputy Governor not to sign
any money bill that did not place the whole of the interest at their disposal,
this action of the Assembly was abortive.
The English and French nations made strenuous exertions to strengtnen
their forces in America for the campaigns sure to be undertaken in 1754. The
French, by being under the supreme authority of one governing power, the
Governor General of Canada, were able to concentrate and bring all their
power of men and resources to bear at the threatened point with more celerity
and certainty than the English, who were dependent upon colonies scattered
along all the sea board, and ujjon Legislatures penny-wise in voting money.
To remedy these inconveniences, the English Government recommended a con-
gress of all the colonies, together with the Six Nations, for the purpose of con-
certing plans for efficient defense. This Congress met on the 19th of June,
1754, the first ever convened in America. The Representatives from Pennsyl-
vania were John Penn and Richard Peters for the Council, and Isaac Norris
and Benjamin Franklin for the Assembly. The influence of the powerful
mind of Franklin was already beginning to be felt, he, having been Clerk of
the Pennsylvania Assembly since 1736, and since 1750 had been a member.
Heartily sympathizing with the movers in the purposes of this Congress, he
came to Albany with a scheme of union prepared, which, having been pre-
sented and debated, was, on the 10th of July, adopted substantially as it came
from his hands. It provided for the appointment of a President General by
the Crown, and an Assembly of forty-eight members to be chosen by the sev-
eral Colonial Assemblies. The plan was rejected by both parties in interest,
the King considering the power vested in the representatives of the people too
great, and every colony rejecting it because the President General was given
“ an influence greater than appeared to them proper in a plan of government
intended for freemen.”
OHAPTEE X.
Robert H. Morris, 1754-56— William Denny, 1756-59— James Hamilton, 1759-63.
Finding himself in a false position by the repugnant instructions of the
proprietors. Gov. Hamilton had given notice in 1753, that, at the end of
twelve months from its reception, he would resign. Accordingly in October,
1754, he was succeeded by Robert Hunter Morris, son or Lewis Morris, Chief
Justice of New York and New Jersey, and Governor of New Jersey. The son
90
HSTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
was bred a lawyer, and was for twenty-six years Councilor, and twenty Chief
Justice of New Jersey. The Assembly, at its lirst session, voted a money bill,
for £40,000, but not having the proviso required by the proprietors, it was
vetoed. Determined to push military operations, the British Government had
called early in the year for 3,000 volunteers from Pennsylvania, with subsis-
tance, camp equipage and transportation, and had sent two regiments of the
line, under Gen. Braddock, from Cork, Ireland. Landing at Alexandria,
Va. , he marched to Frederick, Md. , where, finding no supplies of
transportation, he halted. The Assembly of Pennsylvania had voted to borrow
£5.000, on its own account, for the use of the crown in prosecuting the cam-
paign, and had sent Franklin, who was then Postmaster General for the colo-
nies, to Braddock to aid in prosecuting the expedition. Finding that the army
was stopped for lack of transportation, Franklin returned into Pennsylvania,
and by his commanding intiuence soon secured the necessary wagons and beasts
of burden.
Braddock had formed extravagant plans for his campaign. He would
march forward and reduce Fort Du Quesne, thence proceed against Fort Ni-
agara, which having conquered he would close a season of triumphs by the
capture of Fort Frontignace. But this is not the first time in warfare that
the result of a campaign has failed to realize the promises of the manifesto.
The orders brought by Braddock giving precedence of officers of the line over
provincials gave offense, and Washington among others threw up his commis-
sion; but enamored of the profession of arms, he accepted a position ofl'ered
him by Braddock as Aide -de camp. Accustomed to the discipline of military
establishments in old, long-settled countries, Braddock had little conception of
making war in a wilderness with only Indian trails to move upon, and against
wily savages. Washington had advised to push forward with pack horses, and,
by rapidity of movement, forestall ample preparation. But Braddock had but
one way of soldiering, and where roads did not exist for wagons he stopped to
fell the forest and construct bridges over streams. The French, who were
kept advised of every movement, made ample preparations to receive him. In
the meantime, Washington fell sick; but intent on being up for the battle, he
hastened forward as soon as sufficiently recovered, and only joined the army
on the day before the fatal engagement. He had never seen much of the pride
and circumstance of wax’, and when, on the morning of the 9 th of July, the
army of Braddock marched on across the Monongahela, with gay colors flying
and martial music awakening the echoes of the forest, he was accustomed in
after years to speak of it as the “most magnificent spectacle” that he had ever
beheld. But the gay pageant was destined to be of shoi’t duration; for the
army had only marched a little distance before it fell into an ambuscade skill-
fully laid by the French and Indians, and the forest resounded with the un-
earthly whoop of the Indians, and the continuous roar of musketi'y. The
advance was checked and thrown into confusion by theFi’ench from their well-
chosen position, and every tree upon the flanks of the long drawn out line con-
cealed a murderous foe, who with unerring aim picked off the officers. A res-
olute defense was made, and the battle raged with great fury for three hours;
but the fire of the English was ineffectual because directed against an invisi-
ble foe. Finally, the mounted officers having all fallen, killed or wounded,
except Washington, being left without leaders, panic seized the survivoi’s and
“they ran,” says W ashington, “before the French and English like sheep be-
fore dogs.” Of 1,460, in Braddock’s army, 456 were killed, and 421 wounded,
a greater mortality, in proportion to the number engaged, than has ever oc-
curred in the annals of modern warfare. Sir Peter Halkett was killed, and
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
91
Braddock mortally wounded and brought off the field only with the greatest
difficulty. When Orme and Morris, the other aids, fell, Washington acted
alone with the greatest gallantry. In writing to his brother, he said: “I have
been protected beyond ail human probability or expectation; for I had four
bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me; yet I escaped unhurt,
though death was leveling my companions on every side.” In after years,
when Washington visited the Great Kanawha country, he was approached by
an Indian chieftain who said that in this battle he had fired his rifle many
times at Washington and had told his young men to do the same; but when he
saw that his bullets had no apparent effect, he had bidden them to desist, be-
lieving that the Great Spirit was protecting him.
The panic among the survivors of the English carried them back upon the
reserve, commanded by Gen. Dunbar, who seems himself to have been seized
with it, and without attempting to renew the campaign and return to the en-
counter, he joined in the flight which was not stayed until Fort Cumberland
was reached. The French were anticipating a renewal of the struggle; but
when they found that the English had fled leaving the frontier all unprotected,
they left no stone unturned in whetting the minds of the savages for the
work of plunder and blood, and in organizing relentless bands to range at
will along all the wide frontier. The Indians could not be induced to pursue
the retreating English, but fell to plundering the field. Nearly everything
was lost, even to the camp chest of Braddock. The wounded General was
taken back to the summit of Laurel Hill, where, four days after, he breathed
his last. He was buried in the middle of the road, and the army marched
over his grave that it might not be discovered or molested by the natives.
The easy victory, won chiefly by the savages, served to encourage them in
their fell work, in which, when their passions were aroused, no known people
on earth were less touched by pity. The unprotected settler in his wilder-
ness home was the easy prey of the torch and the scalping knife, and the burn-
ing cabin lit up the somber forests by their continuous blaze, and the shrieks
of women and children resounded from the Hudson to the far Potomac Be-
fore the defeat of Braddock, there were 3,000 men capable of bearing arms
west of the Susquehanna. In six months after, there were scarcely 100.
Gov. Morris made an earnest appeal to the Assembly for money to ward off
the impending enemy and protect the settlers, in response to which the As-
sembly voted £50,000; but having no exemption of the proprietor’s estates,
it was rejected by the Governor, in accordance with his original instructions.
Expeditions undertaken against Nova Scotia and at Crown Point were more fortu-
nate than that before Du Quesne, andtheAssemblyvoted£15,000in billsof credit
to aid in defraying the expense. The proprietors sent £5,000 as a gratuity,
not as any part of expense that could of right be claimed of them.
In this hour of extremity, the Indians for the most part showed themselves
a treacherous race, ever ready to take up on the stronger side. Even the Shaw-
anese and Delawares, who had been loudest in their protestations of friendship
for the English and readiness to fight for them, no sooner saw the French vic-
torious than they gave ready ear to their advice to strike for the recovery of
the lands which they had sold to the English.
In this pressing emergency, while the Governor and Assembly were waging
a fruitless war of words over money bills, the pen of Franklin was busy in in-
fusing a wholesome sentiment in the minds of the people. In a pamphlet
that he issued, which he put in the familiar form of a dialogue, he answered the
objections which had been urged to a legalized militia, and willing to show
his devotion by deeds as well as words, he accepted the command upon the
^2
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
frontier. By his exertions, a respectable force was raised, and though in the
dead of winter, he commenced the erection of a line of forts and block-houses
along the whole range of the Kittatinny Hills, from the Delaware to the Po-
tomac, and had them completed and garrisoned with a body sufficient to with-
stand any force not provided with artillery. In the spring, he turned over the
command to Col. Clapham, and returning to Philadelphia took his seat in the
Assembly. The Governor now declared war against the Indians, who had es-
tablished their headquarters thirty miles above Harris’ Ferry, on the Susque-
hanna, and were busy in their work of robbery and devastation, having se-
cured the greater portion of the ci’ops of the previous season of the settlers
whom they had killed or driven out. The peace party strongly objected to the
course of the Governor, and voluntarily going among the Indians induced
them to bury the hatchet. The Assembly which met in May, 1756, prepared a
bill with the old clause for taxing the proprietors, as any other citizens, which
the Governor was forbidden to approve by his instructions, ‘ ‘ and the two
parties were sharpening their wits for another wrangle over it,” when Gov.
Morris was superseded by William Denny, who arrived in the colony and as-
sumed authority on the 20th of August, 1756. He was joyfully and cordially
received, escorted through the streets by the regiments of Franklin and Duch6,
and royally feasted at the State House.
But the promise of efficient legislation was broken by an exhibition of the
new Governor’s instructions, which provided that every bill for the emission of
money must place the proceeds at the joint disposal of the Governor and As-
sembly; paper currency could not be issued in excess of £40,000, nor could ex-
isting issues be confirmed unless proprietary rents were paid in sterling
money : proprietary lands were permitted to be taxed which had been actually
leased, provided that the taxes were paid out of the rents, but the tax could
not become a lien upon the land. In the first Assembly, the contention be-
came as acrimonious as ever.
Previous to the departure of Gov. Morris, as a retaliatory act he had
issued a proclamation against the hostile Indians, providing for the payment
of bounties; For every male Indian enemy above twelve years old, who shall
be taken prisoner and delivered at any forts, garrisoned by troops in pay
of this province, or to any of the county towns to the keepers of the common
jails there, the sum of one hundred and fifty Spanish dollars or pieces of eight;
for the scalp of every male Indian above the age of twelve years, produced as
evidence of their being killed, the sum of one hundred and thirty pieces of
eight; for every female Indian taken prisoner and brought in as aforesaid,
and for every male Indian under the age of twelve years, taken and brought
in, one hundred and thirty pieces of eight; for the scalp of every Indian
woman produced as evidence of their being killed, the sum of fifty pieces of
eight.” Liberal bounties were also offered for the delivering up of settlers who
had been carried away captive.
But the operation which had the most wholesome and pacifying effect upon
the savages, and caused them to stop in their mad career and consider the
chances of war and the punishment they were calling down upon their own
heads, though executed under the rule of Gov. Denny, was planned and
provided for, and was really a part of the aggressive and vigorous policy of
Gov. Morris. In response to the act of Assembly, providing for the calling
out and organizing the militia, twenty- five companies were recruited, and had
been stationed along the line of posts that had been established for the defense
of the frontiers. At Kittanning, on the Allegheny River, the Indians had one
of the largest of their towns in the State, and was a recruiting station and
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
9a
rallying point for sending out their murderous bands. The plan proposed and
adopted by Gov. Morris, and approved and accepted by Gov. Denny,
was to send out a strong detachment from the militia for the reduction of this
stronghold. Accordingly, in August, 1756, Col. Armstrong, with a force of
three hundred men, made a forced march, and, arriving unperceived in the neigh-
borhood of the town, sent the main body by a wide detour from above, to come
in upon the river a few hundred yards below. At 3 o’clock on the morning of
the 7th of September, the troops had gained their position undiscovered, and
at dawn the attack was made. Shielded from view by the tall corn which cov-
ered all the flats, the troops were able to reach in close proximity to the cabins
unobserved. Jacobs, the chief, sounded the war-whoop, and made a stout re-
sistance, keeping up a rapid fire from the loop holes in his cabin. Not desir-
ing to push his advantage to the issue of no quarter, Armstrong called on the
savages to surrender; but this they refused to do, declaring that they were
men and would never be prisoners. Finding that they would not yield, and
that they were determined to sell their lives at the dearest rate, he gave orders
to fire the huts, and the whole town was soon wrapt in flames. As the heat
began to reach the warriors, some sung, while wrung with the death agonies;
others broke for the river and were shot down as they fled. Jacobs, in attempt-
ing to climb through a window, was killed. All calls for surrender were re-
ceived with derision, one declaring that he did not care for death, and that he
could kill four or five before he died. Gunpowder, small arms and valuable
goods which had been distributed to them only the day before by the French,
fell into the hands of the victors. The triumph was complete, few if any
escaping to tell the sad tale. Col. Armstrong’s celerity of movement and
well conceived and executed plan of action were publicly acknowledged, and
he was voted a medal and plate by the city of Philadelphia.
The finances of the colony, on account of the repeated failures of the
money bills, were in a deplorable condition. Military operations could not
be carried on and vigorous campaigns prosecuted without ready money. Ac-
cordingly, in the first meeting of the Assembly after the arrival of the new
Governor, a bill was passed levying £100,000 on all property alike, real and
personal, private and proprietary. This Gov. Denny vetoed. Seeing that
money must be had, the Assembly finally passed a bill exempting the proprie-
tary estates, but determined to lay their grievances before the Crown. To
this end, two Commissioners were appointed, Isaac Norris and Benjamin
Franklin, to proceed to England and beg the interference of the royal Gov-
ernment in their behalf. Failing health and business engagements of Norris
prevented his acceptance, and Franklin proceeded alone. He had so often de-
fended the Assembly, in public and in drawing remonstrances that the whole
subject was at his fingers’ ends.
Military operations throughout the colonies, during the year 1757, con-
ducted under the command of the Earl of Loudoun were sluggish, and resulted
only in disaster and disgrace. The Indians were active in Pennsylvania, and
kept the settlers throughout nearly all the colonies in a continual fermeut,.
hostile bands stealing in upon the defenseless inhabitants as they went to
their plantings and sowings, and greatly interfering with or preventing alto-
gether the raising of the ordinary crops. In 1758, Loudoun was recalled,
and Gen. Abercrombie was given chief command, with Wolfe, Amherst and
Forbes as his subordinates. It was determined to direct operations simul-
taneously upon three points — Fort Du Quesne, Louisburg and the forts upon
the great lakes. Gen. Forbes commanded the forces sent against Fort Du
Quesne. With a detachment of royal troops, and militia from Pennsylvania
HISTORl Of PENNSYLVANIA.
and Virginia, under command of Cols. Bouquet and Washington, his column
moved in July, 1758. The French were well ordered for receiving the attack,
and the battle in front of the fort raged with great fury; but they were finally
driven, and the fort, with its munitions, fell into the hands of the victors, and
was garrisoned by 400 Pennsylvanians. Returning, Forbes placed his remain-
ing forces in barracks at Lancaster.
Franklin, upon his arrival in England, presented the grievances before the
proprietors, and, that he might get his case before the royal advisers and the
British public, wrote frequent articles for the press, and issued a pamphlet
entitled “ Historical Review of the Constitution and Government of Pennsyl-
vania.” The dispute was adi’oitly managed by Franklin before the Privy
Council, and was finally decided substantially in the interest of the Assem-
bly. It was provided that the proprietors’ estates should be taxed, but that
their located uncultivated lands should be assessed as low as the lowest uncul-
tivated lands of the settlers, that bills issued by the Assembly should be re-
ceivable in payment of quit rents, and that the Deputy Governor should have
a voice in disposing of the revenues. Thus was a vexed question of long
standing finally put to rest. So successfully had Franklin managed this con-
troversy that the colonies of Massachusetts, Maryland and Georgia appointed
him their agent in England. ,
In October, 1759, James Hamilton was again appointed Governor, in place
of Gov. Denny,, who had by stress of circumstances transcended his instruc-
tions. The British Government, considering that the colonies had borne more
than their proportionate expense in carrying on the war against the French
and Indians, voted £200,000 for five years, to be divided among the colonies,
the share falling to Pennsylvania being £26,000. On the 25th of October,
1760, George II died, and was succeeded by his grandson, George III. Early
in 1762, war was declared between Great Britain and Spain, but was of short
continuance, peace having been declared in November following, by which
Spain and France relinquished to the English substantially the territory east
of the Mississippi. The wise men of the various Indian nations inhabiting
this wide territory viewed with concern this sudden expansion of English
power, fearing that they would eventually be pushed from their bunting
grounds and pleasant haunts by the rapidly multiplying pale faces. The In-
dians have ever been noted for proceeding against an enemy secretly and
treacherously. Believing that by concerted action the English might be cut
off and utterly exterminated, a secret league was entered into by the Shawa-
nese and the tribes dwelling along the Ohio River, under the leadership of a
powerful chieftain, Pontiac, by which swift destruction was everywhere to be
meted out to the white man upon an hour of an appointed day. The plan was
thoroughly understood by the red men, and heartily entered into. The day
dawned and the blow fell in May, 1763. The forts at Presque Isle, LeBoeuf.
Venango, La Ray, St. Joseph’s, Miamis, Onaethtanon, Sandusky and Michili-
mackinack, all fell before the unanticipated attacks of the savages who were
making protestations of frie.idship, and the garrisons were put to the slaugh-
ter. Fort Pitt (Du Quesne), Niagara and Detroit alone, of all this line of
forts, held out. Pontiac in person conducted the siege of Detroit, which he
vigorously pushed from May until October, paying his warriors with promises
written on bits of birch bark, which he subsequently religiously redeemed. It is
an evidence of his gieat power that he could unite his people in so gen-
eral and secretly kept a compact, and that in this siege of Detroit he was able
to hold his warriors up to the work so long and so vigorously even after all hope
of success must have reasonably been abandoned. The attack fell with great
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
95
severity upon the Pennsylvania settlers, and they continued to be driven in
until Shippensbung, in Cumberland County, became the extreme outpost of
civilization. The savages stole unawares upon the laborers in the fields, or
came stealthily in at the midnight hour and spared neither trembling age nor
helpless infancy, firing houses, barns, crops and everything combustible.
The suffering of the frontiersmen in this fatal year can scarcely be conceived.
Col. Armstrong with a hastily collected force advanced upon their towns
and forts at Muncy and Great Island, which he destroyed; but the Indians
escaped and withdrew before him. He sent a detachment under Col. Bouquet
to the relief of Fort Pitt, which still held out, though closely invested by the
dusky warriors. At Fort Ligonier, Bouquet halted and sent forward thirty
men, who stealthily pushed past the Indians under cover of night, and I’eached
the fort, carrying intelligence that succor was at hand. Discovering that a
force was advancing upon them, the Indians turned upon the troops of Bou-
quet, and before he was aware that an enemy was near, he found himself sur-
rounded and all means of escape apparently cut off. By a skillfully laid
ambuscade, Bouquet, sending a small detachment to steal away as if in retreat,
induced the Indians to follow, and when stretched ont in pursuit, the main
body in concealment fell upon the unsuspecting savages, and routed them with
immense slaughter, when he advanced to the relief of the fort unchecked.
As we have already seen, the boundary line between Maryland and Penn-
sylvania had long been in dispute, and had occasioned serious disturbances
among the settlers in the lifetime of Penn, and repeatedly since. It was not
definitely settled till 1760, when a beginning was made of a final adjustment,
though so intricate were the comditions that the work was prosecuted for seven
years by a large force of surveyors, axmen and pioneers. The charter of Lord
Baltimore made the northern boundary of Maryland the 40th degree of lati-
tude; but whether the beginning or end of the 40th was not specified. The
charter of Penn, which was subsequent, made his southern boundary the
beginning of the 40th parallel. If, as Lord Baltimcjre claimed, his northern
boundary was the end of the 40th, then the city of Philadelphia and all the
settled parts of Pennsylvania would have been included in Maryland. If, as
Penn claimed by express terms of his charter, his southern line was the begin-
ning of the 40th, then the city of Baltimore, and even a part of the District of
Columbia, including nearly the whole of Maryland would have been swal-
lowed up by Pennsylvania. It was evident to the royal Council that neither
claim could be rightfully allowed, and nence resort was had to compromise.
Penn insisted upon retaining free communication with the open ocean by the
Delaware Bay. Accordingly, it was decided that beginning at Cape Henlopen,
which by mistake in marking the maps was fifteen miles below the present
location, opposite Cape May, a line should be run due west to a point half way
between this cape and the shore of Chesapeake Bay; from this point “ a line
was to be run northerly in such direction that it should be tangent on the west
side to a circle with a radius of twelve miles, whose center was the center of
the court house at New Castle. From the exact tangent point, a line was to be
run due north until it should reach a point fifteen miles south on the parallel
of latitude of the most southern point in the boundary of the city of Phila-
delphia, and this point when accurately found by horizontal measurement, was
to be the corner bound between Maryland and Pennsylvania, and subsequently,
when Delaware was set off fz*om Pennsylvania, was the boundary of the three
States. From this bound a line was to be run due west five degrees of longi-
tude from the Delaware, which was to be the western limit of Pennsylvania,
and the line thus ascertained was to mark the division between Maryland and
96
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
Pennsylvania, and forever settle the vexed question. If the due north line
should cut any part of the circle about New Castle, the slice so cut should be-
long to New Castle. Such a segment was cut. This plan of settlement yas
entered into on the 10th of May, 1732, between Thomas and Richard, sons of
William Penn, on the one part, and Charles, Lord Baltimore, great-grandson
of the patentee. But the actual marking of the boundaries was still deferred,
and as the settlers were taking out patents for their lands, it was necessaiy
that it should be definitely known in which State the lands lay. Accordingly,
in 1739, in obedience to a decree in Council, a temporary line was run upon a
new basis, which now often appears in litigations to plague the brain of the
attorney.
Commissioners were again appointed in 1751, who made a few of the
measurements, but owing to objections raised on the part of Maryland, the
work was abandoned. Finally, the proprietors, Thomas and Richard Penn,
and Frederic, Lord Baltimore, entered into an agreement for the executing of
the survey, and John Lukens and Archibald McLean on the part of the Penns,
and Thomas Garnett and Jonathan Hall on the part of Lord Baltimore, were
appointed with a suitable corps of assistants to lay off the lines. After these
surveyors had been three years at work, the proprietors in England, thinking
that there was not enough energy and practical and scientific knowledge mani-
fested by these surveyors, appointed Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, two
mathematicians and surveyors, to proceed to America and take charge of the
work. They brought with them the most perfect and best constructed instru-
ments known to science, arriving in Philadelphia on the 15th of November,
1763, and, assisted by some of the old surveyors, entered upon their work. By
the 4th of June, 1766, they had reached the summit of the Little Allegheny,
when the Indians began to be troublesome. They looked with an evil eye on
the mathematical and astronomical instruments, and felt a secret dread and
fear of the consequences of the frequent and long continued peering into the
heavens. The Six Nations were understood to be inimical to the further prog-
ress of the survey. But through the influence of Sir William Johnson a
treaty was concluded, providing te the prosecution of the work unmolested,
and a number of chieftains were sent to accompany the surveying party.
Mason and Dixon now had with them thirty surveyors, fifteen axmen, and fif-
teen Indians of consequence. Again the attitude of the Indians gave cause of
fear, and on the 29th of September, twenty-six of the surveyors abandoned the
expedition and returned to Philadelphia. Having reached a point 244 miles
from the Delaware, and within thirty-six miles of the western limit of the
State, in the bottom of a deep, dark valley, they came upon a well-worn
Indian path, and here the Indians gave notice that it was the will of the Six
Nations that this survey proceed no further. There was no questioning this
authority, and no means at command for resisting, and accordingly the party
broke up and returned to Philadelphia. And this was the end of the labors of
Mason and Dixon upon this boundary. From the fact that this was subse-
quently the mark of division between the Free and Slave States, Mason and
Dixon’s line became familiar isn American politics. The line was marked by
stones which were quarried and engraved in England, on one side having the
arms of Penn, and on the opposite those of Lord Baltimore. These stones
were firmly set every five miles. At the end of each intermediate mile a
smaller stone was placed, having on one side engraved the letter P., and on the
opposite side the letter M. The remainder of the line was finished and marked
in 1782-84 by other surveyors. A vista was cut through the forest eight yards in
width the whole distance, which seemed in looking back through it to come to a
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
97
point at the distance of two miles. In 1849, the stone at the northeast corner
of Maryland having been removed, a resurvey of the line was ordered, and
suryeyors were appointed by the three States of Pennsylvania, Delaware and
Maryland, who called to their aid Col. James D. Graham. Some few errors
were discovered in the old survey, but in the main it was found to be accurate.
John Penn, grandson of the founder, and son of Richard, had come to the
colony in 1753, and, having acted as President of the Council, was, in 1763,
commissioned Governor in place of Hamilton. The conspiracy of Pontiac,
though abortive in the results contemplated, left the minds of the Indians in
a most dangerous state. The more resolute, who had entered heartily into the
views of their leader, still felt that his purposes were patriotic, and hence
sought, by every means possible, to ravage and destroy the English settlements.
The Moravian Indians at Nain and Wichetunk, though regarded as friendly,
were suspected of indirectly aiding in the savage warfare by trading firearms
and ammunition. They were accordingly removed to Philadelphia that they
might be out of the way of temptation. At the old Indian town of Conestoga
there lived some score of natives. Many heartless murders had been com-
mitted along the frontier, and the perpetrators had been traced to this Con-
estoga town ; and while the Conestoga band were not known to be impli-
cated in these outrages, their town was regarded as the lurking place of roving
savages who were. For protection, the settlers in the neighboring districts of
Paxton and Donegal, had organized a band known as the Paxton boys. Earnest
requests were made by Rev. John Elder and John Harris to the Government
to remove this band at Conestoga ; but as nothing was done, and fearful
depredations and slaughter continued, a party of these Paxton rangers attacked
the town and put the savages to the sword. Some few escaped, among them a
known bloodthirsty savage, who were taken into the jail at Lancaster for pro-
tection ; but the rangers, following them, overpowered the jailer, and breaking
into the jail murdered the fugitives. Intense excitement was occasioned by
this outbreak, and Gov. Penn issued his proclamation offering rewards for the
apprehension of the perpetrators. Some few were taken ; but so excellent was
their character and standing, and such were the provocations, that no convic-
tions followed. Apprehensions for the safety of the Moravian Indians induced
the Government to remove them to Province Island, and, feeling insecure
there, they asked to be sent to England. For safety, they were sent to New
York, but the Governor of that province refused them permission to laud, as
did also the Governor of New Jersey, and they were brought back to Philadel-
phia and put in barracks under strong guard. The Paxton boys, in a consider-
able body, were at that time at Germantown interceding for their brethren,
who were then in durance and threatened with trial. Franklin was sent out
to confer with them on the part of the Government. In defending their course,
they said : “ Whilst more than a thousand families, reduced to extreme dis-
tress, during the last and present war, by the attacks of skulking parties of
Indians upon the frontier, were destitute, and were sutfered by the public to
depend on private charity, a hundred and twenty of the perpetrators of the
most horrid barbarities were supported by the province, and protected from
the fury of the brave relatives of the murdered. ” Influenced by the persua-
sions of Franklin, they consented to return to their honjes, leaving only
Matthew Smith and James Gibson to I’epresent them before the courts.
6
98
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
CHAPTEE XI.
John Penn, 1763-71 — James Hamilton, 1771 — Richard Penn, 1771-73— John
Penn, 1773-76.
A DIFFERENCE having arisen between the Governor and Assembly on the
vexed question of levying money, the Assembly passed a series of reso-
lutions advocating that the “ powers of government ought to be separated from
the power attending the immense proprietary property, and lodged in the
hands of the King. ” After an interval of fifty days — that time for reflection
and discussion might be given — the Assembly again convened, and adopted a
petition praying the King to assume the direct government of the province,
though this policy was strongly opposed by some of the ablest members, as
Isaac Norris and John Dickinson. The Quaker element was generally in
favor of ttie change.
Indian barbarities still continuing along the frontier. Gov. Penn declared
war against the Shawanese and Delawares in July, 1765, and sent Col. Bouquet
with a body of Pennsylvania troops against them. By the 3d of October, he
had come up to the Muskingum, in the heart of the most thickly peopled
Indian territory. So rapid had been the movement of Bouquet that the savages
had no intelligence of his advance until he was upon them with no preparations
for defense. They sued for peace, and a treaty was entered into hy which the
savages agreed to abstain from further hostilities until a general treaty could
be concluded with Sir William Johnson, the general agent for Indian affairs
for all the colonies, and to deliver up all English captives who had been carried
away during the years of trouble. Two hundred and eight were quickly
gathered up and brought in, and many others were to follow, who were now
widely scattered. The relatives of many of these captives liad proceeded with
the train of Bouquet, intent on reclaiming those who had been dear to them.
Some were joyfully received, while others vvho had been borne off in youth had
become attached to their captors, and force was necessary to bring them away.
“ On the return of the army, some of the Indians obtained leave to accompany
their former captives to Fort Pitt, and employed themselves in hunting and
carrying provisions for them on the road. ”
The great struggle for Ihe independence of the colonies of the British
crown was now close at hand, and the first sounds of the controversy were be-
ginning to be heard. Sir William Keith, that enterprising Governor whose
head seemed to have been full of new projects, as early as 1739 had proposed
to lay a uniform tax on stamped paper in all the colonies, to realize funds for
the common defense. Acting upon this hint, Grenville, the British Minister,
notified the colonists in 1763 of his purpose to impose such a tax. Against
this they remonstrated. Instead of this, a tax on imports, to be paid in coin,
was adopted. This was even more distasteful. The Assembly of Rhode
Island, in October, 1765, submitted a paper to all the colonial assemblies, with
a view to uniting in a common petition to the King against parliamentary
taxation. This was favorably acted on by the Assembly of Pennsylvania, and
Franklin was appointed agent to represent their cause before the British Par-
liament. The Stamp Act had been passed on the 22d of March, 1765. Its
passage excited bitter opposition, and a resolution, asserting that the Colonial
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
99
Assemblies had the exclusive right to levy taxes, was passed by the Virginia
Assembly, and concurred in by all the others. The Massachusetts Assembly
proposed a meeting of delegates in New York on the second Tuesday of October,
1765, to confer upon the subject. The Pennsylvania Assembly adopted the
suggestion, and appointed Messrs. Fox, Morton, Bryan and Dickenson as dele-
gates. This Congress met according to the call and adopted a respectful pe-
tition to the King, and a memorial to Parliament, which were signed by all
the members and forwarded for presentation by the Colonial Agents in En-
gland. The Stamp Act was to go into effect on the 1st of November. On the
last day of October, the newspapers were dressed in mourning, and suspended
publication. The publishers agreed not to use the sta?xiped paper. The
people, as with one mind, determined to dress in homespun, resolved not to
use imported goods, and, to stimulate the production of wool the colonists cov-
enanted not to eat lamb for the space of one year. The result of this policy
was soon felt by British manufacturers who became clamorous for repeal of
the obnoxious measures, and it was accordingly repealed on the 18th of March,
1766.
Determined in some form to draw a revenue from the colonies, an act was
passed in 1767, to lay a duty on tea, paper, printers’ colors, and glass. The As-
sembly of Pennsylvania passed a resolution on the ‘20th of February, 1768,
instructing its agent in London to urge its repeal, and at the session in May
received and entered upon its minutes a circular letter from the Massachusetts
Assembly, setting forth the grounds on which objection to the act should be
urged. This circular occasioned hostile feeling among the ministry, and the
Secretary for foreign affairs wrote to Gov, Penn to urge the Assembly to
take no notice of it; but if they approved its sentiments, to prorogue their
sittings. This letter was transmitted to the Assembly, and soon after one
from the Virginia Assembly was presented, urging union of all the colonies
in opposing the several schemes of taxation. This recommendation was
adopted, and committees appointed to draw a petition to the King and to each
of the Houses of Parliament. To lead public sentiment, and have it well
grounded in the arguments used against taxation, John Dickinson, one of the
ablest of the Pennsylvania legislators at this time, published a number of
articles purporting to come from a plain farmer, under the title of the Farmer's
Letters, which became popular, the idea that they were the work of one in
humble life, helping to swell the tide of popularity. They were republished
in all the colonies, and exerted a commanding influence. Alarmed at the
unanimity of feeling against the proposed schemes, and supposing that it was
the amount of the tax that gave offense, Parliament reduced the rate in 1769
to one sixth of the original sum, and in 1770 abolished it altogether, except
three pence a pound on tea But it was the principle, and not the amoant
that was objected to, and at the next session of the Assembly in Pennsylvania,
their agent in London was directed to urge its repeal altogether.
It would seem incredible that the colony of Connecticut should lay claim
to any part of the territory of Pennsylvania, but so it was. The New En-
gland charters gave limitless extent westward even to the shores of the Pacific
Ocean, and south to the northern limits of the tract ceded to Lord Baltimore —
the territory between the 40th and 46th degrees of north latitude, and from
ocean to ocean. To encroach upon New York with its teaming popu-
lation was not calculated to tempt the enterprise of the settler; but
the rich virgin soil, and agreeable climate of the wide Wyoming Val-
ley, as yet unappropriated, was likely to attract the eye of the explorers
Accordingly, at the general conference with the Indians held at Albany
100
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
in 1754, the Connecticut delegates made a purchase of a large tract in
this valley; a company, known as the Susquehanna Company, was formed in
Connecticut to promote the settlement of these lands, and a considerable im-
migration commenced. The proprietors of Pennsylvania had also made pur-
chase of the Indians of these identical lands, and the royal charters of Charles
and James covered this ground. But the Plymouth Charter antedated Penn’s.
Remonstrances were made to the Governor of Connecticut against encroach-
ments upon the territory of Pennsylvania. The answer returned was under-
stood to disclaim any control over the company by the Connecticut authorities;
but it subsequently appeared that the Government was determined to defend
the settlers in the possession of their lands. In 1768, the proprietors of Penn-
sylvania entered into treaty stipulations with the Indians for all this tract cov-
ered by the claim of the Susquehanna Company. Pennsylvania settlers,
attracted by the beauty of the place, gradually acquired lands under Penn-
sylvania patents, and the two parties began to infringe on each other’s claims.
Forts and block-houses were erected for the protection of either party, and a
petty warfare was kept up, which resulted in some loss of life. Butler, the
leader of the Connecticut party, proposed to settle their differences by per-
sonal combat of thirty picked men on each side. In order to assert more direct
legal control over the settlers, a new county was formed which was called
Northumberland, that embraced all the disputed lands. But the Sheriff, even
with the aid of the militia, which he called to his assistance, was unable to
execute his processes, and exercise legal control, the New Englanders, proving
a resolute set, determined to hold the splendid farms which they had marked
out for themselves, and were bringing rapidly under cultivation. To the re-
monstrances of Gov. Penn, Gov. Trumbull responded that the Susquehanna Com-
pany was proceeding in good faith under provisions secured by the charter of
the Plymouth Colony, and proposed that the question be submitted to a com-
petent tribunal for arbitrament. An ex parte statement was submitted to
Council in London by the Connecticut party, and an opinion was rendered
favorable to its claims. In September, 1775, the matter was submitted to the
Continental Congress, and a committee of that body,, to whom it was referred,
reported in favor of the Connecticut claim, apportioning a tract out of the
very bowels of Pennsylvania nearly as large as the whole State of Connecticut.
This action was promptly rejected by the Assembly of Pennsylvania, and a
final decision was not reached until 1802, when Congress decided in favor of
the integrity of the chartered rights of Penn.
Richard Penn, son of the founder, died in 1771, whereupon Gov. John
Penn returned to England, leaving the President of the Council, James Ham-
ilton, at the head of the Government. John Penn, eldest son of Richard, suc-
ceeded to the proprietary interests of his father, which he held in conjunction
with his uncle, Thomas, and in October of the same year, Richard, the second
son, was commissioned Governor. He held the office but about two years, and
in that time won the confidence and esteem of the people, and so much attached
was he to the popular cause, that upon his return to England, in 1775, he was
intrusted by Congress with the last petition of the colonies ever presented to
the King. In August, 1773, John Penn returned with the commission of
Governor, superseding his brother Richard. Soon after his arrival, the Gov-
ernor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, issued his proclamation, laying claim to a
vast territory in the Monongalia Valley, including the site of the present
city of Pittsburgh, and upon the withdrawal of the British garrison, one Con-
nolly had taken possession of it in the name of Virginia. Gov. Penn issued a
counter-proclamation, calling on all good citizens within the borders of Penn-
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
101
aylvania, to preserve their allegiance to his Government, seized and imprisoned
Connolly, and sent Commissioners to Virginia to effect an amicable settlement.
These, Dunmore refused to hear, and was preparing to assert his authority by
force; but his Council refused to vote him money for this purpose.
To encourage the sale of tea in the colonies, and establish the principle of
taxation, the export duty was removed. The colonies took the alarm. At a
public meeting called in Philadelphia to consider the subject, on the 18th of
October, 1773, resolutions were adopted in which it was declared : “ That the
disposal of their own property is the inherent right of freemen; that there can
be no property in that which another can, of right, take from us without our
consent; that the claim of Parliament to tax America, is, in other words, a claim
of right to levy contributions on us at pleasure.’’ The East India Company
now made preparations for sending large importations of tea into the colonies.
The ships destined for Philadelphia and New York, on approaching port, and
being advised of the exasperated state of public feeling, returned to England
with their cargoes. Those sent to Boston came into the harbor; but at night a
party disguised as Mohawk Indians boarded the vessels, and breaking open
the packages, emptied 300 chests into the sea. The ministry, on being apprised
of this act, closed the port of Boston, and subvei’ted the colonial charter.
Early in the year, committees of correspondence had been established in all
the colonies, by means of which the temper and feeling in each was well un-
derstood by the others, and concert of action was secured. The hard condi-
tions imposed on the town of Boston and the colony of Massachusetts Bay,
aroused the sympathy of all ; for, they argued, we know not how soon the heavy
hand of oppression may be felt by any of us. Philadelphia declared at a pub-
lic meeting that the people of Pennsylvania would continue firmly to adhere
to the cause of American liberty, and urged the calling of a Congress of dele-
gates to consider the general interests.
At a meeting held in Philadelphia on the 18th of June, 1774, at which
nearly 8,000 people were convened, it was decided that a Continental Congress
ought to be held, and appointed a committee of correspondence to communi-
cate with similar committees in the several counties of Pennsylvania and in the
several colonies. On the 15th of July, 1774, delegates from all the counties,
summoned by this committee, assembled in Philadelphia, and declared that
there existed an absolute necessity for a Colonial Congress. They accordingly
recommended that the Assembly appoint delegates to such a Congress to
represent Pennsylvania, and Joseph Galloway, Samuel Rhoads, George Ross,
Edward Biddle, J ohn Dickinson, Charles Humphries and Thomas Mifflin were
appointed.
On the 4th of Septemoer, 1774, the first Continental Congress assembled m
Philadelphia. Peyton Randolph, of Virginia, was called to preside, and
Charles Thomson, of Pennsylvania, was appointed Secretary. It was resolved
that no more goods be imported from England, and that unless a pacification
was effected previously, no more Colonial produce of the soil be exported
thither after September 10, 1775. A declaration of rights was adopted, and
addresses to the King, the people of Great Britain, and of British America
were agreed to, after which the Congress adjourned to meet again on the 10th
of May, 1775.
In January, 1775, another meeting of the county delegates was held in
Philadelphia, at which the action of the Colonial Congress was approved, and
while a restoration of harmony with the mother country was desired, yet if
the arbitiary acts of Parliament were persisted in, they would at every hazard
defend the “rights and liberties of America.” The delegates appointed to
102
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
represent the colony in the Second Congress were Mifflin, Humphries, Biddle,.
Dickinson, Morton, Franklin, Wilson and Willing.
The government of Great Britain had determined with a strong hand to
compel obedience to its behests. On the 19th of April, 1775, was fought the
battle of Lexington, and the crimson fountain was opened. That blow was
felt alike through all the colonies. The cause of one was the cause of all.
A public meeting was held in Philadelphia, at which it was resolved to organize
military companies in all the counties. The Assembly heartily seconded these
views, and engaged to provide for the pay of the militia while in service.
The Second Congress, which met in May, provided for organizing a continental
army, fixing the quota for Pennsylvania at 4,300 men. The Assembly adopted
the recommendation of Congress, provided for arming, disciplining and pay-
ing the militia, recommended the organizing minutemen for service in an
emergency, made appropriations for the defense of the city, and offered a pre-
mium on the production of salt peter. Complications hourly thickened. Ticon-
deroga was captured on the 10th of Alay, and the battle of Bunker Hill was
fought on the 17th of June. On the 15th of June, George Washington was
appointed Commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, supported by four
Major Generals and eight Brigadiers.
The royal Governors were now an incumbrance greatly in the way of the
popular movement, as were also the Assemblies where they refused to represent
the popular will. Accordingly, Congress recommended that the several col-
onies should adopt such government as should “ best conduce to the happiness
and safety of their constituents in particular and America in general.” This
meant that each colony should set up a government for itself independent of
the Crown. Accordingly, a public meeting was held in Philadelphia, at
which it was resolved that the present Assembly is “ not competent to the pres-
ent exigencies of affairs,” and that a new form of government ought to be
adopted as recommended by Congress. The city committee of correspondence
called on the county committees to secure the election of delegates to a colonial
meeting for the purpose of considering this subject. On the 18th of June,
the meeting was held in Philadelphia, and was organized by electing Thomas
McKean President. It resolved to call a convention to frame a new con-
stitution, provided the legal forms to be observed, and issued an address to
the people.
Having thus by frequent argumentation grown familiar with the declara-
tion of the inherent rights of every citizen, and with flatly declaring to the
government of Great Britain that it had no right to pursue this policy or that,
and the several States having been recommended to absolve themselves from
allegience to the royal governments, and set up independent colonial govern-
ments of their own, it was a natural inference, and but a step further, to de-
clare the colonies entirely independent of the British Government, and to or-
ganize for themselves a general continental government to hold the place of King
and Parliament. The idea of independence had been seriously proposed, and
several Colonial Assemblies had passed resolutions strongly recommending it.
And yet there were those of age and experience who had supported independ-
ent principles in the stages of argumentation, before action was demanded,
when they approached the brink of the fatal chasm, and had to decide
whether to take the leap, hesitated. There were those in the Assembly of
Pennsylvania who were reluctant to advise independence; but the majority
voted to recommend its delegates to unite with the other colonies for the com-
mon good. The convention which had provided for holding a meeting of del-
egates to frame a new constitution, voted in favor of independence, and au-
thorized the raising of 6,000 militia.
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
103
On the 7th of June, 1776, Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia, introduced in
Congress the proposition that, “the United Colonies are, and of right ought to
be, free and independent States, and that all political connection between
them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
It was impossible to mistake or misinterpret the meaning of this language.
The issue was fairly made up. It was warmly discussed. John Dickinson,
one of the Pennsylvania delegates, and one who had been foremost in speak-
ing and writing on the popular side, was not ready to cut off all hope of rec-
onciliation, and depicted the disorganized condition in which the colonies
would be left if the power and protection of Britain were thus sudd.enly re-
moved. The vote upon the resolution was taken on the 2d of July, and re-
sulted in the affirmative vote of all the States except Pennsylvania a id
Delaware, the delegates from these States being divided. A committee con-
sisting of Adams, Franklin, Jefferson, Livingston and Sherman had been, some
time previous, appointed to draw a formal statement of the Declaration, and
the reasons “out of a decent respect to the opinions of mankind, ” which led
to so important an act. The work was intrusted to a sub-committee consisting of
Adams and Jefferson, and its composition was the work of Mr. Jefferson, though
many of the ideas, and even the forms of expression, had been used again and
again in the previous resolutions and pronunci amen toes of the Colonial Assem-
blies and public meetings. It had been reported on the 28th of June, and was
sharply considered in all its parts, many verbal alterations having been made in
the committee of five; but after the passage of the preliminary resolution, the
result was a foregone conclusion, and on the 4th of July it was finally adopted
and proclaimed to the world. Of the Pennsylvania delegation, Franklin,
Wilson and Morton voted for it, and Willing and Humphrey against, Dickin-
son being absent. The colonial convention of Pennsylvania, being in session
at the time, on receiving intelligence that a majority of its delegates in Con-
gress had voted against the preliminary resolution, named a new delegation,
omitting the names of Dickinson, Willing and Humphrey, and adding others
which made it thus constituted — Franklin, Wilson, Morton, Morris, Clymer,
Smith, Taylor and Ross. An engrossed copy of the Declaration was made,
which was signed by all the members on the 2d of August following, on
which are found the names from Pennsylvania above recited.
The convention for framing a new constitution for the colony met on the
15th of July, and was organized by electing Franklin President, and on the
28th of September completed its labors, having framed a new organic law
and made all necessary provisions for putting it into operation. In the mean-
time the old proprietary Assembly adjourned on the 14th of June to the 26th
of August. But a quorum failed to appear, and an adjournment was had to
the 23d of September, when some routine business was attended to, chiefly
providing for the payment of salaries and necessary bills, and on the 28th of
September, after a stormy existence of nearly a century, this Assembly, the
creature of Penn, adjourned never to meet again. With the ending of the As-
sembly ended the power of Gov. Penn. It is a singular circumstance, much
noted by the believers in signs, that on the day of his arrival in America,
which was Sunday, the earth in that locality was rocked by an earthquake,
which was interpreted as an evil omen to his administration. He married the
daughter of William Allen, Chief Justice of the colony, and, though at times
falling under suspicion of favoring the royal cause, yet, as was believed, not
with reason, he remained a quiet spectator of the great struggle, living at his
country seat in Bucks County, where he died in February, 1765.
The titles of the proprietors to landed estates were suspended by the actio;s
104
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA,
of the convention, and on the 27th of November, 1779, the Legislature pasaed
an act vesting these estates in the commonwealth, but paying the .proprietors a
gratuity of £130,000, “ in remembrance of the enterprising spirit of the
Founder.” This act did not touch the private estates of the proprietors, nor
the tenths of manors. The Britioh Government, in 1790, in consideration of
the fact that it had been unable to vindicate its authority over the colony, and
afford protection to the proprietors in the enjoyment of their chartered rights,
voted an annuity of £4,000 to the heirs and descendants of Penn. This annuity
has been regularly paid to the present time, 1884.
CHAPTER XII
Thomas Wharton, Jr., 1777-78— George Bryan, 1778— Jo.seph Reed, 1778-81—
William Moore, 1781-82— John Dickinson, 1782-85— Benjamin Franklin.
1785-88.
The convention which framed the constitution appointed a Committee of
Safety, consisting of twenty- five members, to whom was intrusted the
government of the colony until the proposed constitution should be framed and
put in operation. Thomas Rittenhouse was chosen President of this body,
who was consequently in effect Governor. The new constitution, which was
unanimously adopted on the 28th of September, was to take effect from its
passage. It pi’ovided for an Assembly to be elected annually; a Supreme Ex-
ecutive Council of twelve members to be elected for a term of three years; As-
semblymen to be eligible but four years out of seven, and Councilmen but
one term in seven years. Members of Congress were chosen by the Assembly.
The constitution could not be changed for seven years. It provided for the
©lection of censors every seven years, who were to decide whether there was
a, demand for its revision. If so, they were to call a convention for the pur-
pose. On the 6th of August, 1776, Thomas Wharton. Jr., was chosen Presi-
dent of the Council of Safety.
The struggle with the parent country was now fully inaugmated. The
British Parliament had declared the colonists rebels, had voted a force of
55,000 men, and in addition had hired 17,000 Hessian soldiers, to subdue them.
The Congress on its part had declared the objects for which arms had been
taken up, and had issued bills of credit to the amount of 16,000,000. Par-
liament had resolved upon a vigorous campaign, to strike heavy and rapid
blows, and quickly end the war. The first campaign had been conducted in
Massachusetts, and by the efficient conduct of Washington, Gen. Howe, the
leader of the British, was compelled to capitulate and withdraw to Halifax in
March, 1776. On the 28th of June, Sir Henry Clinton, with a strong detach-
ment, in conjunction with Sir Peter Parker of the navy, made a combined
land and naval attack upon the defenses of Charleston Harbor, where he was
met by Gen. AVilliam Moultrie, with the Carolina Militia, and after a severe
battle, in which the British fleet was roughly handled, Clinton withdrew and
returned to New York, whither the main body of the British Army, under Gen.
Howe, had come, and where Admiral Lord Howe, with a large fleet directly
from England, joined them. To this formidable power led by the best talent
in the British Army, Washington could muster no adequate force to oppose,
and he was obliged to withdraw from Long Island, from New York, from
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA
105
Harlem, from White Plains, to cross into New Jersey, and abandon position
after position, until he had reached the right bank of the Delaware on Penn-
sylvania soil. A heavy detachment under Cornwallis followed, and would
have crossed the Delaware in pursuit, but advised to a cautious policy by
Howe, he waited for ice to form on the waters of the Delaware before passing
over. The fall of Philadelphia now seemed imminent. Washington had not
sufficient force to face the whole power of the British Army. On the 2d of
December, the Supreme Council ordered all places of business in the city to
be closed, the schools to be dismissed, and advised preparation for removing
the women and children and valuables. On the 12th, the Congress which was
in session here adjourned to meet in Baltimore, taking with them all papers
and public records, and leaving a committee, of which Robert Morris was
Chairman, to act in conjunction with Washington for the safety of the place.
Gen. Putnam was dispatched on the same day with a detachment of soldiers
to take command in the city.
In this emergency the Council issued a stirring address; “If you wish
to live in freedom, and are determined to maintain that best boon of heaven,
you have no time to deliberate. A manly resistance will secure <every bless-
ing, inactivity and sloth will bring horror and destruction. * * * May
heaven, which has bestowed the blessings of liberty upon you, awaken you to
a proper sense of your danger and arouse that manly spirit of virtuous resolu-
tion'which has ever bidden defiance to the efforts of tyranny. May you ever
have the glorious prize of liberty in view, and bear with a becoming fortitude
the fatigues and severities of a winter campaign. That, and that only, will
entitle you to' the superlative distinction of being deemed, under God, the
deliverers of your country.” Such were the arguments which our fathers
made use of in conducting the struggle against the British Empire.
Washington, who had, from the opening of the campaign before New
York, been obliged for the most pai’t to act upon the defensive, formed the
plan to suddenly turn upon his pursuers and offer battle. Accordingly, on
the night of the 25th of December, taking a picked body of men, he moved up
several miles to Taylorsville, where he crossed the river, though at flood tide
and filled with floating ice, and moving down to Trenton, where a detachment
of the British Army was posted, made a bold and vigorous attac.^. Taken by
surprise, though now after sunrise, the battle was soon decided in favor of
the Americans. Some fifty of the enemy were slain and over a thousand
taken prisoners, with quantities of arms, ammunition and stores captured. A
triumphal entry was made at Philadelphia, when the prisoners and the spoils
of war moved through the streets under guard of the victorious troops, and
were marched away to the prison camp at Lancaster. Washington, who was
smarting under a forced inactivity, by reason of paucity of numbers and lack
of arms and material, and who had been forced constantly to retire before a
defiant foe, now took courage. His name was upon every tongue, and foreign
Governments were disposed to give the States a fair chance in their struggle
for nationality. The lukewarm were encouraged to enlist under the banner of
freedom. It had great strategic value. The British had intended to push
forward and occupy Philadelphia at once, which, being now virtually the cap-
ital of the new nation, had it been captured at this juncture, would have given
them the occasion for claiming a triumphal ending of the war. But this ad.
vantage, though gained by a detachment small in numbers yet great in cour-
age, caused the commander of a powerful and well appointed army to give up
all intention of attempting to capture the Pennsylvania metropolis in this
campaign, and retiring into winter cantonments upon the Raritan to await
106
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
the settled weather of the spring for an entirely new cast of operations.
Washington, emboldened by his success, led all his forces into New Jersey,
and pushing past Trenton, where Cornwallis, the royal leader, had brought
his main body by a forced march, under cover of darkness, attacked the
British reserves at Princeton. But now the enemy had become wary and vig-
ilant, and, summoned by the booming of cannon, Cornwallis hastened back to
the relief of his hard pressed colum'ns. Washington, finding that the enemy’s
whole army was within easy call and knowing that he had no hope of success
with his weak army, withdrew. Washington now went into winter quarters at
Morristown, and by constant vigilance was able to gather marauding parties
of the British who ventured far away from their works.
Putnam commenced fortifications at a point below Philadelphia upon the
Delaware, and at commanding positions upon the outskirts, and on being
summoned to the army was succeeded by Gen. Irvine, and he by Gen. Gates.
On the 4th of March, 1777, the two Houses of the Legislature, elected under
the new constitution, assembled, and in joint convention chose Thomas
Wharton, Jr., President, and George BryanVice President. Penn had expressed
the idea that power was pi’eserved the better by due formality and ceremony,
and, accordingly, this event was celebrated with much pomp, the result being
declared in a loud voice from the court house, amid the shouts of the gathered
throngs and the booming of the captured cannon brought from the field of
Trenton. The title bestowed upon the new chief officer of the State was fitted
by its length and high-sounding epithets to inspire the multitude with awe and
reverence: “His Excellency, Thomas Wharton, Junior, Esquire, President of
the Supreme Executive Council of Pennsylvania, Captain General, and Com-
mander-in-chief in and over the same. ”
While the enemy was disposed to be cautious after the New Jersey cam-
paign so humiliating to the native pride of the Britain, yet he was determined
to bring all available forces into the field for the campaign of 1777, and to
strike a decisive blow. Early in April, great activity was observed among the
shipping in New York Harbor, and Washington communicated to Congress his
opinion that Philadelphia was the object against which the blow would be
aimed. This announcement of probable peril induced the Council to issue a
proclamation urging enlistments, and Congress ordered the opening of a camp
for drilling recruits in Pennsylvania, and Benedict Arnold, who was at this
time a trusted General, was ordered to the command of it. So many new ves-
sels and transports of all classes had been discovered to have come into New
York Harbor, probably forwarded from England, that Washington sent Gen.
Mifflin, on the 10th of June, to Congress, bearing a letter in which he ex-
pressed the settled conviction that the enemy meditated an immediate descent
upon some part of Pennsylvania. Gen. Mifflin proceeded to examine the de-
fensive works of the city which had been begun on the previous advance of
the British, and recommended such changes and new works as seemed best
adapted for its protection. The preparations for defense were vigorously pros-
ecuted. The militia were called out and placed in two camps, one at Chester
and the other at Downington. Fire ships were held in readiness to be used
against vessels attempting the ascent of the river.
Lord Howe, being determined not to move until ample preparations were
completed, allowed the greater part of the summer to wear away before he
advanced. Finally, having embarked a force of 19,500 men on a fleet of 300
transports, he sailed southward. Washington promptly made a corresponding
march overland, passing through Philadelphia on the 24th of August. Howe,
suspecting that preparations would be made for impeding the passage of the
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
107
Delaware, sailed past its mouth, and moving up the Chesapeake instead, de-
barked fifty-four miles from Philadelphia and commenced the march north-
ward. Great activity was now manifested in the city. The water-spouts were
melted to furnish bullets, fair hands were busied in rolling cartidges, power-
ful chevaux-de-frise were planted to impede the navigation of the river, and
the last division of the militia of the city, which had been divided into three
classes, was called out. Washington, who had crossed the Brandywine, soon
confronted the advance of Howe, and brisk skirmishing at once opened. See-
ing that he was likely to have the right of his position at Red Clay Creek,
where he had intended to give battle, turned by the largely superior force of
the enemy, under cover of darkness on the night of the 8th of September, he
withdrew across the Brandywine at Chad’s Ford, and posting Armstrong with
the militia upon the left, at Pyle’s Ford, where the banks were rugged and pre-
cipitous, and Sullivan, who was second in command, upon the right at Brin-
ton’s Ford under cover of forest, he himself took post with three divisions,
Sterling’s, Stephens’, and his own, in front of the main avenue of approach at
Chad’s. Howe, discovering that Washington was well posted, determined to
flank him. Accordingly, on the 11th, sending Knyphausen with a division of
Hessians to make vigorous demonstrations upon Washington’s front at Chad’ s,
he, with the corps of Cornwallis, in light marching order, moved up the Brandy-
wine, far past the right flank of Washington, crossed the Brandywine at the
fords of Trumbull and Jeffrey unopposed, and, moving down came upon
Washington’s right, held by Sullivan, all unsuspecting and unprepared to re-
ceive him. Though Howe was favored by a dense fog which on that morning
hung on all the valley, yet it had hardly been commenced before Washington
discovered the move and divined its purpose. His resolution was instantly
taken. He ordered Sullivan to cross the stream at Brinton’s, and resolutely
turn the left flank of Knyphausen, when he himself with the main body would
move over and crush the British Army in detail. Is was a brilliant conception,
was feasible, and promised the most complete success. But what chagrin and
mortification, to receive, at the moment when he expected to hear the music of
Sullivan’s guns doubling up the left of the enemy, and giving notice to him
to commence the passage, a message from that officer advising him that he had
disobeyed his orders to cross, having received intelligence that the enemy were
not moving northward, and that he was still in position at the ford. Thus
balked, Washington had no alternative but to remain in position, and it was not
long before the guns of Howe were heard moving in upon his all unguai'ded
right flank. The best dispositions were made which time would permit. His-
main body with the force of Sullivan took position along the brow of the hill
on which stands the Birmingham meeting house, and the battle opened and
was pushed with vigor the whole day. Overborne by numbers, and weakened
by losses, Washington was obliged to retire, leaving the enemy in possession
of the field. The young French nobleman, Lafayette, was wounded while gal-
lantly serving in this tight. The wounded were carried into the Birmingham
meeting house, where the blood stains are visible to this day, enterprising
relic hunters for many generations having been busy in loosening small slivers
with the points of their knives.
The British now moved cautiously toward Philadelphia. On the IGth of
September, at a point some twenty miles west of Philadelphia, Washington
again made a stand, and a battle opened with brisk skirmishing, but a heavy
rain storm coming on the powder of the patriot soldiers was completely ruined on
account of their defective cartridge boxes. On the night of the 20th, Gen.
Anthony Wayne, who had been hanging on the rear of the enemy with his.
108
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
detachment, was surprised by Gen. Gray with a heavy column, who fell sud-
denly upon the Americans in bivouac and put them to the sword, giving no
quarter. This disgraceful slaughter which brought a stigma and an indelible
stain upon the British arms is known as the Paoli Massacre. Fifty-three of
the victims of the black flag were buried in one grave. A neat monument
of white marble was erected forty years afterward over their moldering
remains by the Republican Artillerists of Chester County, which vandal hands
have not spared in their mania for relics.
Congress remained in Philadelphia while these military operations were
going on at its very doors; but on the 18th of September adjourned to meet
at Lancaster, though subsequently, on the 30th, removed across the Susque-
hanna to York, whei’e it remained in session till after the evacuation in
the following summer. The Council remained until two days before the fall
of the city, when having dispatched the records of the loan office and the more
valuable papers to Easton, it adjoui’ned to Lancaster. On the 26th, the British
Army entered the city. Deborah Logan in her memoir says : “ The army
marched in and took possession in the city in the moiming. We were up-stairs
and saw them pass the State House. They looked well, clean and well clad,
and the contrast between them and our own poor, bare-footed, ragged troops
was very great and caused a feeling of despair. * * * * Early
in the afternoon, Lord Cornwallis’ suite arrived and took possession of
my mother’s house.” But though now holding undisputed possession of the
American capital, Howe found his position an uncomfortable one, for his fleet
was in the Chesapeake, and the Delaware and all its defenses were in posses-
sion of the Americans, and Washington had manned the forts with some of
his most resolute troops. Varnum’s brigade, led by Cols. Angell and Greene,
Rhode Island troops, were at Fort Mercer, at Red Bank, and this the enemy
determined to attack. On the 21st of October, with a force of 2,500 men, led
by Count Donop, the attack was made. In two colums they moved as to an
easy victory. But the steady fire of the defenders when come in easy range,
swept them down with deadly effect, and, retiring with a loss of over 400 and
their leader mortally wounded, they did not renew the fight. Its reduction was
of prime importance, and powerful works were built and equipped to bear upon
the devoted fort on all sides, and the heavy guns of the fleet were brought up
to aid in overpowering it. For six long days the greatest weight of metal was
poured upon it from the land and the naval force, but without effect, the
sides of the fort successfully withstanding the plunging of their powerful
missiles. As a last resort, the great vessels were run suddenly in close under
the walls, and manning the yard-arms with sharp-shooters, so effectually
silenced and drove away the gunners that the fort fell easily into the Brit-
ish hands and the river was opened to navigation. The army of Washing-
ton, after being recruited and put in light marching order, was led to German-
town where, on the morning of the 3d of October the enemy was met. A
heavy fog that morning had obscured friend and foe alike, occasioning con-
fusion in the ranks, and though the opening promised well, and some progress
was made, yet the enemy was too strong to be moved, and the American leader
was forced to retire to his camp at White Marsh. Though the river had now
been opened and the city was thoroughly fortified for resisting attack, yet
Howe felt not quite easy in having the American Army quartered in so close
striking distance, and accordingly, on the 4th of December, with nearly his
entire army, moved out, intending to take Washington at White Marsh, sixteen
miles away, by surprise, and by I’apidity of action gain an easy victory. But
by the heroism and fidelity of Lydia Darrah, who, as she had often done before
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
109
passed the guards to go to the mill for flour, the news of the coming of Howe
wap communicated to Washington, who was prepared to receive him. Finding
that he could effect nothing, Howe returned to the city, having had th,e weari-
some march at this wintry season without effect.
Washington now crossed the Schuylkill and went into winter quarters at
Valley Forge. The cold of that winter was intense; the troops, half clad and
indifferently fed, suffered severely, the prints of their naked feet in frost and.
snow being often tinted with patriot blood. Grown impatient of the small
results from fhe immensely expensive campaigns carried on across the ocean,
the Ministry relieved Lord Howe, and appointed Sir Henry Clinton, to tho
chief command.
The Commissioners whom Congress had sent to France early in the fall of
1776 — Franklin, Dean and Lee had been busy in making interest for the
united colonies at the French Court, and so successful were they, that arms and
ammunition and loans of money were procured from time to time. Indeed, so
persuasive had they become that it was a saying current at court that, “It was
fortunate for the King that Franklin did not take it into his head to ask to
have the palace at Versailles stripped of its furniture to send to his dear
Americans, for his majesty would have been unable to deny him.” Finally,
a convention was concluded, by which France agreed to use the royal army and
navy as faithful allies of the Americans against the English. Accordingly, a
fleet of four powerful frigates, and twelve ships were dispatched under com-
mand of the Count D’Estaing to shut up the British fleet in the Delaware. The
plan was ingenious, particularly worthy of the long head of Franklin. But
by some means, intelligence of the sailing of the French fleet reached 0he
English cabinet, who immediately ordered the evacuation of the Delaware,
whereupon the Admiral weighed anchor and sailed away with his entire fleet to
New York, and D’Estaing, upon his arrival at the mouth of the Delaware, found
that the bird had flown.
Clinton evacuated Philadelphia and moved across New Jersey in the direc-
tion of New York. Washington closely followed and came up with the enemy
on the plains of Monmouth, on the 28th of June, 1778, where a sanguin-
ary battle was fought which lasted the whole day, resulting in the triumph of
the American arms, and Pennsylvania was rid of British troops'.
The enemy was no sooner well away from the city than Congress returned
from York and resumed its sittings in its former quarters, June 24, 1778, and
on the following day, the Colonial Legislature returned from Lancaster. Gen
Arnold, who was disabled by a wound received at Saratoga, from field duty,
was given command in the city and marched in with a regiment on the day
following the evacuation. On the 23d of May, 1778, President Wharton died
suddenly of quinsy, while in attendance upon the Council at Lancaster, when
George Bryan, the Vice President, became the Acting President. Bryan was a
philanthropist in deed as well as word. Up to this time, African slavery had
been tolerated in the colony. In his message of the 9th of November, he said ;
‘ ‘ This or some better scheme, would tend to abrogate sJ avery — the approbrium
of America — from among us. * * * In divesting the State of slaves, you
will equally serve the cause of humanity and policy, ond offer to God one of
the most proper and best returns of gratitude for Has great deliverance of us
and our posterity from thraldom; you will also set y ur character for justice
and benevolence in the true point of view to Europe, who are astonished to see
a people eager for liberty holding negroes in bondage.” He perfected a bill
for the extinguishment of claims to slaves which was passed by the Assembly,
March 1, 1780, by a vote of thirty-four to eighteen, providing that no child
110
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
of slave parents born after that date should be a slave, but a servant till the
age of twenty-eight years, when ail claim for service should end. Thus by a
simple enactment resolutely pressed by Bryan, was slavery forever rooted out
of Pennsylvania.
In the summer of 1778, a force of savages and sour- faced tor ies to the num-
ber of some 1,200, under the leadership of one Ool. John Butler, a cruel and in-
human wretch, descending from the north, broke into the Wyoming Valley on
the 2d of July. The strong men were in the army of Washington, and the
only defenders were old men, beardless boys and resolute women. These, to
the number of about 400, under Zebu! on Butler, a brave soldier who had won
distinction in the old French war, and who happened to be present, moved
resolutely out to meet the invaders. Overborne % numbers, the inhabitants
were beaten and put to the sword, the few who escaped retreating to Forty
Fort, whither the helpless, up and down the valley, had sought safety. Here
humane terms of surrender were agreed to, and the families returned to
their homes, supposing all danger to be past. But the savages had
tasted blood, and perhaps confiscated liquor, and were little mindful of capitu-
lations. The night of the 5th was given to indiscriminate massacre. The
ories of the helpless rang out upon the night air, and the heavens along all
the valley were lighted up with the flames of burning cottages; “ and when the
moon arose, the terrified inhabitants were fleeing to the Wilkesbarre Mount-
ains, and the dark morasses of the Pocono Mountain beyond. ” Most of these
were emigrants from Connecticut, and they made their way homeward as fast
as their feet would carry them, many of them crossing the Hudson at Pough-
keepsie, where they told their tales of woe.
In February, 1778, Parliament, grown tired of this long and wasting war,
abolished taxes of which the Americans had complained, and a committee,
composed of Earl Carlisle, George Johnstone and William Eden, were sent
empowered to forgive past offenses, and to conclude peace with the colonies,
upon submission to the British crown. Congress would not listen to their
proposals, maintaining that the people of America had done nothing that
needed forgiveness, and that no conference could be accorded so long as the
English Armies remained on American soil. Finding that negotiations could
not be entered upon with the government, they sought to worm their way by
base bribes. Johnstone proposed to Gen. Reed that if he would lend his aid
to bring about terms of pacification, 10,000 guineas and the best office in the
country should be his. The answer of the stern General was a type of the
feeling which swayed every patriot: “ My influence is but small, but were it
as great as Gov. Johntone would insinuate, the King of Great Britain has noth-
ing in his gift that would tempt me.”
At the election held for President, the choice feM upon Joseph Reed, with
George Bryan Vice President, subsequently Matthew Smith, and finally Will-
iam Moore. Reed was an erudite lawyer, and had held the positions of Pri-
vate Secretary to Washington, and subsequently Adjutant General of the
army. He was inaugurated on the 1st of December, l778. Upon the return
of the patriots to Philadelphia, after the departure of the British, a bitter
feeling existed between them and the tories who had remained at their homes,
and had largely profited by the British occupancy. The soldiers became dem-
onstrative, especially against those lawyers who had defended the tories in
court. Some of those most obnoxious took refuge in the house of James Wil-
son, a signer of the Declaration. Private soldiers, in }iassing, fired upon it,
and shots were returned whereby one was killed and several wounded. The
President on being informed of these proceedings, rode at the head of the
HIST0K1T OF PENNSYLVANIA.
Ill
city troop, and dispersed the assailants, capturing the leaders. The Academy
and College of Philadelphia required by its charter an oath of allegiance to
the King of Great Britain. An act wa-; passed November 27, 1779, abrogating
the former charter, and vesting its property in a new board. An endowment
from confiscated estates was settled upon it of £15,000 annually. The name
of the institution was changed to the “ University of the State of Pennsyl-
vania.”
France was now aiding the American cause with money and large land
and naval forces. While some of the patriots remained steadfast and were
disposed to sacrifice and endure all for the success of the struggle, many, who
should have been in the ranks rallying around Washington, had grown luke-
warm. The General was mortified that the French should come across the
ocean and make great sacrifices to help us, and should find so much indiffer-
ence prevailing among the citizens of many of the States, and so few coming
forward to fill up the decimated ranks. At the request of Washington, Presi-
dent Eeed was invested with extraordinary powers, in 1780, which were used
prudently but effectively. During the winter of this year, some of the veteran
soldiers of the Pennsylvania line mutinied and commenced the march on
Philadelphia with arms in their hands. Some of them had just cause. They
had enlisted for “three years or the war,” meaning for three years unless
the war closed sooner. But the authorities had interpreted it to mean, three
years, or as much longer as the war should last. President Eeed immediately
rode out to meet the mutineers, heard their cause, and pledged if all would re-
turn to camp, to have those who had honorably served out the full term of
three years discharged, which was agreed to. Before the arrival of the Presi-
dent, two emissaries from the enemy who had heard of the disaffection, came
into camp, offering strong inducements for them to continue the revolt. But
the mutineers spurned the offer, and delivered them over to the officers, by
whom they were tried and executed as spies. The soldiers who had so patriot-
ically arrested and handed over these messengers were offered a reward of fifty
guineas; but they refused it on the plea that they were acting under authority
of the Board of Sergeants, under whose order the mutiny was being conducted.
Accordingly, a hundred guineas were offered to this board for their fidelity.
Their answer showed how conscientious even mutineers can be: “It was not
for the sake, or through any expectation of reward; but for the love of our
country, that we sent the spies immediately to Gen. Wayne; we therefore
do not consider ourselves entitled to any other reward but the love of our
country, and do jointly agree to accept of no other.”
William Moore was elected President to succeed Joseph Eeed, from No-
vember 14, 1781, but held the office less than one year, the term of three years
for which he had been a Councilman having expired, which was the limit of
service. James Potter was chosen Vice President. On account of the hostile
attitude of the Ohio Indians, it was decided to call out a bodj" of volunteers,
numbering some 400 from the counties of Washington and Westmoreland,
where the outrages upon the settlers had been most sorely felt, who chose for
their commander Col. William Crawford, of Westmoreland. The expedition
met a most unfortunate fate. It was defeated and cut to pieces, and the
leader taken captive and burned at the stake. Crawford County, which was
settled very soon afterward, was named in honor of this unfortunate soldier.
In the month of November, intelligence was communicated to the Legislature
that Pennsylvania soldiers, confined as prisoners of war on board of the Jer-
sey, an old hulk Ijing in the New York Harbor, were in a starving condition,
receiving at the hands of the enemy the most barbarous and inhuman treat-
112
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
ment. Fifty barrels of flour and 300 bushels of potatoes were immediately
sent to them.
In the State election of 1782, contested with great violence, John Dickin-
son was chosen President, and James Ewing Vice President. On the 12th of
March, 1783, intelligence was first received of the signing of the preliminary
treaty in which independence was acknowledged, and on the 11th of Api'il
Congress sent forth the joyful proclamation ordering a cessation of hostilities.
The soldiers of Burgoyne, who had been confined in the prison camp at Lan-
caster, were put upon the march for New York, passing through Philadelphia
on the way. Everywhere was joy unspeakable. The obstructions were re-
moved from the Delaware, and the white wings of commerce again came flut-
tering on every breeze. In June, Pennsylvania soldiers, exasperated by delay
in receiving their pay and their discharge, and impatient to return to their
homes, to a considerable number marched from their camp at Lancaster, and
arriving at Philadelphia sent a committee with arms in their hands to tho
State House door with a remonstrance asking permission to elect officers to
command them for the redress of their grievances, their own having left them,
and employing threats in case of refusal. These demands the Council rejected.
The President of Congress, hearing of these proceedings, called a special ses-
sion, which resolved to demand that the militia of the State should be called
out to quell the insurgents. The Council refused to resort to this extreme
measure, when Congress, watchful of its dignity and of its supposed supreme
authority, left Philadelphia and established itself in Princeton, N. J., and
though invited to return at its next session, it refused, and met at Annapolis.
In October, 1784, the last treaty was concluded with the Indians at Fort
Stanwix. The Commissioners at this conference purchased from the natives
all the land to the north of the Ohio Kiver, and the line of Pine Creek, which
completed the entire limits of the State with the exception of the triangle at
Erie, which was acquired from the United States in 1792. This purchaso
was confirmed by the Wyandots and Delawares at Fort McIntosh January 21,
1785, and the grant was made secure.
In September, 1785, after a long absence in the service of his country
abroad, perfecting treaties, and otherwise establishing just relations with other
nations, the venerable Benjamin Franklin, then nearly eighty years old, feel-
ing the infirmities of age coming upon him, asked to be relieved of the duties
of Minister at the Court of France, and retuimed to Philadelphia. Soon after
his arrival, he was elected President of the Council. Charles Biddle was
elected Vice President. It was at this period that a citizen of Pennsylvania,
John Fitch, secured a patent on his invention for propelling boats by steam.
In May, 1787, the convention to frame a constitution for the United States
met in Philadelphia. The delegation from Pennsylvania was Benjamin Frank-
lin, Robert Morris, Thomas Mifflin, George Clymer, Thomas Fitzsimons, Jared
Ingersoll, James Wilson and Gouverneur Morris. Upon the completion of
their work, the instrument was submitted to the several States for adoption. A
convention was called in Pennsylvania, which met on the 21st of November, and
though encountering resolute opposition, it was finally adopted on the 12th of De-
cember. On the following day, the convention, the Supreme Council and offi-
cers of the State and city government, moved in procession to the old court
house, where the adoption of the constitution was formally proclaimed amidst
the booming of cannon and the ringing of bells.
On the 5th of November, 1788, Thomas Mifflin was elected President, and
George Ross Vice President. The constitution of the State, framed in and
adapted to the exigencies of an emergency, was ill suited to the needs of State
Map Showing the Various Purchases From the Indians,
114
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
in its relations to the new nation. Accordingly, a convention assembled for
the purpose of preparing a new constitution in November, 1789, which was
finally adopted on September 2, 1790. By the provisions of this instrument,
the Executive Council was abolished, and the executive duties were vested in
the hands of a Governor. Legislation was intrusted to an Assembly and a
Senate. The judicial system was continued, the terms of the Judges extend-
ing through good behavior.
CHAPTER XIII.
Thomas Mifflin, 1788-99— Thomas McKean, 1799-1808— Simon Snyder, 1808-17—
William Findlay, 1817-20— Joseph Heister, 1820-23— John A. Shulze, 1823
-29— George Wolfe, 1829-35— Joseph Ritner, 1835-39.
The first election under the new Constitution resulted in the choice of
Thomas Mifflin, who was re-elected for three successive terms, giving him
the distinction of having been longer in the executive chair than any other
person, a period of eleven years. A system of internal improvements was now
commenced, by which vast water communications were undertaken, and a moun-
tain of debt was accumulated, a portion of which hangs over the State to this
day. In 1793, the Bank of Pennsylvania was chartered, one-third of the cap-
ital stock of which was subscribed for by the State. Branches were established
at Lancaster, Harrisburg, Reading, Easton and Pittsburgh. The branches
were discontinued in 1810; in 1843, the stock held by the State was sold, and
in 1857, it ceased to exist. In 1793, the yellow fever visited Phila-
delphia. It was deadly in its effects and produced a panic unparalleled.
Gov. Mifflin, and Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the United States Treasury,
were attacked. “ Men of affluent fortunes, who gave daily employment and
subsistence to hundreds, were abandoned to the care of a negro after their
■V ives, children, friends, clerks and servants had fled away and left them to
their fate. In some cases, at the commencement of the disorder, no money
could procure proper attendance. Many of the poor perished without a hu-
man being to hand them a drink of water, to administer medicines, or to per-
form any charitable office for them. Nearly 5,000 perished by this wasting
pestilence. ”,
The whisky insurrection in some of the western counties of the State,
which occurred in 1794, excited, by its lawlessness and wide extent, general
interest. An act of Congress, of March 3, 1791, laid a tax on distilled spirits
of four pence per gallon. The then counties of Washington, Westmoreland,
Allegheny and Fayette, comprising the southwestern quarter of the State,
were almost exclusively engaged in the production of grain. Being far re-
moved from any market, the product of their fai'ms brought them scarcely any
returns. The consequence was that a large proportion of the surplus grain
was turned into distilled spirits, and nearly every other farmer was a distiller.
This tax was seen to bear heavily upon them, from which a non-producer of
spirits was relieved. A rash determination was formed to resist its collection,
and a belief entertained, if all were united in resisting, it would be taken oft.
Frequent altei’cations occurred between the persona appointed United States
Collectors and these resisting citizens. As an example, on the 5th of Septem-
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
115
ber, 1791, a party in disgaise set upon Robert Johnson, a Collector for Alle-
gheny and Washington, tarred and feathered him, cut off his hair, took away
his horse, and left him in this plight to proceed. Writs for the arrest of the
perpetrators were issued, but none dared to venture into the territory to serve
them. On May 8, 1792, the law was modified, and the tax reduced. In Septem-
ber, 1792, President Washington issued his proclamation commanding all per-
sons to submit to the law, and to forbear from further opposition. But these meas-
ures had no effect, and the insurgents began to organize for forcible resist-
ance. One Maj. Macfarlane, who in command of a party of insurrectionists,
was killed in an encounter with United States soldiers at the house of Gen.
Neville, The feeling now ran very high, and it was hardly safe for any per-
son to breathe a whisper against the insurgents throughout all this district.
“ A breath,” says Brackenridge, “ in favor of the law, was sufficient to ruin
any man. A clergyman was not thought orthodox in the pulpit unless against
the law. A physician was not capable of administering medicine, unless his
principles were right in this respect. A lawyer could get no practice, nor
a merchant at a country store get custom if for the law. On the contrary, to
talk against the law was the way to office and emolument. To go to the
Legislature or to Congress you must make a noise against it. It was the Shib-
boleth of safety and the ladder of ambition ” One Bradford had, of his own
notion, issued a circular letter to the Colonels of regiments to assemble with
their commands at Braddock’s field on the 1st of August, where they appoint-
ed officers and moved on to Pittsburgh. After having burned a barn, and
made some noisy demonstrations, they were induced by some cool heads to re-
turn. These turbulent proceedings coming to the ears of the State and Na-
tional authorities at Philadelphia, measures were concerted to promptly and
effectually check them. Gov. Mifflin appointed Chief Justice McKean, and
Gen. William Irvine to proceed to the disaffected district, ascertain the facts,
and try to bring the leaders to justice. President Washington issued a proc-
lamation commanding all persons in arms to disperse to their homes on or be
fore the 1st of September, proximo, and called out the militia of four States
— Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia— to the number of 13,000
men, to enforce his commands. The quota of Pennsylvania was 4,500 infan-
try, 500 cavalry, 200 artillery, and Gov. Mifflin took command in person.
Gov. Richard Howell, of New Jersey, Gov. Thomas S. Lee, of Maryland, and
Gen. Daniel Morgan, of Virginia, commanded the forces from their States,
and Gov. Henry Lee, of Virginia, was placed in chief command. President
Washington, accompanied by Gen. Knox, Secretary of War, Alexander Hamil-
ton, Secretary of the Treasury, and Richard Peters, of the United States Dis-
trict Court, set out on the 1st of October, for the seat of the disturbance. On
Friday, the President reached Harrisburg, and on Saturday Carlisle, whither
the army had preceded him. In the meantime a committee, consisting of
James Ross, Jasper Yeates and William Bradford, was appointed by President
Washington to proceed to the disaffected district, and endeavor to persuade
misguided citizens to return to their allegiance.
A meeting of 260 delegates from the four counties was held at Parkinson’s
Ferry on the 14th of August, at which the state of their cause was considered,
resolutions adopted, and a committee of sixty, one from each county, was ap-
pointed, and a sub committee of twelve was named to confer with the United
States Commissioners, McKean and Irvine. These conferences with the State
and National Committees were successful in arranging preliminary conditions
of settlement. On the 2d of October, the Committee of Safety of the insiu--
gents met at Parkinson’s Ferry, and having now learned that a well-organized
116
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
army, with Washington at its head, was marching westward for enforcing
obedience to the laws, appointed a committee of two, William Findley and
David Reddick, to meet the President, and assure him that the disaffected were'
disposed to return to their duty. They met Washington at Carlisle, and sev-
eral conferences were held, and assurances given of implicit obedience; but
the President said that as the troops had been called out, the orders for the
march would not be countermanded. The President proceeded forward on the
11th of October to Chambersburg, reached Williamsport on the 13th and Fort
Cumberland on the 14th, where he reviewed the Virginia and Maryland forces,
and arrived at Bedford on the 19th. Remaining a few days, and being satis-
fied that the sentiment of the people had changed, he returned to Philadel-
phia, arriving on the 28th, leaving Gen. Lee to meet the Commissioners and
make such conditions of pacification as should seem just. Another meeting of
the Committee of Safety was held at Parkinson’s Ferry on the 24th, at which
assurances of abandonment of opposition to the laws were received, and the
same committee, with the addition of Thomas Morton and Ephriam Douglass,
was directed to return to headquarters and give assurance of this disposition.
They did not reach Bedford until after the departure of Washington. But at
Uniontown they met Gen. Lee, with whom it was agreed that the citizens
of these four counties should subscribe to an oath to support the Constitution
and obey the laws. Justices of the Peace issued notices that books were op^'ned
for subscribing to the oath, and Gen, Lee issued a judicious address urging
ready obedience. Seeing that all requirments were being faithfully carried
out, an order was issued on the 17th of November for the return of the army
and its disbandment. A number of arrests were made and trials and convic-
tions were had, but all were ultimately pardoned.
With the exception of a slight ebulition at the prospect of a war with France
in 1797, and a resistance to the operation of the “ Homestead Tax ” in Lehigh,
Berks and Northampton Counties, when the militia was called out, the re-
mainder of the term of Gov. Mifflin passed in comparative quiet. By an act
of the Legislature of the 3d of April, 1799, the capital of the State was re
moved to Lancaster, and soon after the capital of the United States to Wash-
ington, the house on Ninth street, which had been built for the residence of the
President of the United States, passing to the use of the University of Pennsyl-
vania.
During the administrations of Thomas McKean, who was elected Governor
in 1799, and Simon Snyder in 1808, little beyond heated political contests
marked the even tenor of the government, until the breaking-out of the troub-
les which eventuated in the war of 1812. The blockade of the coast of France
in 1806, and the retaliatory measures of Napoleon in his Berlin decree, swept
American commerce, which had hitherto preserved a neutral attitude and prof-
ited by European wars, from the seas. The haughty conduct of Great Britain
in boarding American vessels for suspected deserters from the British Navy,
under cover of which the grossest outrages were committed, American seaman
being dragged from the decks of their vessels and impressed into the English
service, induced President Jefferson, in July, 1807, to issue his proclamation
ordering all British armed vessels to leave the waters of the United States, and
forbidding any to enter, until satisfaction for the past and security for the
future should be provided for. Upon the meeting of Congress in December,
an embargo was laid, detaining all vessels, American and foreign, then in
American waters, and ordering home all vessels abroad. Negotiations were
conducted between the two countries, but no definite results were reached, and
in the meantime causes of irritation multiplied until 1812, when President
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
IIT
Madison declared war against Great Britain, known as the war of 1812.
Pennsylvania promptly seconded the National Government, the message of
Gov. Snyder on the occasion ringing like a silver clarion. The national call
for 100,000 men required 14,000 from this State, but so great was the enthu-
siasm, that several times this number tendered their services. The State force
was organized in two divisions, to the command of the first of V7hich Maj
Gen. Isaac Morrell was appointed, and to the second Maj. Gen. Adamson Tan-
nehill. Gunboats and privateers were built in the harbor of Erie and on the
Delaware, and the defenses upon the latter were put in order and suitable
armaments provided. At Tippecanoe, at Detroit, at Queenstown Heights, at
the Eiver Raisin, at Fort Stephenson, and at the River Thames, the war was
waged with varying success. Upon the water. Commodores Decatur, Hull,
Jones, Perry, Lawrence, Porter and McDonough made a bright chapter in
American history, as was to be wished, inasmuch as the war had been under-
taken to vindicate the honor and integrity of that branch of the service. Napo-
leon, having met with disa'ster, and his power having been broken, 14,000 of
Wellington’s veterans were sent to Canada, and the campaign of the next year
was opened with vigor. But at the battles of Oswego, Chippewa, Lundy’s
Lane, Fort Erie and Plattsburg, the tide was turned against the enemy, and
the country saved from invasion. The act which created most alarm to
Pennsylvania was one of vandalism scarcely matched in the annals of war-
fare. In August, 1814, Gen. Ross, with 6,000 men in a flotilla of sixty sails,
moved up Chesapeake Bay, fired the capitol. President’s house and the various
offices of cabinet ministers, and these costly and substantial buildings, the nation-
al library and ail the records of the Government from its foundation were utterly
destroyed. Shortly afterward, Ross appeared before Baltimore with the design
of multiplying his barbarisms, but he was met by a force hastily collected under
Gen. Samuel Smith, a Pennsylvania veteran of the Revolution, and in the brief
engagement which ensued Ross was killed. In the severe battle with the
corps of Gen Strieker, the British lost some 300 men. The fleet in the mean-
time opened a fierce bombardment of Fort McHenry, and during the day and
ensuing night 1,500 bombshells were thrown, but all to no purpose, the gal-
lant defense of Maj. Armistead proving successful. It was during this awful
night that Maj. Key, who was a prisoner on board the fleet, wrote the song of
the Star Spangled Banner, which became the national lyric. It was in the ad-
ministration of Gov. Snydei in February, 1810, that an act was passed making
Harrisburg the seat of government, and a commission raised for erecting public
buildings, the sessions of the Legislature being held in the court house at Har-
risburg from 1812 to 1821.
The administrations of William Findley, elected in 1817, Joseph Heister,
in 1820, and John Andrew Schulz in 1823, followed without marked events.
Parties became very warm in their discussions and in their management of po-
litical campaigns. The charters for the forty banks which had been passed in
a fit of frenzy over the veto of Gov. Snyder set a flood of paper money afloat.
The public improvements, principally in opening lines of canal, were prose-
cuted, and vast debts incurred. These lines of conveyances were vitally need-
ful to move the immense products and vast resources of the State
Previous to the year 1820, little use was made of stone coal. Judge
Obediah Gore, a blacksmith, used it upon his forge as early as 1769, and
found the heat stronger and more enduring than that produced by charcoal.
In 1791, Phillip Ginter, of Carbon County, a hunter by profession, having on
one occasion been out all day without discovering any game, was returning at
night discouraged and worn out, across the Mauch Chunk Mountain, when, in
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
119
TABLE SHOVYING AMOUNT OP ANTHRACITE COAL PRODUCED IN
EACH REGION SINCE 1820.
YEAK.
Lehigh,
Tons.
Schuylkill.
Tons.
Wyoming,
Tons.
Lyken’s
Valley,
Shamokin,
etc.,
Tons.
Total Tone.
1820
365
365
1821
1,073
1,073
1822
2,240
1,480
3,730
1823
5,823
1,128
6 951
1824
9,541
1,567
11,108
1825
28,393
6,500
34,893
1826
31,280
16,767
- 48,047
1827
32,074
31,360
63,434
1828
30,232
47,384
77,516
1829
25,110
79,973
7,000
112,083
1830
41,750
89,934
43,000
174,734
1831
40,966
81,854
54000
176,830
1832
70,000
209,371
84,000
363 871
1833
123,001
252,971
111,777
487,748
1834
106,244
226,692
43,700
376,636
1835
131,250
339,508
90 000
560 758
1836
148,211
433,045
103,861
684 117
1837
223,903
530,152
115,387
879,441
1838
213,615
446,875
78,207
738,697
1839
221,025
463,147
122,300
11,930
818,402
1840
225,313
475,091
148,470
15,505
864,384
1841
143,037
603,003
192,270
21,463
959,973
1843.....
272, .540
573,273
253,599
10,000
1,108,418
1843
267.793
700,200
285,605
10,000
1,263,598
1844
377,002
874,850
365,911
13,087
1,630,850
1845
429,453
1,121,724
4.51,836
10,000
2,013,013
1846
517,116
1,295,928
518,389
12,572
2,344,005
1847
633,. 507
1,650,831
583,067
14,904
3,882,809
1848
670,331
1,714,365
685,196
19,356
3,089,338-
1849
781,6.56
1,683,425
732,910
45,075
3,242,966,
1850
690,456
1,782,936
837,823
57,684
3,358,899
1851
964,334
2,229,436
1,1.56,167
99,099
4,448,916.
1853
1,072,136
3,517,493
1,284,500
119,343
4,993,471
1853
1,0.54,309
3,551,603
1,475,732
113,507
5,195,151
1854....
1,307,186
2,957,670
1,603,473
234,090
6,003,334=
1855
1,284,113
3,318.555
1,771,511
234,388
6.608,517’
1856
1,351,970
3,289,585
1,972,581
313,444
6,937,580^
1857
1,318,541
2,985,541
1,953,603
388,356
6,664,941
1858
1,380,030
2,902,831
3,186,094
370,424
6,759,369
1859
1,628,311
3,004,953
2,731,236
443,755
7,808,255
1860
1,821,674
3,270,516
2,941,817
479, 116
8,513,133
1861
1,738,377
2,697,439
3,055,140
463,308
7,954,314
1863
1,351,054
3,890,593
3,145,770
481,990
7,875,412
186.3
1,894,713
3,433,265
3,759,610
478,418
9,566,006
1864
3,054,669
3,643,318
3,960,836
519,752
10,177,475
186.5
3,040,913
3,755,803
3,254,519
621,157
9,653,391
1866
2,179,364
4,957,180
4,736,616
830,723
12,703,883
1867
2,503,054
4,334,820
5,325,000
836,851
12,991,725
1868
2,507,583
4,414,356
.5,990,813
931,381
13,834,132
1869
1,939,523
4,831,353
6,068,369
903,885
13,723,030
1870
3,172,916
3,853,016
7,825,128
998,839
15,849,899
1871
2,235,707
6 553 772
6,911,243
15 699 721
1873
3,873,339
6,694 890
9 101,549
19,669 778
1873
3,705,596
7,313,601
10,309,755
21,227,952
1874
3,773,836
6i866'877
9,504,408
20,145421
1875
2,834,605
6,281 712
10,596,155
19,712 472
1876
3,8.54,919
6 321,934
8,424,158
18,501,011
1877
4,333,760
8 195' 042
8i300'377
20 828 179
1878
3,237,449
6 383,236
8i 085, 587
17,605,262
1879
4, .595, 567
8 960i339
13 586 298
26 143 689
1880
4,463,221
7,554.743
11,419 379
23 437,242
1881
5,294,676
9,253,9,58
13,951,383
28].500!o16
1883.
9,459,288
13^974371
39 130 096
1883
6,113,809
10,074,726
15,604,493
3L 793! 029
120
HISTORY 07 PENNSYLVANIA
the gathering shades he stumbled upon something which seemed to have a
glistening appearance, that he was induced to pick up and carry home. This
specimen was taken to Philadelphia, where an analysis showed it to be a good
quality of anthracite coal. But, though coal was known to exist, no one knew
how to use it. In 1812, Col. George Shoemaker, of Schuylkill County, took
nine wagon loads to Philadelphia. But he was looked upon as an imposter
for attempting to sell worthless stone for coal. He finally sold two loads for
the cost of transportation, the remaining seven proving a complete loss. In
2812, White & Hazard, manufacturers of wire at the Falls of Schuylkill, in-
duced an application to be made to the Legislature to incorporate a com
pany for the improvement of the Schuylkill, urging as an inducement the im-
portance it would have for transporting coal; whereupon, the Senator from
that district, in his place, with an air of knowledge, asserted “that there was
no coal there, that there was a kind of black stone which was called coal, but
that it would not burn.”
White & Hazard procured a cart load of Lehigh coal that cost them $1 a
bushel, which was all wasted in a vain attempt to make it ignite. Another
cart load was obtained, and a whole night spent in endeavoring to make a fire
in the furnace, when the hands shut the furnace door and left the mill in de-
spair. “Fortunately one of them left his jacket in the mill, and returning for
it in about half an hour, noticed that the door was red hot, and upon opening
it, was surprised at finding the whole furnace at a glowing white heat. The
other hands were summoned, and four separate parcels of iron wei’e heated
and rolled by the same fire before it required renewing. The furnace was
replenished, and as letting it alone had succeeded so well, it was concluded to
try it again, and the experiment was repeated with the same result. The
Lehigh Navigation Company and the Lehigh Coal Company were incorporated
in 1818, which companies became the basis of the Lehigh Coal and Naviga-
tion Company, incorporated in 1822. In 1820, coal was sent to Philadelphia
by artificial navigation, but 365 tons glutted the market.” In 1825, there
were brought by the Schuylkill 5,378 tons. In 1826, by the Schuylkill,
16,265 tons, and by the Lehigh 31,280 tons. The stage of water being in-
sufficient, dams and sluices were constructed near Mauch Chunk, in 1819, by
which the navigation was impi'oved. The coal boats used were great square
.arks, 16 to 18 feet wide, and 20 to 25 feet long. At first, two of these were
joined together by hinges, to allow them to yield up and down in passing over
Ihe dams. Finally, as the boatmen became skilled in the navigation, several
were joined, attaining a length of 180 feet. Machinery was used for jointing
the planks, and so expert had the men become that five would build an ark
and launch it in forty-five minutes. After reaching Philadelphia, these boats
were taken to pieces, the plank sold, and the hinges sent back for constructing
others. Such were the crude methods adopted in the early days for bringing
coal to a market. In 1827, a railroad was commenced, which was completed
in three months, nine miles in length. This, with the exception of one at
Quincy, Mass., of four miles, built in 1826, was the first constructed in the
United States. The descent was 100 feet per mile, and the coal descended by
gravity in a half hour, and the cars were drawn back by mules, which rode
down with the coal. “The mules cut a most grotesque figure, standing three
or four together, in their cars, with their feeding troughs before them, appar-
ently surveying with delight the scenery of the mountain; and though they
preserve the most profound gravity, it is utterly impossible for the spectator
to maintain his. It is said that the mules, having once experienced the com-
fort of riding down, regard it as a right, and neither mild nor severe measures
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
121
will induce them to descend in any other way.” Bituminous coal was discov-
ered and its qualities utilized not much earlier than the anthracite. A tract
of coal land was taken up in Clearfield County in 1785, by Mr. S. Boyd, and
in 1804 he sent an ark down the Susquehanna to Columbia, which caused
much surprise to the inhabitants that “ an article with which they were wholly
unacquainted should be brought to their own doors.”
During the administrations of George Wolf, elected in 1829, and Joseph
Bitner, elected in 1835, a measure of great beneficence to the State was passed
and brought into a good degree of successful operation— nothing less than a
broad system of public education. Schools had been early established in
Philadelphia, and parochial schools in the more populous portion’s of the
State from the time of early settlement. In 1749, through the influence of
Dr. Franklin, a charter was obtained for a “college, academy, and charity
school of Pennsylvania,” and from this time to the beginning of the present
century, the friends of education were earnest in establishing colleges, the
Colonial Government, and afterward the Legislature, making liberal grants
from the revenues accruing from the sale of lands for their support, the uni-
versity of Pennsylvania being chartered in 1752, Dickinson College in 1783,
Franklin and Marshall College in 1787, and Jefferson College in 1802. Com-
mencing near the beginning of this century, and continuing for over a period
of thirty years, vigorous exertions were put forth to establish county acad-
emies. Charters were granted for these institutions at the county seats of
forty-one counties, and appropriations were made of money, varying from
$2,000 to $6,000, and in several instances of quite extensive land grants. In
1809, an act was passed for the education of the “poor, gratis.” The Asses-
sors in their annual rounds were to make a record of all such as were indi-
gent, and pay for their education in the most convenient schools. But few
were found among the spirited inhabitants of the commonwealth willing to
admit that they were so poor as to be objects of charity.
By the act of April 1, 1834, a general system of education by common
schools was established. Unfortunately it was complex and unwieldy. At the
next session an attempt was made to repeal it, and substitute the old law of
1809 for educating the “poor, gratis,” the repeal having been can-ied in the
Senate. But through the appeals of Thaddeus Stevens, a man alwa^^s in the
van in every movement for the elevation of mankind, this was defeated. At
the next session, 1836, an entirely new bill, discarding the objectionable feat-
ures of the old one, was prepared by Dr. George Smith, of Delaware County,
and adopted, and from this time forward has been in efiicient operation. It may
seem strange that so long a time should have elapsed before a general system of
education should have been secured. But the diversity of origin and lan-
guage, the antagonism of religious seats, the very great sparseness of popula-
tion in many parts, made it impossible at an earlier day to establish schools.
In 1854, the system was improved by engrafting upon it the feature of the
County Superintendency, and in 1859 by providing for the establishment of
twelve Normal Schools, in as many districts into which the State was divided,
for the professional training of teachers.
122
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
CHAPTEE XIY.
David R. Porter, 1839-45— Francis R. Siicnk, 1845-48— William F. Johnstone
1848-52— William Bigler, 1852-55— James Pollock, 1855-58 — William F.
Packer, 1858-61— Andrew G. Curtin, 1861-67— John W. Geary, 1867-73—
John F. Hartranft, 1873-78— Henry F. Hoyt, 1878-82— Robert E. Pat-
TISON, 1882.
IN 1837, a convention assembled in Harrisburg, and subsequently in Philadel-
phia, for revising the constitution, which revision was adopted by a vote of
the people. One of the chief objects of the change was the breaking up of
what was known as “omnibus legislation,” each bill being required to have
but one distinct subject, to be definitely stated in the title. Much of the pat-
ronage of the Governor was taken from him, and he was allowed but two terms
of three years in any nine years. The Senator’s term was fixed at three years.
The terms of Supreme Court Judges were limited to fifteen years, Common
Pleas Judges to ten, and Associate Judges to five. A step backward was taken
in limiting suffrage to white male citizens twenty-one years old, it having pre-
viously been extended to citizens irrespective of color. Amendments could be
proposed once in five years, and if adopted by two successive Legislatures,
and approved by a vote of the people, they became a part of the organic law.
At the opening of the gubernatorial term of David R. Porter, who was
chosen in October, 1838, a civil commotion occurred known as the Buckshot
War, which at one time threatened a sanguinary result. By the returns.
Porter had some 5,000 majority over Ritner, but the latter, who was the in-
cumbent, alleged frauds, and proposed an investigation and revision of the
returns. Thomas H. Burrows was Secretary of State, and Chairman of the
State Committee of the Anti-Masonic party, and in an elaborate address to the
people setting forth the grievance, he closed with the expression “ let us treat
the election as if we had not been defeated.” This expression gave great
offense to the opposing party, the Democratic, and public feeling ran high
before the meeting of the Legislature. Whether an investigation could be had
would depend upon the political complexion of that body. The Senate was
clearly Anti-Masonic, and the House would depend upon the Representatives of
a certain district in Philadelphia, which embraced the Northern Liberties.
The returning board of this district had a majority of Democrats, who pro-
ceeded to throw out the entire vote of Northern Liberties, for some alleged
irregularities, and gave the certificate to Democrats. Whereupon, the minor-
ity of the board assembled, and counted the votes of the Northern Liberties,
which gave the election to the Aiiti-Masonic candidates, and sent certificates
accordingly. By right and justice, there is no doubt that the Anti-Masons
were fairly elected. But the majority of a returning board alone have
authority to make returns, and the Democrats had the certificates which bore
prima facie evidence of being correct, and should have been received and
transmitted to the House, where alone rested the authority to go behind the
returns and investigate their correctness. But upon the meeting of the House
the Secretary of the Commonwealth sent in the certificates of the minority of
the returning board of the Northern Liberties district, which gave the major-
ity to the Anti -Masons. But the Democrats were not disposed to submit, and
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
123
the consequence was that two delegations from the disputed district appeared,
demanding seats, and upon the organization, two Speakers were elected and
took the platform — Thomas S. Cunningham for the Anti-Masons, and "Will-
iam Hopkins for the Democrats. At this stage of the game, an infuriated
lobby, collected from Philadelphia and surrounding cities, broke into the
two Houses, and, interrupting all business, threatened the lives of members,
and compelled them to seek safety in flight, when they took uncontrolled pos-
session of the chambers and indulged in noisy and impassioned harangues.
From the capitol, the mob proceeded to the court house, where a “committee
of safety” was appointed. For several days ‘the members dared not enter
either House, and when one of the parties of the House attempted to assemble,
the person who had been appointed to act as Speaker was forcibly ejected. All
business was at an end, and the Executive and State Departments were closed.
At this juncture. Gov. Ritner ordered out the militia, and at the same time
called on the United States authorities for help. The militia, under Gens.
Pattison and Alexander, came promptly to the rescue, but the President refused
to furnish the National troops, though the United States storekeeper at the
Frankford Arsenal turned over a liberal supply of ball and buckshot cartridges.
The arrival of the militia only served to Are the spirit of the lobby, and they
immediately commenced drilling and organizing, supplying themselves with
arms and fixed ammunition. The militia authorities were, however, able to
clear the capitol, when the two Houses assembled, and the Senate signified the
willingness to recognize that branch of the House presided over by Mr. Hop-
kins. This ended the difficulty, and Gov. Porter was duly inaugurated.
Francis E. Shunk was chosen Governor in 1845, and during his term of
office the war with Mexico occurred. Two volunteer regiments, one under
command of Col, Wynkoop, and the other under Col. Roberis, subsequently
Col. John W. Geary, were sent to the field, while the services of a much
larger number were offered, but could not be received. Toward the close of
his first term, having been reduced by sickness, and feeling his end appi’oach-
ing. Gov. Shunk resigned, and was succeeded by the Speaker of the Senate,
William F. Johnston, who was duly chosen at the next annual election. Dur-
ing the administrations of William' Bigler, elected in 1851, James Pollock in
1854, and William F. Packer in 1857, little beyond the ordinary course of
events marked the history of the State. The lines of public works undertaken
at the expense of the State were completed. Their cost had been enormous,
and a debt was piled up against it of over 140,000,000. These works, vastly
expensive, were still to operate and keep in repair, and the revenues therefrom
failing to meet expectations, it was determined in the administration of Gov.
Pollock to sell them to the highest bidder, the Pennsylvania Railroad Com-
pany purchasing them for the sum of $7,500,000.
In the administration of Gov. Packer, petroleum was first discovered in
quantities in this country by boring into the bowels of the earth. From the
earliest settlement of the country it was known to exist. As early as July 18,
1627, a French missionary, Joseph Delaroche Daillon, of the order of Recol-
lets, described it in a letter published in 1632, in Segard’s L’Histoire du
Canada, and this description is confirmed by the journal of Charlevois, 1721.
Fathers Dollier and Galinee, missionaries of the order of St. Sulpice, made a
map of this section of country, which they sent to Jean Talon, Intendent of
Canada, on the 10th of November, 1670, on which was marked at about the
point where is now the town of Cuba, N. Y. , “Fontaine de Bitume.” The
Earl of Belmont, Governor of New York, instructed his chief engineer,
Wolfgang W. Romer, on September 3, 1700, in his visit to the Six Nations,
124
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
“ To go and view a well or spring whicli is eight miles beyond the Seneks’
farthest castle, which they have told me blazes up in a flame, when a lighted
coale or firebrand is put into it; you will do well to taste the said water, and
give me your opinion thereof, and bring with you some of it.” Thomas Cha-
bert de Joncaire, who died in September, 1740, is mentioned in the journal of
Charlevoix of 1721 as authority for the existence of oil at the place mentioned
above, and at points further south, probably on Oil Creek. The following
account of an event occurring during the occupancy of this part of the State
by the French is given as an example of the religious uses made of oil by the
Indians, as these fire dances are understood to have been annually celebrated:
“While descending the Allegheny, fifteen leagues below the mouth of the
Connewango (Warren) and three above Fort Venango (Oil City), we were
invited by the chief of the Senecas to attend a religious ceremony of his tribe.
We landed and drew up our canoes on a point where a small stream entered
the river. The tribe appeared unusually solemn. We marched up the stream
about a half a league, where the company, a large band it appeared, had
arrived some days before us. Gigantic hills begirt us on every side. The
scene was really sublime. The great chief then recited the conquests and
heroisms of their ancestors. The surface of the stream was covered with a
thick scum, which burst into a complete conflagration. The oil had been
gathered and lighted with a torch. At sight of the flames, the Indians gave
forth a triumphant shout, and made the hills and valley re-echo again.”
In nearly all geographies and notes of travel published during the early
period of settlement, this oil is referred to, and on several maps the word petro-
leum appears opposite the mouth of Oil Creek. Gen. Washington, in his will,
in speaking of his lands on the Great Kanawha, says: “ The tract of which the
125 acres is a moiety, was taken up by Gen. Andrew Lewis and myself, for and
on account of a bituminous spring which it contains of so inflammable a nat-
ure as to burn as freely as spirits, and is as nearly difficult to extinguish.”
Mr. Jefferson, in his Notes on Virginia, also gives an account of a burning
spring on the lower grounds of the Great Kanawha. This oil not only seems
to have been known, but to have been systematically gathered in very early
times. Upon the flats a mile or so below the city of Titusville are many acres
of cradle holes dug out and lined with split logs, evidently constructed for
the purpose of gathering it. The fact that the earliest inhabitants could
never discover any stumps from which these logs were cut, and the further fact
that trees are growing of giant size in the midst of these cradles, are evidences
that they must have been operated long ago. It could not have been the work
of any of the nomadic Indian tribes found here at the coming of the white
man, for they were never known to undertake any enterprise involving so
much labor, and what could they do with the oil when obtained.
The French could hardly have done the work, for we have no account of
the oil having been obtained in quantities, or of its being transported to
France. May this not have been the work of the Mound- Builders, or of colo
nies from Central America? When the writer first visited these pits, in 1855,
he found a spring some distance below Titusville, on Oil Creek, where the
water was conducted into a trough, from which, daily, the oil, floating on its
surface, was taken off by throwing a woolen blanket upon it, and then vTring-
ing it into a tub, the clean wool absorbing the oil and rejecting the water, and
in this way a considerable quantity was obtained.
In 1859, Mr. E. L. Drake, at first representing a company in New York,
commenced drilling near the spot where this tub was located, and when the
company would give him no more money, straining his own resources, and his
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
125
credit with his friends almost to the breaking point, and when about to give
up in despair, finally struck a powerful current of pure oil. From this time
forward, the territory down the valley of Oil Creek and up all its tributaries
was rapidly acquired and developed for oil land. In some places, the oil was
sent up with immense force, at the rate of thousands of barrels each day, and
great trouble was experienced in bringing it under control and storing it. In
some cases, the force of the gas was so powerful on being accidentally fired,
as to defy all approach for many days, and lighted up the forests at night
with billows of light.
The oil has been found in paying quantities in McKean, Warren, Forest,
Crawford, Venango, Clarion, Butler and Armstrong Counties, chiefly along
the upper waters of the Allegheny River and its tributary, the Oil Creek. It
was first transported in barrels, and teams were kept busy from the first dawn
until far into the night. As soon as practicable, lines of railway were con-
structed from nearly all the trunk lines. Finally barrels gave place to im-
mense iron tanks riveted upon cars, provided for the escape of the gases, and
later great pipe lines were extended from the wells to the seaboard, and to the
Great Lakes, through which the fluid is forced by steam to its distant destina-
tions Its principal uses are for illumination and lubricating, though many
of its products are employed in the mechanic arts, notably for dyeing, mixing
of paints, and in the practice of medicine. Its production has grown to be
enormous, and seems as yet to show no sign of diminution. We -give an ex-
hibit of the annual production since its discovery, compiled for this work by
William II. Siviter, editor of the Oil City Derrick, which is the acknowledged
authority on oil matters:
Production of the Pennsylvania Oil Fields, compiled from the Derrick's
Hand-book, December, 1883:
Barrels, Barrels.
1859
1860
1861
1862
1863
1864
1865
1866
1867
1868
1869
1870
1871
1872
82,000 1873 9,849,508
500,000 1874 ...11,102,114
2,113,(100 1875 8,948,749
3,056,606 1876 9,142,940
2,611,399 1877 13,052,713
2,116,182 1878 15,011,425
3,497,712 1879 20,085,716
3,597,512 1880 24,788,950
3,347,306 1881 29,674,458
3,715,741 1882 31,789,190
4,186,475 1883.. 24,385,966
5,308,046
5,278,076 A grand total of 243,749,558
6,505,774
In the fall of 1860, Andrew G. Curtin was elected Governor of Pennsyl-
vania, and Abraham Lincoln President of the United States. An organized
rebellion, under the specious name of secession, was thereupon undertaken,
embracing parts of fifteen States, commonly designated the Slave States, and
a government established under the nameof the Confederate States of America,
with an Executive and Congress, which commenced the raising of troops for
defense.
On the 12th of April, an attack was made upon a small garrison of United
States troops shut up in Fort Sumter. This was rightly interpreted as the-
first act in a great drama. On the 15th, the President summoned 75,000 vol-
unteers to vindicate the national authority, calling for sixteen regiments from
Pennsylvania, and urging that two be sent forward immediately, as the capital
was without defenders.
The people of the State, having no idea that war could be possible, had no
126
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
preparation for the event, There chanced at the time to be five companies in
a tolerable state of organization. These were the Ringold Light Artillery,
Capt. McKnight, of Reading; the Logan Guards, Capt. Selheimer, of Lewis-
town; the Washington Artillery, Capt. Wren, and the National Light Infan-
try, Capt. McDonald, of Pottsville; and the Allen Rifles, Capt. Yeager, of
Allentown.
On the 18th, in conjunction with a company of fifty regulars, on their way
from the West to Fort McHenry, under command of Capt. Pemberton, after-
ward Lieut. Gen. Pemberton, of the rebel army, these troops moved by rail
for Washington. At Baltimore, they were obliged to march two milesthrough
a jeering and insulting crowd. At the center of the city, the regulars filed
off toward Fort McHenry, leaving the volunteers to pursue their way alone,
when the crowd of maddened people were excited to redoubled insults. In the
whole battalion there was not a charge of powder; but a member of the Logan
Guards, who chanced to have a box of percussion caps in his pocket, had dis-
tributed them to his comrades, who carried their pieces capped and half
cocked, creating the impression that they were loaded and ready for service.
This ruse undoubtedly saved the battalion from the murderous assault made
upon the Massachusetts Sixth on the following day. Before leaving, they were
pelted with stones and billets of wood while boarding the cars; but, fortu-
nately, none were seriously injured, and the train finally moved away and
reached Washington in safety, the first troops to come to the unguarded and
imperiled capital.
Instead of sixteen, twenty-five regiments were organized for the three months’
service from Pennsylvania. Judging from the threatening attitude assumed
by the rebels across the Potomac that the southern frontier would be con-
stantly menaced. Gov. Curtin sought permission to organize a select corps,
to consist of thirteen regiments of infantry, one of cavalry, and one of artillery,
and to be known as the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, which the Legislature, in
special session, granted. This corps of 15,000 men was speedily raised, and the
intention of the State authorities was to keep this body permamently within
the limits of the Commonwealth for defense. But at the time of the First
Bull Run disaster in July, 1861, the National Government found itself with-
out troops to even defend the capital, the time of the three months’ men being
now about to expire, and at its urgent call this fine body was sent forward and
never again returned for the execution of the duty for which it was formed,
having borne the brunt of the fighting on many a hard-fought field during the
three years of its service.
In addition to the volunteer troops furnished in response to the several
calls of the President, upon the occasion of the rebel invasion of Maryland in
September, 1862, Gov. Curtin called 50,000 men for the emergency, and
though the time was very brief, 25,000 came, were organized under command
of Gen. John F. Reynolds, and were marched to the border. But the battle of
Antietam, fought on the 17th of September, caused the enemy to beat a hasty
retreat, and the border was relieved when the emergency troops were dis-
banded and returned to their homes. On the 19th of October, Gen. J. E. B.
Stewart, of the rebel army, with 1,800 horsemen under command of Hampton,
Lee and Jones, crossed the Potomac and made directly for Chambersburg,
arriving after dark. Not waiting for morning to attack, he sent in a flag of
truce demanding the surrender of the town. There w'ere 275 Union soldiers in
hospital, whom he paroled. During the night, the troopers were busy picking
up horses — swapping horses perhaps it should be called — and the morning saw
them early on the move. The rear guard gave notice before leaving to re-
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
127
move all families from the neighborhood of the public buildings, as they in-
tended to tire them. There was a large amount of fixed ammunition in them,
which had been captured from Longstreet’s train, besides Government stores
of shoes, clothing and muskets. At 11 o’clock the station house, round house,
railroad machine shops and warehouses were fired and consigned to
destruction. The fire department was promptly out; but it was dangerous to
approach the burning buildings on account of the ammunition, and all
perished.
The year 1862 was one of intense excitement and activity. From about the
1st of May, 1861, to the end of 1862, there were recruited in the State. of Penn-
sylvania, one hundred and eleven regiments, including eleven of cavalry and
three of artillery, for three year's’ service; twenty-five regiments for three months;
seventeen for nine months; fifteen of drafted militia; and twenty-five called out
for the emergency, an aggregate of one hundred and ninety-three regiments — a
grand total of over 200,000 men — a great army in itself.
In June, 1863, Gen. tiobert E. Lee, with his entire army of Northern Vir-
ginia, invaded Pennsylvania. The Army of the Potomac, under Gen. Joseph
Hooker, followed. The latter was superseded on the 28th of June by Gen. George
G. Meade. The vanguards of the army met a mile or so out of Gettysburg on the
Chambersburg pike on the morning of the 1st of July. Hill’s corps of the
rebel army was held in check by the sturdy fighting of a small division of
cavalry under Gen. Buford until 10 o’clock, when Gen. Reynolds came to his
relief with the First Corps. While bringing his forces into action, Reynolds
was killed, and the command devolved on Gen. Abner Doubleday, and the
fighting became terrible, the Union forces being greatly outnumbered. At 2
o’clock in the afternoon, the Eleventh Corps, Gen. O. O. Howard, came to the
support of the First. But now the corps of Ewell had joined hands with Hill,
and a full two -thirds of the entire rebel army was on the field, opposed by
only the two weak Union corps, in an inferior position. A sturdy fight was
however maintained until 5 o’clock, when the Union forces withdrew through
the town, and took position upon rising ground covering the Baltimore pike.
During the night the entire Union army came up, with the exception of the
Sixth Corps, and took position, and at 2 o’clock in the morning Gen. Meade
and staff came on the field. During the morning hours, and until 4 o’clock in
the afternoon, the two armies were getting into position for the desperate
struggle. The Third Corps, Gen. Sickles, occupied the extreme left, his corps
abutting on the Little Round Top at the Devil’s Den, and reaching, en echelon,
through the rugged ground to the Peach Orchard, and thence along the Em-
mettsburg pike, where it joined the Second Corps, Gen. Hancock, reaching
over Cemetery Hill, the Eleventh Corps, Gen. Howard, the First, Gen. Double-
day, and the Twelfth, Gen. Slocum, reaching across Culp’s Hill — the whole
crescent shape. To this formation the rebel army conformed, Longstreet op-
posite the Union left. Hill opposite the center, and Ewell opposite the Union
right. At 4 P. M. the battle was opened by Longstreet, on the extreme left of
Sickles, and the fighting became terrific, the rebels making strenuous efforts
to gain Little Round Top. But at the opportune moment a part of the Fifth
Corps, Gen. Sykes, was brought upon that key position, and it was saved to
the Union side. The slaughter in front of Round Top at the wheat-field and
the Peach Orchard was fearful. The Third Corps was driven back from its
advanced position, and its commander, Gen. Sickles, was wounded, losing a
leg. In a more contracted position, the Union lino was made secure, where it
rested for the night. Just at dusk, the Louisiana Tigers, some 1,800 men,
made a desperate charge on Cemetery Hill, emerging suddenly from a hillock
128
HISTORY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
just back of the town. The struggle was desperate, but the Tigers being
weakened by the fire of the artillery, and by the infantry crouching behind the
stone wall, the onset was checked, and Carroll’s brigade, of the Second Corps,
coming to the rescue, they were finally beaten back, terribly decimated. At
about the same time, a portion of Ewell’s corps made an advance on the ex-
treme Union right, at a point where the troops had been withdrawn to send to
the support of Sickles, and unopposed, gained the extremity of Culp’s Hill,
pushing through nearly to the Baltimore pike, in dangerous proximity to the
reserve artillery and trains, and even the headquarters of the Union com-
mander. But in their attempt to roll up the Union right they were met by
Green’s brigade of the Twelfth Corps, and by desperate fighting their further
progress was stayed. Thus ended the battle of the second day. The Union left
and right had been sorely jammed and pushed back.
At 4 o’clock on the morning of the 3d of July, Gen. Geary, who had been
ordered away to the support of Sickles, having returned during the night and
taken position on the right of Green, opened the battle for the recovery of his
lost breastworks on the right of Culp’s Hill. Until 10 o’clock, the battle raged
with unabated fury. The heat was intolerable, and the sulphurous vapor
hung like a pall over the combatants, shutting out the light of day. The
fighting was in the midst of the forest, and the echoes resounded with fearful
distinctness. The Twelfth Corps was supported by portions of the Sixth,
which had now come up. At length the enemy, weakened and finding them-
selves overborne on all sides, gave way, and the Union breastworks were re-
occupied and the Union right made entirely secure. Comparative quiet now
reigned on either side until 2 o’clock in the afternoon, in the meantime both
sides bringing up fresh troops and repairing damages. The rebel leader hav-
ing brought his best available artillery in upon his right center, suddenly
opened with 150 pieces a concentric fire upon the devoted Union left center,
where stood the troops of Hancock and Doubleday and Sickles. The shock
was terrible. Rarely has such a cannonade been known on any field. For
nearly two hours it was continued. Thinking that the ‘Union line had been
broken and demoralized by this fire, Longstreet brought out a fresh corps of
some 18,000 men, under Pickett, and charged full upon the point which had
been the mark for the cannonade. As soon as this charging column came into
view, the Union artillery opened upon it from right and left and center, and
rent it with fearful effect. When come within musket range, the Union
troops, who had been crouching behind slight pits and a low stone wall,
poured in a most murderous fire. Still the rebels pushed forward with a bold
face, and actually crossed the Union lines and had their hands on the Union
guns. But the slaughter was too terrible to withstand. The killed and
wounded lay scattered over all the plain. Many were gathered in as prisoners.
Finally, the remnant staggered back, and the battle of Gettysburg was at an
end.
Gathering all in upon his fortified line, the rebel chieftain fell to strength-
ening it, which he held with a firm hand. At night-fall, he put his trains
with the wounded upon the retreat. During the 4th, great activity in build-
ing works was manifest, and a heavy skirmish line was kept well out, which
resolutely met any advance of Union forces. The entire fighting force of the
rebel army remained in position behind their breastworks on Oak Ridge, until
nightfall of the 4th, when, under cover of darkness, it was withdrawn, and
before morning was well on its way to Williamsport. The losses on the Union
side were 2,834 killed, 13,709 wounded, and 6,643 missing, an aggregate of
23, 186. Of the losses of the enemy, no adequate returns were made. Meade
HISTOBY OP PENNSYLVANIA.
12^
reports 13,621 prisoners taken, and the losses by killed and wounded must
have been greater than on the Union side. On the rebel side, Maj. Gens.
Hood, Pender, Trimble and Heth were wounded, Pender mortally. Brig.
Gens. Barksdale and Garnett were killed, and Semms mortally wounded.
Brig. Gens. Kemper, Armistead, Scales, G. T. Anderson, Hampton, J. M.
Jones and Jenkins were wounded; Archer was taken prisoner and Pettigrew
was wounded and subsequently killed at Palling Waters. In the Union army
Maj. Gen. Reynolds and Brig. Gens. Vincent, Weed, Willard and Zook were
killed. Maj. Gens. Sickles, Hancock, Doubleday, Gibbon, Barlow, Warren
and Butterfield, and Brig. Gens. Graham, Paul, Stone, Barnes and Brooke
were wounded. A National Cemetery was secured on the center of the field,
where, as soon as the weather would permit, the dead were gathered and care-
fully interred. Of the entire number interred, 3,512, Maine had 104; New
Hampshire, 49; Vermont, 61; Massachusetts, 159; Rhode Island, 12; Con-
necticut, 22; New York, 867; New Jersey, 78; Pennsylvania, 534; Delaware,
15; Maryland, 22; West Virginia, 11; Ohio, 131; Indiana, 80; Illinois, 6;
Michigan, 171; "Wisconsin, 73; Minnesota, 52; United States Regulars, 138;
unknown, 979. In the center of the field, a noble monument has been erect-
ed, and on the 19th of November, 1864, the ground was formally dedicated,
when the eminent orator, Edward Everett, delivered an oration, and President
Lincoln delivered the following dedicatory address:
“ Fourscore and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth upon this conti-
nent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that
all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing
whether that nation or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long en-
dure. We are met on a great battle field of that war. We are met to dedi-
cate a portion of it as the final resting place of those who here gave their
lives that this nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we
should do this. But in a larger sense we cannot dedicate, we cannot conse-
crate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who
struggled here have consecrated it far above our power to add or detract.
The world will little note nor long remember what we say here, but it can
never forget what they did here. It is for us, the living, rather to be dedi-
cated here to the unfinished work that they have thus far so nobly carried on.
It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us —
that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to the cause for which
they here gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve
that the dead shall not have died in vain; that the nation shall, under God,
have a new birth of freedom, and that the government of the people, by the
people, and for the people shall not perish from the earth.’’
So soon as indications pointed to a possible invasion of the North by the
rebel army under Gen. Lee, the State of Pennsylvania was organized in two
military departments, that of the Susquehanna, to the command of which
Darius N. Couch was assigned, with headquarters at Harri-sbm’g, and that of
the Monongahela, under W. T. H. Brooks, with headquarters at Pittsburgh.
Urgent calls for the militia were made, and large numbers in regiments, in
companies, in squadrons came promptly at the call to the number of over 36,-
000 men, who were organized for a period of ninety days. Fortifications
were thrown up to cover Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, and the troops were moved
to threatened points. But before they could be brought into action, the great
decisive conflict had been fought, and the enemy driven from northern soil.
Four regiments under Gen. Brooks were moved into Ohio to aid in arresting a
raid undertaken by John Morgan, who, with 2,000 horse and four guns, had
crossed the Ohio River for a diversion in favor of Lee. s
130
HISTOBY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
In the beginning of July, 1864, Gen. Early invaded Maryland, and made
hie way to the threshold of Washington. Fearing another invasion of the
State, Gov. Curtin called for volunteers to serve for 100 days. Gen. Couch
was still at the head of the department of the Susquehanna, and six regiments
and six companies were organized, but as fast as organized they were called to
the front, the last regiment leaving the State on the 29th of July. On the
evening of this day, Gens. McCausland, Bradley Johnson and Harry Gilmore,
with 3,000 mounted men and six guns, crossed the Potomac, and made their
way to Chambersburg. Another column of 3,000, under Vaughn and Jackson
advanced to Hagerstown, and a third to Leitersburg. Averell, with a small
force, was at Hagerstown, but finding himself over-matched withdrew through
Greencastle to Mount Hope. Lieut. McLean, with fifty men in front of Mc-
Causland, gallantly kept his face to the foe, and checked the advance at every
favorable point. On being apprised of their coming, the public stores at Cham-
bersburg were moved northw.ard. At six A. M. , McCausland opened his bat-
teries upon the town, but, finding it unprotected, took possession. Ringing the
court house bell to call the people together, Capt. Fitzhugh read an order to
the assembly, signed by Gen. Jubal Early, directing the command to proceed
to Chambersburg and demand 1100,000 in gold, or $500,000 in greenbacks,
and, if not paid, to burn the town. While this parley was in progress, hats,
caps, boots, watches, clothing and valuables were unceremoniously appropriated,
and purses demanded at the point of the bayonet. As money was not in hand
to meet so unexpected a draft, the torch was lighted. In less than a quarter
of an hour from the time the first match was applied, the whole business part
of the town was in flames. No notice was given for removing the women and
children and sick. Burning parties were sent into each quarter of the town,
which made thorough work. With the exception of a few houses upon the
outskirts, the whole was laid in ruins. Retiring rapidly, the entire rebel
command recrossed the Potomac before any adequate force could be gathered
to check its progress.
The whole number of soldiers recruited under the various calls for troops
from the State of Pennsylvania was 366,000. By authority of the common-
wealth, in 1866, the commencement was made of the publication of a history
of these volunteer organizations, embracing a brief historical account of the
part taken by each regiment and independent body in every battle in which it
was engaged, with the name, rank, date of muster, period for which he en-
listed, casualties, and fate of every officer and private. This work was com-
pleted in 1872, in five imperial octavo volumes of over 1,400 pages each.
In May, 1861, the Society of the Cincinnati of Pennsylvania, an organiza-
tion of the officers of the Revolutionary war and their descendants, donated
$500 toward arming and equipping troops. By order of the Legislature,
this sum was devoted to procuring flags for the regiments, and each organiza-
tion that went forth, was provided with one emblazoned with the arms of the
commonwealth. These flags, seamed and battle stained, were returned at the
close of the war, aud are now preserved in a room devoted to the purpose in
the State capitol — precious emblems of the daring and suffering of that great
army that went forth to uphold and maintain the integrity of the nation.
When the war was over, the State undertook the charge of providing for
all soldiers’ orphans in schools located in different parts of its territory, fur-
nishing food, clothing, instruction and care, until they should be grown to
manhood and womanhood. The number thus gathered and cared for has been
some 7,500 annually, for a period of nineteen years, at an average annual ex-
pense of some $600,000.
HISTOBY OF PENNSYLVANIA.
131
At tliG election in 1866, John W. Geary, a veteran General of the late war.
was chosen Governor. During his administration, settlements were made with
the General Government, extraordinary debts incurred during the war were
paid, and a large reduction of the old debt of $40,000,000 inherited from the
construction of the canals, was made. A convention for a revision of the con-
stitution was ordered by act of April 11, 1872. This convention assembled in
Harrisburg November 18, and adjourned to meet in Philadelphia, where it
convened on the 7th of January, 1873, and the instrument framed was adopted
on the I8th of December, 1873. By its provisions, the number of Senators
was increased from thirty-three to fifty, and Representatives from 100 to 201,
subject to further increase in proportion to increase of population; biennial,
in place of annual sessions; making the term of Supreme Court Judges twenty-
one in place of fifteen years; remanding a large class of legislation to the ac-
tion of the courts; making the term of Governor four years in place of three,
and prohibiting special legislation, were some of the changes provided for.
In January, 1873, John F. Hartranft became Governor, and at the election
in 1878, Henry F. Hoyt was chosen Governor, both soldiers of the late war.
In the summer of 1877, by concert of action of the employes on the several
lines of railway in the State, trains were stopped and travel and traffic were in-
terrupted for several days together. At Pittsburgh, conflicts occurred between
the railroad men and the militia, and a vast amount of property was destroyed.
The opposition to the local military was too powerful to be conti’olled, and
the National Government was appealed to for aid. A force of regulars was
promptly ordered out, and the rioters finally quelled. Unfortunately, Gov-
Hartranft was absent from the State at the time of the troubles.
At the election in 1882 Robert E. Pattison was chosen governor. The Legis-
lature, which met at the opening of 1883, having adjourned after a session of
156 days, without passing a Congressional apportionment bill, as was required,
was immediately reconvened in extra session by the governor, and remained
in session until near the close of the year, from J une 1 to December 5, without
coming to an agreement upon a bill, and finally adjourned without having
passed one. This protracted sitting is in marked contrast to the session of that
early Assembly in which an entire constitution and laws of the province were
framed and adopted in the space of three days.
James A. Beaver was elected governor of Pennsylvania in November,
1886, and is the present incumbent. He is a native of Perry County, Penn.,
and a graduate of Jefferson College. He read law, and was admitted to
practice in 1859. In April, 1861, he went into the army as a first lieutenant,
and served with distinction, being mustered out in December, 1864, with the
rank of brigadier-general. The most prominent law enacted during his
administration is the Brooks license law, passed in 1887. The proposed
amendment to the constitution, prohibiting the manufacture or sale of intoxi-
cants within the State, is now pending, and is a very important measure in
temperance legislation.
132
HISTORY OP PENNSYLVANIA.
TABLE SHOWING THE VOTE FOR GOVERNORS OF PENNSYLVANIA SINCE THE ORGAN-
IZATION OF THE STATE.
1790.
Thomas Mifflin 27,725
Arthur St. Clair 2,802
1793.
Thomas Mifflin 18,590
JF. A. Muhlenberg 10,706
1796.
Thomas Mifflin 30,020
F. A. Muhlenberg 1,011
1799.
Thomas McKean 38,036
James Ross 32,641
1803.
Thomas McKean 47,879
James Ross, of Pittsburgh 9,499
James Ross 7,538
1808.
Simon Snyder 67,975
James Ross 39,575
John Spayd 4,006
W. Shields 2
Charles Nice 1
Jack Ross 2
W. Tilghman..„ 1
1811.
Simon Snyder 52,319
Wiiiiam Tighiman 3,609
Scatt’ring,no record for whom 1,675
' 1814.
Simon Snyder 51,099
Isaac Wayne 29,566
G. Lattimer 910
J. R. Rust 4
1817.
William Findlay 06,331
Joseph Hiester 59,272
Moses Palmer 1
Aaron Hanson 1
John Seffer - 1
Seth Thomas 1
Nicholas Wiseman 3
Benjamin R. Morgan 2
William Tiighman 1
Andrew Gregg 1
1820.
Joseph Hiester 67,905
Wiiiiam Findiay 66,300
Scattering (no record) 21
1823.
J. Andrew Shuize 81,751
Andrew Gregg 64,151
Andrew Shuize 112
John Andrew Shuize 7,311
Andrew Gragg 53
Andrew Greg 1
John A. Shuize 754
Nathaniel B. Boileau 3
Capt. Glosseader 3
John Gassender 1
Isaac Wayne 1
George Bryan 1
1826.
J. Andrew Shuize 72,710
John Sergeant 1,175
Scattering (no record) 1,174
1829.
George Wolf 78,219
Joseph Ritner 51,776
George E. Baum 6
Frank R. Williams 3
1833.
George Wolf 91,335
Joseph Ritner 88,165
1835.
Joseph Ritner 94,023
GoorgeWolf. 65,804
Henry A. Muhlenberg 40,586
1838.
David R. Porter 127,827
Joseph Ritner 122,321
1841.
David R. Porter 136,504
John Banks 113,473
T. J. Lemoyne 763
George F. Horton 18
Samuel L. Carpenter 4
Ellis Lewis 1
1844.
Francis R. Shunk 160,322
Joseph Markle 156,040
Julius J. Lemoyne 10
John Haney 2
James Page 1
1847.
Francis R. Shunk 146,081
James Irvin 128,148
Emanuel C. Reigart 11,247
F. J. Lemoyne 1,861
George M. Keim 1
Abijah Morrison 3
1848.
William F. Johnston 168,522
Morris Longstreth 168,225
E. B. Gazzam 48
Scattering (no record) 24
1851.
William Bigler 186,489
William F. Johnston 178,034
Kimber Cleaver 1,850
1854.
James Pollock 203,822
William Bigler 166,991
B. Rush Bradford 2,194
1857.
William F. Packer 188,846
David Wilmot 149,139
Isaac Hazlehurst 28,168
James Pollock 1
George R. Barret 1
William Steel 1
F. P. Swartz 1
Samuel McFarland 1
George F. Horton 7
1860.
Andrew G. Curtin 262,346
Henry D. Foster 230,239
1863.
A. G. Curtin 269,506
George W. Woodward 254,171.
John Hickman 1
Thomas M. Howe 1
1866.
John W. Geary 307,274
Hiester Clymer 290,097
Giles Lewis 7
1869.
John W. Geary 290,552
Asa Packer 285,956
IV. D. Kelly 1
W. J. Robinson ]
1872.
John F. Hartranft 353,387
Charles R. Buckalen 317,760
S. B. Chase 1,197
William P. Schell 12
1875.
John F. Hartranft 304,175
Cyrus L. Pershing 292,145
R. Audley Brown 13,244
James S. Negley 1
Phillip Wendle 1
J. W. Brown 1
G. F. Reinhard 1
G. D. Coleman 1
James Staples 1
Richard Vaux 1
Craig Biddle 1
Francis W. Hughes 1
Henry C. Tyler 1
W. D. Brown 1
George V. Lawrence 1
A. L. Brown 1
1878.
H. M. Hoyt 319,490
Andrew H. Dill 297,137
Samuel R. Mason 81,758
Franklin H. Lane 3,753
S. Matson 2
John McKee 1
D. Kirk 1
R. L. Miller 1
J. H. Hopkins 1
A. G. Williams 1
Samuel H. Lane 1
John Fertig 1
James Musgrove 1
Silas M. Baily 1
A. S. Post 9
C. A. Cornen 3
Seth Yocum 1
Edward E. Orvis 1
1882.
Robert E. Pattison 355,791
James A. Beaver 315,589
John Stewart 43,743
Thomas A. Armstrong 23,996
Alfred C. Pettit 5,196
Scattering 38
1886.
James A. Beaver 412,286
Chauncev F. Black. 369,634
Charles S. Wolfe 32,458
Robert J. Houston 4,836
Scattering 66
STORY ofMercer County,
PENNSYLYSNIfl.
.3
1
<
\
1
History of Mercer County
CHAPTER I.
Physical Features and Subdivisions— Boundaries and Area— Topog-
raphy— Drainage — Tide Elevations— Soil — Vegetation— Act Creat-
ing the County — First Election Districts— Original Townships and
THEIR Progeny— Population of the County by Decades.
Mercer county, as originally defined by act of General Assembly,
12th March, 1800, lies between Crawford on the north, and Beaver on
the south, on the line dividing Pennsylvania and Ohio. Its length was
thirty-two miles along the State line, and breadth, eastward, where it is
bounded by Venango County, twenty- eight miles, the southeast corner jutting on
Butler County, the square corners of both being cut off to make a fitting
adjustment.
The surface of the county is undulating, but little broken, and peculiarly
well watered. It is covered with springs and small streams running into the
larger creeks. These creeks consist of the Big Shenango on the west, which
rises in Crawford County; Neshannock in the center, with heads all over the
northern central portion of the county, and Wolf Creek on the east. These
streams all run in a southerly direction, and eventually are swallowed up in
the Big Beaver, that empties itself into the Ohio River at Rochester. In
addition to these there is the Little Shenango, that runs across a portion of the
northern end of the county from east to west, rising six or seven miles east of
the central line from south to north, and that empties into the Big Shenango
at Greenville ; and also Sandy Creek, that takes its rise in Crawford County,
and running diagonally through the northeast quarter, empties itself into
the Allegheny River about twelve miles below Franklin. Sandy Lake, a sheet
of water about a mile and a half long and half a mile wide, situated near
the center of the northeast quarter of the county, discharges its surplus water
into Sandy Creek. The character of its general surface, its bountiful supply
of water, and richness of soil was well calculated to make it the foremost
agricultural county in this part of the State; nor has it disappointed the
anticipations of its early settlers, for it is now not only a fine agricultural, but
a heavy and prosperous mining and iron county, notwithstanding that it lost
nearly a fourth of its territory in the erection of Lawrence County.
When Mr. Garvin prepared his manuscript the second geological survey
had not been made. From the excellent report of Prof. I. C. White we
gather some interesting facts relating to Mercer County, the report being dated
1879. For the sake of convenience these facts are grouped as follows:
1. Topography. — Mercer County, unlike those of its sisters, Beaver and
Lawrence, has not had its surface materially modified by the operation of
138
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
modern agencies. Glacial ice has swept over its territory and leveled its hill
peaks and filled up its fertile valleys. The result is undulation, but none of
the abrupt peaks which exist in portions of Beaver and southern Lawrence.
Then, too, the valleys of its principal streams have been widened and straight-
ened. Even the Shenango, whose actual bed is tortuous, has a comparatively
straight valley bed along which it is supposed at one time to have held its way.
The valleys, too, are bounded in the main with walls that slope gradually instead
of abruptly. The only exceptions are found in the cases where streams have
changed their channels, or have worn through the deposits to the underlying
solid rock.
2. Drainage. — Though the drainage of the county is somewhat compli-
cated, the rain-water finally all reaches the Big Beaver River, except what falls
upon the four northeastern townships, which finds its outlet into the Allegheny.
The “divide” which makes this division passes across the county from north-
west to southeast. Near the head of Little Shenango, nothing except an
instrumental survey will determine the exact location of the divide between
the waters that flow southwest into the Shenango and those which flow south-
east through Sandy Lake and Sandy Creek into the Allegheny. This condition
of things was produced, it is supposed, by a glacial stream which cut through
the intervening barrier.
The Shenango is the principal agency in drainage, the entire western half
being accommodated by it. Entering Mercer from Crawford County, at James-
town, it receives two principal tributaries. Little Shenango at Greenville, with
Crooked Creek as its leading contributor, and Pymatuning west of Clarks-
ville, with Booth Run as a feeder; and having made some tortuous windings,
leaves the county about as far from the State line as where it entered it.
Big Run rises in Greene Township and, taking a southeasterly course
through West Salem, empties into the Shenango River near the southeast
corner of the latter subdivision.
Neshannock Creek, formed by the union at Mercer of Otter and Mill Creeks
with their tributaries, drains the central portion of the county, and finally
joins the Shenango River at New Castle, and ultimately through the Big Beaver
contributes its stock to the Ohio. Little Neshannock, formed at the Big Bend
divide, drops into the main stream a little south of the county line.
Wolf Creek, draining the southeastern portion of the county, flows rapidly
into Butler County and joins Slippery Rock Creek, and through the Conno-
quenessing enters Big Beaver.
Sandy Creek, coming into the county from Crawford, flows southeasterly
and, receiving the contents of Sandy Lake, joins the Allegheny River in Venango
County.
French Creek, fed by North Deer Creek, drains a small portion of the
northeastern part of the county into the Allegheny at Franklin.
3. Tide Elevations. — It will be interesting to know the elevations of
various places in the county above the tide or sea level. The following state-
ment shows such altitudes at different railroad stations in the county. On the
Erie & Pittsburg the following elevations are given in the survey:
Jamestown, 979 feet; Greenville, 961 feet; Shenango, 941 feet; Transfer,
990 feet; Clarksville, 894 feet; Sharpsville, 948 feet; Sharon, 853 feet;.
Wheatland, 841 feet; Middlesex, 833 feet.
These are on the grade of the Jamestown & Franklin branch of the Lake
Shore :
Naples, 1,165 feet; Stoneboro, 1,171 feet; Coal Branch, 1,199 feet; Clark’s,
1,164 feet; Hadley, 1,074 feet; Salem, 998 feet; Amasa, 987 feet.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
139
These are on the line of the Pittsburgh, Shenango & Lake Erie Road;
New Hamburg, 1,158 feet; Fredonia, 1,177 feet; Cool Spring, 1,127 feet;
Mercer, 1,108 feet; Pardoe, 1,205 feet; Grove City, 1,250 feet.
The following are on the line of the old New Castle & Franklin Road:
Coulson, 1,277 feet; Summit, 1,388 feet; Garvin, 1,327 feet; Jackson
Centre, 1,257 feet; Turner’s, 1,137 feet; Mercer, 1,097 feet; Hope Mills,
1,107 feet; Nelson, 1,060 feet; Leesburg, 1,045 feet.
4. Soil. — Mercer County shows unmistakable marks of having been sub-
jected to the presence of northern ice. Glacial marks are to be seen in various
parts of the county, notably on the road between Greenville and Mercer, about
three miles from the former place. Even on the summit of Keel Ridge, 1, 250 feet
above tide, the sandstone indicates glacial scratches. A sheet of drift, in some
cases more than a hundred feet thick, covers the county. Its composition is var-
ious, including a bluish-white clay of great fineness mingled with an occasional
rock boulder, and innumerable cobble stones of various sizes. These boulders are
often worn by attrition, and include varieties of granite, greenstone, gneiss,
limestone, sandstone, shale, coal and most of the varieties of crystaline rocks.
The soil is derived mainly from this drift, and is well adapted to the production
of the cereals. Under-drainage is a necessity which intelligent and progressive
farmers appreciate.
5. Vegetation. — The vegetation of the county is such as characterizes the
western part of the State, and includes various forms of herbs, shrubs and
trees, both domestic and wild. These vegetable forms are sometimes classified
as to their utility for medicinal, esculent and ornamental and useful purposes,
as follows:
Medicinal. — Senna, lobelia, ginseng, smartweed, Jamestown weed, snake
root, blood root, wahoo, tobacco, marshmallow, pleurisy root, gentian, etc.
Esculent. — Artichoke, potatoes, millet, oats, pea, hop, cherry, plum,
apple, mulberry, quince, hickory, maple, persimmon, walnut, chestnut, hazel-
nut, strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, dewberry, corn, squash, pumpkin,
gooseberry, etc.
Ornamental. — Poplar, aspen, linden, maple, horse-chestnut, catalpa, laurel,
honey locust, dogwood, holly, evergreen, ivy, honeysuckle, sumach, elm,
mountain ash, etc.
Useful for Fabrics. — Hemp, flax, pines, cedar, oak, birch, beech, ash, elm,
willow, gum, hickory, sycamore, hemlock, etc.
The act of the Legislature creating the county of Mercer, was passed on
the 12th of March, 1800, and reads as follows:
Section III. And leit enacted hy the authority aforesaid, That all parts of Allegheny
County which shall be included within the following boundaries, viz: Beginning at the
northeast corner of the county of Beaver, thence northeastwardly along the 1 ine of the coun-
ty of Butler, to the corner of said county of Butler and of the county of Venango, herein-
after described, thence northerly on a line parallel to tlie western boundry of the State, to
the north line of the 5th donation district, thence at a right angle along said line west-
wardly to the western boundary of the State, thence southerly along said boundary to the
northwest corner of the county of Beaver, thence eastwardly along the north boundary
©f the county of Beaver to the place of beginning, be, and the same is herebj- erected into
a separate county, to be henceforth called Mercer County, and the place of holding the
court of justice in and for the said county shall be fixed by the Legislature at any iilace
at a distance not greater than five miles from the center of said county, which may be
most beneficial and convenient for said county. And the Governor shall, and he is hereby
empowered to appoint three commissioners, any two of which shall run and ascertain and
plainly mark the boundary lines of the said county of Mercer, and shall receive as a full
compensation for their services therein, tlie sum of two dollars for every mile so run and
marked, to be paid out of the moneys which shall be raised for the county uses, within
the county of Mercer.
140
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
Section I, of the same act, erected the county of Beaver; Sec. IV, the
county of Crawford; Sec. V. the county of Erie; Sec. VI, the county of War-
ren; Sec. VII, the county of Venango, and Sec. IX, the county of Armstrong.
Excluding Armstrong, these counties were authorized to elect two members to
the House of Representatives, and adding the county of Washington, were
entitled to one Senator.
The election districts established by this act for Mercer County were two —
one at the house of Benjamin Stokely, at which the inhabitants comprehended
within the third, fourth and fifth districts of donation lands were to vote, and
the other at the house of John Elliott, at which the inhabitants comprehended
within the first and second donation districts were to be entitled to vote. The
Stokely district comprised the northern half of the county, and the Elliott dis-
trict the southern half, as well as a large portion of Beaver County, as the
northern line of the first district of donation lands was also the line dividing
the counties of Beaver and Mercer. The house of Elliott stood on the
Beaver side of the line.
The assessments of taxes made in 1800 were for the townships of Neshan-
nock and North Beaver, the dividing lines of which the author (Mr. Garvin)
has failed to discover. But as the names of Loutzenhiser, Bean, Christy,
Klingensmith, Roberts and Williamson, who are known to have settled in the
northwest corner of the county, as well as of Budd, Reno, Hull and Hoagland,
in the neighborhood of Sharon, and the Alexanders, Stokely, Simpson, Gar-
vins and Zahnisers, north and northeast of Mercer, the presumption is that the
Neshannock Township of 1800 consisted of the territory included within a line
starting near Sharon, and running east near to the line now dividing Jackson
from Worth Township; thence north to the Crawford County line; thence west to
the State line, and thence south to the place of beginning.
Reasoning from the same analogy, as the names of Welch, Sankey, Robin-
son and the Neals, that settled along the Shenango and Mahoning, and those of
the Dennistons and the Gealys, William and John, and the McCrumbs, that set-
tled in Springfield and Slippery Rock, as well as the Hezlips and Means, that
settled where Wilmington now stands, and the McBrides, James and Robert,
the Waldrons, Samuel, James and John, that were near Wolf Creek, indicate
that the southern half of the county, with the exception of a part of the east
side of Wolf Creek, was included in North Beaver, which perhaps also took in
that part of Beaver County included in the election district that voted at the
house of John Elliott. In Irwin Township of Venango County the names of the
“Ten Milers,” the Axtells, Condits, Dodds, Riggs, etc., who settled on Sandy
Creek, near where Middletown now stands, in the township of New Vernon;
those of Adam Carnahan and William and Jacob Reed, in what was afterward
known as French Creek Township, and the Carrols. Carmichaels and Colemans,
who were settlers in the neighborhood of the present villages of Millbrook and
Hendersonville, indiices the conclusion that what are the present townships of
Worth, Sandy Lake, Mill Creek, French Creek, and perhaps a part of New Ver-
non, Deer Creek and Wolf Creek, were then included in Venango Township, the
line between the two counties probably not having been ascertained and marked
when the tax assessments for 1800 were made.
In 1801 there appears to have been four townships — the name Neshannock,
which the previous year was applied to the northwest part of the county, was
this year applied to the southwest quarter, and the name of Salem introduced
in its place, as designating the northwest portion. Sandy Lake designated the
northeast quarter, and Cool Spring the southeast — North Beaver being elimi-
nated from the list of Mercer County townships.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
141
In 1802 a further change was made. The name of Wolf Creek was substi-
tuted for that of Cool Spring in designating the southeast quarter of the county.
Pymatuning was erected out of the southern half of the Salem Township of the
previous year — the name of Sandy Lake was dropped, and that of Sandy Creek
introduced, which covered the northern half of the northeast quarter of the
county, while to the southern half of this quarter was transferred the name of
Cool Spring. There were now six townships in the county — the southern half
being occupied by Neshannock and Wolf Creek, and the northern half by
Pymatuning, Salem, Sandy Creek and Cool Spring.
Thus far, in all practical matters, Mercer County was but an appendage to
Crawford, the county commissioners of which appropriated the moneys raised
by the taxes they authorized, and before the courts of which all causes from
Mercer County were tried. To these county commissioners, or the courts of
Crawford County, are to be attributed the naming of the first six townships of
Mercer County, and the singular changes of names and locations that have been
traced in the preceding page.
The arrangements of 1802 stood until 1805, when Mercer had her own
courts and board of county commissioners. These concurring a further division
was then authorized, and July 1, 1805, David Watson, Jr., was instructed to
make the survey. On the 19th of August following the survey was completed,
and we find that West Salem was taken from the west end of Salem, French
Creek from the east end of Sandy Creek, Delaware from the east end of Pyma-
tuning, Sandy Lake from the east end of Cool Spring, Shenango and Lacka-
wannockfrom the northern half of Neshannock, Mahoning from the southwest
corner of Neshannock, and Mercer, the county town, and Springfield and
Slippery Rock from the west end of W olf Creek, making fifteen townships and
the county seat. With the exception of where the townships of Wolf Creek and
Slippery Rock joined the corner of Butler County, the townships of the county
were all now of the same size, eight miles in length from north to south, and
seven in width.
The first break in this arrangement of townships was made in 1833, when
Hickory was taken out of about equal parts of Pymatuning and Shenango.
Greene Township was taken out of the northern part of West Salem in 1844.
Wilmington from the southern part of Lackawannock in 1846. In 1849
Findley was taken from the northern part of Springfield, East Lackawannock
from the eastern part of Lackawannock, Worth from the southern part of
Sandy Lake, and Mill Creek from the southern part of French Creek. In 1850
three new townships were erected out of Cool Spring, to wit: Fairview, in the
northwest corner. Lake, in the northeast, and Jackson in the southeast, leaving
the old name to the southwest corner. In 1851 Wolf Creek was divided so as
to make three townships : to the southwest part was given the name of Liberty,
to the central part the name of Pine, the northern part retaining the original
name of Wolf Creek. In the same year Sandy Creek was so cut up as to
make four townships out of it: Deer Creek in the northeast corner. New Vernon
in the southeast, Perry in the southwest, and Sandy Creek in the northwest.
Hempfield and Sugar Grove were erected in 1856, being chiefly taken from
the western half of Salem Township, the first getting, in addition, all that part
of West Salem that adjoined it east of the Shenango River, and the latter a
little piece from the eastern end of Greene.
For school purposes, several little innovations have since been made in the
lines thus established, but the general direction and plan remains as detailed.
With regard to Deer Creek there was a contest that lasted several years as to
what name it should bear. When first laid out it was called Ross, in compli-
142
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
ment to a Democratic family by that name that were among its early settlers.
A Whig member being elected to the Legislature the name was changed by
act of General Assembly to that of Deer Creek; a Democrat succeeding, the
name of Ross, by the same authority, was re-instated, and Deer Creek abolished;
a Whig or Know-Nothing following, Ross was again suppressed, and Deer
Creek re-established, and as the Democrats failed to elect their candidates to
the Legislature for several years afterward, the last name has acquired a
permanency that is not likely to be again disturbed.
In 1808, for the alleged reason that so much of the line dividing Mercer
and Crawford Counties as lay west of French Creek Township, in Mercer
County, ran through and divided the tracts of land that lay along it, this line
was moved about half a mile south by authority of the Legislature, thus taking
from Mercer and giving to Crawford County a strip of territory twenty-one
miles long and half a mile wide ofP the north ends of Sandy Creek, Salem and
West Salem Townships. The Jamestown people, about 1865, recovered their
lost portion through the Legislature, and thus the appearance which that
borough makes on the map, in having its northern portion, as it were, thrust
into Crawford County.
In 1849 the townships of Mahoning, Neshannock and Slippery Rock,
together with a strip of territory of about half a mile in width taken from the
southern sides of the townships of Springfield, Wilmington and Shenango,
were detached from Mercer to contribute to the erection of Lawrence County.
In these townships were the villages of Harlansburg, New Wilmington, Pulaski,
New Bedford, Hillsville, Edenburg, Eastbrook, and the borough of New Castle,
containing altogether quite a third of the population of the county. And thus
stands the bounds of Mercer County, with its subdivisions into townships in the
one hundred and twelfth year of independence, and the eighty-eighth year
of its erection as a separate county by the Legislature of Pennsylvania.
The growth of the county since its formation has been steady and reliable.
There has been no fiuctuation, as the following table will demonstrate: In
1800 Mercer County contained a population of 3,228; 1810, 8,272; 1820,
11,681; 1830, 19,729; 1840, 32,873; 1850, 33,172; 1860, 36,856; 1870, 49,977;
1880, 56,162; while to-day there is over 60,000 inhabitants within its bound-
aries. The small increase from 1840 to 1850 may be attributed to the fact
that Lawrence County was erected in 1849, taking from the southern part of
Mercer a large and populous territory.
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
143
CHAPTER II.
J..AXD Titles — Penn’s Title not Recognized by the Indians — Treaties at
Forts Staniyix and McIntosh— Surveyors endeavor to locate claims
OF Revolutionary Soldiers— Conference of the Seneca Chiefs, Corn-
planter, Half-toayn and Big Tree, avith President YVashington—
Wayne’s Victory over the Savages at Fallen Timbers — Treaty' of
Greenville— Depreciation Lands— Bounty or Donation Lands — Terms
OF Settlement— John Carmichael’s Effort in Worth Township— John
Nicholson and the Pennsylvania Population Company'— John and
Dayhd Hoge— Holland and North American Land Companies— Dr.
Nathaniel 15edford — Lodge, Probst and Walker— Litigation growing
OUT OF Conflicting Claims— Land Warrants, Patents and Deeds.
Although within the limits of Pennsylvania, as defined by the charter
of Charles II of England in 1681, the Indian title to the lands in this
part of the State was not extinguished by purchase until January, 1785, at
Fort McIntosh, where the town of Beaver now stands. In the previous Octo-
ber, the commissioners, appointed by the Congress of the United States, met
the chief men of the Six Nations of Indians at Fort Stanwix, in New York
State, to negotiate a peace and settle upon boundaries, at which time and place
the commissioners of Pennsylvania made a purchase of the right and title of
the Six Nations to all their lands within the limits of the State. The treaty
at Fort McIntosh was held with other tribes, the Delawares and Wyandots
being among the number, and claiming property in lands included within the
limits of the State; and from them the commissioners made a further purchase,
thus extinguishing, as they supposed, all Indian title to the soil of Pennsyl-
vania, a little over a hundred years after the date of the charter to William
Penn, and four years after the King of England had specifically recognized
Pennsylvania to' be a free and sovereign State.
These last purchases constitute very near a third part of the territory of
the State, including the whole of the present counties of Lawrence, Mercer,
Crawford, Venango, Clarion, Forrest, Warren, McKean, Potter, Tioga, Clin-
ton, Cameron and Elk, and parts of Beaver, Armstrong, Clearfield, Lycoming,
Bradford and Erie. A part of Erie County, the triangle, was afterward, in
1792, purchased from the United States and the Six Nations of Indians.
In the spring and summer of 1785, a few months after the extinguishment
of the Indian title, surveyors entered on this part of the new purchase, making
and numbering different sized tracts of land for donation to the Pennsylvania
line of Revolutionary soldiers. The dissatisfaction of the Indians, it is pre-
sumed, interrupted this work, for it soon became evident that they were not
satisfied with the manner in which Pennsylvania had bargained with them. In
1791 the Seneca chiefs, Cornplanter, Half-Town and Great Tree, in a speech
to Gen. Washington, the President of the United States, thus make their
complaint with regard to this matter:
Father; Your commi.ssioner.s, when they drew the line which separated the land
then given up to you from that which you agreed should remain to be ours, did most
solemnly promise that we should be secured in the peaceable iiossession of the lands
which we inhabited east and north of tliat line. Does this ]u-onuse bind you?
Hear now, we beseech you, what has since ha])pened concerning that land. On
the day in which we finished the treaty at Fort Stanwix, commissioners from Pennsyl-
vania told our chiefs that they had come there to purchase from us all the lauds belonging
144
HISTOEY OF MEKCEE COUNTY.
to us withiu the lines of their State, and they told us that their line would strike the river
Susquehanna below Tioga branch. They then left us to consider of the bargain till the
next day; on the next day we let them know that we were unwilling to sell all the lands
within their State, and proposed to let them have a part of it, which we pointed out to
them on their map. They told us that they must have the whole; that it was already
ceded to them by the great King, at the time of making peace with you, and was their
o'wn; but they said that they would not take advantage of that, and were willing to pay
us for it after the manner of their ancestors. Our chiefs were unable to contend at that
time, and therefore they sold the lands up to the line, which was then shown to them as
the line of that State.
In his reply to this complaint of one of the Six Nations, Gen. Washington
was careful to refrain from any promise of relief for the past, but only for the
future. He said:
I am not uninformed that the Six Nations have been led into some difficulties, with
respect to the sale of their lands since the peace. But I must inform you that these evils
arose before the present government of the United States was established, when the sep-
arate States, and individuals under their authority, undertook to treat with the Indian
tribes respecting the sale of their lands. But the case is now entirely altered; the general
government, onlj% has the power to treat with the Indian Nations, and any treaty formed
and held without its authority will not be binding.
In their answer to this reply of Gen. Washington, Cornplanter and his
associates showed themselves to be no mean negotiators. They said:
Father, your speech, written on the great paper, is tons like the first light of the morn-
ing to a sick man, whose pulse beats too strongly in his temples, and prevents him from
sleep. He sees it and rejoices, but he is not cured.
You say that you have spoken plainly on the great point; that you will protect us
in the land secured to us at Fort Stanwix, and that we have the right to sell or to refuse
to sell it. This is very good. But our nation complains that you compelled us at that
treaty to give up too much of our lands. We confess that our nation is bound by what
was there done; and acknowledging your power, we have now appealed to yourselves
against that treaty, as made while you were too angry with us, and, therefore, unreason-
able and unjust. To this you have given us no answer.
That treaty was not made with a single State — it was with the thirteen States. We
never would have given all that land to one State. We know it was before you had the
great authority, and, as you have more wisdom than the commissioners who forced us into
that treaty, we expect that you also have more regard for justice, and will now, at our
request, reconsider that treaty, and return to us a part of that land.
Father: The laud which lies between the line running south from Lake Erie to the
boundary of Pennsylvania, as mentioned in tlie treaty at Fort Stanwix, and the eastern
boundary of the land which you sold, and the Senecas confirmed, to Pennsylvania, is
the land on which Half-Town and all his people live, with other chiefs, who always have
been, and still are, dissatisfied with the treaty at Fort Stanwix. They grew out of this
land, and their fathers’ fathers grew out of it, and they can not be persuaded to part with
it. We, therefore, entreat you to restore to us this little piece.
To this Gen. Washington replied:
While you complain of the treaty of Fort Stanwix, in 1784, you seem entirely to
forget that you yourselves, the Cornplanter, Half-Town, and Great Tree, with others
of your nation, confirmed, by the treaty at Fort Harmar, upon the Muskingum, so late as
the 9th of January, 1789, the boundary marked by the treaty at Fort Stanwix, and that, in
consideration thereof, you then received goods to a considerable amount.
To this the chiefs of the Six Nations made no reply, but in the negotia-
tions that followed in 1793, with the Indian tribes ocdupying the lands in the
present States of Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana, it was claimed that the only
equitable boundary between them and the whites was the Ohio River, of which
the Allegheny was then considered a part, as agreed upon by treaty with the
English at Fort Stanwix, in 1758, and that the treaties and sale of lands at
Fort Stanwix and McIntosh, in 1784 and 1785, were void, for the reason that
the Six Nations and Delawares, and Wyandots, were not the sole owners of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
145
these lands, which could only be disposed of by a general council of all the
Indian nations having rights therein.
This position being finally taken by the Indians of the Northwest, the
practical decision of the question of boundary was referred to the fortunes of
war. In 1794 Gen. Wayne, by his decisive victory over the Indians at the battle
of the Fallen Timbers, entirely convinced them that the line of the Ohio
River was no longer a negotiable question, and by the treaty of Greenville,
which he made with them in 1795, all their pretensions were given up, and
thus, after ten years of uncertainty, with alternate hostility and negotiation,
that part of the State lying north and west of the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers,
became the undisputed possession of Pennsylvania, and open for the occupa-
tion of white settlers.
By act of the Legislature in 1783, even before the Indian title to the
lands in this section of the State was claimed to have been either negotiated
for or extinguished, a strip of land along the north and west side of the Ohio
and Allegheny Rivers, commencing at the place where the western bound-
ary of the State crosses the Ohio River, and thence up said rivers to the
“ mouth of Mogulbughtiton Creek, thence by a west line to the western
boundary of the State, and thence south to the place of beginning,” was set
apart for the purpose of being surveyed into numbered lots, each containing
from 200 to 350 acres, to be sold for “certificates of depreciation,” given
in settlement to the soldiers of the Pennsylvania line in the Revolutionary
army. These certificates were assumed to be the special value of all claims
against the State for military service, and for these lands thus set apart
were to be received as specie. In addition to this reservation, the same
act sets apart all the remainder of the territory in the northwest part of the
State, out of which tracts of 200, 250, 300 and 500 acres were to be surveyed,
marked and numbered as “ Bounty Lands, ” to the officers, surgeons, chap-
lains, musicians and privates of the Pennsylvania line in the Revolutionary
army. When surveyed these bounty lands were found to cover the greater
portion of Mercer County. They are distinguished on the maps by being num-
bered. A very few of them were settled by the soldiers to whom they were do-
nated, but were sold to others.
In 1792, before the Indian difficulties were entirely settled, the Legislature
of the State enacted that all lands north and west of the Ohio and Allegheny
Rivers and Conewango Creek, not heretofore reserved for public or charitable
uses, should be offered for sale to persons who would cultivate, improve and
settle them, at the rate of $20 per 100 acres, with an allowance of 6 per
cent for public roads. In this act it was provided that a settlement to be
complete, so as to entitle the holder to the privilege of purchasing at the price
stipiilated, must be the clearing, fencing and cultivation of at least two acres
for every hundred in each survey, to build a house for the habitation of man,
and to reside, or cause a family to reside thereon, for the space of live consec-
utive years from the first settlement of the same, unless prevented or driven
therefrom by force of arms, by enemies of the United States; in either of
which cases their rights under the law were not to be impaired. It was not
until four years afterward, in 1790, that settlers began to take advantage of this
law, the fear of Indian depredations doubtless deterring them until after W ayne’ s
treaty with them in 1795. Under the law, continuous occiipation, with the
exceptions above noted, which were inoperative when settlements really began,
was necessary to hold the tract of land first settled upon; and according to a
rule that obtained general consent among the settlers, the absence of ])erson
and dying out of fire in a cabin was deemed an abandonment by the first
146
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
settler, whose cabin could lawfully be occupied and a new settlement be com-
menced by any person that thought proper to do so. To hold the premises,
when desirable, neighbor friends would travel miles on foot to keep up fires
for those who were unavoidably absent on business or in visiting their friends.
But this could not be done in all cases. John Carmichael, whose father John,
by the way, came to America in the army of Gen. Wolfe, and was at the
taking of Quebec from the French in 1759, built his cabin in what is now
Worth Township, cleared a few rods of ground, and then left it for the winter,
intending to return with his family in the spring. When he arrived, accord-
ing to intent and accompanied by his father, he found another party in pos-
session, and his traps set outside the door; so there was no other way for a law-
abiding citizen than to lose his labor of the previous season and find another
place to commence a new settlement. This he did, peaceably and good-
naturedly, in the immediate neighborhood, where the numerous descendants
of both parties live and flourish, and are friends at this day.
Under the act of 1792 John Nicholson, for himself in the first place, and
afterward as the president of the Pennsylvania Population Company, took
out warrants from the land office for upward of half a million of acres lying
principally in what is now Lawrence, Mercer, Crawford and Erie Counties.
In this company, John and David Hoge, of Washington County, Penn., were in-
terested, as well as in other lands covered with warrants taken out by them-
selves. The Holland Land Company and North America Land Company were
two more of these land jobbing associations, whose claims in later years fell
into the hands of H. J. Huidekoper, of Meadville, and Hon. Stephen Barlow,
of Meadville, and Hon. Henry Baldwin, of Pittsburgh.
In addition to these great companies, either as independent speculators or
as agents, figured Dr. Nathaniel Bedford, who held lands in Mahoning and
Shenango Townships, and for whom the town of New Bedford, in Lawrence
County, was probably named, it being included in his claims, and also the
firm of Lodge, Probst & Walker, whose field of operations was principally
in the northwest part of the county. These great companies and speculators
paid a small fee at the land office for their warrants when issued, and then
sought by every means to get settlers on their claims within the two years pre-
scribed by the act, allowing therefor from 100 to 200 acres out of their
tract of 400. The State, at the same time, was giving full tracts at the
same rates to actual settlers, and the result was that the settler often built
his cabin unknowingly on a tract on which one of these warrants was previously
laid, and the consequence was years of expensive litigation before the claims
of the adverse and contending parties were permanently settled. A land war-
rant was an order for a survey of a vacant piece of land which, on being
returned to the land office, and the stipulated price paid for the land covered
by the survey, a patent or deed from the commonwealth was issued; and here,
including the surveys made to satisfy the claims of the Revolutionary soldiers,
is the bed-rock of all the land titles in Mercer County.
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
147
CHAPTER III.
Pioneers— Their Nationality and Character— Lists of Taxables by’ Town-
ships—Nesiiannock for 1800, 1801 AND 1802— Irvin FOR 1800— North Leaver
FOR 1800— Salem for 1801 and 1802 — Sandy Lake for 1801 — Cool Spring
FOR 1801 AND 1802— Sandy Creek for 1802— Pymatuning for 1802 — Wolf
Creek for 1802.
The early settlers who came into what is now Mercer County, were largely
Irish, and mainly members of the Presbyterian Church. They were intell-
igent, courageous, industrious people, who were desirous of establishing homes
for themselves in the new country just opened up to be occupied by the white
race. They came, the majority of them, from the counties of Westmoreland,
Washington, Fayette and Allegheny, where they had located after wearisome
journeys from the East across the Allegheny Mountains. Some, it is true,
came direct from Ireland and the eastern counties of the State, but the line of
travel brought them by way of the forks of the Ohio. As a rule these pio-
neers reared large families, and were noted for their longevity. Their modes
of living were simple, the habits such as conduce to health and happiness,
and, what was favorable, no eager desire to become suddenly wealthy per-
plexed them. Neighbors lived on terms of genuine friendship and equality,
and strove to promote one another’s interests. The log rolling, the butter
boiling, the corn husking, the cabin raising, the stated meetings, the annual
elections, were periods of real enjoyment, which tended to cement the ties of
friendship and bind communities more closely together. Common hardships
and common wants established a community of feeling and interest. Castes
in society did not exist. All occupied the same level, and enjoyed the same
rights and privileges. The happiness of those pioneer days would outweigh
that enjoyed often in these fashionable times.
It must be remembered that Mercer County was separated, theoretically,
from Allegheny County March 12, 1800, but it was not organized until 1803.
During the three years intervening it was joined, for judicial purposes, to
Crawford County, with the seat of justice at Meadville. It should also be re-
membered, too, that the names of townships were those which existed under
the Crawford County organization. The townships then were large and sparsely
populated, and they were subdivided again and again.
The lists of taxables by townships, for the years 1800, 1801 and 1802, were
compiled by Mr. Garvin. Most of these pioneers with their families are
spoken of in succeeding chapters. Here the names are given alphabetically as
a matter of reference, and many of our readers will doubtless recognize in
these lists the names of their ancestors and other relatives and friends.
Neshannock Township for 1800: John Alexander, Benjamin Alexander,
William Alexander, Joseph Alexander, James Armstrong, John Arbuckel,
Thomas Arnold, Samuel Anderson, William Anderson, Robert Anderson, Dan-
iel Axtell, Lincoln Axtell, James Bean, Si\ , Hugh Bean, Thomas Bean, Sr.,
William Bean, Robert Bean, Sr., Andrew Bean, David Bean, Alexander Bean,
Sr., James Bean, Jr., Robert Bean, Jr., Robert Bole, Thomas Bole, Solomon
Brown, Thomas Brown, John Brown (son of Solomon), Hugh Brown, John
Brown, Samuel Brown, Joseph Brown, John Bowman, Robert Bowman, Rob-
ert Bowman, Jr., James Boylan, Andrew Booth, David Beatty, Benjamin
150
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Nesliannock for 1802: Isaac Arkwright, James Black, Robert Black (black-
smith), Isaac Brisson, Samuel Blackstone, Samuel Boyers, James Clingan,
Jame Clingan, Jr., William Clingan, James Dick, Samuel Fipps, Hugh Har-
son, James Hoge, Thomas Jenny, Thomas Michel, John Michel, John Mc-
Clunie, Samuel Moak, James Satterfield, Robert Stephens, John Shultz, John
Whitstone, John Whittin, Adam Whittin, Henry Whittin.
The following pioneers of Mercer County appear as taxables of Irwin
Township in 1800: Elias Axtell, Thomas Axtell, Tuttle Axtell, Nathan Ax-
tell, Moses Austin, Robert Beatty, John Brown, Robert Budge, Robert Brisby,
Moses Bunnel, John Boylan, Thomas Boylan, Caleb Ball, Thomas Branden,
James Bowman, Nathaniel Coleman, Joshua Coleman, Samuel Coleman, N.
Cooper, Cary Cooper, William W. Carroll, William Carroll. Jonathan
Cochran, Duncan Carmichael, John Carmichael, Timothy Conoway (mulatto),
Thomas Crossen, Thomas Crossen, Jr., Daniel Croin, John Chapman, Joseph
Caldwell, Francis Cochran, Thomas Carter, William Cousins, Matthias Clark,
James Clark, John Clark, Daniel Clark, Abraham Clark, William Creen,
Adam Carnahan, David Condit, Ira Condit, John Duncan, William Davison,
James Davison, William Donough, Arthur Dickey, William Dowlan, William
Doty, Samuel Doty, Isthiel Dodd, James Davitt, Robert Fowler, Thomas
Gibson, John Gibson, John Gordon, Samuel Gildersleeve, Samuel Graham,
Charles Giebner, Brice Gilmore, Jeremiah Hendry, George Hendry, William
Henderson, John Henderson, Robert Henderson, Sr., Charles Henderson,
Robert Henderson, Jr., William Houson, Isaac Holloway, Thomas Jordan,
Robert Johnston, Hugh Johnston, Alexander Johnston, John Johnston, Will-
iam Johnston, William Kill, Daniel Kemp, James Kilgore, David Kilgore,
Samuel Kilgore, John Long, Robert Latta, Samuel Lindsey, Abraham Lud-
wick, Abraham Leeb, Curtis Marmaduke (hatter), John Martin, Sr., James
Martin, Jr., Robert McGosgen, John McClelland, Robert Morgan (negro),
John McClure, Thomas McClure, James McClure, John Mulhall, James Mc-
Bride, Sr., James McBride, Jr., Robert McBride, James Marshall, William
McCormick, Thomas McCormick, David McConahy, Jr. , James McNulty, John
McElvey, William McClimans, Moses McElwain, Robert McClelland, Will-
iam Perrine, James Porter, Samuel Polley, Jacob Rowen, Ebenezer Roberts,
William Riddle, John Rodgers, Jacob Reed, William Reed, Thomas Robb,
Edward Ross, Jacob Ross, Stephen Riggs, James Stephen, John Stephenson,
Andrew Smith, George Sutley, John Sheverman, William Yaughn, Andrew
Woodruff, James Waddle, Samuel Waldron, Daniel Waldron, John Waldron,
Sr., John Waldron, Jr., John Westlake, Henry Westlake, John Wolverton,
David Wolverton, John Wentworth.
The following were the taxables of that part of North Beaver Township
now embraced in this county for the year 1800: George Allison, Daniel Ault
(grist-mill), John Anderson, Jr., William Anderson, Alexander Anderson,
John Anderson, Sr., James Anderson, David Adams, Asa Adams, John An-
gel, John Brown, Samuel Byers, William Bell, Sr., William Bell, Jr.,
Michael Book, George Book, John Book, Joshua Bentley, John Blair, Joshua
Blair, Robert Blair, John Burgess, James Black, Joseph Cracroft, Thomas
C. Crawford, John Canon, Thomas Canon, James Chambers, William Col-
ton, David Crawford, Joseph Campbell, Robert Campbell, Garitt Coovert,
Thomas Carmichael, James Carmichael, James Campbell, William Clin-
gan, James Clingan, Jacob Dawson, George Davis, James Dick, Cornelius
Donovan, George Denniston, James Denniston, William Denniston, Andrew
Denniston, Isaac Donalds, Darby Doran, Michael Doran, William Delaney,
Joseph Eberhart, William Elliott, Sr., William Elliott, Jr., George Foreman,
HISTOBY OF MEBCER COUNTY.
153
Michael Fetters, Samuel Fetters, Peter Gundy, James Gilkey, John Gilkey,
Charles Gilkey, John Gealy, James Gealy, Henry Gealy, James Gilfillan,
George Hughes, Isaac Hall, John Holmes, Cornelius Hendrickson, Cornelius
Hendrickson, Jr., Daniel Hendrickson, Thomas Hendrickson, James Huston,
William Huston, William Hodge, James Hezlip, William Hunter, William
Hoey, George Huttenbaugh, Jonathan Harlin (grist-mill), Jerrit Irvin, Robert
Irvin, John Johnston, Barney Johnston, John Jones, John Jones, Jr., Martha
Kerr, William Lock, Thomas Laughlin, William Lackins, John McGeehan,
James McGeehan, Robert McBride, William McConnell, Samuel McBride,
David McBride, Nathaniel McBride, Francis McFarland, William McFarland,
Alexander McCoy, James Moore, William McComb, Thomas Mathers, John
Monteith, Joseph R. McCune, Joseph McBurney, John Mitchell, John May-
berry, Hugh McKean, John McCrumb, Hugh Means, William McLean, Arthur
McCann, Adam Murphy, Adam McCracken, WTlliam Mathers, John McFar-
land, David McMichael, William Morrison, Robert McFarland, William
McFarland, James McMillan (blacksmith), Jacob Middlesworth, Charles Mc-
Cully, John Mills, Dennis McConnell, George McWilliams, Joseph McWill-
iams, John Neal, Sr., John Neal, Jr., James Neal, William Nicholson, William'
Nelson, William Porter, John Porter, Nathaniel Porter, William Porter, Thom-
as Pettitt, James Patton, Jonathan Phillips, James Quigley, WTlliam Rheney,,
Andrew Read, Daniel Rinn, Henry Robinson, James Ramsey, William Rals-
ton, John Small, Ezekiel Sankey, John Shurts, Joseph Scott, Abraham Scott,
Thomas Scott, William Semans, Robert Stevenson, James Scott, Gustavus
Shaw, James Sharp, John SharjD, John Smith, Daniel Sutton, John C. Stew-
art, James Smith, Robert Thompson, Patrick Thompson, Henry Thompson,
Alexander Thompson, Thomas Thompson, John Towlin, John Unstoll, Nich-
olas Vanemon, Simon Vanosdal, Richard Vanlleet, John Wdiiting, David Wil-
son, William Wilson, Samuel Wiley, John Wallace, Joseph Watts, Francis
Ward, William Wallace, Robert Walker, James Walker, Sr., James Walker,
Jr., John Waugh, James Waugh, Sr., James Waugh, Jr., Samuel Wier, Rob-
ert Wier, Robert Wallace, Hugh Wood, Jesse Welch, William Welch, Alex-
ander Wright.
Taxables of Salem Township for 1801 ; Thomas Arnold, Thomas Bean,
Hugh Bean, William Bean, James Bean, Jr., David Bean, Andrew Bean,
Robert Bean, Robert Bean, Jr., James Bean, Sr., Thomas Brown, John
Brown, Hugh Brown, Jack Brown, William Brown, Richard Brown, Sam-
uel Brown, Solomon Brown, Joseph Brown, Adam Barnes, Andrew Booth,
James Bailey, Frederick Bowler (blacksmith), Joseph Brush, James Brush,
Samuel Brush, George Brownlee, William Buller, James Black, William Budd,
Jr., Benjamin Bentley, Robert Bole, Thomas Bole, John Christy, Andrew
Christy, Miles Cherry, Gabe Calvin, John Calvin, John Calvin, Jr., Andrew
Cochran, John Caughey, Joseph Connell, Jonathan Culbert. Thomas Camjr-
bell, Jacob Campbell, Andrew Chestnut, John Carmichael, Henry Clark, Mar-
tin Cunningham, Nathaniel Cozad, Thomas Dumars, Timothy Dumars, James
Dumars, Jonathan Davis, Hugh Donaldson, James Dowlin, Pliineas Dunham
John Dunlap, Nathan Fell, William Fell, George Frey, Michael Frey, Thom-
as Fulton, John Ferguson, Jacob Gurwell, John Gillis, Thomas Gillis, John
Gilleland, William Gilliford, Brabson Gibbons, John Gravat, William Gravat,
Hugh Hill, David Hanel, Jacob Hanel, Gotlieb Hubley, Henry Hoagland, John
Hall, George Hervey, Daniel Hull, Sherry Hull, Henry Hoovert, Peter Hoovert,
George Hopper, Richard Hill, Henry Hitchcock, James Hays, John Johnston,
David Johnston, John Johnston, Jr., Robert Johnston, Thomas Jolly, William
Kinnear, James King, Samuel Kile, Hugh Kithcart, Daniel Klingonsmith, Dan-
154
HISTOKY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
iel Klingensmith, Jr., John Klingensmith, Peter Klingensmith, Peter Keck, Jo-
seph Keck (distiller), Hugh' Kerr, John Kindle, Matthew Kelly, James Latferty,
William Lindsey, Joseph Loutzenhiser, John Loutzenhiser, Peter Loutzen-
hiser, Thomas Louchrod, Peter Lossey, George McCord, Robert McCord, James
McCullough, Christiau Miles, Francis Mossman, John Mossman, William H.
Mossman, Thomas McGill, Henry McLaughlin, John McLaughlin, John McCluny,
Joseph McCluny, Alexander McCluny, Alexander McKinney, John McKinney,
Richard Melvin, Thomas McClelland, William Mahan, Sr., William Mahan,
Jr., Samuel Mahan, John Mortimer, William Mortimer, John McGranahan,
James Morford, Joseph Morford, Thomas Morford, Joseph McCrea, William
McCrea, Robert McKean, Robert McAlly (grist-miller), John Moreland, Will-
iam Moreland, Isaac Moreland, Alexander Moreland, James Nelson, Christo-
pher North, Matthew Ormsby, John O’Neil, John Patterson, Nathan Patterson,
Andrew Patterson, David Porter, Robert Roberts, Lewis Roberts, Thomas
Roberts, Samuel Rogers, John Rogers, Joseph Riley, John Riley, John Rich-
ardson, Daniel Rankin, Vincent Robins, Charles Rinn, Joseph Swasick,
William Sterrit, Andrew Shaw, Philip Sherbondy, John Sherbondy, James
Stevenson, Tobias Shank, James Stinson, William Stewart, David Semple,
Robert Savage, Richard Tunison, Zebulon Tunison, William Thompson,
Thomas Thompson, John Williamson (miller), George Williamson, Samuel
Williamson, James Williamson, William White, Thomas Woods, William
Woods, John Woods, Solomon Williams, James Walker, Robert Walker,
John Walker, Peter Yeatman, James Young.
Salem for 1802: David Beatty, William Butler, Adam Burns, John Chess,
James Clingan, Andrew Connor, Gabriel Colnan, John Colnan, Sr., John Col-
nan, Jr., John Cowan, Catharine Campbell, Alexander Dumars, Robert Ellis,
John Gravat, William Gravat, David Hastings, Gotlieb Hubler, Jacob Honnel,
David Honnel, Hugh Hill, Edward Kelly, William Kinnear, Joseph Long,
William Lossee, Thomas Longhead, James Langhearty, Benjamin Lodge,
Henry Murray, William McClunie, John McClunie, Duncan Mathews, David
McClurg, Joseph McClurg, George McFetridge, Thoroughgood North, John
Reed, Abraham Smith, John Speir.
Sandy Lake Township taxables for 1801: Samuel Anderson, William
Anderson, Joseph Alexander (mulatto slave), Joseph Alexander, Jr., William
Alexander, Benjamin Alexander, John Alexander, Elias Axtell, Isaac Axtell,
Thomas Axtell, Nathan Axtell, Daniel Axtell, Lincoln Axtell, John Arbuckle,
James Armstrong, Robert Bowman, John Bowman, Joseph Barkley, Cyrus Beck-
with, Henry Beckwith, George Bradley, Aaron Boylan, Ross Byers, William
Byers, Caleb Ball, Robert Brisband, John Brooks, Benjamin Blyth, Benjamin
Bennet, Matthias Clark, Isaac Clark, Abraham Clark, Abraham Clark, Jr.,
John Clark, Jabez Coulson, Thomas Coulson, Frederick Coffman, John Craig,
John Craig, Jr., Samuel Coleman, Nathaniel Coleman, Joshua Coleman, Robert
Caldwell, David Caldwell, John Caldwell, Alexander Caldwell, Joseph Caldwell,
David Chess, James Chess, William Carroll, William Carroll, Jr., Duncan
Carmichael, John Carmichael, Thomas Crossan, John Custard, Richard
Custard, David Condit, Ira Condit, Francis Cochran, James Dixon, Ralph
Dawson, John Duncan, Robert Davis, James Davdtt, Rufus Dodd, Ithiel Dodd,
John Dunham, Francis Drain, William Egbert, William Egleson, Peter Finall,
Robert Fowler, Adam Forker, James Fulton, John Garvin, David Garvin,
Thomas Graham, William Graham, John Grace, Charles Giebner, William
Geddes, John Gibson, George Gibson, Samuel Gibson, Charles Gibson. Samuel
Gildersleeve, Matthias Hollenbeck, George Hackney, Joseph Hackney, Jehu
Hackney, Aaron Hackney, Daniel Harper, Samuel Hawthorn, James Hawson,
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
155
Hugh Hawson, Francis Huey, William Henderson, John Henderson, Robert
Henderson, Robert Henderson, Jr., George Haivy, Jeremiah Haivy, Isaac
Holloway, John Holloway, Adam Hill, George Hilderbrand, Samuel Johnston,
Zachariah Johnston, James Johnston, John Johnston, David Jones, James
Jeffers, William Jeffers, John Kelly, Samuel Kelly, William Kile, Patrick
Kilgore, David Kilgore, Samuel Kilgore, James Kilgore, John Larimer,
Abraham Ludwick, James Lynch, John Littleford, Charles Lucas, Rev.
William McClintock, Thomas McLean, David McLean, James Mustard, John
Mustard, John Mitchell, William McCullough, William McCullough, Jr., Joseph
McDonald, Theophilus McDonald, John McDonald, Thomas McMillan, Thomas,
McMillan, Jr., William McMillan, John McMillan, John McElheny, John
McNulty, Caleb McNulty, James McNulty, John Morrison, John Mateer,
Alexander McCracken, Robert McCartney, Hugh McCutcheon, James McBride,
James McBride, Jr., Robert McBride, Charles McBride, John Monhall, William
McCormick, James McCormick, Thomas Mullen, John McClelland, Robert
McClelland, Robert McGugan, Robert Morgan, Edward Mattocks, John
McElvey, John Montgomery, James Montgomery, William Montgomery, Patrick
McCloskey, James McCloskey, Robert McClure, Andrew McClure, George
Myers, Joseph Nelson, Alexander Noble, William Osborn, John Penny,
William Penny, William Pangburn, William Pangburn, Jr., James Parker,
William Parker, (grist miller), Daniel Perrine, William Perrine, Alexander
Porter, James Porter, John Pew, John Patterson, Daniel Perkins, Jacob Reed,
Hugh Richardson, Patrick Rice, James Rice, James Rice, Jr., Clement Rice,
John Rice, Thomas Rice, Edward Ross, Jacob Ross, Israel Ross, Thomas
Robb, Robert Robb, James Robb, James Robb, Jr., Jacob Robb, James
Rinn, Stephen Riggs, John Severs, James Simpson, James Stevenson, Joseph
Shepard, Benjamin Stokely, Benjamin Stymitts, Alexander Turner, William
Vaughn, Peter Wilson, (grist miller), William Wilson, Samuel Worden, Josiah
Winters, Samuel Waldron, Daniel Waldron, William Waddle, Morris West-
lake, John Westlake, John Wolverton, Daniel Wolverton, Hugh Wright,
Matthias Zahniser, Matthias Zahniser, Jr., Michael Zahinser, Valentine
Zahniser.
Cool Spring Township taxables for 1801 : Samuel Allen, Alexander
Andrews, James Alexander, William Boghall, William Brandon, James
Brandon, William Barnett, Michael Brown, James Brown, Charles Blair,
John Bennett, William Bennett, John Bradley, Joshua Buckmaster, Will-
iam Buchanan, John Buchanan, William Cochran, Samuel Campbell, Jacob
Campbell, Garrett Covert, Brisalla Carter, John Craig, William Craig, Val-
entine Cunningham, Samuel Christy, James Denniston, George Denniston,
William Denniston, Andrew Denniston, Sr., Andrew Denniston, Jr., George
Divens, William Daugherty, Sr., William Daugherty, Jr., Isaac Daniels,
Jonathan Donalds, Cornelius Donovan, Joseph Elder, William Evans, Alex-
ander Ewing, William Ewing, Jacob Emery, John Emery, William Elliott,
Hugh Foster, James Foster, James Gormly, Robert Gilmore, John Gilmore,
Robert Glenn, James Glenn, William Glenn, Henry Gealy, James Gealy,
(tanner), John Gealy, James Gilhllan, John Gilkey, James Gilkey, Charles
Gilkey, James George, John Galbraith, John Gilman, Robert Huston, John
Hoover, Abraham Hoover, Michael Hoover, Hugh Hamilton, Jonathan Harlan,
(grist-miller), George Huttenbaiigh, Henry Hagins, John Hagarty, Philip
Hoon, Barney Johnston, Joseph Jeffers, Marmaduke Jamison, Robert Jamison,
Peter Kenner, Adam Laffer (blacksmith), Thomas Love, Alexander Love,
William Lock, Daniel McMullen, Gideon Miller, Robert Miller, John Miller,
James Miller, Charles Marlen, Dennis McConnell, John McElwain, Thomas
156
HISTOKY OP MEBCER COUNTY.
McKay, Adam Murphy, James Monnel, William Mathers, Arthur McCann,
John McCann, James McCannon, John Mackey, Adam McCracken, Jamea
Maxwell, Thamer McKay, David McAnely, David McDowell, Eobert McDowell,
John Magee, James Moore, Moses Martin, Smith N. Neal, William Nicholson,
William Nelson, Frederick Poicers, Jonathan Phillips, Benjamin Pearson,
John Powell, Joseph Powell, Isaac Pond, James Patterson, Ambrose Quillan,
David Kobinson, John Robinson, Nathaniel Rogers, George Rogers, Sr.,
George Rogers, Jr., William Rogers, Henry Rudecel, James Rige, Daniel
Rice, John Ralston, AVilliam Ralston, William Reese, John Richy, Ephraim
Rose, Andrew Rose, James Ramsey, John Sharp, James Sharp, William
Seeds, George Siegler, Gustavus Shaw, John Shaw, John Smith, James
Smith, Thomas Smith, William Smith, Daniel Sutton, Solomon Sutton, John
Sutton, James Stuart, Daniel Stuart, Thomas Sweezy, John Sutherland,
Peter IJrey, Adam Urey, John Wolford, Robert Wallace, John White, Alex-
ander White, William Ward, James Whitaker.
Cool Spring for 1802: Joseph Alexander (negro slave), Joseph Alexander,,
Jr., William Alexander, Benjamin Alexander, John Alexander, Samuel Ander-
son, William Anderson, Elias Axtell, Isaac Axtell, Thomas Axtell, James Arm-
strong, Robert Bowman, John Bowman, Joseph Barcley, Cyrus Beckwith, Henry
Beckwith, George Bradley, Caleb Bole, Robert Brisband, Benjamin Bennett,
Jabez Coulson, Thomas Coulson, Isaac Clark, Abraham Clark, Frederick
Coffman, John Craig, Jr., Samuel Coleman, Nathaniel Coleman, Joshua Cole-
man, William Carveal,- Sr. , William Carveal, Jr., John Carmichael, Duncau
Carmichael, Thomas Crossin, Joseph Caldwell, John Caldwell, Robert Cald-
well, Francis Cochran, Carey Cooper, Timothy Conoway, William Clancy,
John Duncan, Francis Drain, James Davitt, Sr., James Davitt, Jr., Thomas
Doyle, William Egbert, Robert Fowler, James Fulton, Adam Forker (black-
smith), Thomas Graham, William Graham, John Grace, John Garvin, David
Garvin, Charles Giebner, John Greene, Matthew Hollenbeck, George Hackney,
John Hackney, Samuel Hawthorn, Francis Hughey, William Henderson, John
Henderson, Robert Henderson, Eobert Henderson, Jr., Jacob Hilderbrand,
George Hilderbrand, Adam Hill, Daniel Harper, Samuel Johnston, Zacariah
Johnston, James Johnston, Sr., James Johnston, Jr., John Johnston, David
Jones, James Jeffers, William Jeffers, John Kelly, Samuel Kelly, Daniel
Kelly, William Kile, Robert Latta, Abraham Ludwick, James Lynch, John
Littleford, Charles Lucas, William McMillan, Thomas McMillan, John Mc-
Millan, William McCullough, Sr., William McCullough, Jr. , John McElheny,
• Caleb McNulty, John McNulty, John Morrison, John McDonald, Theophilus
McDonald, Hugh McCutcheon, James McBride, Sr., James McBride, Jr.,
Thomas McBiide, Charles McBride, William McCormick, James McCormick,
Thomas Mullen, Patrick McCloskey, James McCloskey, Robert McClure,
Andrew McClure, George Myers, Jacob Myers, William McClintock, Thomas
McLean, David McLean, James Mustard, John Mustard, Joseph McDonald,
Hugh McKean, John Mitchell, William Osborn, James Ogle, John Penny,
William Penny, William Pangburn, William Pangburn, Jr., James Parker,
William Parker, Alexander Porter, James Porter, Daniel Perrine, William
Perrine, John Pew, John Patterson, Patrick Rice, James Rice, Sr., James
Rice, Jr., Clement Rice, John Rice, Thomas Rice, Peter Rambo, James
Richard, John Severs, James Stephens, Benjamin Stokely, Benjamin Sty-
mitts, James Simpson, Alexander Turner, Rev. Samuel Tait, William Vaughn,
Isaac Van Camp, Peter Wilson, Samuel Warden, Isaiah Winters, Samuel
Waldron, Daniel Waldron, John Waldron, Barris Westlake, John Westlake,
Daniel Woolharton, William Wilson, Matthias Zahniser, Sr., Matthias Zahn-
iser, Jr., Michael Zahniser, Valentine Zahniser.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
157
Taxables of Sandy Creek Township for 1802; Daniel Axtell, Nathan
Axtell, Lincoln Axtell, Amzy Axtell, John Arbuckle, William Byers, Ross
Byers, John Brooks, Aaron Boylan, John Custard, Richard Custard, David
Condit, Ira Condit, Alexander Caldwell, David Caldwell, David Chess, James
Chess, Adam Carnahan, John Clark, Matthias Clark, Ithiel Dodd, Rufus
Dodd, Ralph Dawson, John Doran, William Egleson, Peter Finall, Samuel
Gibson, Charles Gibson, John Gibson, John Gilfen, Isaac Holloway, John
Holloway, James Hazen, Evans Harriott, Jeremiah Henry, George Henry,
Hugh Hasson, J ames Kilgore, David Kilgore, Samuel Kilgore, Patrick Kilgore,
John E. Larimer, Alexander McCracken, James Montgomery, John Mont-
gomery, William Montgomery, Robert Morgan, Robert McClenand, John
McClenand, John Metier, Robert McCartney, Robert McGugan, Andrew
McGugan, Edward Mattocks, Joseph Nelson, Alexander Noble, Daniel
Perkins, Thomas Phillips, John Patten, William Reed, Jacob Reed, Hugh
Richardson, James Rinn, Stephen Riggs, Amos Robbins, Robert Robb, James
Robb, Thomas Robb, Jacob Ross, Allen Ross, Aaron Ross, Edward Ross,
Edward Ross (carpenter), W illiam Wiley.
Taxables of Pymatuning Township for 1802: Benjamin Bentley, Davis
Bentley, John Bentley, James Black, William Budd, William Budd, Jr.,
Martin Cunningham, Nathaniel Cozad, Henry Clark, John Carmichael, John
Duffey, Phineas Dunham, Phineas Dunham, Jr., Jonathan Dunham, John
Dunlap, John Elliott, Thomas Fulton, Henry Gillman, George Hervey, John
Hull, James Hawthorne, George Hohns, Bashara Hull, Elijah Hull, Daniel
Hull, Henry Hoagland, Henry Hovert, Peter Hovert, John Kindle, Pearson
Kindle, Jacob Loutzenhiser, Robert McCully, John McCrumb, James McBride,
Christian Miles, WTlliam McKee, Andrew Patterson, David Porter, Susannah
Porter, Daniel Rankin, Vincent Robbins, Charles Reno, Robert Savage,
James Swasick, Thomas Thompson, Ephraim Thompson, Robert Walker,
James Young.
Taxables of Wolf Creek Township for 1802: Alexander Anderson, James
Anderson, Samuel Allen, James Brown, Michael Brown, William Bennett,
John Bennett, Joshua Buckmaster, Charles Blair, John Buchanan, James
Buchanan, William Buchanan, John Barnwmll, WTlliam Brandon, WTlliam
Bothwell, William Barnett, James Braden, Valentine Cunningham, James
Caldwell, Samuel Christy, William Craig, James Craig, Brazilla Carter, Gar-
ret Covert, Joseph Campbell, Samuel Campbell, James Collins, Benjamin
Cochran, Isaac Daniels, Jonathan Daniels, Cornelius Donovan, George Dennis-
ton, William Denniston, James Denniston, Johnston Denniston, Andrew Den-
niston, George Diven, W^illiam Daugherty, Jacob Emery, John Emery, Alex-
ander Ewing, William Ewing, William Evans, Joseph Elder, William Elliott,
Hugh Foster, James Foster, John Findley, John Gilmer, John Gilmer,
Jr., Robert Gilmer, John Gilkey, Charles Gilkey, James Gealy (tanner),
John Gealy, James Gilfillan, William George, James George, James Gormly,
John Galbraith, Henry Geuss, William Glenn, James Glenn, Robert
Glenn, Samuel Glenn, Jonathan Harlan, Hugh Hamilton, George Hutten-
baugh, John Hagerty, Henry Hagom, Philip Hoon, John Hoover, Abra-
ham Hoover, Michael Hoover, Robert Jamison, Marmaduke Jamison, Joseph
Jeffers, Barnabas Johnston, WTlliam Lock, Adam Lott'er, Thomas Loft'er,
Alexander Love, Thomas Love, Peter Kenner, John McCann, Arthur Mc-
Cann, James McCann, James Manuel, John Mackey, Wdlliam Matthews,
Daniel McConnell, Charles Martin, James Maxwell, Daniel McMillen, John
McMillen, Hugh McKee, James McKee, Sr., James McKee, Jr., John
McKee, James McCannon, Adam McCracken, John McElwaiu, Adam
158
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Murphy, James Moore, John McGee, Robert McDowell, David Mc-
Dowell, William Montgomery, Daniel McClure, James Miller, John Miller,
Robert Miller, Gideon Miller, David McKinley, Thomas McCoy, Thomas Mc-
Coy, Jr., Joseph McCoy, William Nelson, MTlliam Nicholson, Smith Neal,
Jonathan Phipps, Isaac Pound, Frederick Pisor, Benjamin Pearson, John
Perry, John Powell, Joseph Powell, Ambrose Quillan, John Robinson,
Nathaniel Rogers, W^illiam Rogers, George Rogers, George Rogers, Jr.,
Andrew Rose, William Reese, Henry Rudisch, WTlliam Ralston, John Ralston,
James Ramsey, Daniel Rice, James Rice, Richard Stephenson, Abraham
Snyder, James Smith, John Smith, James Sharp, John Sharp, Gustavus
Shaw, John Shaw, Daniel Sirtton, John Sutton, Solomon Sutton, Stephen
Sutton, Christian Stantuff, Thomas Sweezy, William Seeds, Daniel Stewart,
James Stewart, George Seigler, Thomas Smith, William Smith, Richard
Spencer, John Sutherland, James Taylor, James Tagart, A'dam Urey, Peter
Urey, Simon Vanosdal, Robert Wallace, Alexander White, John White,,
James Whittaker, William Ward, John Wolford.
CHAPTER IV.
Organization and Administration — WTiere the First Courts were heli>
AND THE Officials AND Lawyers Present— First Grand Jury— Public
Buildings, First Courts and Statistics— Court-houses and Jail.s—
County Farm — First Courts and Cases— bTATiSTics — Poster of Public
Officials — Members of Congress— State Senators— State Representa-
tives— President Judges— Associate .Judges— District Attorneys — Com-
missioners—Prothonotaries— Registers AND Recorders— Clerks of
Court— Sheriffs — Treasurers — Auditors— Coroners— Poor Directors —
Canal Commissioners — Jury Commissioners— Surveyors.
Although declared a county by act of assembly in 1800, for all practi-
cal purposes Mercer constituted a part of Crawford County until 1803,
when the first county officers were appointed. In February, 1804, the first and
second courts were held at the house of Joseph Hunter, situated on Mill Creek, on
the mill property now (1876) owned by the Hon. Wm. Stewart, in February and
May of that year. A false impression seems to have gotten out to the effect that
the first court was held in Cool Spring Township, at the house of William Mc-
Millan, now the property of John McEwen. It doubtless grew out of the fact
that boarding accommodations at the time were scarce and imperfect, render
ing it necessary for some of the court attendants to go several miles into the
country for entertainment. The commissioners at the time were Robert Bole,
Andrew Denniston and Thomas Robb. At their first session, November 10,
1803, they received proposals from citizens of Mercer and vicinity to furnish
places in which to hold the courts of the county. They finally contracted with
Joseph Hunter to use his house for the February and March terms of 1804
absolutely, at the rate of $1 per day, with the privilege of using it also for
the two remaining sessions of the year on the same terms. This building, how-
ever, was not used beyond the first two terms. In October, 1804, the commis-
sioners removed their office from Hunter’s to the house of Jacob Myers in
Mercer. The jail building, described further on, was ready for occupancy by
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
159
the close of that year, and its upper story was finished and used for a court room.
At the first term the commission of Hon. Jesse Moore, as president judge
of the circuit composed of the counties of Beaver, Butler, Mercer, Crawford
and Erie was read, also the commissions of Alexander Wright and Alexander
Brown, as judges for Mercer County. The various commissions of John Find-
ley, as prothonotary, clerk, etc., of the county, was also read; so, also, that
of William Byers as sheriff, James Braden as coroner, and John W. Hun-
ter as deputy prosecuting attorney. As there had been as yet no election in
the county all of these offices were held by appointment from the executive
of the State. The attorneys admitted to practice at the first court were John
W. Hunter, Joseph Shannon, Cunningham S. Semple, S. B. Foster, Alex. W.
Foster, Ralph Marlin, Edward Work, Patrick Farrelly, William Ayres, Henry
Baldwin and Steel Semple. The two Fosters, Farrelly, Ayres, Baldwin and
Steel Semple all afterward turned out to be men of mark and ability, and
forty and fifty years back from this writing (1870) it was a rich treat to hear
the men of that day recite the tricks, strategems and anecdotes of which
they were the perpetrators. At the second term, held in May, the commis-
sion of William Anderson as an additional judge of Mercer County was read.
This gave three associate judges. The writer of this,* who, as a little boj'',
occasionally dropped into the court-house along between 1812 and 1820, was
indelibly impressed with the grand dignity of the president judge. He was
a heavy, solemn-looking man, and retained the dress of the old style gentle-
man— small clothes, shoe buckles, knee buckles, bald-headed, but hair long
behind and done up in a queue, and head and hair and collar of the black coat
covered with a white powder sprinkled thereon. He has since seen the supreme
court of the United States in session, their black gowns, and the compar-
ative quietness enforced certainly give to it a very dignified aspect, but still
there was lacking the grand old powdered head and queue that gave Judge
Moore the advantage in imposing dignity.
The first grand jury that assembled in the county consisted of Hugh Ham-
ilton, Joseph McEwen, Thomas Scott, James Waugh, William Welch, James
Denniston, John Alexander, William Alexander, Cyrus Beckwith, Daniel Kelly,
William Pangburn, John Grace, Duncan Carmichael, Robert Moore, William
Nicholson, John E. Larimer, Alex. McCracken, James Montgomery, Jacob
Loutzenhiser, Alexander Bean and Joseph Smith, all of whom have long since
paid the great debt of nature, but most of whom are yet alive in the genera-
tions that have followed and still reside in the county.
PUBLIC BUILDINGS, FIRST COURTS AND STATISTICS.
The land on which Mercer, the county town, was originally located, being
very near the center of the county, consisted of 200 acres, presented to the
county by John Hoge, of Washington County, who owned large tracts in the
vicinity. The trustees to lay out the town and dispose of the lots were John
Findley, William Mortimer and William McMillan (commonly designated “ Lit-
tle Billy,” to distinguish between a large man of the same name). It was with
the funds arising from the sale of these lots that the first court-house, standing
in the center of the diamond, was built. On the 18th of May, 1807, John Cham-
bers, John Leech and William McMillan, the county commissioners, contracted
with Joseph Smith and John McCurdy for the building thereof for the sum of
$7,116. In 1840 there was an addition put to this building, to got better office
accommodations, at a cost of about $1,500, and the whole was burned to the
♦William S. Garvin.
160
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ground in February, 1866, after which the present beautiful and substantial
structure was erected at a cost of 168,000. It was erected in 1867. Barr &
Moser, of Pittsburgh, were the architects, William Maskrey had the superin-
tendence of the stone and brick work, Oliver Alexander of the roof and gen-
eral carpenter work, and William M. Gibson of the glass and finishing work.
The men were employed by day’s labor. The first place used for court-house
and jail, however, was a log structure on the grounds now occupied by the First
National Bank,* the lower story for a jail being built of squared logs, let down
flat and dovetailed at the corners, and the court-room above, which was reached
by stairs from the outside of the building. Until this structure was ready for
prisoners, the commissioners rented a room from James Braden, which they
had fitted up as a prison. They made their contract with him at their second
session, held Tuesday, December 6th, 1803, to use a portion of his house at
the rate of |7 per month, the time to commence with the confinement of the
first prisoner.
The second jail was a stone building, erected by Thomas Templeton in
1818-19, directly north of the first one, on the next street. It was used until
1869, when it was purchased by Mr. Lafferty and converted into a temperance
botel. It is now used as a private dwelling.
The present brick jail was erected in 1868 at a cost of 167,000. Barr &
Moser were architects, S. Runser & Co. , of Sharon, did the iron work, and
William M. Gibson, of Mercer, the finishing. The structure was completed and
occupied in 1869.
County Farm. — On the 3d of November, 1851, it was resolved by the poor
directors that “Enoch Perrine be appointed to visit the poor house at Girard,
in Erie County, to make observation and take a draft of said house, and also
to get information as to the rules and regulations in the management, ’ ’ also, that
“ William F. Groves and Samuel Wood be appointed to visit the poor house in
W ashington County, and any others that they can visit conveniently,' for simi-
lar purposes. ’’ The first poor farm was situated in Cool Spring Township, and
was purchased in 1851 of Henry Moore. It being in poor condition and in-
conveniently located, an act of Assembly authorized the securing of the pres-
ent one, which was purchased of Thomas Pearson May 15, 1852. A building
had already been begun on the Moore place when the change of location was
made, and the directors, Enoch Perrine, Samuel Woods and William F.
Groves, only secured the renewal of the contract by adding $525 to the original
cost, and “dispensing with the floor in the garret.” The old farm was sold
for $2,800. The present farm includes 206 acres. The house was opened and
the first inmates received January 4, 1853. There were fourteen. Of this
number two are yet living: Mary Jewett, from Hickory Township, concerning
whom the following notes were made: “Fifteen years of age, entirely simple,
has many traits of the snake, bites herself and is very vicious.” Harriet Hart-
suff , from Sandy Lake. ‘ ‘ The cords and ligaments of her legs are contracted
or stiffened so that she cannot walk. She is intelligent and cheerful. Eight-
een years old.” The first inmate registered was Minerva Mitchell from Dela-
ware Township. She was forty at the time and nearly blind. She died November
18, 1886, aged seventy-nine years. Samuel Clingan, from Shenango, is said
to have been the most comical and distinguished inmate ever admitted. Entry:
“Cute, cunning and comical, yet very simple.” He died August 5, 1886,
aged seventy years.
*This was true in 1876. The site is occupied at present (1888) by the law office of Johnson Pearson, Esq , the
bank having recently been removed into the Miller-Uordon block, several doors west of its former site.
HISTOBY OF MERCEB COUNTY.
161
The stewards in charge of the institution have been : W illiam Breckenridge,
Sandy Lake Township (2 years); Johnson Gu-aham, Millbrook, Worth Town-
ship (2 years, 3 months); John Woods, of West Middlesex, Shenango Town-
ship (3 years); John Smith, Mercer (3 years); John K. Roberts, West Salem
Township (8 years); Amos Taylor, Mercer (3 years); William Clark, Shenango
Township (2 years, 9 months); J. C. Cubbison, Fairview Township (4 years);
Amos Taylor, Mercer (5 years), and George H. Caldwell, the present steward,
from Deer Creek Township, who took charge in January, 1886.
The physicians have been: Dr. George W. Yeager (2 years). Dr. S. S.
Mehard (2 years). Dr. John P. Hosack (16 years). Dr. James Magoffin (3
months), Dr. Pawley (3 months), Dr. James Woods (1 year). Dr. Frederick
Beil (1 year). Dr. James Mehard (3 years). Dr. Devinney (5 years), and Dr.
Robert Hope, who is now serving his seventh year.
The total cost of the new building, one of the best in Western Pennsylva-
nia, including grading and ornamentation, was $110,000. The ground for
the site of the structure was broken in August, 1880. The structure was
opened in 1883. The contractor was Simon Harrold, of Beaver Falls. The
plumbing and heating were done by N. J. Butler, of Erie. The architects were
Drum & Stein, of Pittsburgh. The house is under the efficient management of
Mr. and Mrs. George H. Caldwell, who are peculiarly adapted to making the
inmates feel that they have a real home. The oldest person in the county is
still an inmate — Mrs. Melinda Hilliard. She was born near Albany, New
Y^ork, June 13, 1790, and is consequently in her ninety-ninth year. Another
old inmate is John Davis, a Welshman, aged eighty-three. He is one of the
oldest puddlers in the United States, and began his trade in 1819.
First Courts. — A reasonably full sketch of the members composing the
first court of the county will be found in the chapter on the Bench and Bar
in another portion of this work. The first civil case tried at the first court
was that of Jacob Hilderbrand vs. Robert McClure for trespass and ejectment.
It came from Crawford County Court, being case No. 31, at the January term,
1802. The attorneys were John- W. Hunter for the plaintiff and Thomas
Collins for the defendant. The case was continued from term to term, but
finally dismissed at the November term, 1805, by the attorney for plaintiff'.
The entire cost, including fees of prothonotary, sheriff and attorney, was
$26.25. The attorneys who did most legal business at the February term
were Thomas Collins, A. W. Foster, Steele Semple, John W. Hunter and
Henry Baldwin. There were at the first Court, two criminal cases. The first
was the Commonwealth vs. James King, indicted for forcible entry and
detainer. A true bill was found. He was held in the sum of $100, and the
following witnesses in behalf of the Commonwealth, Carlisle Losse, John
Calvin, Peter Lessee, Robert Steele, Henry McLaughlin, Samuel Brown, John
Gravat and John Klingensmith, in the sum of 150 each, to appear at the May
term. The trial came off at May term, but the jury brought in a verdict of
not guilty. The second case. Commonwealth vs. Henry Gilmore, for assault
and battery, was tried at the same time, with a similar verdict. At the May
term, still held at the house of Joseph Hunter, the grand jury consisted of
John Monteith, Samuel McBride, Francis McFarland, James McWilliams,
William Porter, John Small, John Dickey, William Mortimer, John Donald-
son, Adam Forker, Thomas Coulson, Jacob Reed, James McEweu, Ebenezer
Magoffin and Robert Cochran. After the lapse of eighty-four years it is to
be proclaimed that not a single public execution has occurred in Mercer
County. A number of exciting murder trials have taken place, but we have
162
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
purposely refrained from calling attention to them, under the impression that
Vice is a monster of such hideous mien
As to be hated needs hut to be seen;
Yet, seen too oft, familiar with its face,
We first endure, then pity, then embrace.
Statistics. — The interest of those early days concentrated very much in th©
public business done in the regular legal courts and the commissioners’
sessions. At the December session of the latter body, held December 6,
1803, John Chambers was chosen clerk. Lest he should become suddenly
rich, his salary was fixed at ten shillings per day for the time he was actuallif
engaged in such labor. The session in question continued two days. On
the 25th of January, 1804, the commissioners made an estimate of Ihe prob-
able expenses of the county for the ensuing year, as follows;
Court expenses, including fees of prothonotary, attorney and sheriff, $500
Commissioners and clerk 400
Assessor 96
Collector 70
Road viewers 50
Jail and office rent 100
Extras 259
Total". $1475
This amount did not include the treasurer’s 6 per cent allowance on money
handled. On the 20th of February the commissioners appointed Joseph
Smith treasurer for the county. On the 5th of March, 1804, the commis-
sioners appointed the following assessors for the several townships; Salem,
Thomas Gillis; Pymatuning, Benjamin Bentley; Neshannock, James Walker ;
Wolf Creek, Michael Brown ; Cool Spring, Wm. Pangburn, Sr.; Sandy Creek,
Aaron Ross. ^ The rate of taxation ranged from in Salem, the lowest, to
■jW in Sandy Creek, the highest.
On the 25th of April, 1804, the collectors for the several townships, together
with the sums to be collected, were designated as follows;
Township.
Salem
Pymatuning
Neshannock
Wolf Creek.
Cool Spring.
Sandy Creek
Name. , Amount.
■ John McClurg $300.10
.Jonathan Dunham 86.78
• Charles Gibson 380.50
■ Valentine Cunningham 286.10
.William Pangburn 287.88
Adam Carnahan 133.58
Total
$1,474.94
On the22d of May Ezekiel Sankey was appointed as collector, vice Charles
Gibson, who had not been a citizen long enough to entitle him to the position
of collector. It will be seen that the amount of tax to be collected was within
6 cents of the estimate as found in a previous paragraph. As showing the
difference between the valuation and taxes in 1804, when Mercer County was
new and embraced a large portion of what was subsequently (1849) detached
to form Lawrence, and those of 1888, the following tabular statement is
appended ;
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
103
Disticis.
Bethel
Clarksville
Cool Sprinjj
Deer Creek
Delaware
E. Lackawannock.
Fairview
Findley
French Creek
Fredonia
Grove City
Greenville
Greene
Hempfleld
Hickoiy
Jefferson
Jackson
Jackson Center. . .
Jamestown
Lackawannock. . . .
Lake
Liberty
Millcreek
Mercer
New Lebanon. . . .
New Vernon
Otter Creek
Perry
Pine
Pymatuning
Sharon
Sharpsville
Sheakleyville
Stoneboro
Sandy Lake, boro.
Sandy Lake, twp. .
Sandy Creek
Salem
Springfield
Shenango
Sugar Grove
West Salem
Wilmington
Wolf Creek
Worth
West Middlesex . .
Wheatland
Total.
Real Estate.
Mills, etc.
PersoDal
Property.
0<'cupa-
lions.
Livery.
Mouey at
Interest.
No.
Dogs.
Taxes.
$ 23,090
$ 3.400|$ 1,380
$ 1,200
$
$ 7,674
13
53
35,395
7,000
2,085
3,. 500
15,217
11
80
450.330
1,950
24,848
1,850
93,980
118
321
223,415
1,375
12,686
700
1,793
52
201
840 642
10 80C
37 267
8 .555
99 679
192
75
4^0
426,920
650
17,046
L375
18’, 204
234
433,090
430
22,693
962
20,. 529
70
264
633,479
13,200
26,848
7,200
42,795
152
449
337,125
700
21,367
550
24,317
103
275
47,370
.3,1.50
3,090
5,301
18,2.51
'll
161
167,429
7,0.50
3,396
29,500
1,585
24,698
14
297
994,764
39,400
13,735
70,875
1,200
227,611
119
1,093
492,244
100
19,333
1,000
29,378
105
25^
479,748
21,240
7.6,50
49 626
111
337
1,114,888
106,673
40,, 539
45,.544j
133,972
515
1,.541
570,834
6,096
29,321
5,700
35,764
164
377
509,110
11,600
19,085
13,646
30,328
141
418
48 382
2,442
2,000
11 464
15
58
174,972
8,600
4,4.54
14.645
102,870
37
346
454,141
1,800
23,690
8,650
55,259
162
337
288,335
6,000
16,846
3,700
20,167
84
248
291,048
1,500
16,. 555
3,600
14,059
57
202
300,367
2,175
18,164
200
19,193
71
227
686,995
27,500
14,290
49,950
2,400
390,490
62
740
60,056
500
2,920
3,600
380
11,478
8
102
268,436
650
19,448
1,400
13,981
81
237
293,578
1,000
12,825
925
17,096
87
164
423,354
8,620
22,404
8,975
200
32,724
115
378
607,850
16,425
33,386
12,600
19,287
182
551
1,242,957
11,450
41,079
9,300
71,516
246
661
1,436,242
307,100
18,471
10,5,910
2,940
180, .524
225
1,575
192,255
184,430
9,035
24,275
1,700
27,335
77
666
30,940
2,700
2,212
5,000
9,108
8
87
281,942
11,300
6,484
18,250
19,081
' 68
346
163,346
5,300
7,845
13,500
375
49,364
40
261
477,741
3,000
21,151
4,700
22,254
118
367
302,650
2,600
17,768
1,200
14,378
82
219
228,809
700
15,681
1,000
24,296
86
207
611,9.54
7,700
29,626
5,100
42,552
180
400
733,845
1,700
28,3,55
4,250
10,750
167
413
286 027
4,400
13,003
1,4.50
19,9.54
69
216
986,521
36.550
42,912
11,900
89,160
228
663
329,271
550
10,882
1,300
9,092
43
163
318,838
1,0.50
15,239
950
12,111
66
195
525,104
6,800
22,0-17
3,400
37,982
78
291
190,420
109,700
5,297
15,601
24,828
57
299
71,700
69,000
1,829
6,000
1,963
38
227
$20,087,949
$1,054,874
$812,300
$548,439
$10,780; $2,248,132
4,843
17,685
We, the undersigned commissioners of Mercer County, Penn., do hereby certify the
foregoing to be a correct statement of the assessed value of the taxable propert}^ in said
county for the year 1888, as returned by the assessoi’s of the several districts and equalized
by us, and we fix the tax levy for county purposes at three and one-half mills on the
dollar, and appoint Tuesday, the 28th day of February, as the day of general apimal for
personal property.
Attest: J. Y. Templkton, )
W. H. DroHT, y Commissioners.
D. Caumiciiael. )
H. A. Gamble, Clerk.
ROSTER OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS.
We present, as far as possible, a complete list of the national. State and
county officials who have held positions in the county. These, taken in con-
164
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
nection with, the township officials given elsewhere, present a complete view of
those who have acted as public servants.
Members of Congress who lived in Mercer County when elected are John
Banks, 22d and 24th; John J. Pearson, . 24th ; William S. Garvin, 29th;
Michael C. Trout, 33d; William Stewart, 35th and 36th; Samuel Griffith, 42d;
James Sheakley, 44th; Samuel H. Miller, 47th and 48th; Norman Hall, 50th.
State Senators. — 1800-01, district, Allegheny and all Northwestern Penn-
sylvania, John Hamilton; 1801-09, district, Mercer, Crawford, Erie, Venango
and Warren, Wfilli am McArthur; 1809-13, same district, Wilson Smith; 1813
—17, same district, Joseph Shannon; 1817-21, same district, Henry Hurst;
1821-25, district, Mercer, Crawford and Erie, Jacob Herrington; 1825-29,
same district, John Leech; 1829-37, same district, Thomas S. Cunningham;
1837-41, Mercer and Beaver, John J. Pearson; 1841-45, same district, Will-
iam Stewart; 1845-47, same district, Robert Darragh; 1848-50, Mercer, Bea-
ver and Lawrence, David Sankey; 1851-53, Mercer, Venango and Warren,
John Hoge; 1857-59, same district, Glenn W. Schofield; 1860-61, Lawrence,
Mercer and Venango, William M. Francis; 1861-^63, same district, James H.
Robinson; 1864-66, same district, Thomas Hoge; 1867-69, same district,
James C. Brown; 1870-72, Mercer, Venango and Warren, Harrison Allen;
1873-75, Lawrence, Mercer and Venango, Samuel McKinley; 1876-78, Law-
rence and Mercer, Frederick H. Braggins; 1878-80, same district, George W.
Wight; 1880-84, same district, George W. McCracken; 1884-88, same dis-
trict, Samuel McClure. In 1823 the district was known as the 23d, and con-
tinued as such until 1837; 1838-44, it wms the 20th; 1845--50, the 25th; 1850
-59, the 19th; 1859-66, the 26th; 1867-76, the 28th; since, the 47th.
State Representatives. — At the first session of the 11th House, which met
November 5, 1800, Samuel Ewalt and Thomas Morton represented the district
indicated on the Journal as composed of the counties of “Allegheny, Craw-
ford, etc.’’ At the first session of the 12th House, which met December 1,
1801, Alexander Buchanan represented the district composed of the counties
of “Crawford, Venango, Warren, Erie and Mercer.” These sessions, togeth-
er with the 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22d,
assembled at Lancaster. Beginning with the 23d, all subsequent sessions have
convened at the present capital, Harrisburg. The following are Buchanan’s suc-
cessors: John Lytle, Jr., district, Mercer, Crawford, Erie, Venango and War-
ren, December, l802-05; Wilson Smith, same district, December, lS05-08; (dis-
trict changed to Mercer and Crawford in 1806) ; Samuel Dale and Bevan Pearson,
district, Mercer and Venango, December, 1808-09; Samuel Dale and James
Montgomery, same district, December, 1809-13; Samuel Hays and Jacob Her-
rington, same district, December, 1813-14; David Dempsey and Jacob Her-
rington, same district, December, 1814-15; James Weston, Ralph Marlin and
Jacob Herrington, district, Mercer, Crawford, Erie, Venango and Warren,
December, 1815-16; Samuel Hays, Ralph Marlin and Jacob Herrington, same
district, December, 1816-17 ; Thomas Wilson, Samuel Hays and Ralph Marlin,
same district, December, 1817-18; Jacob Herrington, James Cochran and Jo-
seph Hackney, same district, December, 1818-19; Wilson Smith, James Coch-
ran and William Connelly, same district, December, 1819-20; Jacob Herring-
ton, Wilson Smith and William Connelly, same district, December, 1820-21;
David Brown, James Cochran and George Moore, same district, December,
1821-22; Walter Oliver, district, Mercer County (which remained as a sepa-
rate district until 1851), December, 1822-23; John Leech, December, 1823-24;
Walter Oliver, December, 1824-25; Thomas S. Cunningham, December, 1825
-29; James Waugh, December, 1829-30; Walter Oliver, December, 1830-33;
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
165
William S. Rankin, December, 1833-34; Jacob Herrington, December, 1834-
35; Walter Oliver, December, 1835-36; M" alter Oliver and Francis Beatty,
December, 1836-37; William Porter and Francis Beatty, December, 1737-38;
Thomas S. Cunningham and Francis Beatty, December, 1838-40; John Hoge
and Samuel Goodwin, January, 1840-41; James Banks and James Montgom-
ery, January, 1841-42; James Banks and Thomas Wilson, January, 1842-43;
Samuel Goodwin and Samuel Kerr, January, 1843-44; William Porter and
David Sankey, January, 1844-46; Dawson Woodsworth and Thomas Pomroy,
January, 1846-47; Robert Black and Thomas Pomroy, January, 1847-48;
Robert Black and M. B. Kremm, January, 1848-49; David M. Courtney and
Joseph Emery, January, 1849-50; John Hoge and Morris Leech, January,
1850- 51; Morris Leech, John W. Shugert and G. W. Schofield (district
changed to Mercer, Venango and Warren, and so remained till 1858), January,
1851- 52; Joseph Y. James, John W. Shugert and Lewis N. McGranahan,
January, 1852-53; John J. Kilgore, Carter V. Kinnear and Lewis N. Mc-
Granahan, January, 1853-54; L. T. Parmlee, John J. Kilgore and Robert M.
DeFrance, January, 1854-55; S. P. McCalmont, Daniel Lott and Ralph Clapp,
January, 1855-56; S. P. McCalmont, Daniel Lott and Samuel Kerr, January,
1856-57; Thomas Struthers, Samuel Kerr and S. P. McCalmont, January, 1857
-58; William G. Rose and C. P. Ramsdell (district changed to Mercer and Ve-
nango, and so remained till 1865), January, 1858-60; George D. Hofius and Eli-
sha M. Davis, Janiiary, 1860-62; M. C. Beebe and James C. Brown, January,
1862-64; Charles Koonce and William Burgwin, January, 1864-65; Charles
Koonce, Samuel McKinley, William Haslettand J. H. Negley (district changed
to Mercer, Lawrence and Butler, and so remained till 1872), January, 1865-
66; Josiah McPherrin, Samuel McKinley, H. Pillow and J. H. Negley, Jan-
uary, 1866-67; Josiah McPherrin, J. A. Leech, W. C. Harbison and H.
Pillow, January, 1867-68; George S. Westlake, David Robinson, John Ed-
wards and John T. McJunkin, January, 1868-69; George S. Westlake,
David Robinson, John Edwards and Alexander Leslie, January, 1869-70;
Earl A. Wheeler, David Craig, George W. McCracken and Alexander Leslie,
January, 1870-71; Earl A. Wheeler, Alexander P. Moore, Samuel D. Clark
and G. VV. Fleeger, January, 1871-72; Nathan Morford (district changed to
Mercer, and has so remained up to the present), January, 1872-74; James A.
Stranahan, January, 1874-75; E. Wk Jackson, H. S. Blatt and George W.
Reed, January, 1875, ‘ December, 1876; Thomas M. Reznor, Andrew S.
Spears and Edwin W. Jackson, December, 1876-78; B. F. Gordon, James W.
McConnell and Harry Watson, December, 1878-80; Tliomas Perry, William
R. Montgomery and S. M. Loveland, December, 1880-82; Levi Morrison,
Nelson Martin and J. W. Ormsby, December, 1882-84; J. W. Riissell, R. A.
Harsha and T. B. Roberts, December, 1884-86; James S. Fnht, Henry Hall
and P. J. Boyd, December, 1886-88.
President Judges. — Jesse Moore, appointed April 5, 1803; Henry Shippen,
appointed July 24, 1825; John Bredin, appointed May 10, 1831; Daniel
Agnew, appointed June 15, 1851; Daniel Agnew, elected, October 13, 1851;
John S. McCalmont, appointed June 15, 1853; John S. McCalmont, elected
October 15, 1853; James L. Campbell, elected October 11, 1861; John
Trunkey, elected October 9, 1866; William Maxwell, appointed in May,
1874, to succeed Judge Trunkey, when Mercer became a separate district,
and served till January, 1875; Arcus McDermitt, elected November 4, 1874;
Samuel S. Mehard, appointed December 10, 1883, to fill out the unexpired
term of Judge McDermitt, deceased, and elected November 4, 1884.
Associate Judges. — Alexander Brown, appointed July 4, 1803; Alexander
1G6
HISTOKY OF MEllCER COUNTY.
Wright, appointed July 4, 1803; William Amberson, appointed September 1,
1803; James R. Wick, appointed March 12, 1838; John Mitcheltree,
appointed March 26, 1840; John Findley, appointed February 25, 1843;
Thomas Wilson, appointed March 8, 1845; John Newell, appointed March 18,
1848; Thomas S. Cunningham, appointed February 15, 1849; William
Leech, appointed October G, 1849; William Waugh, appointed March 7,
1850; Samuel Kerr, elected October 13, 1851; William McKean, elected
October 13, 1851; Thomas J. Brown, appointed December 11, 1855; Thomas
J. Brown, elected October 13, 1855; David T. Porter, elected October 13,
1855; Joseph Kerr, elected October 11, 1861; Robert Patterson, elected
October 11, 1861; David W. Findley, elected October 11, 1864; John
Lightner, elected October 9, 1836; Milton A. Leech, elected October 14,
1869; Richard Carr, elected October 10, 1871.
District Attorneys. — John W. Hunter, appointed February 2, 1804;
Robert Moore, appointed March 7, 1809; Thomas S. Cunningham, appointed
February 2. 1817; Henry W. Lewis, appointed May 2, 3813; John Hoge,
appointed February 2, 1824; Samuel Holstein, appointed November 2, 1828;
William Maxwell, appointed March 2, 1833; Henry W. B. Tenbroeck,
appointed June 2, 1836; John Hoge, appointed March 2, 1839; Alexander
W. Foster, appointed April 2, 1845; James Galloway, appointed in September,
1846; Benjamin F. Baskin, appointed in December, 1847; Johnson Pearson,
appointed in September, 1848, elected in October, 1850; Samuel R. Mason,
elected in October, 1853; J. H. Robinson, elected in October, 1856;
Jason T. Giebner, elected October 14, 1859; IVilliam H. Sheakley, elected
October 14, 1862; J. H. Robinson, elected October 10, 1865; Henry M.
Hamblin, elected October 9, 1866; William A. McCormick, elected
October 14, 1869. re-elected October 8, 1872; A. B. Thompson, elected
November 2, 1875; Elliot G. Eberman, elected November 5, 1878; Wilson
H. Cochran, elected November 8, 1881; G. E. Patterson,* elected
November 4, 1884; Geo. W. McBride, elected November 10, 1887.
Commissioners. — Robert Bole, Andrew Denniston and Thomas Robb,
elected in October, 1803; Ezekiel Sankey, elected in October, 1804; John
Chambers, elected in October, 1805; John Leech, elected in October, 1806;
William McMillan, appointed in December, 1806; Ross Byers, elected in
October, 1807 ; David Courtney and Joseph Shannon, elected in October,
1808; Samuel Robison, elected in October, 1809; Joseph Shannon, elected in
October, 1810; Ezekiel Sankey, elected in October, 1811; David McKnight,
elected in October, 1812; Samuel Thompson and William Scott, elected in
October, 1813; Aaron Hackney, elected in October, 1814; Walter Oliver, elected
in October, 1815, Samuel Robison, elected in October, 181 6; Robert Stewart,
elected in October, 1817; John Wright, elected in October, 1818; John Somer-
ville, elected in October, 1819; Benjamin Alexander, elected in October, 1820;
James Gault, elected in October, l821; Samuel Thornpson, elected in October,
1822; James McGune, elected in October, 1823; James Gilkey, elected in
October, 1824; John Wright, appointed in May, 1825; Benjamin Stokely and
John Wright, elected in October, 1825; Thomas Rogers, elected in October,
1826; Henry Anderson, elected in October, 1827; Charles Montgomery, elected
in October, 1828; James Watson, elected in October, 1829; Francis Beatty,
elected in October, 1830; Bevan Pearson, elected in October, 1831; John
Christy, elected in October, 1832; James George, elected in October, 1833;
"^IVilliam Porter, elected in October, 1834; Robert Mann, elected in October,
1835; James Thompson, elected in October, 1836; Bevan Pearson, elected in
*Died in fall of 1887.
HISTORY or MERCER COUNTY.
167
October, 1837; William Stoirghton, elected in October, 1838; George Taylor,
elected in October, 1839; Hugh Bingham, elected in October, 1840; James
McCracken, elected in October, 1841; Joseph McDowell, elected in October,
1842; Morris Leech, elected in October, 1843; Hugh Evans, elected in October,
1844; James F. Brown, elected in October, 1845; Edward Hanna, elected in
October, 1846; William Miller, elected in October, 1847; Andrew J. Carnahan,
elected in October, 1848; John Loutzenhiser, elected in October, 1849; John
Byers, elected in October, 1850; Benjamin W. Pennock and James G. Cun-
ningham, elected in October, 1851; J. Jefferson Duncan, elected in October,
1852; Andrew L. Denniston, elected in October, 1853; James G. Cunningham,
elected in October, 1854; Thomas Rogers, elected in October, 1855; Robert F.
Thompson, elected in October, 1856; William Campbell, elected in October,
1857; John W. Veach, elected in October, 1858; Robert G. Black, elected in
October, 1859; William M. Gibson, elected in October, 1860; Albert Price,
elected in October, 1861; Robert G. Black, elected in October, 1862; James G
Calvert, elected in October, 1863; William H. McCormick, elected in October,
1864; R. W. Smith, elected in October, 1865; Robert McClelland, elected in
October, 1866; Jason W. Barker, elected in October, 1867; J. Y. McLean,
elected in October, 1868; William Vincent, elected in October, 1869; Samuel
North, elected in October, 1870; John McClure, elected in October, 1871;
Elijah Baker, elected in October, 1872; Andrew Robinson, elected in October,
1873;- Thomas Leech, elected in November, 1874; Anthony Struble, Thomas
Leech and John P. Derr, elected in November, 1875; Archie Crawford, Samuel
Buckwalter and George H. Smith, elected in November, 1878; Samuel P.
Stewart, Henry Cole and Jesse Hoagland, elected in November, 1881; William
Beatty, M. W. Alexander andR. T. Findley, elected in November, 1884; J.
Y. Templeton, W. H. Dight and Duncan Carmichael, elected in November,
1887.
Prothonotaries. — John Findley, appointed July 4, 1803; Bevan Pearson,
appointed April 4, 1808; James Miller, appointed April 9, 1818; John Find-
ley, appointed February 3, 1821; William^S. Rankin, appointed February 23,
1824, re-appointed December 30, 1826 and February 1, 1830; John Keck,
appointed April 18, 1833; Hugh Bingham, appointed January 13, 1836, re-
appointed January 2, 1839; Archibald A. Douglas, elected October 12, 1839;
re-elected October 13, 1842; Michael C. Trout, elected October 11, 1845, re-
elected October 14, 1848; David W. Findley, elected October 13, 1851, re-
elected October 12, 1854; William Waugh, elected October 14, 1857, re-elected
October 12, 1860; William Alexander, elected October 13, 1863; Alexander
B. McCartney, elected October 9, 1866; William M. Slater, elected October
14, 1869; S. F. Thompson, elected October 8, 1872; J. S. Williamson, elected
November 2, 1875; Henry M. Zahniser, elected November 5, 1878; S. C.
Simonton, Jr., elected November 8, 1881; A. H. McElrath, elected November
4, 1884; B. J. Haywood, elected November 10, 1887.
Registers and Recorders. — John Findley, appointed July 4, 1803; Bevan
Pearson, appointed April 4, 1808; James Miller, appointed April 9, 1818;
John Findley, appointed February 3, 1821; William S. Rankin, appointed
February 23, 1824, re-appointed December 30, 1826; Samuel Holstein, ap-
pointed February 1, 1830; William M. Stephenson, appointed March 23, 1836,
re-appointed January 2. 1839; Joseph Smith, appointed January 29, 1839,
elected October 12, 1839; Michael C. Trout, elected October 13, 1842; James
Hazolton, elected October 11, 1845; Thomas M. Clark, elected October 14,
1848; James A. Leech, appointed May 26, 1851; Joseph Alexander, elected
October 13, 1851; John Hamilton, elected October 12, 1854; Marcus H. Rose,
168
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
elected October 14, 1857; George Moore, elected October 12, 1860, re-elected
October 13, 1863; Samuel F. Bard, elected October 9, 1866;*John I. Gordon,
elected October 14, 1869; G. W. Wrigbt, elected October 8, 1872; John L.
Morrison, elected November 2, 1875; Henry Hall, elected November 5, 1878;
K. J. Zabniser, elected November 8, 1881; Jonathan Dean, elected November
4, 1884; J. H. Chandler, elected November 10, 1887.
Clerks of Court. — George Eeznor, elected October 14, 1869; E. L. Bose,
elected October 8, 1872; JohnN. Reznor, elected November 2, 1875; Leander
A. McCrumb, elected November 5, 1878; Robert G. Madge, elected Novem-
ber 8, 1881; William Jack, elected November 4, 1884; D. R. Vaughn, elected
November 10, 1887.
Sheriffs. — William Byers, commissioned October 26, 1803; Ezekiel Sankey,
commissioned November 24, 1806; Nathan Patterson, commissioned November
26, 1809; Samuel Robison, commissioned November 2, 1812; Nathan .Patter-
son, commissioned December 6, 1815; John Hammill, commissioned Novem-
ber 10, 1818; Allen Dunn, commissioned November 8, 1821; William Scott,
commissioned November 4, 1824; Andrew Christy, commissioned November 5,
1827; Jacob Loutzenhiser, commissioned November 1, 1830; James Watson,
commissioned October 22, 1833; Robert G. Mossman, commissioned November
8, 1836; Joseph Kerr, elected October 12, 1839; John Forker, elected October
13, 1842; John Moore, elected October 11, 1845; James McKean, elected Octo-
ber 14, 1848; Jonathan McMillan, elected October 13, 1851; John Moore, elected
October 12, 1854; Fleming Smith, elected October 14, 1857; William P. Leech,
elected October 12, 1860; John M. McKinney, elected Octolser 13, 1863; Adam
Y. Black, elected October 9, 1866; W. S. Eberman, elected October 14, 1869;
R. C. McClure, elected October 8, 1872; Abram P. Pew, elected November 2,
1875; Silas Hunter, elected November 5, 1878; William Kile, elected Novem-
ber 8, 1881; P. L. Williams, elected November 4, 1884; W. A. Kreps, elected
November 10, 1887.
Treasurers. — Joseph Smith, 1804-06; Jonathan Smith, 1807-08; James
Miller, 1809-10; Aaron Hackney, 1811-14; John W. Wright, 1815-17;
Joseph Junkin, 1818-20; Aaron Hackney, 1821-23; Robert Stewart, 1824-26;
Aaron Hackney, 1827 (died in office); Jonathan Smith, appointed to fill
vacancy December 15, 1827, and served until 1830; David T. Porter, 1830-34;
Joseph Shannon, 1834-36; William F. Clark, 1836-38; James Sheriff,
1838-40; David T. Porter, 1840-42; Joseph M. Stevenson, 1842-43; Ezra T.
Pearson, 1843-45; James McKean, 1845-47; James D. Moore, 1847-49;
Jacob Maurer, 1849-51; Peter Shipler, 1851-53; Arcus McDermitt, 1853-55;
Thomas M. Reznor, 1855-57; David T. Beggs, 1857-59; William G. Brown,
1859-61; S. L. Hawthorn, 1861-63; Franklin H. Couse, 1863-65; John J.
Grace, 1865-67; Reuben V. Hilands, 1867-69; Robert C. Hill, 1869-71;
Allison M. Clawson, 1871-73; F. M. Powell, 1873-75; Samuel B. Alexander,
1875-78; Jared K. Rayen, 1878-81; Robert Orr, 1881-84; W. J. McKay,
1884-87; H. A. Broadbent, 1887-90.
Auditors. — John Leech, William McMillan and John Montieth, 1804; John
Leech, Jonathan Smith and Joseph Shannon, 180^; Jonathan Smith, Joseph
Shannon and Joseph Walker, 1806; Joseph Junkin, Ebenezer Magoffin and
Cunningham S. Semple, 1807-08; Crawford White, John Wright and James
Walker, 1809-10; James Walker, Andrew Denniston and John Wright, 1811;
Ebenezer Magoffin, James McCune and Allen Dunn, 1812; Andrew Christy,
Allen Dunn and James Gilkey, 1813-14 (the office now became rotatory, one
* During the time of Mr. Bard’s service, the offices of register and recorder were divided,' the former
being added to the clerk of court’s duties. Since then the incumbents have been simply recorders.
^
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
171
auditor being elected eacb year for a term of three years); James Davitt, 1815;
Benj. Alexander, 1816; James Gilkey, 1817; Robert Bean, 1818; James
Davitt, 1819; David Courtney, 1820; Thomas Hosack, 1821; Thomas Rogers,
1822; Robert Mann, 1823; Malcolm McComb and James Davitt, 1821;
James K. Caldwell, 1825; David T. Porter, 1826; Francis Beatty, 1827; John
McEwen, 1828; Matthew Small, 1829; Joseph McClain, 1830; Jacob
Zahniser, 1831; Alex. Riddle, 1832; James G. Cunningham, 1833; James
Walker, 1834; Thomas Pomroy, 1835; William Miller, 1836; Samuel Webster,
1837; William Stevenson, 1838; Francis Dunn, 1839; Adam Black, 1840;
Joseph Moore, 1841; R. A. DeFrance, 1842; David Atkinson, 1844; John L.
Zahniser, 1845; John W. Boyd, 1846; Albert Price, 1847; Samuel McMillan,
1848; Joseph Gilmer, 1849; Fleming Smith, 1850; James Burgess, 1851; A.
K. Price, 1852; "Walker Gelvin, 1853; Samuel Madge, 1854; Thomas T. Irwin,
1855; George R. Allen, 1856; John D. Hill, 1857; Peter Frits, 1858; John
A. Gill, 1859; William M. Burns, 1860; David Dickson, 1861; Whlliam Miller
and J. H. Ross, 1862; John B. McCullough and John M. Dickey, 1863;,
Henry Gurins, 1864; Joseph C. Carey, 1865; B. F. Carrington, 1866; J. H.
Henderson, 1867; John Snyder, 1868; George McDowell, 1869; A. B. Filson,
1870; Addison Muse and Hugh A. Gamble, 1871; J. C. Black and John H.
Baker, 1872; J. G. Perry, 1873; John H. Baker and Joseph B. Campbell,
1874; Thomas A. Courtney, Thomas Powell and John Vorous, 1875; Thomas
A. Courtney, J. C. Barnett and John W. Vosler, 1878; John W. Vosler, James
Mahan and William L. Mercer, 1881; James S. Wallace, P. F. Roof and Will-
iam L. Mercer, 1884; James S. Wallace, A. D. Price and D. B. McEwen, 1887.
Coroners. — James Braden, appointed October 26, 1803; John Parker, ap-
pointed November 24, 1806; James Greely, appointed November 8, 1809;
Jacob Herrington, appointed November 2, 1812; Thomas Templeton, appoint-
ed December 6, 1815; James Gault, appointed December 21, 1818; James
Braden, appointed November 8, 1821; Samuel Clark, appointed November 4,
1824; William Stevenson, appointed August 1, 1836; John Bowman, elected
October 11, 1845; James Forker, elected October 14, 1848; Dr. George W.
Baskin, elected October 13, 1851; Dr. PI. D. LaCossitt, elected October 12,
1854; Dr. John McElrath, elected October 14, 1857; George Bagnall, elected
October 12, 1860; William H. Axtell, elected October 13, 1863; B. F. Gordon,
elected October 9, 1866; J. S. Proper, elected October 14, 1869; J. A. Brush,
elected October 8, 1872; J. J. Morrow, elected November 2, 1875; Dr. G. T.
Monroe, elected November 5, 1878; Hugh A. Davenny, elected November 4,
1879; F. M. Temple, elected November 9, 1882, re-elected November 5, 1885;
R. D. Morford, elected November 4, 1886.
Poor Directors. — William F. Groves, Enoch Perrine and Samuel Woods,
elected in 1851; Daniel Baird and William Miller, elected in 1852; Berry
McCoy, elected in 1853; Archibald Henderson, elected in 1854; Whlliam W.
Pearson, elected in 1855; Robert Fruit, elected in 1856; John Kelley elected
in 1857; John W. McCullough, elected in 1858; Lewis Egbert, elected October
14, 1859; Mark Graham, elected October 12, 1860; Thomas Palmer, elected Oc-
tober 11, 1861; John K. Roberts, elected October 14, 1862; Richard J. Reznor,
elected October 13, 1863; Amos Taylor, elected October 11, 1864; J. R. Rob-
erts, elected October 10, 1865; Alex. McMillan, elected October 9, 1866; Amos
Taylor, elected October 11, 1867; Archey Henderson, elected October 13,
1868; James M. Conner, elected October 14, 1869; A. C. Amberson, elected
October 11, 1870; Archey Henderson, elected October 10, 1871; James M.
Conner, elected October 8, 1872; John Gamble, elected October 14, 1873;
John Harsha, elected November 6, 1874; James M. Conner, elected November
10
172
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
2, 1875; Oliver P. Caldwell, elected November 7, 1876; M. Dawson Moore, elect-
ed November 6, 1877; William Hazen, elected November 5, 1878; E. C. Kemp,
elected November 4, 1879; B. B. King, elected November 2, 1880; Abraham
Blatt, elected November 8, 1881; James Satterfield, elected November 9, 1882;
J. C. Campbell, elected November 6, 1883; Imbrie Zuver, elected November 4,
1884; Hngh Lachey, elected November 5, 1885; Sylvester Beznor, elected
November 4, 1886; George Allen, elected November 10, 1887.
Canal Commissioners. — James M. Power, elected in 1846; Morris Long-
streth, elected in 1847; N. Middlsworth, elected in 1848; John A. Gamble,
elected in 1849; Joshua Dungan, elected in 1850; Seth Clover, elected in 1851;
"William Hopkins, elected in 1852; Thomas W. Forsyth, elected in 1853; Henry
M. Mott, elected in 1854; Thomas Nicholson, elected in 1855; Thomas E. Coch-
ran, elected in 1856; William Millward, elected in 1857; John M. Bead,
elected in 1858.
Jury Commissioners. — William P. Leech, elected Oct. 11, 1867; James W.
Christy, elected Oct. 11, 1870; Jerome A. Leech, elected Oct. 14, 1873;
Thomas M. Baker, elected Nov. 7, 1876; Alfred Canon, elected Nov. 4, 1879;
H. T. Vanhorn, elected Nov. 9, 1882; T. J. Nickum, elected Nov. 5, 1885.
Surveyors. — William W. Pearson, elected in 1850; O. H. Gould, elected in
1853; Jacob Zahniser, elected in 1856; Joseph McCleary, elected Oct. 14,
1859; O. H. Gould, elected Oct. 14, 1862, re-elected Oct. 10, 1865, and Oct.
13, 1868; Bobert A. McKim, elected Oct. 10, 1871, re-elected Nov. 6, 1874;
Bichard Lewis, elected Nov. 5, 1878; Bobert A. McKim, elected Nov. 8,
1881, re-elected Nov. 4, 1886.
CHAPTER V.
Internal Affairs— First Eoads Laid Out, and by Whom Located— Mercer
AND Meadville Turnpike— Beaver and Erie Canal— Efforts Made to
Have It Built — Its Construction, Prosperity and Final Abandon-
ment— Railroads — Early Railroad Agitation — Erie & Pittsburgh —
Erie Lines — Lake Shore Branches— Sharpsville Road- Western, New
York& Pennsylvania— Pittsburgh, Shenango & Lake Erie— Proposed
Railroad from Mercer to Big Bend in 1847 — Early Inns and Innkeepers
— Tav'ern Keepers in Mercer County from 1804 to 1834 — Post-offices and
Postmasters— Pioneer Mail Routes and Rates of Postage— Growth of
THE System— List of Post-offices and Postmasters Since the Organiza-
tion of the County— Present Offices.
ONE of the first things to demand the attention of the new settlers was
the subject of roads. At first these were crude affairs, the order be-
ing the blazed path, the winding way with simply the underbrush cut out,
the corduroy road with small timbers and brush thrown into the low places
to fill up and permit wagons to pass over with reasonable safety, the dirt
roads with ditches on either side and sluices at proper intervals to allow
the surplus water to pass from one side to another, and lastly the pike or
macadamized road, that permits easy and expeditious travel at all seasons
of the year. A large part of the business of the early courts was the hear-
ing of petitions for the locating of roads from one point to another. If the
petition was favorably received, viewers were appointed to pass upon the mat-
ter and report at a subsequent session.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
173
One of the first roads laid out, as shown by the records, was viewed by
John Williamson, John Christy, Eobert Bole, William McCullough, David
Watson and John Findley. They reported favorably, and their report was
confirmed at the August session of court, 1801. It was thirteen miles and
forty-five perches in length by thirty-three feet wide, and connected Mercer
with Williamson’s Mill, near Greenville, whence it joined a highway previ-
ously laid out to the lake.
At the May session, 1801, the court appointed John Alexander, Thomas
McMillan, Sr., John Eice, James Jeffers, Adam Forker and John Pew, to
report as to the advisability of constructing a road from Mercer to John D.
Littleford’s Mill in Coolspring Township. Their report being favorable, was
confirmed by the court at the November session, and the supervisors of roads
and highways were ordered ‘ ‘ to open, cut, clear, and bridge the same accord-
ing to law.” It was a thirty-three foot road, four and a half miles long.
The road from Mercer to the farm of James Foster in Wolf Creek Town-
ship, at the Butler County line, fifty feet in width, was authorized upon the
report of John Findley, Samuel Hawthorn, John Garvin, William Nicholson,
Eobert Cochran and William McMillan, appointed at the February session, 1801.
The road from Mercer to the outlet of Sandy Lake, authorized by the com-
missioners appointed at the February session, 1801, was confirmed by the
November court, same year. The viewers were John Alexander, James
Jeffers, Thomas McMillan, John Eice, James McDevitt and James Armstrong.
The road from Mercer to Valentine Cunningham’s mill, on Wolf Creek,
was authorized by the November session, 1801. The viewers were Thomas
McCoy, John Powell, James Braden, David McDowell, John Alexander and
Thomas McMillan. It was laid out thirty-three feet wide.
At the May session, 1801, Ebenezer Magoffin, Samuel Hawthorn, David
Watson, Jr., William Nicholson, John Dickey and Nicholas Vanemon were
appointed to view and lay out a road between New Castle and Mercer. They
reported at November term and their report was adopted. The length was
found to be fourteen miles and 185 perches, and the width was fixed at fifty feet.
The road between Butler and Mercer was laid out in accordance with an
act of the Assembly passed 10th of April, 1807, as was also the road between
Beaver and Mercer.
The road from Mercer to Sharon was authorized at the September session,
1806, agreeably to a petition ‘ ‘ for a road from where the Youngstown road
intersects the State line, near Eev. William Wick’s, to the town of Mercer. ”
James McWilliams, William Porter, Alexander McKinley, William McMillan
James Gilkey and George Book were the viewers. It was laid out forty feet
wide.
What is known as the ‘ ‘ Snodgrass road ’ ’ was authorized at the December
session, 1808. The viewers were Cunningham S. Semple, John Creaton,
Joseph Junkin, Ebenezer Magoffin, Eobert Newell and Benjamin Stokely.
The road from Mercer to Junkin’ s mill, now Hope Mills, was authorized at
the June session, 1809. The viewers were Benjamin Stokely, Eobert Newell,
Jonathan Smith, Marcus Higlin, Thomas Hosack and Samuel McCune.
The road from New Castle to the Big Bend of the Shenango was established
by the February court of 1811, upon the recommendation of Bevan Pearson,
Thomas McMillan, James Gilkey, James Watson, Nathan Patterson and
Ezekiel Sankey ; width, fifty feet. The road from Mercer to the Big Bend was
confirmed at the same session, Bevan Pearson, William McMillan, C. S. Sem-
ple, Jonathan Smith, Thomas McMillan and Nathan Patterson having recom-
mended the same. The width was fixed at fifty feet.
174
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
The main road leading from Pittsburgh to Erie through Mercer, Shealey-
ville, Meadville, etc., seems to have been laid out vrhen the territory was yet
under the practical control of Crawford County. In 1807 the State appro-
priated 1400 to improve the road between Mercer and Meadville. In 1817 the
Mercer & Meadville Turnpike Company was chartered by the Legislature to
improve and operate the road between Mercer and Meadville, connecting at
Mercer with the road to Pittsburgh. In 1821 the company opened the line for
general traffic. It continued to be the principal thoroughfare through Mercer
County for many years, and though not macadamized, was subject to the
restrictions of toll-gates until quite a late day.
The numerous streams of the county at first had to be forded, which fre-
quently required considerable courage when the current was deep and swift
and cold. Eventually temporary wooden bridges spanned the streams, and
seemed to answer the necessities of the public until the development of iron
industries rendered the construction of iron bridges 'cheap and more durable.
Most of the bridges now constructed are made of this durable material.
BEAVER AND ERIE CANAL.
In the session of 1822-23 the Legislature authorized a survey to ascertain
the practicability of connecting Lake Erie with the Ohio River by a canal.
In 1824 the United States Government ordered an examination to be made
with the same object in view, and the engineers reported in favor of the
scheme. After considerable contention the route via the Beaver and Shenango
Rivers was adopted. In 1827 the Legislature passed the act for the construction
of the canal, and also for the “Erpnch Creek Feeder,” which previously had
been surveyed. Ground was broken on the latter at Meadville, August 24,
1827, and it was completed to Conneaut Lake in December, 1834, but nothing
had yet been accomplished toward building the main line, though the subject
continued to be agitated by the people along the proposed route.
At a meeting held in the court-house in Mercer on the 28th of December,
1830, of which Hugh Bingham was chairman and William W. Pearson,
secretary, a resolution was passed requesting the citizens of Erie, Crawford,
Mercer and Beaver Counties to hold a convention at Mercer on the 18th of the
ensuing January, to consult relative to petitioning the Legislature to extend the
Pennsylvania Canal from Pittsburgh, to Lake Erie. Jacob Herrington, William
S. Rankin, James Braden, John Banks and Joel B. Curtis were appointed a
committee to superintend the matter. Of its proceedings we have no record.
But on the 21st of May, 1832, a meeting of delegates from Beaver, Butler,
Erie, Mercer and Venango Counties, called to take measures upon the indif-
ference of the last General Assembly toward the proposed extension, was held
in the Mercer court-house. Hon. John Bredin was chaiiunan, Benjamin
Adams, of Beaver, and Col. Thomas Foster, of Erie, were vice-presidents, and
Edwin J. Kelso, of Erie, and William S. Rankin, of Mercer, were secretaries.
Resolutions were passed condemning the indifference of the previous Legisla-
ture, and urging upon the next the speedy completion “of that portion of the
line which will connect the city of Pittsburgh with the harbor of Erie, it being
necessary to enable the east to share in the advantages of the west, and to
complete the original design of connecting the waters of the Delaware with
the Western lakes, and to secure to our great Eastern emporium the trade of
the Northwestern country. ’ ’
The project was agitated by others than those mentioned in 1833, ’34 and
’35. The Reeds, of Erie; the citizens of Meadville; William Fruit, of Clarks-
ville; Wulliam Budd, T. J. Porter and M. C. Trout, of Sharon, and other
HISTOEY OF MERCEK COUNTY.
175
spirits along the Shenango Valley were deeply interested in the project. The
State ultimately made a preliminary re-survey. This was followed, under the
administration of Gov. llitner, by a limited appropriation, which resulted
in pushing the work toward completion. In 1842 the Legislature adopted the
watchword of “ retrenchment;” the enterprise was throttled by annulling all
the contracts and stopping the work. This short-sighted policy resulted in
sufficient costs of litigation to have completed the enterprise and made it
efficient. Gov. Porter, in his annual message in 1843, said that ninety-seven •
and three-fourths miles of the main line had been finished, extending from
Rochester on the Ohio to the mouth of the French Creek Feeder in Craw-
ford County, and that $4,000,010 had been expended on the improvement
between 1827 and 1842.
The work was now turned over, without cost, to the ‘ ‘ Erie Canal Com-
pany,” chartered by the Legislature at the session of 1842-43, on condition
that that corporation would finish and operate the canal. James M. Power, of
Mercer County, was a member of this company and one of its board of man-
agers. In September, 1843, contracts were let for the unfinished portion of the
work, and December 5, 1844, the two first boats, the ‘‘Queen of the West,” a
passenger packet, and the ‘‘R. S. Reed,” loaded with Mercer County coal,
passed through to Erie. Business was brisk, and a new life sprang into the
Shenango Valley. It spoiled many old mill-dams along the Big Shenango, but
gave a recompense in increased facilities for transportation.
Sharon, Clarksville, Big Bend and Greenville were all given a commercial
importance by this new means of travel and transportation. Big Bend was
specially important and active, because it was the point from which supplies
were hauled to the eastern, central* and southeastern parts of the county.
Shenango, which was laid out in June, 1808, promised to become one of
the important places of the county. This paper town is now known only as
the place that might have been great if the boom at Big Bend had continued.
The canal flourished until the Erie & Pittsburgh Railroad was completed
along the same route, when a dow'nward movement began, which finally
resulted in its purchase by that company in 1870. The railroad company con-
tinued to operate it until l871, when the fall of the Elk Creek aqueduct in
Erie County gave them an excuse for abandoning the enterprise, which no
doubt was the intention at the time of purchase. Its bed has since been a
source of annoyance to the people of the towns through which it passed, as a
breeder of disease, though most of it is now filled up. The whoop of the boy
on the tow-path is no longer heard, but instead the shrill whistle of the iron horse.
RAILROADS.
It is sometimes said that great projects are often carried about in the heads
c>f progressive thinkers for a long time before they are realized. Equally
true is it that agitation is the keynote of ultimate triumph. In harmony with
this principle we find that a meeting was held at New Wilmington, Mercer
County, as early as September 2, 1835, at which Joseph Emery was chairman,
and Joseph Cowden and A. C. Semple secretaries, to consider railroad mat-
ters. In fact, it was resolved ‘ ‘ that this meeting believes it proper for the
people of Northwestern Pennsylvania to make an effort to connect the harbor
at Erie with the Beaver division of the Pennsylvania Canal at New Castle by a
railroad. ’ ’
On the 1st of November, 1849, a spirited railroad meeting was held at
Greenville to consider ste])s to secure the construction of the Pittsburgh &
Erie road, which had been chartered in 1845. Dr. H. D. La Cossitt was
176
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
chairman, and Dr. J. T. Ray and G. A. Bittenbanner were secretaries. A
similar meeting was held at Clarksville on the 3d of November, at which
Isaac Hazen was president, and James Trimble secretary. Both meetings
advocated the enterprise, and regarded it as highly important in developing
the permanent interests of the Shenango Valley.
This project was agitated from time to time, but many years elapsed before
it was realized. On the 2d of January, 1851, Thomas J. Power, now a
resident of Rochester, Beaver County, then chief engineer of the Pittsburgh &
Erie Railroad, submitted a report in which he carefully estimated the expense
of building such a connecting road a distance of 103^ miles. His estimate for
grading and bridging a double track was 1644,700; for securing the super-
structure at the rate of 110,000 per mile. $1,085,000, making a total of
$1,729,700.
In 1856 a new charter was obtained under the name of the Erie & Pitts-
burgh Railroad. In 1859 the track was completed through Crawford County
to Jamestown, which remained the terminus from the north until 1864. Work
was also progressing from the direction of New Castle. The first freight train
arrived at Sharon from the south October 11, 1863, and the first passenger
train the 4th of the following January. The line was finished through Mercer
County during 1864, and the company advertised to run regular trains from
Erie to New Castle after October 31, 1864. This road enters the county at
Jamestown and passes down the Shenango Valley, tapping the towns of Green-
ville, Shenango, Transfer, Clarksville, Sharpsville, Sharon, Wheatland and
West Middlesex in its route.
The Erie Railroad is another important line that passes through Mercer
County. In the fall of 1852 a survey was made through this section of the
State, and August 19, 1853, ground was broken at Meadville. Soon afterward
the contract was let for the construction of that portion of the road lying be-
tween the New York and Ohio boundaries, but the work was abandoned in
December, 1854. The enterprise continued to be agitated for several years,
and in 1857 the Meadville Railroad Company was chartered for the purpose
of taking up the project, but financial difficulties balked its promoters. The
name of this company was changed by act of Legislature passed March 10, 1859,
to the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad Company of Pennsylvania, and active
work was soon after resumed. The road was completed from the New York
State line, the terminus of the A. & G. W. R. R. of New York, to Meadville in
October, 1862, and by January, 1863, the track was finished thorough Mercer
County to the Ohio line, where it connected with the A. & G. W. R. R. of
Ohio. In August, 1865, the New York, Pennsylvania and Ohio divisions were
consolidated as the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad Company. The main
line runs southwest from Meadville to Greenville, thence passes down the val-
ley through Shenango to below Transfer, where it turns sharply northwest-
ward to Orangeville. In January, 1880, the road was sold, and became the
New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio, familiarly known as the “Nypano.” In
March, 1883, the line was leased to the New York, Lake Erie & Western Rail-
road Company, and in 1887 it came under the control of the Erie management.
Originally it was a broad gauge, but was changed after the first sale to the
general standard of the country.
An important branch of this road runs to Youngstown via Sharon, it being
a coal road that was formly operated by Coleman, Westerman & Co. The first
locomotive crossed north of State Street in Sharon on the 20th of May, 1864,
and the first passenger train came along the same line from Cleveland on the
1st of April, 1869. Another branch extends from Sharon to West Middlesex,
which is largely used for traffic purposes.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
177
The Lake Shore system has two lines in the county, one extending from
Jamestown through Hadley, Stoneboro and Sandy Lake to Oil City. It was
chartered in 1862 as the Jamestown & Franklin Railroad. It was completed
for freight purposes in 1835 as far as Stoneboro, and for passenger traffic the
following year. The line was at once leased to the Lake Shore (then called
the Cleveland, Painsville & Ashtabula) road. Stoneboro continued to be a
terminal point until June, 1867, when the road was extended to Franklin, and
in August, 1870, to Oil City. In August, 1872, the road was built as far
west as Ashtabula to connect with the main line of the L. S. & M. S. Prior
to this last date the E. & P. road was used as a northern outlet from James-
town.
This road has also a branch from Youngstown to Sharon, with the inten-
tion of reaching further up the Shenango Valley. The first construction train
crossed north of State Street in Sharon on the 29th of August, 1887. The
first passenger train passed in the same direction December 13, 1887..
Another feeder of this line is the Jackson Coal Railroad, which has a
terminus at Stoneboro, and extends in a southern direction to the coal fields
in Jackson and Worth Townships, a distance of six miles. It was organized
in 1883 by S. B. Griffith, A. F. Thompson, Enoch Filer, James Westerman,
S. H. Baird and others. It is . operated by the Lake Shore in securing coal
from the fields mentioned. It is to be extended, it is hoped, from its present
quiet terminus to Grove City. •
The Sharpsville Railroad was built originally as a coal road to Oakland, a
distance of five miles from Sharpsville, without any regular organization. On
the 26th of January, 1866, an organization known as the “ Sharpsville &
Oakland Railroad Company ’ ’ was effected. The persons represented were
Gen. James Pierce, Kimberly & Forker, Ormsby, Fish & Co., Frank
Allen & Co., Forker, Meek &Co. , Phillips, McMasters & ;^^Co. , and Ormsby,
Koonce & Co. The capital stock was 1148,000, but was afterward increased
to $184,500. The leading man in the enterprise was Gen. Pierce, who
became and continued its president until the time of his death. About 1875
it was reorganized with a capital stock of $350,000, and the right to extend
into Butler County, if deemed advisable. It has been a feeder for both the
E. & P. R. R. , and the N. Y. P. & O., and is now operated in the interest of
the B. & O. R. R.
Nearly forty years ago the construction of a railroad from Mercer to New
Castle was mooted, and on the 15th of October, 1853, Charles L. Whippoo, of
New Castle, submitted a report of a preliminary survey made by him and
James A. Leech, of Mercer County. The distance was reported as being
eighteen miles, which required an expenditure of $9,000 per mile, amounting
to $162,000. The superstructure at $11,000 per mile would cost $198,000.
Engineering and contingent expenses were estimated at $26,000. Total,
$386,000. Like all other railroad projects, the first efforts were simply j^re-
paratwy to some successful movement. Finally the New Castle & Franklin
road was built in 1872. It was reorganized as the New Castle & Oil City
Railroad in May, 1881, and merged with the Oil City & Chicago Railroad in
April, 1882; and a second time merged with the Buffalo, New York & Phila-
delphia Railroad in February, 1883. In 1887 it was again reorganized and
became a part of the Western, New York & Pennsylvania Railroad. This is
the present operating company.
The heaviest mortgage ever recorded in Mercer County is one that was
placed upon the W. N. Y. & P. R. R. in the year 1887. The instrument
executed by the railroad company to the Mercantile Trust Company, of New
178
HISTOHY OF MERCEK COUNTY.
York City, intlie sum of $2,000,000, was recorded by Jonathan Dean as one of
the closing acts of his office as recorder of the county, the document, covering
thirty-five pages of the mortgage book.
The Pittsburgh, Shenango & Lake Erie Railroad had its inception in the
charter of the Bear Creek Railroad Company, March 20, 1865. This name
was changed by legislative act April 9, 1807, to the Shenango & Allegheny,
which title it bore until February 11, 1888, when a reorganization occurred and
the present name was adopted. The road was originally intended as a coal
feeder to the Atlantic & Great Western, and was finished from Shenango to
Pardoe in October, 1869. In July, 1872, it was completed to Harrisville, and
in January, 1876, to Hilliard. Several branches were built in 1880, ’82 and
’83, tapping the coal fields in Mercer and Butler Counties, and in September,
1883, the line was finished to Butler. In March, 1882, the road was extended
from Shenango to Greenville, which remained its northern terminus till the
latter part of 1887, when operations commenced on the extension to Amasa
Crossing, where it intersects the Lake Shore. It was pushed rapidly, and
was completed during the summer of 1888. This road, with its connections,
has now a line extending from Amasa Crossing to Allegheny City, and the
management has in contemplation its extension to the lake in the near future.
The general offices of the company are at Greenville, and its shops, built
in 1882, are located at Shenango. Its officers are: M. S. Frost, president;
A. H. Steele, vice-president; J. T. Blair, general manager; I. D. Stinson,
general passenger agent and treasurer; P. E. McCray, secretary and audi-
tor; E. Richardson, master mechanic; and M. L. Osterhout. master of trans-
portation. With the extension of the road to Amasa a decided improvement
was also effected in its surroundings at Greenville. A handsome depot was
fitted up on Main Street, and a great deal of filling done along its route
through the borough. The citizens of Greenville look upon this road as a
home institution, and are proud of the enterprise exhibited by its management.
A number of unrealized railroad schemes might be recorded. One is
selected. On the 15th of July, 1847, a meeting was held at the Mercer court-
house at which F. B. Hubbard was chairman and D. B. Hays, secretary, to
consider the feasibility of building a railroad from Mercer to Big Bend, then
an important point in consequence of its superior shipping facilities by canal.
A committee, consisting of B. F. Baskin, William F. Clark, James McKean and
William Maxwell, was appointed to voice the sense of the meeting. In their report
they declared that ‘ ‘ in the opinion of this meeting it is every way desirable to
have a railroad constructed from the borough of Mercer to connect with the
Erie extension of the Pennsylvania Canal at some point near the bend of the
Shenango.” The faihare to embody the “ sense of the meeting” in practical
form prevented two points from becoming commercial centers for all time to come.
EARLY INNS AND INNKEEPERS.
When hauling was done on horseback, or by wagons and omnibuses, the
inn, as a place of entertainment, was an important factor of growing civiliza-
tion. The weary traveler had to find a stranger’s home, and this, as he
alighted from his horse or his clumsy hack, he always found at the wayside
inn. . Whisky, music, good victuals in great abundance, clean beds, with well-
filled straw ticks and feather-beds, and not infrequently the excitement of the
rustic dance, awaited his pleasure. A social time was enjoyed. The old-time
inn was one of the important educational factors of the times. From the old-
time inn, or tavern, has sprung the modern hotel, with register, sample rooms,
reading and writing apartments, high-toned clerks and landlords, and numer-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY
179
ous commercial guests. To trace the transition carefully would require a vol-
ume. Appended is a list of those who have been permitted in Mercer Countv
to keep tavern and to deal out drink as the public demanded, from 1804 to
1834, inclusive. Many of these, it will be seen, were residents of country
places. Latterly these houses of entertainment have naturally gravitated to
towns and cities, the centers of business activity.
1804: David Watson, Mercer; John Garvin, Coolspring Township; Will-
iam McMillan, Coolspring Township; William Nicholson, Wolf Creek Town-
ship; James Denniston, Wolf Creek Township; Levi Hunt, Wolf Creek Town-
ship; John Small, Neshannock Township; Jacob Myers, Mercer; Joseph Hun-
ter, Coolspring Township; Alexander Douglas, Mercer; Joseph Townsend,
Neshannock Township; Joshua Cook, Neshannock Township; David White,
Salem Township; Christian Miles, Pymatuning Township.
1805: David Watson, Mercer; William MclHillan, Mercer; Washington
Porter, Mercer; John Craig, Coolspring Township; Jacob Rose, Wolf Creek
Township; Joseph Hunter, Mercer; Alexander Bean, Mercer; George W.
Bartlett, Mercer; Moses Cochran, Wolf Creek Township; Levi Hunt, Wolf
Creek Township; John Small, Neshannock Township; James Denniston, Wolf
Creek Township; Christian Miles, Pymatuning Township; Solomon Williams,
West Salem Township.
1806: William McMillan, Mercer; Joshua Cook, Lackawannock Town-
ship; Andrew Shaw, Delaware Township; Joseph Hunter, Mercer; Alexander
Bean, Mercer; George W. Bartlett, Mercer; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Levi
Hunt, Slippery Rock Township; John Anderson, Neshannock Township; Moses
Cochran, Springfield Township; Alexander Paden, New Castle; Alexander
Hawthorn, New Castle; John Dicky, New Castle; James Denniston, Spring-
field Township; John Sheakley, Sandy Creek Township; Solomon Williams,
West Salem Township; Adam Black, Wolf Cz’eek Township; Christian Miles,
Shenango Township; William Wilson, Mercer.
1807; Joseph Marlatt, Springfield Township; John Shurtz, Mahoning
Township; John Sampson, Neshannock Township; Jonathan Harlin, Slippery
Rock Township; George Wb Bartlett Mercer; Nathan Patterson, Mercer;
William McMillan, Mercer; Joseph Hunter, Mercer; Alexander Bean, Mercer;
Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Robert Wallace, New Castle; John Anderson,
Shenango Township; John Felix, Shenango Township; William Jones, She-
nango Township; Levi Hunt, Slippery Rock Township; James Denniston,
Springfield Township; Adam Miller, Delaware Township; John Hanson, She-
nango Township; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Daniel Inbody, Mahoning
Township.
1808: John Sampson, Neshannock Township; John Sheakley, Sandy Creek
Township; Jonathan Harlin, Slippery Rock Township; Solomon Williams,
West Salem Township; Joseph Marlatt, Springfield Township; Adam Black,
Wolf Creek Township; William McMillan, Mercer; Alexander Bean, Mercer;
Joseph Hunter, Mercer; George W. Bartlett, Mercer ; Nathan Patterson, Mercer;
Francis Hamilton, Mercer; William Woods, Sharon; John Anderson, Shenango
Township; Robert Wallace, New Castle; Levi Hunt, Slippery Rock Township;
Adam Miller, Delaware Township; James Denniston, Springfield Township;
John Chambers, Mercer.
1809: William McMillan, Mercer; John Sheakley, Sandy Creek Town-
ship; Alexander Hawthorn, Newcastle; Alexander Bean, Mercer; George W.
Bartlett, Mercer; Nathan Patterson, Mercer; Robert AV allace. New Castle;
Daniel Inbody, Mahoning Township; Joseph Hunter, Mercer; Isaac Hulse,
Shenango Township; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Abraham Hunt, Slippery
Rock Township; James Denniston, Springfield Townshii).
180
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1810: John Chambers, Mercer; James Clark, Mercer; Alexander Haw-
thorn, New Castle; William McMillan, Mercer; George W. Bartlett, Mercer;
Robert Wallace, New Castle; John Sheakley, Sandy Creek Township; John
McCurdy, Springfield Township; Alexander Bean, Mercer.
1811: John Chambers, Mercer; Joseph Huntei', Mercer; John Hanson,
Mercer; James Walker, Slippery Rock Township; James Denniston, Springfield
Township; Joseph Mitchell, New Castle; Adam Thompson, Salem Township;
George W. Bartlett, Mercer; Josiah Winters, Mercer; Samuel Robinson, Mer-
cer; James Clark, Mercer; William Elliott, Mercer; Joseph H. Reynolds,
Mahoning Township ; Robert Wallace, New Castle; John McCurdy, Springfield
Township; John Sheakley, Sandy Creek Township; Jesse Dushane, New Castle.
1812: James Denniston, Springfield Township; John Chambers, Mercer;
Joseph Mitchell, New Castle; Adam Thompson, Salem Township; William
Nicholson, Slippery Rock Township; George W. Bartlett, Mercer; James Clark,
Mercer; Samuel Robinson, Mercer; William Elliott, Mercer; Robert Wallace,
New Castle; Joseph W. Reynolds, Mahoning Township; Jesse Dushane, New
Castle; John Sheakley, Sandy Creek Township; Samuel Evans, French Creek
Township.
1813: John Chambers, Mercer; Joseph Mitchell, Mercer; James Dennis-
ton, Springfield Township; Joseph W. Reynolds, Mahoning Township; William
Nicholson, Slippery Rock Township; Hugh Moore, French Creek Township;
Nathan Patterson, Mercer ; Aaron Hackney, Mercer; Robert Moore, Mercer;
George W. Bartlett, Mercer; Cornelius Mortimus, Slippery Rock Township ;
Robert Wallace, New Castle; John Sheakley, Sandy Creek Township.
1814: Joseph W. Reynolds, Mahoning Township; James Denniston,
Springfield Township; Samuel Evans, French Creek Township; John Cham-
bers, Mercer; James Miller, Mercer; James Clark, Mercer; Robert Moore,
Mercer; Aaron Hackney, Mercer; George W. Bartlett, Slippery Rock Town-
ship; Neal Gillespie, Slippery Rock Township; Robert Wallace, New Castle;
John C. Stewart, New Castle; John Chambers, Mercer; Jesse Dushane, New
Castle; James Denniston, Slippery Rock Township.
1815: Robert Wallace, New Castle; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle;
Elizabeth McComb, Mercer; James Miller, Mercer; Aaron Hackney, Mercer;
James Woods, Delaware Township; Neal Gillespie, Slippery Rock Township;
John Calvin, Salem Township; Arthur Chenowith, New Castle.
1816: Thomas Graham, Mercer; James Miller, Mercer; Aaron Hackney,
Mercer; Robert Wallace, New Castle; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle;
James Waugh, Mahoning Township; Elias Jones, Shenango Township;
John Boston, Delaware Township; William Elder, Slippery Rock Township;
James Denniston, Springfield Township; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; R. D.
Stansborough, Mercer; Arthur Chenowith, New Castle.
1817: Thomas Graham, Mercer; Thomas Boozle, Slippery Rock Town-
ship; Neal Gillespie, Slippery Rock Township; James Miller, Mercer;
Aaron Hackney, Mercer; Robert Wallace, New Castle; Alexander Haw-
thorn, New Castle; James Sutton, New Castle; William Elder, Slippery
Rock Township; James Denniston, Springfield Township; Arthur Chenowith,
New Castle; John P. Farrell, New Castle; Benjamin Junkin, Springfield
Township; R. D. Stansborough, Mercer.
1818: Thomas Graham, Mercer; Aquilla Thompson, Delaware Town-
ship; James AVaugh, New Bedford; Neal Gillespie, Slippery Rock Town-
ship; Thomas Boozle, Slippery Rock Township; Moses Sheakley, Safidy
Creek Township; Elias Jones, Shenango Township; James Miller, Mercer;
Arthur G. Long, AVest Salem Township; John Boston, Delaware Township;
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
181
Robert Wallace, New Castle; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Jesse Dusbane,
New Castle; Aaron Hackney, Mercer; William Elder, Slippery Rock
Township; James Denniston, Springfield Township; Elias Jones, Shenango
Township; Arthur Chenowith, New Castle.
1819: Neal Gillespie, Slippery Rock Township; Thomas Graham,
Mercer; John Ritcuem, Wolf Creek Township; Isaac Turner, Delaware
Township; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle;
Moses Sheakley, Sandy Creek Township; James Waugh, Mahoning Town-
ship; Arthur G. Long. West Salem Township; James Miller, Mercer; Aaron
Hackney, Mercer; John Piper, Mahoning Township; Robert Wallace, New
Castle; Arthur Chenowith, New Castle; Elias Jones, Sharon; John Chambers,
Mercer.
1820: James Denniston, Springfield Township; William Sheakley, Sandy
Creek Township; Thomas Graham, Mercer; William Elder, Slippery Rock
Township; Elizabeth Gillespie, Slippery Rock Township; Samuel Thompson,
Mercer; William McMillan, Mercer; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Jesse
Dushane, New Castle; Arthur G. Long, West Salem Township; Moses Sheak-
ley, Sandy Creek Township; Isaac Tuimer, Salem Township; Stephen Mc-
Kinley, Mercer ; Aaron Hackney, Mercer; Arthur Chenowith, New Castle;
John Chambers, Mercer.
1821: Elias Jones, Sharon; Thomas Graham, Mercer; John McCammond,
Mercer; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; James Herrington, Mercer; Samuel
Shipler, Mercer; Samuel Thompson, Mercer; Isaac Turner, Mercer; Aaron
Hackney, Mercer; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Arthur Chenowith, New Castle.
1822: Samuel Burchfield, Harlansburg; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville;
Thomas Graham, Mercer; Patrick McCloskey, Mercer; William McMillan,
Mercer; Samuel Thompson, Mercer; Jacob Williamson, Mercer; Alexander
Hawthorn, New Castle; Joshua Lane, Greenville; William Elder, Harlans-
burg ; Joseph Culbertson, Georgetown; Arthur Chenowith, New Castle.
1823: Aaron Hackney, Mercer; Jacob Herrington, Mercer; Thomas Gra-
ham, Mercer; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Samuel Thompson, Mercer; Jacob
Williamson, Mercer; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Andrew Campbell,
Greenville; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville; William Elder, Harlansburg;
Aaron Hachney, Mercer; James Herrington, Mercer; Arthur Chenowith, New
Castle.
1824: Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Charles Whistler, Mercer; William
Dunn, Georgetown; Christopher Wentz, New Castle; James Herrington,
Mercer; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville;
Jacob Herrington, Mercer; Samuel Thompson, Mercer; William McCrumb,
Greenville; Joseph Culbertson, Georgetown; George Sheakley, Georgetown;
Samuel Burchfield, Harlansburg; William Elder, Harlansburg; Arthur Che-
nowith, New Castle; James Park, Edenburgh.
1825: William Dunn, Georgetown; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; Aaron
Hackney, Mercer; Charles Whistler, Mercer; Redmond Wilcox, Mercer;
Joseph Linn, Mercer; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville; John Hill, . Hillsburgh;
Daniel Budd, Sharon; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Joseph Culbertson,
Georgetown; William Porter, New Bedford; William Elder, Harlansburg;
Thomas Rogers, Mercer; Jacob Herrington, Mercer; Aaron Hackney, Mercer;
Benjamin Hull, Greenville; James Park, Edenburgh.
1826: William Dunn, Georgetown; Jesse Dushane, New C.'istle; Alexan-
der Hawthorn, New Castle; Charles Whistler, Mercer; Aaron Hackney, Mer-
cer; Thomas Graham, Mercer; Anthony Squiers, New Castle; William Convert,
Edenburgh; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville.
182
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1827; William Porter, New Bedford; William Elder, Harlansburg; Jesse
Dushane, New Castle; John Bell, Mercer; Thomas Rogers, Mercer; Galbraith
McMillan, Mercer; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville; Aaron Hackney, Mercer;
Frederick Shannon, Greenville; Charles Whistler, Mercer; Anthony Squiers,
New Castle; Griffith Bennett, Georgetown; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle.
1828: William Dunn, Georgetown; John Pollock, New Bedford; John
Bell, Mercer; Frederick W. Shannon, Greenville; Cornelius Riley, New Castle;
Anthony Sqihers, New Castle; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Robert
McDowell, Mercer; William Elder, Harlansburg; Mary Hackney, Mercer; Will-
iam Dunn, Georgetown; John Parks, Edenburgh; Thomas W. Bean, Green-
ville; Jesse T. Dushane, New Castle; Samuel Thompson, Mercer.
1829: John Boyd, Harlansburg; William Dunn, Georgetown; Frederick
Shannon, Greenville; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville; William McCrumb, Green-
ville; Joseph T. Dushane, New Castle; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle;
Anthony Squiers, New Castle; Thomas Graham, Mercer; Oliver Stevens, Mer-
cer; Robert McDowell, Mercer; John Pollock, New Bedford; Alexander Camp-
bell, Edenburgh; John Hill, Hillsburgh; James Stewart, North Liberty; Massa
Swift, North Liberty; Levi S. Williamson, Georgetown.
1830: Benjamin Reno, Sharon; Griffith Bennett, Georgetown; Thomas
Rogers. Mercer: John Shearer, New Castle; John Boyd, Harlansburg; Freder-
ick H. Shannon, Greenville; William McCrumb, Greenville; James Stewart,
North Liberty; Mary Hackney, Mercer; James Caldwell, Harlansburg; Archi-
bald Douglas, New Bedford; Samuel Thompson, Mercer; Anthony Squiers,
New Castle; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville;
Thomas Graham, Mercer.
1831: John Shearer, New Castle; Samuel Hinds, Mercer; Charles
AVhistler, Mercer; John Boyd, Harlansburg; Mary Hackney, Mercer; Thomas
Graham, Mercer; James Caldwell, Harlansburg; Levi Williamson, North
Liberty; Mrs. Massa Swift, North Liberty; Joseph Culbertson, Georgetown;
David Scott, Georgetown; Griffith Bennett, Georgetown; Benjamin Reno,
Sharon; W^illiamand Samuel McCrumb, Greenville; Thomas W. Bean, Green-
ville; Alexander Hawthorn, New Castle; Jesse Dushane, New Castle; A. A.
Douglas, New Bedford.
1832: Thomas Wilson, New Wilmington; John Swift, Mercer; John
Brownlee, Mercer; Charles Whistler, Mercer; Mary Hackney, Mercer; David
Scott, Georgetown; Thomas J. Porter, Sharon; John Boyd, Harlansburg;
Elizabeth O’Brien, New Castle; John Shearer, New Castle; Samuel McCrumb,
Greenville; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville; John Book, New Bedford; Casper
Wilgan, Clarksville; Thomas Coovert, Edenburgh; James Stewart, North
Liberty; Jacob Lager, James Armstrong, Samuel Connelly, .Clarksville;
Andrew Lewis, New Castle.
1833: Charles Kelly, New Castle; John Shearer, New Castle; Andrew
Lewis, New Castle; William Dunn, Georgetown; Joseph Culbertson, George-
town; Thomas Wallace, Georgetown; Adam Weir, Georgetown; William
McCrumb, Greenville; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville; Conrad Bittenbanner,
Greenville; Thomas J. Porter, Sharon; James Caldwell, Harlansburg; Thomas
Wilson, New Wilmington; Charles Whistler, Mercer; Mrs. Hackney, Mer-
cer; Samuel Thompson, Mercer; John Swift, Mercer; John Brownlee, Mercer;
Isaac Emery, Harlansburg; Margaret Graham, Mercer; Samuel Connelly,
Clarksville; James Stewart, North Liberty; Jacob Lager, Samuel Harriott,
New Castle; Thomas Coovert, Edenburgh.
1834: James Shearer, New Castle; A. Lewis, New Castle; David Shar-
per, New Castle; John Brownlee, Mercer; John Swift, Mercer; Mary Hack-
HISTOBY OF MEECER COUNTY.
183
ney, Mercer; A. W. Patterson, Mercer; Thomas W. Bean, Greenville; Sam-
uel McCrumb, Greenville; Conrad Bittenbanner, Greenville; John Palmon,
Leesburg; Thomas J. Porter, Sharon; A. A. Douglas, Ne^v Bedford; James
Caldwell, Harlansburg; Andrew Morrison, Pulaski; Adam Weir, George-
town; Thomas Wallace, Georgetown; William Dunn, Georgetown; Joel
Gould, Mercer; James Stewart, North Liberty; G. Kirkpatrick, Harlansburg;
Eichard Hammond, Wilmington.
POST-OFFICES Ann POSTMASTEES.
Nothing has more fully marked the progress of civilization thanthe ease,
rapidity and certainty with which written and printed communications have
been distributed. To note the transition from the monthly appearance of the
herald on horseback, whose trumpet announced at the door of the frontier
cabin that a message was ready to be delivered, to the daily or even tri-daily
visitation of the crowded mail pouch carried on trains with almost lightning
speed, would furnish an interesting picture.
In 1806 a weekly mail route was established from Pittsburgh to Erie via
Mercer. The carrier rode horseback during the earlier years of its existence.
It became a semi-weekly in 1818, a tri-weekly in 1824, and a daily in 1827.
On the opening of the Mercer and Meadville turnpike, in 1821, a stage route
was established and the mails transported by stage.
Most of the mail in pioneer days was received at the county seat. Envel-
opes were not used, but sheets of foolscap were employed, properly folded,
and closed with small red wafers. The sheet was both letter paper and
envelope, the whole secret being involved in the proper folding. The rates of
postage were high, and based upon distance. Single letters by land, conveyed
not over 40 miles, were charged 8 cents; 40 to 90 miles, 10 cents; 90 to 150
miles, 12| cents; 150 to 300 miles, 17 cents; 300 to 500 miles, 20 cents; over
500 miles, 25 cents.
The postmaster sometimes gave notice that in future letters could not be
removed from the office without the postage being paid. In those days the
sender might compel the receiver to pay the sum chargecf for a message. Not
infrequently did the postmaster announce that letters not called for within
ninety days would be sent to the dead-letter office. The post-office certainly
was not so popular then as now, when it is the place not only for receiving
and sending mail, but a meeting ground for those who wish to renew or per-
petuate acquaintanceships. Private boxes with keys and glass windows did
not then exist. Cheap postage, rapid transit and safety are modern character-
istics of the postal system.
We append a list of the post-offices and postmasters in Mercer County from
the beginning of its system to the present time, with the year of each post-
master’s appointment. It will be noticed that the list does not embrace those
which existed in that part of the county which was detached in 1849 to form
Lawrence. This list was obtained from the department at Washington through
the courtesy of Hon. Norman Hall, member of Congress from this district.
■ Balm was established May 1, 1858. Its successive postmasters have been:
Joseph Bogardus, 1858; Cephas M. Stewart, 1861; Robert C. Glenn, 1866;
Lillie Rodgers, 1887.
Bay was established January 20, 1875, and discontinued November 4,
1875. Its postmasters were: Robert L. Lee, 1875; J. C. Hickey, 1875.
Bristoiv was established as Springvale June 7, 1875; changed to Bristow
June 17, 1875, and discontinued A>pril 6, 1877. Its postmasters were: David
Clark, 1875; Peter Sinclair, 1876; Clark McMillen, 1876; Peter Sinclair, 1876.
184
HISTOKY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Carlton was established July 13, 1874. Its postmasters have been: Nel-
son J. Reynolds, 1874; Samuel O. Reader, 1882.
Centretoxvn was established January 9, 1840; discontinued July 21, 1842,
and re-established December 15, 1843. Its successive postmasters are: John
Tumelson, 1840; Patrick McDowell, 1840; Hugh Beard, 1843; Luther Wyck-
oif, 1846; Samuel Hall, 1848; Jonas M. Gillett, 1848; Lyman Beach, 1849;
Samuel Coleman, 1851; John Hughes, 1868; Samuel Coleman, 1871; David
C. Eakin, 1872.
Clark was established July 14, 1833. Its postmasters have been: John
Fruit, 1833; Charles Koonce, 1835; William Guthrie, 1839; Isaac Hazen,
1840; William Clark, 1841; Joseph McClure, 1843; Isaac Hazen, 1845; Luke
H. Cutler, 1849; David D. Williams, 1853; Elhannon W. Woods, 1855;
David Hum, 1859; Samuel C. Koonce, 1867; Seth Fruit, 1875; Samuel C.
Simonton, 1886.
Clark's Mills was established January 16, 1871. Its postmasters have
been: Jacob M. Vaughn, 1871; Margaret Small, 1876; John McClure, 1880;
James W. Beal, 1883.
Crockettville was established February 5, 1839, and discontinued May 23,
1840. Its successive postmasters were: George R. Moore, 1839; Hugh Lee,
Jr., 1840.
Delaware Grove was established July 30, 1840; discontinued January 21,
1876; re-established February 28, 1876, and discontinued February 5, 1886. Its
postmasters were: James T. Black, 1840; James F. Satterfield, 1847; John C.
Nesbit, 1849; Lewis Hanse, 1854; George Ayle, 1856; Isaiah Vandeventer,
1856; William H. Sheriff, 1863; Russell W. Weller, 1874; William Wagner,
1874; Lydia McGuire, 1876; Mary Fry, 1884.
Five Points was established July 24, 1876. Its postmasters have been:
T. J. Duncan, 1876; William Cowan, 1879; James Rollinson, 1884; William
Gilson, 1884; Sylvester S. Sample, 1887; James Lynch, 1888.
Forest was established September 18, 1840, and discontinued July 27, 1842.
Its only postmaster was Washington P. McKee, 1840-42.
Fredonia was established August 8, 1870. Its postmasters have been:
William Simmons, 1870; James M. McLain, 1885.
French Creek was established March 30, 1837, and discontinued July 20,
1876. Its postmasters were: John McCracken, 1837; Francis Dunn, 1847.
GreenwHe was established as “ West Greenville, ” January 9, 1828, and
changed to its present title in 1866. Its successive postmasters have been :
Alexander P. Waugh, 1828; James R. Wick, 1830; Thomas W. Bean, 1831;
Alexander P. Waugh, 1836; Isaac R. Bearce, 1839; Moses Varney, 1841;
William P. Hanna, 1845; John B. Plumer, 1849; William P. Hanna, 1853;
William Keck, 1861; Ella S. Keck, 1871; George R. Kreps, 1875; Clara E.
Achre, 1883; Henry K. Reiss, 1887.
Grove City was established as Wolf Creek July 11, 1844 and changed to
its present name November 23, 1882. Its successive postmasters have been:
William Fleming, 1844; George W. Morrow, 1848; James C. Shaw, 1849;
George Shaw, 1850; Nicholas W. Vanemon, 1856; Isaac Gillett, 1861; John
Hays, 1864; James H. Black, 1865; Hannah V. Rupert, 1866; Richard L.
Colter, 1867; Victor B. Williams, 1869; William P. C. Emery, 1869; Joseph
W. Black, 1875; James A. Cochran, 1881; James A. Cochran, 1882; David
M. Morrow, 1885.
Hadley was established May 13, 1868. Its postmasters have been:
David Pattison, 1868; Hannah Pattison, 1882.
Harthegig was established March 2, 1846. Its postmasters have been:
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
185
James Sellers, 1846; Joseph Snyder, 1852; Henry Fulton, 1854; William
Gamble, 1857; Ephraim A. Byers, 1864; William E. Byers, 1867; Oscar N.
Hazen, 1870; Ambrose Hazen, 1872; William M. North, 1875; John C. Orr,
1876; James Cubbison, 1876; Charles W. Gamble, 1878.
Hazzard was established March 7, 1883. Its successive postmasters
have been; Charles M. Wasley, 1883; William N. Stewart, 1884.
Henderson was established March 8, 1827. Its postmasters have been:
Robert Henderson, 1827; Jonathan Henderson, 1842; William Hill, 1852;
Jonathan Henderson, 1853; Robert M. Curry, 1856; Thomas Kirk, 1862;
Almon C. Henderson, 1863; Matthew L. Whann, 1869; Almon C. Henderson,
1871; Walker R. Henderson, 1873; J. S. Wright, 1876.
Hermitage was established April 10, 1838. Its successive postmasters
have been: Thompson Dilley, 1838; John Hoagland, 1839; Ezra T. Fish,
1863; Leander M. Ormsby, 1867; Theodore M. Ford, 1873; Leander M.
Ormsby, 1875; George W. Baird, 1875; Matthias Miller, 1877.
Hill was established March 8, 1858. Its postmasters have been: Ephraim
Gundy, 1858; Oliver H. Ormsby, 1871; John W. Ormsby, 1878; David Beil,
1880; John Ray, 1885.
Hoagland was established February 24, 1882, and has had but one post-
master: Seth Hoagland, 1882.
Indian Run was established March 8, 1858, and the following have been
the successive postmasters: William J. Johnston, 1858; Robert Crawford,
1867; Adam Huffman, 1869; Thomas Bingham, 1869; Mary McLean, 1870;
Austin B. Carter, 1883; Emma Carter, 1884.
Jackson Centre was established as Satterfield June 21, 1852, and changed
to its present title January 31, 1876. The following have been the successive
postmasters: Elijah Satterfield, 1852; William H. Carpenter, 1853; John
Wharton, 1854; John Wood, 1861; George W. Washabaugh, 1864; James W.
Armstrong, 1865; M. L. Zahniser, 1869; John Hughes, 1871; Calvin C.
Clawson, 1874; Alfred P. Ross, 1876; William M. Knapp, 1879; James F.
Baskin, 1880; AVilliam J. Graham, 1881; Alvin P. Jones, 1884.
Jamestown was established April 3, 1833, and has had the following post-
masters: John Williamson, Jr., 1833; James Dowling, 1836; Benoni Ewing,
1837; William Gibson, 1839; John Carr, 1861; Joseph Carr, 1861; Wash A.
Mossman, 1877; Joseph L. Dennison, 1881; Mary E. Gardner, 1885; Nelson
Martin, 1888.
Keel Ridge was established February 23, 1832, and discontinued October
13, 1835. William Fruit was the only postmaster.
Kennard was established March 16, 1864, and the following have been its
postmasters: William C. Keene, 1864; Abram H. Curtis, 1886.
Kile was established December 9, 1887, with Martha Anderson as post-
mistress.
Kilgore was established April 12, 1883, with Oliver Beach as postmaster.
Kremis was established September 21, 1880, and George W. Hecker has
since been postmaster.
Leech's Corners was established April 4, 1868. Its postmasters have been;
O. B. Baker, 1868; Reuben Emmick, 1868; Geo. D. Emerick, 1869; Nancy J.
Clark, 1869; George D. Emerick, 1873; William J. Clark, 1876; James M.
Campbell, 1886.
Leeshurgh was established as New Lodge December 3, 1836, and was
changed to its present name June 4, 1845. The successive postmasters have
been: Arthur Johnston, Lewis Frankenburger, Charles G. McFarland, 1845;
George Clark, 1845; Samuel Anderson, 1846; McLean Thorne, 1847; James
186
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Love, 1848; John Carr, 1851; Benjamin F. Gordon, 1851; McLean Thorne,
1857; KobertB. Hill, 1861.
London was established March 16, 1848. David Gilson was the first post-
master, and was followed by William A. Coulter, 1850; James Neal, 1860;
John Davis, 1861; Hiram Stevenson, 1866; Samuel Bell, 1867; Elizabeth C.
Breck, 1868; William A. Coulter, 1870; Thomas Shaydine, 1876; William A.
Coulter, 1879; Andrew W. Coulter, 1886.
Lutton was established April 9, 1884, with John G. Button as postmaster.
Maysville was established February 16, 1852, and discontinued November
25, 1872. Its successive postmasters were: George E. Hassenpluck, 1852;
Rachel H. Hassenpluck, 1868; Charles Everts, 1868; Nimrod Burwell, 1869.
Mehard was established June 3, 1886, and discontinued May 13, 1887. Its
postmasters were: William Woods, 1886; Anna A. Woods, 1887.
Mercer was established July 1, 1805, as Mercer’s, but the apostrophe was
subsequently dropped. Its successive postmasters have been: Cunningham S.
Semple, 1805; Thomas Bingham, 1810; Silas Amberson, 1816; Presley N.
Amberson, 1817; Thomas S. Cunningham, 1817; Aaron Hackney, 1822;
Oliver Stevens, 1829; Thomas Coffey, 1830; William S. Garvin, 1837; Samuel
C. Clow, 1841; Thomas W. Sampson, 1841; Thomas S. Cunningham, 1844;
John McGill, 1845; Albert G. Eberhart, 1849; John Sloss, 1853; Abram
Pew, 1858; Peter J. Pierce, 1858; William D. Bell, 1861; William W.
Sheriff', 1865; William S. Garvin, 1867; James McKean, 1869; Alfred B.
Filson, 1878; James S. McKean, 1886.
Millbrook was established March 29, 1872, and the following have been
postmasters : Calvin Matthews, 1872; Mary G. Matthews, 1876; John C.
Matthews, 1882; Harry B. Beckards, 1883; Allison M. Clawson, 1887; Martha
A. Gillam, 1887.
Milburn was established May 7, 1883, and discontinued November 13,
1886. Its postmasters were: J. M. Anderson, 1883; Andrew J. Welker, 1883.
Milledgeville was established as Deer Creek August 3, 1839, with William
R. Cooper as postmaster until May 1, 1852, when it was changed to its pres-
ent name. Since then the following have been postmasters: Cookson Long,
1852; Griffith C. Long, 1860; George E. Hamilton, 1868; Lucinda C. Hamil-
ton, 1875.
Neshannock was established February 12, 1872, and has had the following
postmasters: John Phillips, 1872; John A. Stewart, 1874; Dewitt C. Stewart,
1877; Hiram Massena, 1880; Joseph Bridget, 1885.
New Hamburgh was established September 21, 1853, and its successive
postmasters have been: John George, 1853; Daniel H. Hecker, 1861; Edwin
George, 1866; Hamilton D. Bean, 1866; Daniel H. Hecker, 1871; Charles
Beil, Jr., 1872; Mary Ferguson, 1876; Ransom D. Hewitt, 1882; William
Moyer, 1886.
Neiv Lebanon was established December 17, 1849, and has had the follow-
ing postmasters: James A. Leech, 1849; Josiah H. Cratty, 1851; Robert C.
Gordon, 1853; James A. Leech, 1856; Reuben Stewart, 1856; Samuel B.
Stern, 1859; Eugene A. Pierson, 1863; W. R. Conn, 1866; Eugene A.
Pierson, 1867; Abram C. Grove, 1867; JohnC. Black, 1872; Emma E. Black,
1874; Samuel S. Overmoyer, 1874; Cyrus M. Voorhis, 1876; William C.
Jones, 1878.
Nexo Vexmon was established as Sandy Creek July 20, 1837, and changed
to its present name March 24, 1851. The following have been the successive
postmasters: John M. Montgomery, 1837; Elkanah Holloway, 1843; Eleazer
P. Haly, 1846; Archibald Montgomery, 1846; Elkanah Holloway, 1850;
• ^
/•j
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
189
"William B. Travis, 1853; James Diven, 1862; Thomas A. Scott, 1863;
William James, 1865; Daniel Holloway, David McElwain, 1876; A. J.
Gallagher, 1888.
North Liberty was established January 15, 1840. Its postmasters have
been: Robert Shaw, 1840; James M. Lawrence, 1847; Dawson Wadsworth,
1848; Martin Reed, 1849; Samuel Moreland, 1850; Robert McKee, 1852; John
L. Pringle, 1857; Samuel Moreland and Jennie Offitt.
North Sandy was established December 28, 1868, and its postmasters have
been: John A. Glenn, 1868; John Bredin, 1869.
North’s Mills was established May 19, 1858. Its successive postmasters
are: William J. Hamilton, 1858; Samuel North, 1864; William M. North, 1886.
Osborn was established May 11, 1882, and its postmasters have been: Sam-
uel R. Turner, 1882; Elmira Turner, 1886.
Otter Creek was established August 20, 1872, and John H. Bowman has,
been its only postmaster.
Pardoe was established as Irishtown July 25, 1851, and Sepember 24, 1873,
was changed to its present title. The following have been the postmasters:.
James Miller, 1851; Robert Miller, 1853. James Long, 1854; David Hosack,
1858; Marshall Long, 1860; Mary E. Long, 1864; Robert McKee, 1865;:
Joseph Breckenridge, 1867; Joshua S. Hammond, 1869; William H. Pardoe,
1870; George Moore, 1872; Charles M. Derickson, 1873.
Perrine was established February 16, 1833, and has had the following
postmasters: William H. Perrine, 1833; Jesse M. Perrine, 1836; Enoch Per-
rine, 1842; Jesse M. Perrine, 1845; Enoch Perrine, 1854; John R. Forest,
1862; Albert G. Egbert, 1863; L. F. Egbert, 1865; Bennett Perrine, 1868;
Daniel Nelson, 1869; T. D. Mackay, 1870; Bennett Perrine, 1870; M. L. Zahn-
iser, 1871; William Trevitt, 1873; George W. Worrell, 1878; Nancy Thomp-
son, 1882; J. H. Hamilton, 1886.
Pleasant was established January 15, 1872, and discontinued April 11, 1886.
Its postmaster was William Jamison, Jr.
Pymatuning was established July 31, 1839, and discontinued April 24,
1856. Its postmasters were: Renselaer Root, 1839; Michael Byerly, Jr.,
1853; David Follett, 1854.
Salem was established March 6, 1832, and discontinued April 15, 1864.
Its postmasters were: William Leech, 1832; Adam Thompson, 1845; John
Reznor, 1846; A. C. Riley, 1853; John A. Clark, 1853; Aaron C. Riley, 1858;
Obadiah B. Baker, 1861.
Sandy Lake was established as Brownsville, January 30, 1833, and was
changed to its present name November 16, 1868. Its successive postmasters
have been: Thomas J. Brown, 1833; William C. Bogart, 1836; Alexander
Brown, 1839; John W. Montgomery, 1843; John P. Vath, 1845; Charles J.
Glenn, 1850; J. Peter Vath, 1853; James F. Brown, 1854; Alex. Brown, 1862;
Austin Niles, 1866; Charles A. Bligh, 1870; Alex. Brown, Sr., 1871; James F.
Johnston, 1872; Calvin Carver, 1885; J. F. Rayen, 1885; Will T. McBurney,
1888.
Sharon was established August 11, 1819, and has had the following post-
masters: Elias Jones, 1819; Thomas J. Porter, 1837 ; Conrad G. Carver, 1841;
John E. Hull, 1845; Robert A. McCleery, 1846; William N. Reno, 1849;
Archibald Sinclair, 1850; Oliver H. P. Goodwin, 1853; Abner Applegate, 1856;
Wash C. Malin, 1861; Lester M. Williams, 1863; Calvin W. Ray, 1879; Michael
Carroll, 1887; J. J. Stitt, 1888.
Sharpsville was established as Sharpsville Furnace March 23, 1864, and
was changed to Sharpsville February 21, 1871. Its postmasters have been:
190
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
William T. McKee, 1864; Jonas J. Pierce, 1866; Samuel Dunham, 1871; Wil-
lis W. Kitch, 1885.
Sheakleyville was established as Culbertsons June 16, 1830; changed to
Exchangeville January 28, 1850, and to its present name December 22, 1853.
Its successive postmasters have been: Joseph Culbertson, 1830; William
Furguson, 1840; Adam Weir, 1841; John W. Sheakley, 1843; William Mc-
Namara, 1847: William K. Fulton, James Dunn, 1853; William McNamara,
1861; William E. Brown, 1863; Andrew Mills, 1866; Alex. McCoy, 1869; Mary
E. McCoy, 1869.
Stoneboro was established April 4, 1868, and has had the following post-
masters: Eobert P. Cann, 1868; Samuel A. Wilson, 1874; Eobert P. Cann,
1876; John P. Hines, 1885.
Transfer was established January 2, 1866, and its postmasters have been:
James D. Morris, 1866; Samuel M. McClellan, 1867; George Heile, 1885.
Valley was established February 15, 1853, and discontinued March 21,
1885. John S. King was the only postmaster.
Western Reserve was established May 5, 1836, and discontinued August
28, 1841. Its successive postmasters were: I. E. Sankey, 1836; David San-
key, 1840; Andrew B. Allen, 1840.
West Middlesex was established August 30, 1839, and has had the follow-
ing postmasters: Eobert B. Young, 1839; William G. Henderson, 1845; Jacob
Brinker, 1849; John W. Veach, 1849; Louesa Canon, 1856; George W. Yeach,
1857; Horatio N. Warren, 1866; Henry H. Newkirk, 1866; Horatio N. War-
ren, 1866; Henry H. Newkirk, 1867; Horatio N. Warren, 1868; William Jones,
1876; Benjamin J. Haywood, 1877; Albert E. Eandall, 1885.
West Salem was established August 11, 1851, and discontinued November
4, 1875. Its postmasters were: James W. Mossman, 1851; John S. Mossman,
1855; Cynthia Judy, 1873; David Fratshen, 1875.
Wheatland was established as Wheatland Furnace July 15, 1864, and
changed to W heatland November 8, 1872. Its successive postmasters have
been: John G. Walker, 1864; Jacob A. Breneman, 1871; Charles H. Small,
1871; John E. Hillier, 1872; Anna E. Shaffer, 1886.
Wheeler, w&a established July 26, 1871, and has had the following post-
masters: Samuel S. Sample, l871; Thomas J. Marshall, 1874; Charles H.
Sargent, 1876; David W. Sample, 1878; William H. Swogger, 1884; William
Jamison, Jr., 1886.
Willow Brook was established May 4, 1855, and discontinued December 9,
1856. William W. Pool was the postmaster.
Worth established July 5, 1848. Its successive postmasters have been:
Israel Garretson, 1848; John Y. Hays, 1848; William Gallagher, 1849;
Thomas Jones, 1861; Eobert Gallagher, 1867; Henry H. Byers, 18^69; Eobert
5. Allen, 1874; Henry H. Byers, 1875; Eebecca Jones, 1886.
Post-offices existing at the present time in Mercer Co. : Balm, Carlton,
Centretown, Clark, Clark’s Mills, Five Points, Fredonia, Greenville, Grove
City, Hadley, Harthegig, Hazzard, Henderson, Hermitage, Hill, Hoagland,
Indian Eun, Jackson Centre, Jamestown, Kennard, Kile, Kilgore, Kremis,
Leech’s Corners, Leesburgh, London, Lutton, Mercer, Millbrook, Milledge-
ville, Neshannock, New Hamburgh, New Lebanon, New Yernon, North Liber-
ty, North Sandy, North’s Mills, Osborn, Otter Creek, Pardoe, Perrine, Sandy
Lake, Sharon, Sharpsville, Sheakleyville, Stoneboro, Transfer, West Middle-
sex, Wheatland, Wheeler, Worth.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY,
191
CHAPTER VI.
Ikon, Steel and Coal Industries— Pioneer Furnaces of Mercer County
— Clay — West Middlesex— Oregon— Big Bend — Esther — Greenville —
Hamburg — Sharon- Sharpsville— Mazeppa — Present Iron and Steel
Interests— Greenville Bolling Mills — Furnaces in Sharpsville—
Iron and Steel Industries of Sharon— Iron Statistics for 1887 — A
Question of Controversy— Coal Interests of the County— First Coal
Discovered and Used— Other Early Banks— Groayth and Develop-
ment of the Coal Industry' in the Vicinity of Sharon and West
Middlesex — Daily" Output in 1864 and 1865— Mines near Stoneboro,
Pardoe and Grove City— Output for 1887— Product not Reported.
The industries or occupations of mankind are usually classified under the
head of agriculture, mining, manufactures and commerce. To these
might be added, to represent the present condition of things, the professions,
day labor, mercantile occupations, politicians and office-holders. In this article
attention will be paid to only two distinct heads — iron and steel enterprises
and coal mining. The development of the iron interests of the county is
comparatively recent. In the town of Mercer is a frame building which was
erected by Mr. Amberson in 1804. The weather-boarding was split out by
the process of riving, and the nails were all vsrought nails — that is, nails that
were made from bar iron by the use of the hammer in the blacksmith’s hand.
All such iron had to be packed into the county from afar, the native ore not
having been discovered or put to practical use at that time. In the Western
Press of November 13, 1846, occurs this local editorial note: “A friend
informed us last evening that the light of ten furnaces could be seen from
the cupola of the court-house.” These ten furnaces are thus specified by Mr.
Francis Allen, of Hickory Township, a gentleman most thoroughly informed
relative to the coal and iron interests of the county:
1. Clay Furnace, two and a half miles southeast of Clarksville, built by
Vincent & Himrod.
2. West Middlesex Furnace, West Middlesex, built by Sennett, Clark &
Co.
3. Oregon Furnace, two miles west of Mercer, built by Alexander Hutch-
inson & Co.
4. Big Bend Furnace, Big Bend, built by John King and James Mc-
Farland.
5. Esther Furnace, Greenville, built by Himrod, Woodworth & Co.
6. Grreenville Furnace, Greenville, built by Power, Waugh & Heed.
7. Fdamburg Furnace, Hamburg, built by Mills & Lowry.
8. Sharon Furnace, one mile north of Sharon, built by Shoenberger,
Agnew & Co.
9. Sharpsville Furnace, Sharpsville, built by Joseph and John McClure
and Vincent & Himrod.
10. Mazeppa Furnace, one mile east of Mercer, built by Garrett, Mc-
Gaw & Co.
From this enumeration it will be seen that Clay Furnace is the pioneer of
the kind in Mercer County. It was built byB. B. Vincent and David Himrod,
of Erie, under the firm name of Vincent & Himrod, in the spring of 1845.
Francis Allen came from Erie in February of the foregoing year, and acted as
192
HISTOBY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
their manager in its construction and operation. It was a small furnace, eight
foot-bosh and forty-five feet high. It was built for the purpose of working
native ore with charcoal, and produced seven gross tons of pig iron per day — a
wonder to the people. The name. Clay Furnace, was given to the plant in
honor of Kentucky’s eloquent statesman, Henry Clay. It has already been
stated that Mr. Allen, now of Hickory Township (Hermitage Post-office), was
general manager. Carson Davis came from Erie two months later than Mr.
Allen, and was employed as founder, which position he held about a year,
when he removed to Sharon Furnace, and occupied a similar position there.
In the spring of 1848 he returned to Clay Furnace, and occupied his old
place for several years, when he bought a farm, distant about a mile from the
furnace. On it he is still living.
Clay Furnace was put in blast July 19, 1845, using charcoal and native
ore. Vincent & Himrod continued to run the furnace until 1851, when they
sold it to the Sharon Iron Company. This company finally sold it to individual
stockholders of said company, who were organized under the style of the Iron
Mountain Furnace Company about 1854. In 1861 they abandoned it, selling
the whole plant to Francis Allen for $5, 000, who sold it out by tid-bits, thus
saving himself financially. This furnace could not compete successfully with
other establishments along the lines of communication. At present scarcely a
vestige of the old pioneer remains to tell its interesting history.
The West Middlesex Furnace was built in 1845, and went into blast Sep-
tember 15 of that year, the projectors being Sennett, Clark & Co. After a
short time the Buffalo Engine Company was accepted as a partner, being repre-
sented by Horatio N. Warren. This firm continued until 1854, when Warren
bought the Buffalo Engine Company’s interest. The firm of Sennett & War-
ren (other parties having previously dropped out) continued until 1858, when
it failed. G. W. Tift, of Buffalo, bought the plant, which he sold in Septem-
ber, 1859, to Mr. Ely, of Rochester, N.Y. He ran the institution a year, and
likewise failed. It then passed into the hands of H. B. Tuttle, of Cleveland,
who, after a year, sold it to Martin B. Wilson, by whom it was sold to William
Jones, of Greenville, in whose hands it died about 1875. It was torn down,
and the material sold to various parties.
It is not known when Oregon Furnace started, although one authority fixes
it as early as 1839. This is doubtless a mistake, if authorities can be believed
as to the origin of Clay Furnace. It was the property of several firms, but
never paid heavy dividends.
Big Bend Furnace was started in 1846, by McFarland & King. On the
1st of April, 1850, they announced that they had erected a foundry in connec-
tion with their blast furnace, and were ‘ ‘ ready to fill all orders from a needle
to an anchor.” They exchanged castings for wheat, rye, corn, oats, bacon,
etc. They were enterprising men, and did a general shipping business on the
canal. McFarland died, and business was continued a few years by King.
When mineral coal was introduced, he found the business unprofitable, and
abandoned the furnace.
The Esther Furnace at Greenville was built in 1846 by Power, Waugh &
Reed. After a time these gentlemen sold to Messrs. Stewart, States & Co. ,
who had also purchased the Greenville furnace. After a number of unsuc-
cessful attempts to produce iron at a profit, the business was abandoned, and
to-day no traces of the old building are to be seen.
The Greenville Furnace was built in 1846 by Vincent, Himrod & Wood-
worth. Joseph Woodworth was the manager. It ran a few years, and failed
because its management did not return profitable results. It was then sold to
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
193
Gen. Irvine, of Centre County, and three of his brothers. Lot Irvine was the
manager, but the General furnished the “sinews of war” for the business.
As long as he did this business seemed to be prosperous. Failing to do it,
business lagged, and Lot, the manager, becoming greatly discouraged, com-
mitted suicide by hanging himself. This circumstance and general business
depression soon led to the abandonment of the enterprise.
Hamburg Furnace was built by Mills & Lowry about the same time as the
one at Big Bend. It did not prove remunerative, and was soon sold out by the
sherifP, and its site is even a matter of conjecture, all vestiges having been
removed.
Sharon Furnace, located nearly midway between Sharpsville and Sharon,
on the line of the Erie & Pittsburgh Railroad, east of the Shenango River,
was built in 1846 by the firm of Shoenberger, Agnew & Co. The firm
embraced Dr. Peter Shoenberger, David Agnew, George S. King and W. W.
Bell, by whom it was conjointly operated until 1852, when the senior partner,
having previously secured the interests of King and Bell, purchased the right
of David Agnew, and thus became sole proprietor. He continued business for
a year, and then suspended operations for two years. After the death of Dr.
Shoenberger the plant became the property of Boyce, Rawle & Co. The
stack, 12x60, was rebuilt in 1882, and adapted to the burning of coke and the
smelting of Lake Superior hematite. Originally coke and charcoal were con-
sumed in smelting native ores, producing about 1,200 tons of pig metal annu-
ally, and employing fifteen men. The present annual capacity is about
25,000 net tons. Until his election to the national House of Representatives,
Norman Hall was manager. In July, 1888, J. J. Spearman, of Sharon, and
Col. James Collord, of Pittsburgh, leased the plant. The firm of Spearman,
Collord & Co. fitted up the property in first-class order, changed the name of
the brand from “Sharon” to “Vernon,” and began operations September
25, 1888, with the brightest prospects of future success.
The Sharpsville Furnace was built in 1846 by Vincent, Himrod and Joseph
and John McClure, under the firm name of Vincent, Himrod & Co. It was then
called the “Blanche Furnace.” It was built larger than the Clay furnace,
being ten feet bosh and forty-eight feet high. Joseph McClure was its man-
ager. The furnace ran for several years, and was then closed until 1853, when
it was bought by David and John P. Agnew. They ran it two blasts, when
it failed, and passed into the hands of Gen. James Pierce, who took it in pay-
ment of a coal debt. He refitted the furnace, supplying modern conveniences
and making it one of the best in the Shenango Valley. It resumed operations
in 1859, with John J. Spearman as manager. Mercer County block coal and
Lake Superior ore were used, and it is claimed that then for the first time in
Mercer County a distinctive red short iron was successfully manufactured.
In 1862 Jonas J. Pierce became manager of this furnace, and the firm of James
Pierce & Sons was subsequently formed. In 1870 the furnace was rebuilt,
except the old stone stack, and in 1882 the latter was torn down and its place
taken by a new one of modern construction, thirteen foot bosh and sixty-five
feet high, which was blown in October 15, 1882. The annual capacity of the
Sharpsville furnace is 30,000 tons of pig iron. The present firm is composed
of Walter Pierce, Frank Pierce and James B. Pierce, with the last mentioned
as manager of the furnace.
Mazeppa Furnace met the fate of all the others that went down under the
fruitless effort to manufacture the native ore profitably. It was operated by
John J. Spearman from 1853 to 1859, but with all his well-lmown energy and
experience he could not operate it on a paying basis.
194
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Of the ten furnaces mentioned only the Sharon and Sharpsville are still in
existence, and they because of the business transformations through which they
have passed, and the great improvements made in the cheaper manufacture of
pig metal from Lake Superior ores. Most, if not all, of these furnaces were
built against elevated ground, for the purpose and convenience of handling the
stock from the top yard, as hoists were not then in use. The stacks were
massive stone structures from foundation to tunnel head. These have been
succeeded by the modern column and casing stack.
The present manufacturing interests of Mercer County, as connected with
iron and steel, are confined to the Shenango Valley, and are limited to the
towns of Greenville, Sharpsville, Sharon, Wheatland and West Middlesex.
In this order we shall speak of them in this chapter, excepting the two last
mentioned, which we have placed in the respective histories of those. boroughs.
Greenville Bolling Mills. — In 1871 an association consisting of J. M.
Mordock, Luther McGilvray, S. P. Thompson and James M. Ewing was
formed. The same year they erected on their site of twenty acres lying be-
tween the E. & P. and the N. Y. P. & O. Railroads, half a mile south of Green-
ville, a mill 165x130, and ten tenement houses for their employes. The mill
contained ten boiling and two heating furnaces, with three trains of rolls
propelled by an engine. It made hoop and bar iron, and an improved
car-link and pin. The first year’s operation gave employment to fifty-five
hands and produced about 2,000 tons. Many changes have taken place in
ownership. The plant now has twenty- six single puddling furnaces, four heating
furnaces and three trains of rolls, with an annual capacity of 12,000 net tons.
The mills are operated by P. L. Kimberly & Co. , of Sharon.
SHAEPSVILLE.
The history of the Sharpsville furnace has already been given in the
preceding part of this chapter.
Claire Furnace. — In 1868-69 Gen. James Pierce, of Sharpsville, and
William L. Scott, of Erie, built the Mount Hickory furnaces, Nos. 1 and 2.
They were built of brick and stone, in the most approved style, upon cast-iron
columns. In 1886 these were taken down, and instead thereof one stack
fifteen and one-half foot bosh and seventy-five feet high was erected. Like all
others it uses the Lake Superior ore, and produces Bessemer and foundry pig
iron. The annual capacity is 40,000 net tons. The organization consists as
follows: M. A. Hanna, chairman; A. C. Saunders, treasurer, and A. M.
Robbins, secretary and general manager at Cleveland. Josiah Robbins is the
superintendent at Sharpsville.
Florence Furnace, under the proprietorship of the Henderson Iron Com-
pany, has one stack sixty feet high and twelve foot bosh. It was erected as
the Allen furnace, and subsequently called the Henderson furnace, by
Henderson, Allen & Co. , in 1868. It was put in blast in October of that year,
and remodeled in 1882. It produces Bessemer, foundry and mill pig iron,
having an annual capacity of 18,000 net tons.
The Douglas Furnaces. — In 1869 Jonas J. Pierce purchased fifty acres of
land on the southwest suburb of Sharpsville, on the line of the Erie & Pitts-
burgh Railroad. In 1870 the firm of Pierce & Kelly was organized, and fur-
nace No. I built, with a stack fifty feet high and an eleven-foot bosh, and put
in blast in March, 1871. The following year (1872) Gen. Pierce and son,
Wallace, obtained an interest in the firm, which then became Pierce, Kelly &
Co. Furnace No. 2 was erected the same year, the stack being sixty feet high
and fifteen-foot bosh, and blown in February, 1873. In 1879 No. I was
HISTOEY OF MEECER COUNTY.
195
rebuilt and enlarged to a lifteen-foot bosh and sixty-foot stack, and in 1881
No. 2 was likewise enlarged. The Douglas was the pioneer of the upper fur-
naces. Bessemer, foundry and forge pig metal are the products. The indi-
vidual members of the firm are Jonas J. Pierce, George D. Kelly and Wallace
Pierce, with Mr.' Kelly as general manager.
Mabel Furnaces, owned by Perkins & Co., limited, have two stacks, each
sixty-five feet high, and a bosh of fourteen feet. No. 1 was built in 1872 by
J. W. Ormsby & Sons. No. 2 was built in 1880. Both were rebuilt in 1883.
They use as fuel block coal and coke, and have an annual capacity of about
35,000 net tons of foundry and Bessemer pig iron. The management consists
of Simon Perkins, Jr., chairman and manager; L. C. Hanna, secretary and
treasurer. M. A. Hanna & Co., of Cleveland, are selling agents.
Spearman Furnaces, owned and operated by the Spearman Iron Company,
were built in 1872. There are two stacks, each sixty-three feet high and hav-
ing fourteen foot bosh. No. 1 was blown in January 15, 1873, and No. 2,
September 20, 1875. They were remodeled in 1882 and 1885, respectively.
Three Whitwell hot-blast stoves are in use. The fuel consists of coke, and
the product is foundry pig iron, made from Lake Superior ore. J. J. Spear-
man, of Sharon, organized the company, and superintended the erection of
the furnaces, and has ever since been the general manager.
In 1869 Gemmill & Hawthorn started a boiler factory in Sharpsville to
do all kinds of work belonging to that industry. It has served a valuable
purpose in the community.
SHAEON.
Sharon has been the great manufacturing center of the county, its interests
being more diversified than those of Sharpsville, though not so extensive in
particular directions.
The Sharon Iron Company. — One of the first citizens of the Shenango
Valley to take a lively interest in the manufacture of iron was Gen. Joel B.
Curtis, of Sharon. He had formerly been a leading business man at Mercer,
but removed to Sharon before it was a place of any prominence, and became
active in its development. Pie continued to reside there until the time of his
death, August 27, 1802. In another part of this volume will be found a
sketch of his career. Early in the forties Gen. Curtis, then a heavy coal deal-
er, conceived the idea of developing the iron interests of the county. This
idea, however, did not materialize until 1850, when a stock company, with a
capital of $20,000, was formed, and Gen. Curtis was chosen president. It
was known as the ‘ ‘ Sharon Iron Company, ’ ’ and its first purpose was to
establish a foundry on a large scale. Gen. Curtis was authorized, in order to
secure reliable information upon the business, to visit the principal cities
where such work was being executed. He went to Buffalo, Albany and other
important cities in the execution of his mission.
About this time some difficulty arose in the mills at Pittsburgh. Many
of the skilled workmen were desirous of uniting their forces, and becoming
manufacturers themselves. Gen. Curtis regarded this a favorable oppor-
tunity, and cultivated the acquaintanceship of the Pittsburgh operatives.
The sequel was the securing of their co-operation in the Sharon enterprise.
The iron workers took stock, and the charter was so modified as to inchide a
rolling-mill within its scope. The works were erected before the close of the
year 1850, but did not go into operation until 1851. In addition to these
works, the company also erected dwellings for their hands, which fact gave a
wonderful impetus to the growth of the town. The iron mill ran until 1855,
196
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
■when it closed. In the following year a new company took charge of the plant
and fitted it up for the manufacture of steel from raw ore. This experiment
was prosecuted without adequate success until the fall of 1857, when the
works were again closed until 1861, when the plant was bought by Glen.
Curtis, and by him sold to William Coleman, James Westerman, C. B. Wick,
Jr., and P. W. Keller, who reopened the works. In 1865 Coleman and Wick
disposed of their interests, and C. H. Buhl, C. H. Andrews, W. J. Hitch-
cock, P. W. Keller and James Westerman became the owners, and the name
was changed to the “ Westerman Iron Company.” The furnace was built by
this company in 1865-66, and they operated the works until March, 1874,
when Mr. Westerman sold his interest to his partners. From 1865 to 1874
Mr. Westerman had the full management, and carried on the business very
successfully. On the first of April, 1882, C. H. Buhl became sole owner of
the plant, and no change has since occurred. It is the largest single plant in
Mercer County, and furnishes employment to nearly 700 hands. F. H. Buhl
is manager, and David Adams secretary and treasurer. Under Mr. Buhl’s
management many improvements have been made, and every department of
the works brought to the highest state of efficiency.
In connection with the iron interests, this company, in 1862, built a railway
from their works to a coal field belonging to them, at Brookfield, Ohio, a
distance of three miles. This field, embracing some 2,000 acres, yielded an
output of some 500 tons daily, involving in prosperous times the employ-
ment of 400 men. The company has also operated, besides the Brier Hill
block coal at Brookfield, the Home Coal Bank, with a capacity of 300 tons
daily. In 1876 the company established what is known as the Sharon Iron
Works store, on State Street, where an extensive trade is carried on, not
only Avith the operatives, but with citizens generally.
The Atlantic Iron Works began in 1867, under the management and pro-
prietorship of Alexander, Ashton & Co. When first started they consisted of
four boiling furnaces, one heating furnace and eighteen nail machines, with
a capacity of eight tons of muck bar iron per day. In 1868 P. L. Kimberly
bought an interest and the firm was known as Kimberly, Ashton & Co. Various
improvements were made up to February 21, 1871, when Col. James Carnes
bought Ashton’s interest. The firm name then was Kimberly, Carnes & Co.,
and so continued for more than ten years, when Carnes sold his interest to
Kimberly and retired from the business. The firm name has been continued to
the present day as P. L. Kimberly & Co., the individual partners being P. L.
Kimberly, T. M. Sweeney, E. Roberts, R. F. Wolfkill and William Roberts.
In 1869 Samuel Kimberly & Co. built near the rolling-mill the Keel Ridge
blast furnace, which has the capacity of producing thirty-five tons of pig iron
daily. This firm was known under the designation of the Keel Ridge Iron
Company. In 1873 the firm of Kimberly, Carnes & Co. bought this furnace
and added it to their mill, and it is yet operated in connection therewith. The
Atlantic Works have thirty- two puddling furnaces, eight heating furnaces,
six trains of rolls and forty nail machines. They use natural gas for fuel, and
produce bar, plate, hoop and rod iron, and nails.
The Stewart Iron Works, under the ownership of the Stewart Iron Com-
pany, limited, date their origin in 1870, when they were established by the
Otis Iron Company. Two years later the firm was changed to the Stewart
Iron Company; and again on the 20th of June, 1877, the Stewart Iron Com-
pany, limited. The organization embraced David Stewart, of New York,
chairman; Fayette Brown, general agent, and Harvey H. Brown, assistant
general agent. To these are now added Theodore F. Hicks, secretary, New
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
197
York, and Gardner P. Lloyd, treasurer, New York. The two Browns are
located in Cleveland. Hon. Samuel McClure is the general manager of the
works. The plant occupies thirty acres of ground. Four acres are covered
by the mill and furnaces, and the remainder by dwellings to accommodate the
families of employes. The buildings consist of the rolling-mill, 60x336 feet
in dimensions, machine shop, two casting houses, large stock house, office and
furnaces. The furnace is double, one stack being sixty-five and the other
seventy feet in height, with boshes twelve and two-thirds and thirteen and two-
thirds feet respectively. The full capacity of the two furnaces is about 62,000
neb tons, but the average annual output is 55,000 net tons per year.. Lake
Superior ore is consumed, with coke manufactured by the company at their
own coke works, at Uniontown, Fayette County, where they have 120 ovens,
employing 120 hands.
The Sharon Iron and Brass F’owiidry was erected in 1872 by J. W. Evans,
Joseph King, Dr. J. M. Irvine and others. It continued to run until the
spring of 1876, when financial stringency compelled it to suspend. It was
known as the “ Valley Iron Works, ” and stood in the south part of town,
opposite the office of the Stewart Iron Works. The building is unused, being
the property of RufP & Irvine, of Pittsburgh, Pa.
The Shenango Machine Works, limited, are owned by Daniel Eagan, Frank
Buhl, Joseph Riddle and Samuel McClure. The works were formerly con-
ducted by William McGilvray & Co., by whom it was purchased in 1854. At
that time it was a woolen factory, but was changed at once to a foundry and
machine shop, known as the Sharon foundry. Mr. McGilvray carried on the
business successfully until his death, July 5, 1877. In March, 1881, Daniel
Eagan and Samuel McClure purchased the property, and in 1883 the present
company was organized, with a capital of i^40,000. The plant occupies
three acres, on which are erected the buildings, seven in number. The
foundry is commodious, being a brick structure 50x80, with a wing 30x30.
The machine and pattern shop is a large building, originally put up for a
woolen-mill. It is three stories high, and is 34x80 feet. The pattern house
is a one-story building, 30x50 feet. The officers are Frank Buhl, president,
and Daniel Eagan, secretary, treasurer and general manager.
The Sharon Steel Casting Company, Frank Buhl, president; Samuel
McClure, vice-president; Daniel Eagan, secretary and general manager; John
Forker, treasurer; B. F. Watkins, superintendent; and selling agent, S. P.
Davidson, 117 Monroe Street, Chicago, was organized in February, 1887.
The commodious works, located on the northern limits of the town, were
erected the same year, and the first steel was made on the 26th of August.
The equipment consists of one fifteen-ton Siemens-Martin open hearth fur-
nace. The product is steel castings of all kinds, the annual capacity being
10,000 net tons. This is the only steel plant in Mercer County. Though its
history is yet limited, it is safe to say it is turning out the finest quality of
steel castings, and its product is second to none.
Sharon Boiler Works. — This industry was started in 1868 by S. Runser,
William McGilvray, and William McGilvray & Co., with a capital of
$5,000. Several years afterward R. G. Morrison bought Runser’ s interest,
and the firm became R. G. Morrison & Co. It so i-emained until 1878, when
the business was incorporated under the laws of the State as the Sharon Boiler
Works Company, limited, with a capital stock of $16,000. The organization
consists of P. L. Kimberly, president; D. R. Shiras, treasurer, and R. G.
Morrison, secretary and general manager.
Sharon Stove Works, R. A. Duncan & Co., proprietors, began to build their
198
HISTOKY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
structure in the fall of 1883, and commenced active operations in January
following. The town donated a tract of land and 110,000. The firm opened
with about forty hands. The specialty was cooking and heating stoves.
The works continued to run without interruption until November, 1887, never
missing a pay-day. They then closed owing to the stringency of money
affairs, P. L. Kimberly having closed a court judgment against the firm.
Business has since been resumed, and the works are in active operation.
There is a small wire nail factory now operated by Henry Tresise. It was
established as a tuyere factory in 1871, and has since been in successful opera-
tion. In 1887 Mr. Tresise began the manufacture of wire nails.
In 1874 Messrs. McGilvi-ay, Blount, Fisher & Co., established a furnace
for the manufacture of iron from a certain kind of slag. Coke was the fuel
used. The experiment proved quite successful, the daily output reaching
some ten tons.
The Chain Factory, owned and operated by Victor Doutreville, was
established by that gentleman in the spring of 1887. It is located immedi-
ately east of the E. & P. R. R. depot, and consists of a one- story frame
building, fitted up with modern appliances for the manufacture of chain. Mr.
Doutreville has built up a prosperous business, and gives steady employment
to quite a number of hands.'*
, Iron Statistics for 1887. — The production of iron and steel in Mercer
County for the year 1887, as we learn by a private letter from James M.
Swank, general manager of the American Iron and Steel Association, of Phila-
delphia, was as follows: Pig iron, 279,236 net tons, or 249,318 gross tons.
Rolled iron, including plate and sheet iron and a small quantity of iron rails,
47,519 net tons, or 42,428 gross tons. Nails, 66,625 kegs of 100 pounds
each. Of this quantity, 25,882 kegs were made of steel. There are in the
county seventeen blast furnaces, six rolling-mills and one open hearth steel
casting plant. Of the rolling-mills, two make muck bar and blooms only,
which are not included in the rolled iron production just given. From the
day that Mr. Amberson made his hand wrought nails at Mercer, in 1804, to
the year 1887, great changes and progress in domestic industries have been
effected.
A Question of Controversy. — As stated in the early part of this chapter,
the first furnaces were fed with charcoal and consumed the native ore of the
county. Now either coke or natural gas is the fuel, and Lake Superior ore is
the material mainly used in the manufacture of all kinds of iron. The ques-
tion which has aroused considerable interest and been the cause of no small
amount of controversy is: What furnace is entitled to the credit of first suc-
cessfully using Lahe Superior ore, and to what person or persons is the honor
to he aivarded % The furnaces contesting for the honor are Sharpsville and
Clay furnace, and the persons are David and J. P. Agnew and Francis Allen.
By the former it is maintained that they worked the ore at the Sharpsville
furnace successfully as early as 1853, while the latter maintains that it was
not worked successfully until it was done in the Clay furnace after it was
remodeled in October, 1856.
The whole controversy depends, it seems, upon what is meant by working
ore successfully. After reading the articles published in 1877 in the Sharps-
ville Advertiser by Messrs. Allen and Agnew, we have concluded that the term
success must be defined to solve the difficulty. Certain things were conceded,
however.
1. Lake Superior was first used in the Sharpsville furnace, thirty tons in
1853.
*For iron industries of West Middlesex and Wheatland see chapter on those boroughs.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
199
2. It was subsequently used at Clay furnace. The result we shall allow
to be expressed by Mr. Allen in his reply to Mr. Agnew;
■‘As stated in a former article, we wish to accord to Mr. Agnew all honor
for having worked thirty tons of Lake Superior ore mixed with native ore, and
that, too, before any Lake Superior ore had ever been received at Clay fur-
nace, even if it did take six days. And we now say that if it had taken six
months to get this trifling amount through their furnace, we would still be
willing to give them all praise for having done it. We spent three years at
Clay furnace experimenting with lake ore, and notwithstanding the fact that
during the whole of that time we succeeded much better than Mr. Agnew
ever did at Sharpsville, we never worked it successfully until the fall of 1856.”
Mr. Agnew claims that the fact that some of the iron made from the Lake
Superior ore was afterward wrought into bars, nails, etc. , at Sharon was evi-
dence of the success claimed for the experiment. Success, then, might not be
accepted as success now; but success, so he maintains, is a relative term.
The whole question, then, is one of success. Whether Lake Superior ore
was worked successfully at Sharpsville in 1853 or not, it is very certain that it
is worked there successfully at the present time.
COAL INTERESTS OF THE COUNTY.
The coal of the county has been, and is now, one of its important pro-
ducts. A beneficent Providence, during the carboniferous age of the world,
while dense forests covered the earth, among whose shady jungles crept huge
reptiles, and through whose branches sported mighty pterodactyls, and while
the atmosphere was heavily charged with carbonic acid gas, had in view the
well-being of man, the mighty ‘‘lord of creation,” and provided, in rich
abundance, a fuel that could never be exhausted. He stored, within the
bowels of mother earth the means by which his food could be cooked and his
hearth-stone made cheerful. He who can study carefully this beautiful pro-
vision and not feel deeply grateful, is lacking the primary elements of ap-
preciation.
The coal districts of Mercer County seem to be three in number, viz. : 1.
Those of the valley of the Shenango and its tributaries. 2. Those of the Wolf
Creek region. 3. Those of the Big Sandy region. While this division may
seem to be a little arbitrary, it will answer our purpose for what is to be pre-
sented touching this important interest of the county.
The question is frequently asked — Who discovered the first coal in Mercer
County 1 It is now known that citizens came from Trumbull County, Ohio,
and obtained, on the farm now owned by Peter Simpkins, in the southwest
part of West Salem Township, coal for blacksmithing purposes, as early as
the settlements were made in that region, which occurred at the close of the
last and opening of the present century. The coal was found cropping out
from the rocks along the bluff of a small run. The coal has been regularly
worked ever since, and furnishes a fine quality of the black diamonds. At
present the mines are operated by the sons of Mr. Simpkins. In 1833-34
Joseph Loutzenhiser, residing northwest of Greenville, put down a shaft on the
farm of Samuel Cannon. A shaft was put down about the same time on the
Cossitt farm, southwest of Greenville. Early in 1835 croppings of coal were
found near Sharon, on the lands afterward owned by Gen. Curtis. What is
true of these persons is doubtless true of others — they used coal found near
at hand, and made no fuss about it.
Mercer County block coal is peculiar in its formation, being wholly unlike
the black diamonds of the Pittsburgh region. It is described as possessing a
200
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
‘ ‘ laminated structure, splitting into sheets, and is very difficult to break on
the opposite of the lamina. The faces of the layers are often covered with a
soft, dead, carbonaceous material, like charcoal, and the whole seam through-
out is marked by alternate layers of dead and bright looking coal. In the act
of combustion it neither smells nor changes form. In the furnace the blocks
retain their shape until they fall to ashes. ’ ’ The characteristic qualities pos-
sessed made it specially valuable in the manufacture of pig iron. For a
long time it was used just as taken from the mines, and its use has only been
supplanted by the cheap delivery of coke and natural gas at the furnaces.
The coal in the vicinity of Sharon was discovered in 1835. It is presumed
that this means that it was found in paying quantities and subsequently
opened up for inspection. It is claimed that Isaac Patterson found traces of
coal as early as 1810, not a mile from the borough; but it never availed any-
thing practically. The mines were, soon after discovery, opened on the lands
owned by Gen. Curtis; and Charles Meek, who died at Sharon in May,
1876, was, by virtue of previous experience, called upon to take supervision.
George Boyce, soon afterward, became associated with Gen. Curtis. Coal
was easily obtained, but its use, at first, was only for home consumption.
People were so accustomed to use wood as fuel that they were slow to substi-
tute such a substance as coal. Then, too, the means for consuming it had to
be invented, the ordinary fire hearths and cooking and heating stoves being
ill adapted to the newly introduced fuel. Coal had to create its friends, and
all the means for mining, transporting and consuming itself. This required
time.
Prior to the completion of the Beaver & Erie Canal, the means of trans-
portation were so imperfect that the coal mined had to go begging for a
market. The construction of that medium of communication, however, gave
an outlet to trade, and greatly stimulated this important industry. Shipments
were made in all dii’ections, at first with small profits, but finally with satis-
factory terms to both capital and labor. The completion of the various rail-
roads of the county, and especially those through the Shenango Valley,
greatly stimulated its production and distribution.
In 1844 William Fruit, of Clarksville, a pioneer in the coal business, made
his first shipment to Erie. In digging his coal he substituted mules for dogs
in hauling coal from his mines, making so much of an innovation upon the
plan used at the Curtis bank at Sharon. Loading a canal boat, whose capacity
was twenty-seven tons, he started for Erie with the first load of coal that had
passed along the canal to that place. One of his three hands that accompanied
him was Capt. Gregory, now of Mercer. He was disappointed on reaching
the place. His new fuel was not in demand. He had to consume tons in experi-
ments to convince people that it would burn, and was superior to wood for cook-
ing and heating purposes. This all involved time and money. Despairing of
success, Mr. Fruit was on the eve of dumping his cargo into the lake and
returning home in disgust. At that moment Rufus S. Reed, a large share-
holder in the canal, took an interest in the cargo and bought it at $2 per ton,
giving his note therefor at sixty days. Mr. Fruit had the paper discounted
and returned to his home, after an absence of six weeks, rich in experience
but poor in purse. The debit side of his loss and gain account was the larger.
The Strawbridge brothers, of Sharon, had, as early as 1840, discovered
coal on their land. A year or two later they made developments, built tram-
ways and shutes to the canal, and made shipments. At first their experience
was unsatisfactory, but they persevered, and conquered.
In the spring of 1847 Gen. James Pierce located at Clarksville, and formed a
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
201
partnership witli Luke Catler in purchasing an interest in the Montgomery coal
mines. After exhausting those lands, he leased others at Mount Hickory
(subsequently his home) and opened up mines. He constructed a “tram-
way” to the canal. These mines, worked from 1851 to 1871, when they were
exhausted, proved to be very valuable. He opened and worked various banks
at different places: The Phillips bank near Mount Hickory, in partnership
with John Phillips, in 1855; the Holius bank in 1860; the Oakland coal mines
in 1863, his partner being William L. Scott, of Erie; the Neshannock mines
in 1864; other mines near Oakland in 1872, his associates being P. Metcalf
and the Frampton Brothers; besides several in Lawrence County. In all
these operations his practical judgment and energy made him very successful.
We can simply refer to other mines that were opened during this coal period.
Eev. George McCleery began coal operating in 1848, and was engaged in
the business up to a recent date.
Douglas’ Drift was opened for home use, on the farm of Samuel Doug-
las, in 1848. It subsequently became a good bank, but is now defunct.
Wilson & Oxey opened a bank on the Koonce farm in 1852. It was soon
abandoned.
Mount Carbon Coal Bank. — In 1856 A. L. Crawford, now of New Cas-
tle, sank a shaft on the farm of Hon. M. C. Trout, in Hickory Township. It
was exhausted in 1867-68. A large supply of coal was taken out, and drawn
by horses on a tram-way to Sharon for shipment.
Rankin Bank was opened in 1856, on the farm of Jacob Hann. It was
operated by Curtis & Eawle until exhausted in 1868.
Moorfield Bank, sunk in 1857 by T. J. Porter and Henry Forker, was ex-
hausted in 1868. It was on the farm of Henry Love.
Caster Bank, opened by Porter, Forker & Co. in 1858, on the farm of
A. Y. Eberhart. They sold it to New Castle parties, who worked it until it
was exhausted in 1864.
Ormshy Works No. 1, by Enoch Filer, for J. W. Ormsby and Pierce, on
the farm of John Hofius, in 1859, continued until 1871. This was the first
shaft in which machinery was used for hoisting the coal.
Keel Ridge No. 1, shaft sunk by Enoch Filer for Kimberly & Forker, on
the Titus farm, four miles from Sharpsville, in 1863. The owners were Sam-
uel Kimberly and Henry Forker. Ownership subsequently changed to Kim-
berly, Forker & Co. ; abandoned in December, 1874.
Lowry Mine, located on the farm of J. W. Ormsby, two miles from
Clarksville.
Crawford Mines, on the lands of Duncan & Koonce, in Pymatuning
Township, were opened by the Crawfords, of Cleveland. The A. & G. W.
Eailroad (now Erie) built a branch for traffic accommodation.
Emery Bank, on the Emery farm, was opened in 1865 by Veach, Eisher &
Co. , of West Middlesex. Not productive now.
Forker Bank.- — Joseph Forker & Co. sank a shaft on the Walker farm in
1865-66. It was very productive for a time. The works burned in 1870, but
were rebuilt.
Neshannock Bank. — Shaft was sunk in 1864-65 by Phillips & McMasters,
on farm of John Eberhart. In 1870 Gen. Pierce bought McMasters’ interest.
A destructive fire in 1876 entailed a loss of |8,000 upon the company.
Daily capacity, 250 tons. The firm of Phillips & Co. retired from the busi-
ness in 1887.
Westerman Slope. — Shaft was sunk in 1869, by the Westerman Iron
Company, on the farm of McConnell. Daily output, 175 tons.
202
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Pacific Slope was opened in 1874 by Dunham & Eoberts, on the Meek farm.
Five Points Shaft was sunk by Pierce & Frampton iu 1872, on the farm of
Jonathan Eaton, in Hickory Township. A branch railway connected it with
the Sharpsville line. It has not been in operation since 1874.
Keel Ridge No 2. — Shaft sunk on Frazier farm, about half a mile from
No. 1, for Kimberly, Forker & Co., in 1871. It was exhausted in 1874.
Keel Ridge No. 3, on the Koonce farm, half a mile north of No. 2, owned
by Kimberly & Filer. Sunk about the time the others closed.
Mount Pleasant Shaft, sunk on land of Enoch Filer, by Kimberly & Filer
in 1869, with an average daily capacity of 300 tons.
Snyder Bank, on Snyder farm, opened by Kimberly, Filer & Co. in 1873.
Lackawannock Bank, o^iened on farm of Paul Everhart in 1868-69, by
Samuel Kimberly & Co., and abandoned in 1872.
Congressional Bank, sunk on the Love farm by Spearman, Ulp, Kimberly
& Filer in 1874. Reached by the Sharpsville Railroad branch to Bethel.
Miller Bank. — Shaft sunk by J. W. Ormsby & Sons in 1870 on the farm of
Matthias Miller. The Westerman Coal Company became a partner in 1876,
and assisted in the subsequent operations.
Middlesex Mine, opened on the Robert Caldwell farm, one and a half miles
west of West Middlesex in 1847, by Sennett & Graham. Passing through
various hands it finally became exhausted.
Mount Morris Coal Bank. — Wassen, Veaches & Rishers sunk a shaft on
the Morrison farm west of Middlesex in 1860. A tram-way and shutes enabled
the company to make extensive shipments after 1861, over 500,000 tons. The
construction of the Erie & Pittsburgh Railroad greatly facilitated business.
Craivford & P alter soN s Bank is situated on the Jackson farm, one and a
half miles west of Middlesex. It was opened in 1862 by Crawford & Geise.
After supplying 170,000 tons, the mine was exhausted in 1875.
Bethel Coal Works. — In 1868 Meek, Boyce & Rawle, of Sharon, put down,
at a cost of f 22, 000, a slope on the land of R. S. Allen, of Hickory Town-
ship. A narrow gauge railway was built to West Middlesex, a distance of
four miles, at a cost of |7,000. An engine and “dumps” furnished the
transporting power. In 1869 E. A. Wheeler and other persons from Sharon
became the owners of Meek’s interest. The same year the works were de-
stroyed by fire, but at once rebuilt. In 1869, too, a shaft (Bethel No. 1) was
sunk by the same company in Shenango Township, on the lands of James
Stewart’s heirs, at a cost of $14,000. A track was laid to this shaft, and
increased transporting power secured. Both shafts were worked to their full
capacity until 1873-74, when the supply was exhausted. A third shaft was
sunk by the company on the farm of S. S. Sample, in Shenango Township,
at a cost of $15,000. Railway connection was also made. These works,
extensive and thoroughly worked as they were, did not prove exceedingly
remunerative, the quality of the coal not being considered the best.
The extensive operations in coal in the vicinity of Sharon during the clos-
ing years of the war will be seen by the following statistics taken from the
Sharon Herald. In 1864 the output was about 3,500 tons per day.
The daily output of coal by the various companies operating in the She-
nango Valley in May, 1865, was:
jAjiNa.
Porter & Forker 200
Reese, Burgess & Co 200
Curtis & Bo3"ce 250
Irvine, Andrews & Co 300
C. H. and W. C. Andrews 100
James Pierce A Co 400
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
203
TONS.
Ames, Wick & Co 300
Ormsby, Fish & Co 1,50
Frank Allen & Co 150
Veach, Risher & Co 200
Crawford, Patterson «& Co 100
C. M. Reed 200
M. C. Trout & Co 200
Curtis, Trout & Co 200
McCleery & Wheeler 80
Taylor, Bailey & Co 100
The combined banks of J. Phillips & Co., Byers, Veach & Co., and
Ormsby, Koonce & Co 400
Kimberljr, Forker & Co. (Keel Ridge) 300
Grand total 3,830
The other extensive field is that in and around Stoneboro. At this point
we are pleased to introduce a cai-efully prepared report by J. M. Goodwin, of
Sharpsville, who located the works and surveyed Stoneboro:
“In the summer of 1864 the Mercer Iron & Coal Company commenced
operations preliminary to opening the mines, now known as the Stoneboro
Mines, on lands some time previously acquired by that company, situated
near, and principally south of, Sandy Lake. The company owned 2,183 acres
of land, in fee, and held ‘mineral rights’ in 1,364 additional acres. Under-
lying much the greater part of this territory of 3, 547 acres there are three
veins of coal. The upper vein is Vein No. 3 of the Ohio nomenclature.
Vein No. 2 lies from 36 to 70 feet below No. 3, and No. 1 from 50 to 180
feet below No. 2. The average workable thickness of the coal in No. 3 is
four feet; Vein No. 2 is found in places to have a thickness of three feet,
and No. 1 a thickness of thirty inches. Only the upper vein (No. 3) has
been, thus far, worked.
“The mines were opened under the direction and personal supervision of
Hon. P. H. Watson. Mr. Watson had been from the early days of the ffreat
rebellion until July, 1864, closely engaged as Assistant Secretary of War at
Washington. Unremitting attention to the duties of his office had seriously
impaired his health, and in 1864 he was forced to leave Washington in order
that he might, in out-of door occupations, regain some of the vigor expended
in the service of the government. He came to Sandy Lake for the purpose of
examining the coal territory thereabout early in 1864, returning thence to
Washington. In August, 1864, accompanied by the writer, he established
himself as general manager of the coal company’s affairs at Sandy Lake.
“Work on the main entry No. 1 of the mine was commenced in July,
1864. The coal taken out in ‘ driving entries ’ during the winter of 1864-65
was sold to teamsters, who hauled it to Oil City, and even to points beyond
that place, selling it at prices varying from $12 to $15 per net ton. The rail-
road track connecting the mine with the Jamestown & Franklin Railroad, now
part of the Franklin division of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Rail-
way, was completed to the shute, at opening No. 1, May 17, 1865, and the
first lot (five cars) of coal left the mine May 22, 1865. The coal, excluding
nut coal and ‘slack,’ marketed by the Mercer Iron & Coal Company up to
March 25, 1876, aggregated 629,158 tons. This output equals 5,141 tons per
acre of area actually mined up to the date named, and is 73| per cent of the
entire body of coal originally in the ground in the said area. This is a very
praiseworthy showing, indicating, as it does, unusual skill and economy of
coal on the part of the mining bosses. The ordinary waste in British
mines (worked as the Stoneboro mines are, on the ‘ pillar and stall ’ plan) is
40 per cent of the coal in the ground, as reported by a royal commission
204
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
appointed to investigate mining matters in the United Kingdom, and in this
country the waste is, I believe, even greater, as a rule.
“In March, 1875, the company had finished and began using a slope,
put in to reach parts of the mine lying north and west from the original open-
ings, and a few years later put down a second slope into coal in the more
southerly part of its territory, from which they will eventually mine not less
than 5,000,000 tons, except some now unforseen reason for suspending opera-
tions develops itself.
‘ ‘ My connection with the Mercer Iron & Coal Company continued from
August, 1864, to March, 1866, during which period I acted as its engineer,
under Mr. Watson’s management. Having brought the mine to the point of
successful operation, Mr. Watson turned over the management to other hands
and left Stoneboro — as the village built up near the mines had been named-
in the latter part of 1865.
“In February and March of 1876 a survey of the entire mine was made
under my supervision. At that time, with the aforesaid output of 629,158
tons of coal, only 122 acres of ground had been actually mined out. The coal
mined at Stoneboro is an excellent ‘ steam-coal,’ and is largely used for loco-
motive fuel and other like services.”
The building of the Shenango & Allegheny (now the Pittsburgh, Shenango
& Lake Erie) Eailroad to Pardoe, in 1869, opened up a new coal region in
the vicinity of Pardoe, and subsequently near Grove City (then Pine Grove).
The Mercer Mining & Manufacturing Company having laid out the village
of Pardoe, opened and began to operate extensive mines, which supply a large
quantity of excellent coal. The coal is known as Clarion coal. It is quite
hard, and the veins main an average thickness of four to five feet. The coal
around Grove City is similar, it is said, to that of Pardoe.
From the report of the Secretary of Internal Affairs, of industrial
statistics for the year 1887, we glean the following interesting mining statis-
tics of this county, as reported by Thomas K. Adams, mine inspector for the
Third Bituminous District, which embraces Mercer County. In the whole
district Mr. Adams reported no fatal accident during the year. Of the nine-
teen non-fatal, ten were at mines in this county. Four new mines were
opened during the year, one of which, Lackawannock No. 2, is in Mercer
County. It is the deepest shaft in the district, being sunk to the ‘ ‘ Sharon
Block” coal, found at a depth of 280 feet. With the report is a drawing
showing the strata passed through. At a depth of eighty feet two feet of coal was
found, followed by two feet of limestone, then two feet of coal again, which
was the only coal until the block was reached at 280 feet. Following is a list,
of the mines in the county, with amount in tons of coal produced, and num-
ber of miners employed:
Tons. Miners.
Black Diamond, Grove City 41,104 48
Bethel, Bethel 15,420 54
Carver, Stoneboro 50,409 80
Chestnut Ridge, Filer 45,088 60
Cranberry, Grove City 39,255 53 -
Hickory Slope, Hazzard 47,910 71
Jackson, Jackson Centre 5,000 12
Lackawannock, No. 1, Greenfield 23,171 65
New Virginia, New Virginia 14.900 57
Ormsby Shaft, Hazzard 33,335 45
Ormsby Slope, Jackson Centre 48,139 75
Pardoe, Pardoe 78,992 56
Stoneboro, No. 2, Stoneboro 66,536 123
No. 3, “ 20,402 48
Spear’s, Grove City 30,000 44
^9 ■ fy 19 O- £^-rnan. & C'^
HISTOBY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
207
This report, however, does uot embrace the product of the smaller banks
in the vicinity of Greenville, Sharon and other portions of the county. Thou-
sands of bushels are mined annually that never enter into such reports, as
under the law no bank is included that does not employ ten hands. Private
consumers in Greenville are largely supplied from the mines in West Salem
and Pymatuning Townships, no mention of which is made in Mr. Adams’
report for the reason just stated. This is also the case in Hickory Township
and every other coal section in Mercer County. It is estimated that at least
100,000 bushels are annually mined in this county by small operators who do
not employ the requisite number of men to bring them within the scope oi
State reports.
CHAPTER VII.
Agricultukal — .Sources of Wealth and their Eel ationsiiip— Dignity of
THE Farmer’s Calling— First Importation of Domestic Animals into
America — Vegetable Products— Introduction of Wheat, Rye, Corn,
Oats, Buckwheat, Barley and Potatoes into this Country — Farm Imple-
ments AND Improvements Made Therein— Fertilizers and Drainage —
Gilkey Potato — Agricultural Societies— Mercer Agricultural
Societies of the Past and Present— Shenango Valley' Agricultural -
AND Manufacturing Society of Greenville— Wool Groavers’ Associa-
tion-Mercer County Agricultural Society of Stoneboro-.Iamestom^n
Agricultural and Manufacturing Association — Keystone and Buck-
eye Fair Association of Sharon— Agricultural Paper— The Grange.
The sources of wealth are sometimes classified into three groups : 1.
Those things which are dug out of the earth in the form of ores and
minerals. 2. Those which are grown from the earth in the form of cereals
and vegetables of various kinds. 3. Those things which are manufactured,
directly or remotely, from either of the foregoing products. These three
sources of wealth are intimately connected with one another, and therefore
mutually dependent. When this relationship and inter- dependence are recog-
nized properly, they can not be placed in antagonistic attitudes. They consti-
stitute the great trinity of industrial pursuits, and have had an existence since
the career of the race began in the oriental garden. To the second class of
wealth producers belongs the farmer. His occupation is not only one of the
most important, but it is given increased dignity because of its age. Not so
much as a curse, but as a blessing in disguise, was the primitive man reminded
that “ in the sweat of his face ” he should eat bread. When, in a state of
entire innocence, he was placed in the garden, it was not so much to give him
a long recreation as to “keep and dress it.”
The dignity and importance of his calling have been recognized in all
ages. Virgil, the bard of Mantua, has, in his Georgies and Bucolics, devoted
the highest powers of his brilliant poetic genius to the proper celebration of
its gloi’ies. The strain has been caught by poet and orator, painter and
sculptor. The humblest tiller of the soil may say, with the fullest appre-
ciation of its import :
A farmer’s life is the life for me;
I own I love it dearly,
And every year, full of i^lee,
I take its labor cheerily
2
208
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
A curious history attaches to some of the animals and vegetables with
which the farmer has to deal. Deeming this history a matter of great interest,
we insert a brief sketch, commencing with the domestic animals. The first
specimens of these were brought to America by Columbus in his second voy-
age in 1493. As an admiral of seventeen ships, he left Spain with a collection
of horses, a bull and several cows. The first horses, forty-two in number,
brought into what is now the United States were landed in Florida by
Cabeca de Vaca in 1527. Twelve years later, viz., 1539, De Soto also brought
to the same region a large number of horses and swine, among the latter of
which were thirteen sows, whose progeny soon increased to several hundred.
In 1609 three ships from England landed at Jamestown, Va., with many
immigrants, and the following animals : Six mares, one horse, 600
swine, 500 domestic fowls, with a few sheep and goats. Other ani-
mals had been previously introduced there. In 1610 an edict was issued in
Yirginia, prohibiting the killing of domestic animals of any kind on penalty of
death to the principal, and burning the hand and loss of the ears to the acces-
sory, and twenty-four hours’ whipping to the concealer. As a consequence
swine became so numerous that the colony was nigh well overrun by them, and
the Indians fed upon the wild specimens instead of game.
Wheat was introduced into the North American colonies when the first
European settlers arrived. It was first sown on the Elizabeth Islands, in
Massachusetts, by Gosnold, at the time he explored its coast in 1602. In
1611 it and other grains were sown in Virginia, and by 1648 many hundred
acres were cultivated. This useful cereal was introduced into the Mississippi
Valley by the “Western Company’’ in 1718;' but careless cultivation and
sudden changes of climate prevented large crops. In 1746, however, 600
barrels of fiour had been sent from the Wabash to New Orleans, showing
that progress was being made in agriculture. In 1776 the Hessian, or wheat
fly, was introduced when Howe’s mercenary troops, brought from Germany,
disembarked on the west end of Long Island. The insect, supposed to have
been carried hither in straw, was for many years the most fatal enemy the
farmer had to contend against.
Rye, supposed to be a native of the Caspian Caucasian desert, was culti-
vated in America soon after its settlement by the English. Traces of it in
Nova Scotia are found as early as 1622, and in Virginia in 1648.
Corn is claimed to be indigenous to America. When Columbus discovered
Cuba he found it cultivated by the aboriginal inhabitants. The first success-
ful attempt by the English to raise this grain was made on the James River,
in Virginia, in 1608. The yield was very great.
Ofits, in its most common variety, is said to be indigenous to the island of
Juan Fernandez. The plant was introduced into the North American colo-
nies soon after their settlement by the English. It was sown by Gosnold on
the Elizabethan Islands, in 1602; cultivated in Newfoundland in 1622, and
in Virginia, by Berkley, prior to 1648.
Buckwheat is supposed to be a native of Central Asia, from which it was
taken into Europe in the twelfth century. When it was introduced into
America is not known. Holm, in his ‘ ‘History of Pennsylvania, ’ ’ published at
Stockholm in 1702, mentions it among the productions of the province; so
does Kalm, the Swedish naturalist, who visited this country in 1748-49.
Barley, like wheat, was cultivated in Egypt and Syria more than 3,000
years ago. Its introduction into America may be traced to the period of its
permanent settlements. Gosnold sowed it and other grains on Martha’s
Vineyard in 1602, and the colonists in Virginia in 1611.
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
209
Potatoes. — The common Irish potato (Solanuvi tuberosum) has been found,
in an indigenous state, in the mountainous districts of South America and
Mexico. The first account of it published anywhere was printed at Seville,
Spain, in 1553. It subsequently worked its way into Italy and the rest of
Europe. It reached the North American colonies probably about 1748.
The Siveet Potato {Batatas Edulis) is a native of the East Indies. It is
mentioned as a product of the American colonies as early as 1648.
Farm Implements. — In no department of agricultural activity has greater
progress been shown than in the line of its implements for producing and
securing its crops. The improvements here are the marks of genuine civiliza-
tion. The primitive plow was a crude affair. It was heavy, and far from
being artistic. Its wooden mold board and heavy beam finally, in the lapse
of time, gave way to the steel mold board and iron beam. These changes
were produced gradually through the operation of enterprising agents, plow-
ing matches, agricultural papers and fairs. The early harrow with its wooden
teeth and heavy timbers would hardly be recognized now as the harbinger of
the revolving harrow with strong iron teeth, much less of the patent drill
which enables the farmer to dispense with the labor of sowing his grain broad-
cast as in the olden times. The heavy hoe would scarcely be recognized as
the object from which the modern steel implement is fashioned.
In the means of gathering grain, the most decided improvements have
been made. First the sickle, or hook, was used. It enabled the skillful
farmer to gather his grain whether it stood or had fallen. It was tedious and
dangerous, as the fingers of many a hand could testify, if they should relate
the experiences while carrjdng a swath through the field. Then came the
cradle, which was a decided improvement, and supposed, for a time, to be all
that could be expected in the line of such implements. Like the sickle, it served
a worthy purpose, and afforded the jolly farm hands an abundant opportunity
to enjoy the 10 o’clock luncheon and genuine rye whisky which always found
themselves in the harvest field. But both these implements were destined to
give way to the modern reaper with its appliances for self -binding. Human
ingenuity enabled the progressive farmer to save his own muscle, and employ
instead that of his faithful h,orses, over whom he was authorized to exercise
merciful dominion.
But progress did not stop at this point. The pioneer was content to
gather his wheat or buckwheat upon a floor and beat it out with the ordinary
flail, or tread it out by the aid of his horses, and then winnow it by allowing
the wind to blow out the chaff from the precious grain. When the windmill
was introduced, he felt that his labor was greatly lightened, but not till the
appearance of the thrashing machine, whose revolving cylinder, kept in motion
by bands or rods, connected with a strong horse power, beat out his grain at
the rate of several hundred bushels per day, and separated it from the chaff,
did he consider himself thoroughly supplied with labor-saving agencies.
Nor was this progress confined to the department of farm implements.
The intelligent, progressive farmer soon discovered that not only did he need
good machinery to produce and husband his grain, but that he needed to give
diligent attention to the condition of his land. He could not expect to take
from the soil year after year, without restoring the lost substance. Fertiliza-
tion thus forced itself upon him. The virgin soil soon began to show marks
of weakness, and required to be reinvigorated. This was accomplished some-
times by giving it a rich coating of straw manure; sometimes by change of
crops, that is, from wheat to corn or grass or clover, and sometimes by abso-
lute rest from all crops. At a later period the value of phosphates began to
210
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
attract his serious attention. Another problem, which Horace Greeley pro-
nounced one of the most important in farm economy, viz. , drainage, likewise
knocked at his door and demanded solution. At first the open drain was con-
sidered suflicient, but it soon demonstrated its own inutility. The farmer had
neither the time nor the means to be constantly engaged in digging or open-
ing up the ditches with which his land was belted. In regular order the
underground drain suggested itself. At first wooden coverings or boxings were
deemed adequate, but these, in the lajrse of time, were supplanted by the tile
drain, which is a permanent outlet for the water which would otherwise remain
on the surface, and not only injure the crop, but have a deleterious effect
upon the land itself. The progressive farmer has finally settled down in the
conviction that he must not only have the labor-saving appliances of modern
husbandry, but must give attention particularly to the drainage and fertiliza-
tion of his land, never neglecting the proper rotation of crops.
Had some record been kept of the various changes through which farming
in its various branches has passed, it would be one of the most intei’esting
annals to be had in these days of activity. From the fragments seen we have
learned that, in the early part of this century, Mr. James Gilkey, then living
near the west branch of Neshannock Creek, performed some interesting exper-
iments in the production of potatoes. From the seed which he planted he
developed a potato which, for richness of flavor and general usefulness, has
never been surpassed. Bevan Pearson took some of these specimens with him
to the Legislature, and showed them to his friends in Philadelphia. They
soon became very popular, and their fame spread far and wide. At home they
were known from the stream on whose banks they were produced, Neshannocks.
In the east they were called the Mercers, and when sent to Ireland during the
famine of 1847 they were denominated the Gilkeys, in honor of their producer.
These potatoes finally were supplanted by pinkeys, peach-blows, long reds, eaidy
roses, snowflakes, and others, ad infinitum. Similar changes have occurred in
other departments of the vegetable world.
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.
Agricultural societies and papers have done much toward elevating farm-
ing from its former condition to one of intelligent observation and experi-
ment, and demonstrated that its labors may be conducted by the same unerring
laws as exist elsewhere. Of these societies Mercer County has had its share.
When the first one was organized is not known, the imperfect records having
failed to disclose the fact. In the Western Press of January 5, 1828, occurs
the following notice: “The Mercer County Agricultural Society will hold its
Seventh Exhibition, Cattle Show and Auction, in New Castle, on Friday, the
7th day of November, 1828. All stock must be in the pens, and all articles
of domestic manufacture in the room, at 12 o’clock A. M. Joseph Justice,
president; Nathaniel McElevey, secretary.” The total amount of premiums
offered was $88. 50. The following are a few of the rewards held out : ‘ ‘ For
the best crop of wheat on one acre, $3.00. For the best crop of Havanna
tobacco on quarter acre, $2.00. For such a stud-horse as may combine points
and properties worthy of encouragement, $5.00. For the best piece of flan-
nel, not less than ten yards, $1.00. For the best cheese, not less than ten
lbs., $1.00. For the best firkin of butter, made not less than four months
previous, $1.00. For the best specimen of horn combs, $3.00.” In the same
paper of January 8, 1831, Joseph Emery, treasurer of the society, announces
that by a resolution of the directors, passed the 15th of the preceding Novem-
ber, he was required to collect all arrears due the organization. This is the
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
211
last announcement of the society, which may, with propriety, be called the
pioneer of such valuable organizations in Mercer County.
Mercer County Agricultural Societj. — A call “for the establishment of
an agricultural society” was issued June 23, 1843, and signed by Robert
McWilliams, Thomas S. Dumars, Amos Wilkins, H. Shuster, James Wilson,
J. A. Nelson, T. Rogers, William Patterson, T. S. Cunningham, John Steven-
son, James Rose, John Gealy, G. Seeley, J. Glendening, Adam Black, John
Newel, Joseph Thompson, W. W. Hoon, Robert Hamilton and O. G. Croy,
fixing the 27th of that month as the date for a meeting of the citizens
interested in the matter to take initiatory steps. This meeting was held
agreeable to the call, but did not result in any organization. It stimulated
the public interest for such an enterprise, though, and bore fruit in 1850,
when the Mercer County Agricultural Society was organized. The first
grounds of this society was on the Hoge farm, north of Mercer, on the east side
of the Mercer and Meadville pike. Ten acres of land were leased from the heirs of
the Hoge estate, and kept for about two years, although during this time the
grounds were never fenced in, nor were buildings erected. At the expiration
of this period the society rented ten acres on the opposite side of the same
road, above the old building known as the ‘ ‘ Lion House, ’ ’ and placed upon
them temporary structures for the reception of stock and other exhibits. These
quarters were occupied for about nine years, at the end of which time fourteen
acres were leased on the present site of the Central Agricultural Society’s
grounds. At a meeting held in the court-house November 21, 1860, at which
time the officers of the society comprised Michael C. Trout, president; T. B.
Rogers, recording secretary; James A. Leech, corresponding secretary;
Lewis Weaver, treasurer, and J. P. Kerr, auditor, the treasurer was
“authorized to borrow funds to pay off the indebtedness of the society, not
exceeding $100,” and Lewis Egbert, Richard J. Reznor and Robert Patterson
were appointed as a committee to ascertain on what terms the fair grounds
could be purchased. The society became defunct about the second year of the
war (1862), its prolongation to that period being due mainly to the efforts of
Seth Hoagland, M. C. Trout, JoelB. Curtis, Robert Patterson, James Dennis-
ton, James A. Nelson and others, who were among its enterprising members.
' An interval of nine years now elapsed, during which time Mercer was
without her annual exhibitions. This was terminated by a meeting held in
the court-house on the first Tuesday in February, 1871, out of which grew
the Mercer County Central Agricultural Society. This was incorporated De-
cember 21 of the same year, with the following named charter members: Rob-
ert McKee, J. M. McLain, A. J. McKean, Seth Hoagland, James A. Nelson, J. P.
Kerr, Samuel North, W. A. McCormick, M. C. Trout, A. F. Brown and J. D. Kirk-
patrick. The first officers elected by the society consisted of Seth Hoagland,
president; A. F. Brown, vice-president; S. H. Miller, secretary; A. J. Mc-
Kean, treasurer, and J. D. Kirkpatrick, M. C. Trout, S. M. Loveland, Robert
McKee, James A. Nelson, J. M. McLain and J. P. Pierce, directors. The
first annual fair of this new organization was held in September, 1871, on
fourteen acres of the present grounds, which had been purchased at a cost of
$2,800, and fitted with buildings, fence and track at an additional expense of
$5,600. In 1873 a reorganization was effected, the society changing its name
to the “Western Pennsylvania Agricultural Society.” In the same year
twenty-seven additional acres were purchased, at a cost of $5,400, and added to
the grounds, the latter being improved at an expenditure of $0,000. This
organization continued under this name until September, 1882, when it col-
lapsed, and three months later the property was sold by the sheriff, at the
212
HISTOEY OP MEECEE COUNTY.
instigation of the First National Bank of Mercer, for |5,000. The officers
from'’ 1873 to 1882, inclusive, were: 1873, J. P. Kerr, president; James
Denniston, vice-president; A. J. McKean, treasurer, and W. J. McKean, sec-
retary. 1874, the same except vice-president, Andrew Robinson. 1875,
the same except A. J. Zahniser, vice-president. 1870, the same except S.
S. Donaldson, president, and R. S. Allen, vice-president. 1877, the same.
1878, the same except Andrew Robinson, vice-president, and R. T. Findley,
treasurer. 1879, the same except M. W. Alexander, president, and S. F.
Thompson, vice-president. 1880, the same except Jesse Hoagland, presi-
dent; Hon. S. H. Miller, vice-president, and R. S. Madge, treasurer. 1881,
the same except Robert McKee, vice-president, and John H. McKean,
treasurer. 1882, the same except Robert Dodds, Jr., president.
The present society, known by the name of Mercer Central Agricultural
Society, was organized January 30. 1883, being a continuation of the old one.
It was chartered December 15, 1883, with a capital stock of $5,000, divided
into 100 shares of the par value of $50 each. Its first officers were: Robert
McKee, president; R. S. Madge, vice-president; John H. McKean, treasurer;
W. J. McKean, secretary, and B. A. Williams, Robert Dodds, Jr., J. K. Min-
nick, James S. Alexander, S. F. Thompson, David Wilson and T. P. Munnell,
directors. These were re-elected in 1884. In 1885 A. P. Jones was presi-
dent; T. P. Munnell, vice-president; S. F. Thompson, treasurer, and W. J.
McKean, secretary. In 1886 the same, except R. S. Madge, vice-president.
In 1887-88 the same, except R. S. Madge, president, and William Logan,
vice-president. Annual exhibitions are held, and the displays made are gen-
erally very creditable to the society and the county.
Shenango Valley Agricultural and Manufacturing Society. — The second
organization, in point of time, was the Shenango Valley Agricultural and
Manufacturing Society, of Greenville, which was organized in August, 1857,
under the management of iMarvin Loomis, president; William Waugh, secre-
tary, and Samuel P. Johnston, treasurer. The project of its organization was
due mainly to B. F. Baskin, who had for many years advocated the necessity
and advantages of such a society. Fourteen acres of land were leased from
T. A. Mann and Daniel Saul, fitted out with a third of a mile track, stand,
fence and other necessary conveniences, and opened in September of the same
year for exhibits. Annual fairs were given thereafter. The society was
incorporated August 16, 1869, with a purpose, as expressed in the charter, of
effecting the “promotion of the science of agriculture and horticulture; the
improvement of the breed of horses, cattle and other stock; the advancement
of mechanical and industrial pursuits, and the furtherance of kindred aims. ’ ’
The officers at time of incorporation were: Thomas Leech, Jr., president;
Josiah Stewmrt, vice-president; D. A. Thalimer, secretary; S. M. Loveland,
treasurer, and D. B. Packard, T. A. Mann, Jeremiah Brockway, R. J. Bean,
William Beatty, J. Long, John Artman, G. W. Phillips, J. K. Hamblin,
Samuel Young, James W. Christy, D. Clark, J. R. Donaldson, John A. Carnes,
E. M. Campbell, F. M. Gillis, W. H. Emery, S. H. Findley, James Throop
and G. W. Moyer, executive committee. An important epoch in the history
of this organization was the delivering of a lecture before one of its fairs by
Horace Greely, the celebrated editor. The correspondence arranging terms
for the address was conducted by the secretary, W. H. Sheakley. In response
to a letter from him the following reply was received:
New York, June 14. 1871.
Dear Sir: — I have yours of the 9th inst. It talks business, and I can meet it squarely.
I hold myself engaged to speak for you on Thursday, September 28th, at your Greenville
fair. I shall try to be seasonably on hand. Yours, Horace Gheely.
To W. II. Sheakley, Esq., Sec. S. V. A. & M. Soc’y.
HISTOBY OF MEECER COUNTY.
213
The manuscript of the above is yet in the possession of Mr. Sheakley. The
wilting is in the same characteristic scrawl that has become so famous as to
furnish food for proverbs. The address, which was duly delivered, was one
of those happy efforts which only Greely could make. It was entirely ex tem-
pore, the only references used by the speaker being a few brief notes written
on little oblong slips of writing paper, which he held in his hand. It was
never published, yet its ideas are not wholly forgotten by those who heard it.
The end of this society was foreseen by many, who saw that the rapidity with
which kindred organizations were multiplying would eventually result in the
death of the weaker ones. After a long and beneficial existence, during which
great progress had been made both in the field and in the workshop, on the
farm and at the forge, the organization became dormant, and at last wholly
defunct.
Wool Growers’ Association.— The subject of wool growing early attracted
the attention of the farmers of the county. In 1868 Mercer County was the
third wool growing county in the State, and its fleeces readily commanded 40
cents per pound. The importance of the industry led to the formation of a
county wool growers’ association, an account of a meeting of which organi-
zation, held in the court-house at Mercer, May 15, 1868, has been found.
Among the subjects discussed were foot rot, grub in the head, proper food for
animals, and other topics bearing directly upon the interest in question. Of
this meeting the members named were: Thomas Alexander, Seth Hoagland,
W. H. Alexander, James Denniston, Jonathan Calvin, Robert McKee, A. J.
Zahniser, J. P. Kerr, John Albin, James Sellers, A. Robinson and S. H. Mil-
ler. The discussion of these subjects was continued at intervals in the West-
ern Press, an agricultural column of which was then conducted by Mr. Seth
Hoagland, and an extensive interest was aroused among the farmers.
Mercer County Agricultural Society. — The year 1868 seems to have been
one of unusual activity among agriculturists. It beheld the successful con-
vention of a wool growers’ association, and of numerous newspaper discussions,
and it also ushered into existence the Mercer County Agricultural and Manu-
facturing Society, of Stoneboro. This organization began at once an active
career. It purchased lands from the Mercer Iron and Coal Company and
Jeremiah Bonner, and, after quickly fitting them up, held its first annual
exhibition the year of its birth. In the following year, August 16, the society
was incorporated, with J. P. Kerr, president; Robert J. McClure, vice-presi-
dent; Samuel Hines, secretary; H. B. Blood, treasurer, and A. B. McCartney,
A. P. JoUes, Justice Egbert, Elliott Davis, J. P. McKinley, Jonathan Riggs
and W. E. McDonald, directors. The officers following were: 1869,, J. M.
Carnahan, president; secretary and treasurer the same. 1870, R. J. McClure,
president; secretary and treasurer the same. 1871, James W. Barker, presi-
dent; secretary and treasurer the same. In 1872, A. F. Brown, president;
J. P. Hines, secretary; treasurer the same. In 1873, J. M. Carnahan, presi-
dent; secretary the same; R. P. Cann, treasurer. In 1874, the same. In
1875, president and treasurer the same; secretary, S. A. Wilson.
In the year 1876 a reorganization was effected, the name being changed
to Mercer County Agricultural Society, and a new charter, dated May 25,
1876, being issued. The capital stock was fixed at $12,000. The new officers
were J. M. Carnahan, president; J. P. Hines, secretary; R. P. Cann, treas-
urer; and J. C. Cornwell, Daniel Perrine, J. Riggs, C. H. Hummason, P. J.
Boyd, J. M. Galloway and A. F. Brown, directors. The old grounds were
abandoned, and the present spacious quarters, located east of the borough,
and consisting of thirty-one acres of well-shaded and neatly adorned land.
214
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
were secured. Annual exhibitions have since been held in the new grounds,
each of which has been entertaining and instructive. The officers since the
reorganization have been; 1877, A. P. Jones, president; J. P. Hines, secre-
tary, and R. P. Cann, treasiarer. In 1878, George W. Porter, president; L.
Bonesteel, secretary, and treasurer the same. In 1879, president and treas-
urer the same; F. A. Bliss, secretary. In 1880, A. P. Jones, president; V.
Porter, secretary; treasurer the same. In 1881, president and treasurer the
same; J. P. Hines, secretary. In 1882, J. M. Carnahan, president; secretary
and treasurer the same. In 1883, A. S. Throop, president; secretary and
treasurer the same. In 1884-85-86, George W. Porter, president; secretary
and treasurer the same. In 1887, J. C. Cornwell, president; secretary and
treasurer the same.
Jamestoivn Agricultural and Manufacturing Association. — The organiza-
tion known by the above name was incorporated May 15, 1871, with a capital
stock of $5,000, and with the following officers: V. A. Stewart, president; J.
M. McArthur, vice-president; L. A. McCrumb, secretary; J. H. Christy,
treasurer; J. C. Anderson, R. P. Johnston, David Gamble, Charles Fowler
and Robert McMaster, executive committee; and Harrison Hunter, David
Anderson, J. *C. Breckenridge, James Jamison and George McKinley, direct-
ors. A tract of tine land, comprising twenty-five acres, and located one mile
west of Jamestown, was purchased by the association, and fitted up with track,
biiildings and other necessary equipments. The first exhibition was held in
1871, and annual ones took place for seven years thereafter, at the expiration
of which time, owing to a lack of interest manifested in its continuance, the
enterprise was abandoned.
Keystone and Buckeye Fair Association. — The latest and not the least pre-
tentious society formed in Mercer County for the furtherance of the cause of
agriculture was the Keystone and Buckeye Fair Association, a Sharon prod-
uct, which was chartered May 17, 1880, with a capital stock of $4,000, to
which there were ninety-one subscribers. The purpose of the organization,
as announced in the articles of incorporation, was “ to provide and maintain
in the coimty of Mercer suitable grounds and personal property for the hold-
ing of exhibitions of agricultural and horticultural products, domestic man-
ufactures and domestic animals; to award premiums for the products and an-
imals exhibited; and by all other lawful means to encourage agriculture and
horticulture.” The first directors chosen under the charter were Joseph For-
ker, John C. Owsley, M. H. Henderson, P. L. Kimberly, William W. Wallis,
Hiram Tate, William K. Nye, Allen Sebum, Godfrey G. Carnes, George
C. Veach, Thomas H. Byers, T. B. Satterfield and David Hall. A brief
existence sums up its history. Grounds containing a half-mile track, located
about two miles from the center of the borough of Sharon, were secured, and
a few exhibitions given; but a lack of interest on the part of its patrons ren-
dered the holding of these unprofitable, and the association at length collapsed.
The Sharon Driving Park Association has recently been organized, and leased
the grounds for a racing park. It held its first meeting October 3 and 4, 1888.
Agricultural Paper. — There has been but one agricultural paper pub-
lished within the limits of the county, the Mercer County Farmer, issued at
Mercer, a sixteen-page monthly, started in June, 1842, by J. W. S. Chappell,
manager and editor, who pledged himself to ‘ ‘ guard the interests of agricult-
ure and of the farming community generally ” for the very modest sum of
fifty cents per year for each subscriber. The history of this publication is
not intimately known, but it lasted about three years and a half. Notwith-
standing its decease, the farmers of the county have been provided with an
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
215
abundance of good agricultural mental pabulum, both by the local press,
which pays considerable attention to their needs, and by the publications de-
voted exclusively to farming interests, both of which receive a liberal patron-
age from the intelligent tillers of Mercer County soil.
The Grange. — One of the most important and wide-spread agricultural
movements ever witnessed was that known by the name “Grange” or
“Patrons of Husbandry.” In common with its sister counties, Mercer took an
active part in this enterprise, which soon numbered within its ranks some of
her very best farmers. A list of the granges in active operation within the
county during 1876, at which time the order passed through its culmination,
embraces:
Mercer, No. 571, Seth Hoagland, master; W. H. Wilson, secretary —
Mercer.
Florence, No. 189, James M. Coulter, master; David Smith, secretary —
Liberty Township.
Pymatuning, No. 394, S. C. Simonton, master; Miss Alexander, secretary
— Pymatuning Township.
Charleston, No. 577, Jacob L. Zahniser, master; R. Stoner, secretary —
JefPerson Township
Fredonia, No. 643, S. M. Loveland, master; J. H. Holyman, secretary
— Fredonia.
Hendersonville, No. 648, Duncan Carmichael, master; Lewis Armstrong,
secretary — Worth Township.
Hickory, No. 649, Jesse Hoagland, master; John H. Frampton, secretary
— Hickory Township.
Salem, No. 327, T. B. Roberts, master; J. Y. McLean, secretary —
Salem Township.
Greenville, No. 430, J. S. Williamson, master; W. A. Steckel, secretary
— Greenville.
Middlesex, No. 395, R. W. Jackson, master; J. D. Risher, secretary —
West Middlesex.
Springfield, No. 621, Joseph McConnell, master; J. L. Sager, secretary
— Springfield Township.
Delaware No. 463, C. Hecker, master; Joseph McCleery, secretary —
Delaware Township.
West Salem, No. 431, Joel Smith, master; Miss Brennard, secretary —
West Salem Township.
Sugar Grove, No. 513, W. L. McGranahan, master; James Campbell,
secretary — Sugar Grove Township.
Jackson, No. 638, James McCurdy, master; James McCurdy, Jr., secre-
tary— Jackson Township. »
Sheakleyville, No. 589, Parker McDonald, master; Jacob Biggart, secre-
tary— Sheakleyville.
Eagle, No. 41, J. C. McCoy, master; J. H. McCoy, secretary— Wolf
Creek Township.
Otter Creek, No. 442, Phillip Gearts, master; D. A. Kitch, secretary —
Otter Creek Township.
Geneva, No. 538, G. W. Hughey, master; D. C. Hadley, secretary — Perry
Township.
Deer Creek, No. 337, Albert Price, master; Robert F. Thompson, secre-
tary— Deer Creek Township.
Transfer, No. 440, R. E. Woods, master; J. T. Klingensmith, secretary
— Transfer.
216
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Sandy Lake, No. 393, C. S. Nicklin, master; James A. De France, secre-
tary— Sandy Lake.
New Lebanon, No. 595, Ephraim Jewell, master; W. N. Hoyt, secretary
— French Creek Township.
Jamestown, No. 433, James C. Thompson, master; Miss Call McCrumb,
secretary — Jamestown.
Perry, No. 585, Norbert Houser, master; John McClure, secretary — Per-
ry Township.
Neiv Vernon, No. 608, Ira Hoyt, master, A. T. Linn, secretary — New
Vernon Township.
Lake, F. S. Pears, master; L. L. Hover, secretary— Lake Township.
Millbrook, A. J. Jacobs, master; Thomas Dickey, secretary — Worth Town-
ship.
For a number of years annual harvest homes were held, at which a jovial
time was had, reminiscences and anecdotes being discussed contemporane-
ously with the latest improvements and inventions and the freshest innovations
in the line of agricultural advancement. These were in nearly every case
sources of profit, amusement and good feeling, and added in no small degree
to the progress which the farmers’ calling has made in the past few decades.
Though the grange movement has fallen into a state of “innocuous desue-
tude, ’ ’ the harvest home meetings still flourish, and have become a source of
great benefit, both socially and materially, to the farmers of Mercer County.
CHAPTER VIII.
Educational— Necessity of Rudimentary Education — Pioneer Schools
AND Buildings— School Furniture— Text Books— Branches Taught—
Methods of Instruction— Early Teachers in Mercer County— James
IIana van’s Recollections— Common School System of 1834— Condition
OF THE Schools in 1846— Office of County Superintendent Established,
AND James C. Brown Elected as its First Incumbent in Mercer County
—Teachers’ Institutes— List of County Superintendents.
The necessity of a rudimentary education was recognized in the pioneer set-
tlements. The ability to read, write and cipher as far as the single rule
of three was regarded as essential to the success and happiness of the back-
woodsman’s family, who, in even that early day, were not qualified for the
duties of life unless they were conversant with the general teachings of the
Bible and the Church manuals. In other words, the view of education enter-
tained leaned largely to the practical side of life. A complete view of the
agencies employed to secure this elementary training would be a panorama whose
checkered and changing scenes would enlist the deepest sympathy and most ear-
nest attention at the present day. Unfortunately, however, the pioneer settlers
were so intently concerned with the mere physicial and material problems of
the home that they gave little attention to any thought of preserving, for the
future, a record of their actions and accomplishments in the educational world.
From mere fragments preserved by accident, and from a personal knowledge
of what has been witnessed in new communities elsewhere, we are enabled to
present some sketch of the early schools and scholastic agencies.
One advantage was possessed by the young of that period which greatly
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
217
outweighed many so-called educational facilities of modern days: the minds of
the children were brought directly in contact with nature, its wild forests, its
rocks, its waterfalls, its springs bubbling forth from the hillside, its wild game,
its great variety of birds, its multiform specimens of herbs, shrubs and trees
with their rich fruitage. Then, too, the minds of children were not distracted
by the great diversity of studies and texts, nor were they drawn away from their
legitimate objects of study by the sudden appearance of a circus or minstrel
troupe. What may have been regarded hardships and deprivations were, really,
sources of genuine educational strength and value. It is certain, too, that the
instruction in those days, as well as the general educational equipment, was
not calculated to sugar-coat and make easy the processes of learning. Patent
processes, easy methods, labor saving devices, these belong to a later period of
educational activity and reform.
It must be borne in mind that the pioneer days were antecedent to the
existence of a public school system. Private schools, or rather neighborhood
schools, supported by the voluntary efForts of the people of that particular
region, supplied the wants of the people. The schools were held as long as
the master would consent to give instruction for the sum subscribed by his
patrons. In order to get a correct view of those days we must not forget to
look at the old-time school-houses.
The School-house built by the people of the neighborhood was, as a rule,
a rude, round log structure, about twenty feet square, and but one story high.
The better class of them had puncheon floors, and all had clap-board roofs,
held down by heavy weight-poles. Illumination was secured by means of
greased paper that covered an opening made by cutting out one or more logs.
When, at a later day, a larger opening was occupied by a hand- made sash,
containing four panes of glass, 8x10, a remarkable stride in school architect-
ure had been accomplished. The seats used were rough benches made from
split logs, whose flat surfaces were placed upward, and the convex ones down-
ward, resting upon pins driven into them for supports or legs. Desks were
wide slab boards, resting upon pins driven horizontally into the walls of the
building, compelling the advanced pupils to face the wall. The chimney
was, perhaps, the most interesting part of the structure. It was constructed
of sticks and mortar, or in some cases of stone, and frequently occupied one
end of the building. It was always large, and afforded an abundance of room
for the huge back logs that were rolled into the same to hiss and sputter, as
the sap oozed from either end. Then, too, this wide-throated chimney, which
received the liberal contributions of wood that willing hands had provided
according to the number of children furnished by each family, was a superior
means of ventilation, though little attention was then given to that important
condition of health. This chimney was likewise the line of attack in case the
master refused, during the holidays, to furnish a treat to his pupils. If the
teacher was fortunate enough to reach the school-house earlier than any of his
pupils, he could hold the fort, unless the ingenuity and daring of some of the
largest boys prompted them to smoke him out by placing some covering upon
the top of the chimney.
The black-board of the primitive school-house — well, that did not exist.
The slate, or more likely the home-made copy book, received all the woi’k of
either teacher or pupil. As for globes and charts, they were unheard of.
Text-hooks were scarce and imperfect. ‘ The principal purpose of the prim-
itive teacher was to give instruction in reading, as an aid in religious training
in the Bible, the catechism and the hymn-book, and as an auxiliary to any
other branches to be taught in school. At first the instruction was very im-
218
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
perfect. Learning the alphabet from A to Z, or “zed,” or “izzard,” by
going down the column of letters, reversing the operation, and then skipping
about, was supposed to be the first step in educational work. In many cases
these letters were pasted on small shingles or paddles, and the object used in
giving a knowledge of the arbitrary characters. Meaningless combinations of
these” letters, ha, be, hi, ho, bu, and ah, eh, ih, oh, uh, etc. , etc. , were perpe-
trated upon innocent pupils as a part of their work in saying lessons. Strange
to say, there are so-called teachers, even in this ninth decade of this nineteenth
century, who still pursue the same plan of work.
The old time spelling-books were those of Thomas Dilworth, an English
school-master, living early in the last century; Webster’s the latter part of the
last century and early part of the present, and still extensively used in the
South; “United States Spelling-book,” published at Pittsburgh in 1809, and
the “Western Spelling-book,” by Rev. Joseph Stockton, principal of an
academy at Pittsburgh, 1810-20. Their places were taken at a later period by
vigorous competitors.
Writing was the next important occupation. No patent copy-books sup-
plied the school- room. The work for beginners consisted of certain straight
marks, pot-hooks and loops, the copies being written by the teacher with a
quill pen upon paper. Advanced pupils had their copies set by the master,
who paid no attention to the analysis of letters into right and left curves,
ovals, etc., but expected an imitation of the work set by him. One of his
leading occupations in the school-room was that of making and repairing pens
formed of goose quills. Superior writing was done in those days.
Reading at first was not taught in classes, but the pupil read fi'om whatever
he had in his possession, Testament, Bible, catechism or spelling-book.
Later the Columbian Orator, American Preceptor, English Reader, Porter’s
Rhetorical Reader and works of that character were used, until they were
supplanted by various graded text-books introduced with the building up of the
common school system. The lessons contained in those early readers were
life-long possessions of great value.
Arithmetic consisted, at first, mainly in doing sums. Classes were not
called, but individual work upon problems assigned by the master employed
the time of the pupils. When one needed help he repaired to the master’s
seat to receive it; or in some cases hoisted a flag of distress at his own seat.
One of the early books used was Dilworth’ s “ Schoolmaster’s Assistant,” first
published in England, and then republished in this country before the
Revolution. Afterward the texts of John Gough and Zachariah Jess,
Daboll’s “ Schoolmaster’ s Assistant, ” Stockton’s “Western Calculator,” and
Walsh’s Arithmetic supplied the needs of the young.
Geography was not an original branch of school study. Pinkerton’s
Geography, Workman’s “Elements of Geography,” Nichol’s “ Compend of
Geography,” and Grew’s “Description of the Use of Globes,” were pioneers
in this line, and though not properly appreciated at first, performed excellent
service as educators for the present advanced work.
English Gh'ammar was not considered a common school subject at first. It
was regarded as belonging to a higher education. The texts of Webster,
Lindley Murray, Harrison, Comley and Kirkham, were the pioneers of this
somewhat dry and lifeless subject. Murray and Kirkham long continued to be
the standards, and in many respects have never been excelled by modern text-
books. Roswell C. Smith’ s work was a later seeker for public favor.
Methods of Instruction were not then the subject of any concern. To know
the “reason why” was almost a matter of impudence. “ Childl-en were
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
219
taught,” says Wickersham, “ as if the only faculty they possessed needing cul-
ture was memory; as if the only intellectual appetite God had given them was
for facts and forms. Spelling and writing were the branches of learning best
taught, and both of these are almost wholly mechanical. ’ ’
The writer of this chapter has at hand now a juvenile reader published in
1823, for the use of schools in the United States, which fully corroborates the
statement as to the absence of anything like method in the presentation of sub-
ject matter in those early days. In the preface the author suggests; “ Proper
attention does not appear to have been paid to the formation of elementary
books, intended to introduce children into a course of reading. The matter
which they contain is generally such as is ill adapted to infant capacities, and
the arrangement is often injudicious. Selections have been made, the language
of which is either too lofty, or too refined, to be intelligible to children at an
age when their stock of ideas must, of necessity, be yet small. * * * in
the work now presented to the public, an attempt has been made to remedy
these defects. The matter, it is believed, will be found, on inspection, to be
such as infant minds can easily comprehend; and it is so arranged as to make
a gradual transition from the easy to the more difficult.”
Let us see. The book contains 160 pages, measuring about three inches by
five. The first lesson begins thus: “Come here, Charles; come, tell me your
letters; do you know how many there are? ” “ Yes, sir, twenty-six.”
“Where is the pointer? Here is the pointer. Now read your lesson.”
“Charles, can you spell the letters?” “Yes, sir.” “Let me hear you,
Charles.” The child begins thus; “ Ai, bee, see, dee, ee, ef, jee, aitch,
etc.” “Charles, do you know how many vowels there are?” “Yes, sir; a,
e, i, o, u, and sometimes w and y. W and y are consonants when they
begin a word or syllable; but in every other situation they are vowels; and b,
c, d, f, g, h, j, k, 1, m, n, p, q, r, s, t, v, x, z, are consonants.”
Now it must be apparent to any one that no child could answer such ques-
tions in the first lesson of the first day of school; and it must be apparent, too,
that no sensible teacher now would think of asking them. But this was called
matter ‘ ‘ such as infant minds can easily comprehend. ’ ’ An examination of
the contents of this juvenile reader shows that selections were made from
Blair, Stearne, Knox, Addison, Emmet, Tappan, Cunningham, Cowper,
Watts, Johnson, More, Thompson and other master writers of the world.
The last extract in this juvenile reader is a quotation from Thompson’s Sea-
sons, commencing:
First joyless rains obscure
Drive thro’ the mingling skies with vapors foul.
Dash on the mountain’s brow, and shake the woods,
That grumbling wave below. Th’ unsightly plain
Lies a brown deluge, as the low bent clouds
Pour flood on flood, yet unexhausted still
Combine and deep’ning into night shut up
The day’s fair face.
It is safe to say some progress has been made in the methods of teaching
primary pupils, since the publication of the above mentioned text book; and
that equal progress has been made, too, in the preparation of the books them-
selves.
No more valuable contribution to our pioneer history could be made, if it
were possible, than to record the names and deeds of those heroic men and
women who began to mould the rising generation in the new settlement.
Without ornate appliances, or the stimulus of abundant earthly remuneration,
they labored zealously for the bettering of the condition of the on-coming
220
HISTOKY OF MEECER COUNTY.
citizens. They have long since departed from earthly toils and conflicts, and
their labors do follow them. Their work is written not upon tablets of stone,
but upon the characters of children, even to the third and fourth generations.
As early as 1817 Samuel Webster taught school in Delaware Township.
His service continued for a period of two years and nine months in the first
log school-house erected in the township. He was a Yankee, being a native
of the East. He never flogged [his pupils. Robert Fruit taught about
the same time, or, possibly, a little later, in a building on land subsequently
owned by R. Reznor.
One of the early teachers of Cool Spring was Joseph Alexander. He was
born in Washington County, about the year 1798. At a later period, in edu-
cational work, came Alexander Riddle, Miss Betsey Jennings, Willis Alexan-
ander and a man named Clark.
Thomas Coulson came to what is now Fairview, in Fairview Township, in
1798. In 1817 he ei’ected, on his own land, a school-house for the accommo-
dation of his own children. He was himself the first teacher.
The first teacher in Hempfield Township is said to have been Alexander
Dumars, an Irishman, and grandfather of A. D. Gillespie, of Greenville. In
1807 he taught in a log house, located on land cleared by Thomas Dumars.
Philo Dodd wielded the birch in Jackson Township as early as 1805.
James Lowry taught in Lake Township before 1812, in a school-house
built of hewed logs, 25x30. It was on land then owned by William Service,
but subsequently by Richard Lyons.
Alexander Riddle and Messrs. Starrett and Williams taught in Liberty
Township about the close of the War of 1812-15.
In Sandy Creek James Brush and Mrs. David Patterson were both teach-
ers at an early date — the former in 1801 and the latter in 1808. David Nelson
taught about 1826, in a log building about fourteen feet square, erected on
the farm subsequently owned by W. Applegate. He received |12 per month
in produce. N. B. Laird afterward taught in the same school.
Margaret Streight and George Carringer were teachers in Perry Township
as early as 1826.
Allen Dunn taught in the first school-house built in Sandy Lake Township.
It stood on the land of Patrick McCloskey. The house was built about the
year 1800, but Dunn’s teaching occurred about ten years later. In the same
house also taught Samuel Lowry. About 1823 or 1824 William Little taught
in a house built on Enos Sanford’s farm. He was succeeded by Dorcas Aider-
man, a native Buckeye girl, young and handsome.
Alexander Duncan taught in Shenango Township at an early date. The
school-house was situated near the State line, on the Sharon & New Bedford
road. His efforts were made about the opening of the War of 1812. He
was followed by John Nesbitt.
John Hannah and a Mr. McLean were pedagogues in Springfield as early
as 1830. *
William Kennedy taught in Sugar Grove Township, in a house built of
round pine logs, near Riley’s Corners, in 1815. He was physically very
feeble, and died before his second term closed.
John Speir opened a school in West Salem Township, about three-quarters
of a mile west of Greenville, in 1802-03.
Edward Johnston taught a school in a cabin on his farm in West Salem
prior to the War of 1812. He conducted it several terms.
Henry Garth taught, in Wilmington Township, 1805-06, in an unfinisl^ed
dwelling belonging to Samuel Weir.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
221
Of the teachers in Wolf Creek as early as 1826, Betsey Gates taught in a
house on land afterward owned by William Jamison; Catherine Mayne, Har-
riet Wooden and sister taught on the Ethan Coleman farm.
In 1807 Solomon Sutton, of Worth Township, taught in a log school-
house on the Daniel Wolverton farm. The first school in the county is said
to have been taught in the Amity Presbyterian Church, which stood on the
line between Mercer and Venango Counties. Samuel Westlake was also one
of Worth’s early teachers. The school-house stood on the Westlake farm.
J. G. White taught the first school opened in Millbrook village, about
1858. Miss Sarah White was the first teacher in Bethel borough. The house
was a small frame, on the north side of the street, erected in 1871.
James Rogers, licentiate of the Seceder Church, taught the first grammar
school in Greenville, in 1824. Two years later came Samuel Webster, from
New Hampshire, who taught in Greenville several years. Among other early
Greenville teachers were Rev. John Gamble, W. M. Stephenson, John A.
Bingham (afterward United States Minister to Japan) and Samuel Griffith,
attorney at Mercer.
Thomas Rigdon taught in a school erected about the year 1800, three-
fourths of a mile west of the present site of Sharon. David Hays taught in
a log school-house built on the Henry Hoagland farm, in Hickory Township,
in the year 1800. George McCleery, father of Joseph McCleery, now a resi-
dent of Sharon, was an early teacher, and had classes in that dry subject,
English grammar, in 1823. Among some of the other early teachers of
Hickory Township were James Schofield, who came from the vicinity of War-
ren, Ohio. He was a good instructor. Joseph Budd, son of William Budd,
Esq., was an early teacher, and “good for those days.” “Old Master AVil-
son” taught one of the earliest schools on the site of Wheatland. His struc-
ture was situated on the farm of William Haywood, and was built in 1816.
John Dunlap was one of the teachers that had charge of the school built
on the Byerly place, near Sharpsville, in 1821.
Allen Dunn was the first teacher in Sandy Lake. His school-house was
an old log building which stood on the hill, and was built in 1828.
One of the pioneer teachers of a later period of Mercer County history is
still living in Sharon. Reference is made to James Hanavan, Esq., a native
of Ireland, where he also received his education. He taught his first school ija
Delaware (now Jefferson) Township, at the Catholic Church, three miles north
of Mercer, in 1843. It was a select school. The following winter he taught
a public school in the same district in the house known as the “ Round Top
School.” The text-books then used* were: United States Spelling Book,
English Reader, New Testament, Western Calculator, andKirkham’s English
Grammar. Some of the people objected strongly to the teaching of so meaning-
less a study as English grammar, with its declensions and conjugations and pars-
ings and analysis. They compared its parsing processes to the chattering of
a flock of blackbirds on a tree. Mr. Hanavan taught summer and winter from
1843 to 1854, and during winters from 1854 to 1864, when he retired from the
field of pedagogical activity. His efforts were distributed over Delaware,
Cool Spring and Fairview Townships. Some of his pupils in those country
schools have become conspicuous in public life, embracing such persons as Hon.
S. H. Miller, of Mercer; W. W. Service, insurance agent, and Miss A. R.
Service, milliner, of Sharon; A. H. McElrath, attorney, and Newton Donald-
son, of Mercer, and many others that cannot be mentioned.
The compensation of those days ranged from $10 to $15 per month, with
permission to “board round. ” The regular public schools continued about
222
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
three months, and were supplemented by six months’ subscription term. The
law permitted patrons to pay the teacher in produce, including corn, buck-
wheat flour, oats and potatoes. Mr. Hanavan was desirous of securing a suit
of new clothes. Branton H. Henderson, now of Sharon, was a partner with
Lewis Weaver, of Mercer, in the dry goods business. With this firm Mr.
Hanavan arranged to take produce for the material, and with James Forker,
still a tailor in Mercer, to take the same kind of pay for the making of the
suit. Still another difficulty presented itself. The produce had to be col-
lected. This was done at the store of Mr. Miller, of Cool Spring, whence it
was conveyed to Mercer to liquidate the claims against the teacher. The suit
was made of English broadcloth, costing |4 per yard, and the tailor’s bill
was |5.
The public school system of 1834, fostered by such men as Thaddeus
Stevens and Abner Lacock, was a great step in the direction of popular educa-
tion. At first it met with opposition, because it was regarded as an innovation ;
but opposition gradually subsided until a general acquiescence, passive in
some cases, was yielded to it. Progress was made, even, though slowly, but,
unfortunately, our records are not as complete as they could be desired to
indicate what was done.
In 1846 the following imperfect report of the condition of schools in the
county was made:
Whole number of schools 214
Average number of months taught .. .5 months, 5 days.
Number of male teachers ITO
Number of female teachers 145
Average monthly salary — male $13.00
Average monthly salary — female 6.09
Public meetings were held from time to time in various parts of the county
to stimulate greater zeal in, and love for, the education of the people. One of
these meetings was held at the court-house in Mercer October 23, 1850, Dr. John
Baskin, chairman. Prof. Robert Milligan, of Washington College, delivered
an address on the necessity of edncating the masses and building up and sus-
taining the public school system.
The most important measure in promoting the permanent and healthful
growth of public school interest in the county was the establishment of the
office of county superintendent of public schools. This important step was
taken in 1854. It led to the supervision of work which had previously been
illy done or not done at all. The first election for the position of county
superintendent occurred on the first Monday of June, 1854, the period at
which the law creating the office took eifect. The school directors from all
parts of the county, to whom belonged the duty of making choice of a com-
petent man, assembled at Mercer. A number of candidates were in the field
ready to be first in the discharge of the onerous duties imposed. Among them
were WTlliam G. Rose, of Pine Township, subsequently mayor of the city of
Cleveland; F. P. Carrington, of Sheakleyville; William Dickson, of Clarks-
ville; James C. Brown, of Greenville, and others. Rose and Dickson with-
drew before balloting began, being dissatified with the salary then offered,
$400 per year. Mr. Brown was chosen, and served nearly two years, when he
resigned, and was succeeded by G. L. Eberhart, now an attorney and resident
of Beaver County. Mr. Brown entered heartily upon his work, and succeeded
in getting the system before the people.
A teachers’ institute was held at Mercer the ensuing November. Home
talent mainly was emj)loyed to engage in the work of instruction. Judge
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
225
Arcus McDermitt, the principal of Mercer Academy, and M. D. Leggett, of
Cleveland, Ohio, assisted in the work. The institute of that early day was
imperfect, but accomplished good results. Teachers were yet in the azoic age
of professional work. The “what” or subject-matter of teaching was the
main object sought. The instruction at teachers’ associations was all intended
to answer that purpose. Knotty questions, difficult or curious problems, the
parsing of complex sentences — matters of this character demanded the time
and consideration of the institute. Nor is there any attempt to find fault with
this order of procedure. It was the proper thing to do, in fact the only
thing. In the natural order of events the “how” or subject of methods be-
came the theme of heated and exaggerated lectures. Patent processes of doing
things, or of solving the intricate problems of school management and school
instruction, were heralded with a great flourish of trumpets. One would sup-
pose that teaching was to be regulated like the eight- day clock, if the instruc-
tor could only be wound up by the new processes he would run automatically and
infallibly until the original impulse was expended. But this condition finally
gave way to the “why ” of teaching or the philosophy of work. The study of
the human constitution, as well as the objects to be taught, began to attract
the attention of more reflective minds. This is the highest grade of work.
It had to be attained by slow and regular processes.
Much of this progress was secured through the instrumentality of the
teachers’ institute. Much imperfect work, it must be confessed, was done,
but then we must remember that mistakes constitute an important factor in
both individual and national development. But the institute did more than
this. Its work resulted in securing educational enthusiasm, a professional
spirit among the instructors of the land. It unified their efforts, and made
them more potent for battling successfully against the fruitful enemy of the
race — ignorance. In all these matters, of course, it was ably assisted by the
system of county supervision under which it acted.
List of County Superintendents. — As already intimated the first county
superintendent was J. C. Brown, of Greenville. For many years he has been
a journalist, and is at present engaged in the publication of the Advance-
Argus, of Greenville.
Gilbert L. Eberhart filled out the unexpired term of Mr. Brown. He was
a candidate for re-election, but was unsuccessful. He is at present a resident
of New Brighton, Beaver County, where he is engaged in legal and editorial
business.
Calvin W. Gilfillan was the third incumbent. After serving his term of
office, he went to Franklin, "Venango County, where he still resides. He was a
member of Congress at one time.
J. A. McCandless, of West Middlesex, the next in order, was a quiet,
modest man. He was both a teacher and attorney. In the latter capacity he
formed a partnership with Henry H. Foster, whose sketch will be found in
the Bench and Bar chapter. McCandless died about eighteen years ago.
Jacob Miller, the fifth superintendent, was a resident of Greenville, where
he had been an instructor in the academy. He was also editor of the Argus
for a time, as will be seen by reference to the Press chapter. After his term
of office expired, he engaged in the book and stationery business, but finally
sold out to Beatty & Findley. He finally removed to Philadelphia, where he
became the agent of the publishing house of Harper & Bro. , of New York.
He too is dead.
N. W. Porter was appointed to fill ont the last year of Mr. Miller’ s second
term. He was a native of Pymatuning Township.
3
226
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
He was succeeded by Ira E. Harsh, of Fairview. Harsh was a pleasant
man, but was not permitted to cofnplete his term, having occupied his oface
less than a year when that fell destroyer — consumption — carried him to an
early grave.
N. W. Porter was the successor of Harsh, and filled out his term. At the
expiration of the period, he was elected, in May, 1872, to the position, and
held it until its close. He is now engaged in farming in Colorado.
J. M. Eight, of Sandy Lake, was chosen superintendent on the 4th of
May, 1875, to succeed Porter. His competitors for the position were Messrs.
N. W. Porter, A. J. Palm, Mr. Mays and Hugh R. Stewart. He held the
position one term only. He is now a United Presbyterian minister, and
resides in Evans City, Butler Co. , Penn. , where he has two charges. His
brother is at present one of the commissioners of Mercer County.
The next occupant of the superintendent’s chair was A. J. Palm, then of
West Middlesex, now editor and manager of the Western Press. He held the
position through two terms, from 1878 to 1884.
The next superintendent was S. H. McCleery, the present incumbent. He
was a resident of Sheakleyville at the time of his first election, being princi-
pal of the schools. He was chosen May 0, 1884, over Homer G. Rose, of
Grove City; Miss G. Forest, Mercer; F. W. Belton, Greenville, and W. T.
Couzens, Leech’s Corners. He was re-elected May 3, 1887, his competitors
being George H. Lamb, of New Lebanon; George H. Bell, Wheatland; Edwin
Twitmyer, Sharpsville, now principal of schools at Braddock; J. B. Scott,
Transfer; Thomas S. Vickerman, Findley Township, and U. S. Bortz, of Perry
Township.
The following is a summary of the superintendents: J. C. Brown, 1854-
56; G. L. Eberhart, 1856-57; Calvin W. Gilfillan, 1857-60; J. A. McCandless,
1860-63; Jacob Miller, 1863-68; N. W. Porter, 1868-69; Ira E. Harsh, 1869
-70; N. W. Porter, 1870-75; J. M. Bight, 1875-78; A. J. Palm, 1878-84;
S. H. McCleery, 1884 up to the present.
CHAPTEK IX.
Political — Civil Government a Divine Appointment — Duties Imposed by
American Citizenship — National Administrations and Formation of
Political Parties— Washington the Unanimous Choice of the People
—Electoral Vote Cast for Each President since the Foundation
OF THE Government — The Democratic Party and Its Opponents —
Anti-Masonic Period- Nullification Excitement— Tariff Discussion
Which It Produced— Prominent N ational Campaigns— Know-Nothing-
isM — Birth of the Republican Party — Its First Campaign in Mercer
County— Subsequent Local Standing of Political Parties.
CIVIL GOVERNMENT is an institution of divine appointment, intended
to promote man’s highest happiness as an integral factor of society.
Its necessity is acknowledged by all whose notions are not chaotic in character.
It is intended to promote the prosperity of the individual by holding him
amenable to the rights of the community. True citizenship implies not only
the right but the duty of obedience to constituted authority. ‘ ‘ Render unto
Caesar the things that belong to Caesar, and unto God the things that belong
HISTOBY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
227
to Him,” is but another way of stating the proposition that man is a creature
amenable to two governments, one human, the other divine, and that their
claims are equally imperative.
Every man owes to his government honest, intelligent and patriotic service.
The demands of his country, of his State, of his community, upon him for sup-
port and advancement are reasonable. He cannot shirk the responsibility, if
he would, of casting his ballot and his influence upon the side of right and
justice as he understands them. His duty should be performed conscientiously.
Citizenship in a government like ours, where every man is a knighted free-
man^ implies something. Votes that can be bought are not the possession of
men who have proper conceptions of their duties to the commonwealth.
Our National Constitution was framed in 1787, and the first presidential
term under it was begun in 1789. At that time there were two political parties,
the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. The Federalists were composed of
those who admired the English order of things, and embraced capitalists,
land-owners, merchants, theorists and earnest thinkers. They doubted, some-
what, the capacity of the masses for self-government, and favored a strong
central power. Washington, Adams and Hamilton were principal leaders.
The Anti-Federalists were opposed to the Federalists in their construction
of the theory of government. They strongly defended the rights of the States
against a centralized government. They never accepted the designation of
Anti-Federalists, and protested against its use. The name died with the close
of Washington’s first administration, and it was then known as the Democratic
party. At the first election Washington had no opposition, the entire electoral
vote being cast for him. The Senate said to him: ‘‘In you all parties
confide.” He was the idol alike of both parties. His first term continued
from 1789 to 1793.
His second term, from 1793 to 1797, was characterized by the existence of
two parties, the Federalists and Bepublicans or Democrats. Washington was
unanimously chosen. The Republicans, called ‘ ‘ Democratic Republicans, ’ ’
were under the leadership of Thomas Jefferson. He was a brilliant, conserva-
tive man, and willing to give the Constitution a fair test. ‘ ‘ I own, ’ ’ said he,
“that I am not a friend to a very energetic government; it is always op-
pressive.” The “Democratic Republicans” were also called by the Federal-
ists the “French party,” because of their sympathy with the Republicans of
the French Revolution. They in turn called their opponents ‘ ‘ Tories ’ ’ and
‘ ‘ Monarchists, ’ ’ claiming they were unfriendly to a Republican form of govern-
ment, and in sympathy with British ideas.
In the election of 1796 John Adams, Federalist, was chosen to the presi-
dency over Thomas Jefferson, Anti-Federalist or Democrat. The vote in the
electoral college stood 71 in favor of the former to 68 in favor of the latter.
Adam’s administration continued from 1797 to 1801, with Jefferson as vice-
president. The successive administrations have been as follows:
1801-05 — Democratic, Thomas Jefferson, 73 votes; Federalist, John
Adams, 65 votes.
1805-09 — Democratic, Thomas Jefferson, 162 votes; Federalist, Charles C.
Pinckney, 14 votes.
1809-13 — Democratic, James Madison, 122 votes; Democratic, George
Clinton, 6 votes; Federalist, Charles C. Pinckney, 47 votes.
1813-17 — Democratic, James Madison^ 128 votes; Federalist, DeWitt
Clinton, 89 votes.
1817-21 — Democratic, James Monroe, 183 votes; Federalist, Rufus King,
34 votes.
228
HISTORY OF MERCER. COUNTY.
Democratic, James Monroe, 231 votes; Federalist, John Quincy
Adams, 1 vote.
1825-29 — Federalist (east), John Quincy Adams, 84 votes; Democratic
(west), Andrew Jackson, 99 votes; Democratic (south), William H. Crawford,
41 votes; Federalist (west), Henry Clay, 37 votes.
The election went to the house, and resulted in favor of John Quincy
Adams, though Jackson had received more electoral votes than Adams.
1829-33— Democratic, Andrew Jackson, 178 votes; Federalist or Repub-
lican, John Quincy Adams, 83 votes.
1833-37 — Democratic, Andi-ew Jackson, 230 votes; Whig, Henry Clay,
49 votes; Anti-Masonic, William Wirt, 7 votes.
1837-41 — Democratic, Martin Van Buren, 170 votes; Democratic, Hugh
L. White, 26 votes; Democratic, William P. Mangum, 11 votes; Whig
William H. Harrison, 73 votes; Whig, Daniel Webster, 14 votes.
1841-45 — Whig, Wm. H. Harrison,* 234 votes; Democratic, Martin Van
Buren, 60 votes; Abolition or Liberty, James G. Birney, none.
1845-49 — Democratic, James K. Polk, 170 votes; Whig, Henry Clay, 105
votes. Liberty or Abolition, James G. Birney, none.
1849-53 — Whig, Zachary Taylor, f 163 votes; Democratic, Lewis Cass, 127
votes; Free- soil, Martin Van Buren, none; Liberty or Abolition, Gerritt
Smith, none.
1853-57 — Democratic, Franklin Pierce, 254 votes; Whig, Winfield Scott,
42 votes; Free Soil, John P. Hale, none.
1857-61 — Democratic, James Buchanan, 174 votes; Republican, John C.
Fremont, 114 votes; American or Know-nothing, Millard Fillmore, 8 votes.
1861-65 — Republican, Abraham Lincoln, 180 votes; Democratic, John C.
Breckenridge, 72 votes; Democratic, Stephen A. Douglas, 12 votes; Union,
John Bell, 39 votes.
1865-69 — Republican, Abraham Lincoln, | 212 votes; Democratic, George
B. McClellan, 21 votes.
1869-73 — Republican, Ulysses S. Grant, 214 votes; Democratic, Horatio
Seymour, 80 votes.
1873-77— Republican, Ulysses S. Grant, 286 votes; Liberal Republican
and Democratic, Horace Greely, 63 votes; Democratic, Charles O’Connor,
none; Prohibition, James Black, none.
1877-81 — Republican, R. B. Hayes, 185 votes; Democratic, Samuel J.
Tilden, 184 votes; Greenback, Peter Cooper, none; Prohibition, Green Clay
Smith, none.
1881-85 — Republican, James A. Garfield, § 214 votes; Democratic, Winfield
S. Hancock, 155 votes; Greenback, James B. Weaver, none.
1885-89 — Democratic, Grover Cleveland, 219 votes; Republican, James G.
Blaine, 182 votes; Greenback, Benjamin F. Butler, none; Prohibition, John
P. St. John, none.
The dates used in the foregoing list are those when the various admin-
istrations began and closed. All presidential elections occur in leap years, the
November preceding the date of inauguration. This list will be valuable as a
matter of reference, as it will assist in fixing events in the history of the
county.
It will be seen that the name Democratic, as designating a political organ-
♦Died April 4, 1841, and was succeeded by Vice-President John Tyler.
tDied July U, 1850, and the Vice-President, Millard Fillmore, succeeded him.
JAssassinated April 14, 1865, and was succeeded by Vice-President Andrew Johnson.
§President Garfield was assassinated July 2, 1881, and died on the 19th of September following. Vice-
President Chester A. Arthur succeeded him.
HISTOEY OF MEKCEK COUNTY.
229
ization, began with the first election of Thomas Jefferson, in 1800, and has
been perpetuated without change through eighty-eight years of defeat and
victory. The name has been talismanic, addressing itself to the judgment of
the masses of people, especially to those from the oppressed districts of
foreign countries. The opposition party assumed various forms and names —
first the Federalist, next the Whig and Anti-Masonic, then the Free-soil, next
the Know-nothing, and finally the Republican — its principal opponent to-day.
In 1830, and later, the anti-Masonic feeling aroused over the supposed
murder of Morgan in New York, was very strong in this county. The Western
Press was the defender of Masonry, while the Luminary and the Greenville
Gazette were its persistent opponents. A writer in the Western Press, under
date of March 26, 1831, thus deplores the bitterness of the anti-Masonic cru-
sade:
“ Persecution, that demon of destruction, has raised its hydra head Smong
us in the shape of proscriptive anti-Masonry. Brought into existence by dis-
appointed office-hunters and their adherents, it is a base, unprincipled and anti-
Christian scheme, built on a foundation of combustible matter, which will
eventually take fire by some of its crowded squibs and explode, burying itself
in its own ruins. If the Masons have violated the laws of our country, let
them be tried by a jury, and if guilty, punished according to law, as other
persons are. But let us not undertake to condemn those that are not connected
in that awful tragedy. To persecute all Masons, and others who do not join
with the antis in their ungenerous acts, making use of the most abusive lan-
guage toward the unoffending citizens who have neither part nor lot in the
matter, because they do not think and see as they (the antis) do, is indeed
base. We now enjoy the rights of freemen — let us try to preserve those rights
pure and uncontaminated in despite of cunning and designing men. Let us
never adopt the course the antis have taken: calling their fathers, brothers
and husbands rogues and murderers, and charging them with the most heinous
crimes the human heart could be guilty of committing. ’ ’
This, however, simply fanned the flame. On the 31st of March a monster
meeting of the opponents of Masonry assembled in the court-house yard at
Mercer. Rev. Samuel Tait was chosen chairman, and William F. Junkin and
Malcom McComb, secretaries. The purpose of the meeting was to imbue the
religious population of the county with the anti-Masonic sentiment, and
resolutions declaring the institution of Masonry as of no benefit were accord-
ingly passed.
On the 19th of the ensuing April an unusually large meeting of the citi-
zens of Mercer County was held at the court-house. Be van Pearson was
chosen president, and William Scott and J. B. Curtis, secretaries. Resolu-
tions were passed ‘ ‘disapproving of the excitement which prevails at this time
against Masonry, believing that the object of the anti-Masonic party is to
divide the Democratic party in the State and Union.”
Scarcely had the rancor of the anti-Masonic excitement begun to subside,
when the people of the country were startled by the news of the nullification
policy of South Carolina, under the leadership of John C. Calhoun. The
national executive at the time, Andrew Jackson, was a man of iron will, and
not disposed to tolerate any weak sentimentality on the subject of secession.
His course was sanctioned, and that of the nullifiers condemned, by the people
of Mercer County. A meeting was held at the Mercer court-house, on the
28th of January, 1833, for the purpose of denouncing the position assumed by
the nullifiers. James Braden, Esq., was elected chairman, and William S.
Rankin was chosen secretary. A committee on resolutions, consisting of Joseph
230
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Smith, Bevan Pearson, John Hoge, James Moorhead and S. C. Tait, reported
the following, among others, which were unanimously adopted.
liesolved, That we are attached to the Union, and are bound by every tie of faith, of
honor, of interest and of duty, to maintain its integrity.
Resolved, That we totally disapprove the position taken and the doctrines advanced
by the nullitiers of South Carolina, and consider them utterly subversive of the principles
on which our happy Union is founded, and a lamentable instance of how far prejudice
may lead great and aood men into error.
Resolved, That we are ready and willing to lend our aid in sustaining the chief magis-
trate in maintaining the supremacy of the laws.
On January 18, 1833, a meeting of citizens of West Greenville was held at
Col. Bean’s hotel. Col. T. W. Bean was chosen president; Maj. James William-
son and Capt. F. H. Shannon, vice-presidents, and Jacob Loutzenhiser and James
R. Wick, secretaries. Resolutions condemning the nullifiers in strong terms
were adopted, one of them reading as follows:
Resolved, That practical nullification, so far from being a peaceable measure, at once
invites the prompt interposition of every patriotic lover of his country, to save the Re-
public— " 'peaceably, if they can,— forcibly , if they 'must.”
The question of tariff, brought prominently forward by the nullifiers, con-
tinued to be an exciting topic of discussion between Democrats and Whigs.
The Western Press contains a letter dated September 13, 1843, written by
Henry Clay to F. S. Bronson, an editor at LaGrange, Ga. In it the Whig
position is thus stated: “The sum and substance of what I conceive to be
the true policy of the United States, in respect to a tariff, may be briefly
stated. In conformity with the principles of the compromise act, I think that
whatever revenue is necessary to an honest and economical administration of
the general government ought to be derived from duties imposed on foreign
imports. And I believe that, in establishing a tariff of those duties, such a
discrimination ought to be made as will incidentally afford a reasonable pro-
tection to our natural interests. ’ ’
Mr. W. S. Garvin states, after giving the foregoing, the position of the
two parties as follows: “They (the Whigs) desire a protective tariff with in-
cidental revenue, while the Democrats want a revenue tariff' with incidental
protection.’’
It would be interesting, did our space permit, to give a detailed account
of the exciting national campaigns, and especially those of 1840, the “log
cabin’’ or “hard cider’’ campaign; 1800, 1876, 1880 and 1884. The songs
sung, the badges worn, the issues presented, and the local processions and
contests exhibited, would be interesting and suggestive.
We must, however, refer to one movement that for a time played havoc
with both the Whig and Democlatic parties, and was the entering wedge
toward the destruction of the former. Reference is had to the American, or
Know-nothing, party, that took its rise in 1853, and existed until 1857. Its
meetings were held in secret lodges, its movements covert, and its results al-
most unaccountable. The familiar, ‘ ‘ Have you seen Sam ?” was to be seen
on every street corner, and in the show-cases of mercantile establishments.
While the principles of this organization were claimed to be distinctively Ameri-
can, the acts of its partisans were diametrically opposed to the liberty guar-
anteed, under the Constitution, to every citizen of the republic. Its most
prominent feature was its bitter antipathy to citizens of foreign birth, and
deep-seated animosity toward the adherents of the Catholic Church, whether
born on native or foreign soil. Many outrages and not a few murders were
committed by the Know-nothings in different parts of the Union. In the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
231
elections of 1854-55-56, they developed great strength, and elected many of
their local candidates; but the society then began to dissolve, and soon became
extinct. Its birth was uncalled for; its short career was a blot upon the body
politic, and its death unmourned by every true American.
The year 1855 was remarkable as the period of the birth of one of the
great political parties of to-day — the Republican. It was made up of the dis-
integrated Whig party, some Democrats who were ofPended by the repeal of
the Missouri Compromise of 1820, Free-soilers, Abolitionists and Know-noth-
ings. The national organization occurred at Pittsburgh. The recasting of the
party in Mercer County occurred in consequence of a “ People’ s Convention, ’ ’
which assembled at Mercer on the 27th of August, 1855. Of that meeting
Hon. Samuel Kerr was chairman, James Gault and Fleming Smith, vice-
presidents, and John D. Hill and G. L. Eberhart, secretaries. A ticket for
the approaching county election was put in operation, and a vigorous cam-
paign entered upon. A committee to draft resolutions, consisting^of William F.
Clark, J. H. Robinson, J. M. D. Nesbitt, William Miller, William Waugh, Clay-
ton Herrington, Perry McCoy and Thomas Leech, Jr., was appointed. Their
report, which was adopted unanimously, dates the birth of the Republican
party in Mercer County.
Since 1855 the contests for political supremacy in the county have been
waged between the two leading parties. Republicanism and Democracy, with
enough of activity on the part of Greenbackers, Labor Unionists, Prohibi-
tionists and other minor organizations to increase the interest in the contest.
Ascendancy has latterly been given to the Republican organization, though
occasionally a member of the Democracy has been given the decided prefer-
ence. This is particularly true as applied to the president judgeship. The
Democratic party has furnished incumbents for that position for a third of a
century. Both parties are efficiently organized, and prosecute vigorous cam-
paigns.
CHAPTER X.
The Press— Its Great Power and Influence— Early Modes of Disseminating
News— Birth of the Newspaper, and Its Struggle for Free Speech-
First Newspaper Published in America— Its First Religious Paper-
Number OF Periodicals Published in the United States in 1886-
Mercer Newspapers — Western Press— Mercer Luminary— Free Pres-
byterian—American Freeman — Mercer Dispatch — Mercer AVhig —
AVhig and Dispatch— Mercer Republican- Dispatch and Republican-
Freemen’s Monitor— Mercer County Farmer- Independent Democrat
—Democratic Register— Mercer Index— Mercer Signal — Greenville
Papers— West Greenville Gazette— Visitor— AVeekly Fxpress— Inde-
pendent Press— West Greenville Times — Rural Argus — Shenango
Valley Argus— Advance— Advance Argus— Union Democrat— Green-
ville Progress— Shenango Valley News— Independent— Sharon
Papers— Sharon Herald— Sharon Times— Gospel Temperance Advo-
cate—Sharon Fagle— Fvening Fagle— Sharpsville Papers— Sharps-
viLLE Advertiser— Sharpsville Times— Other Papers— Jaimestoavn
Sun, Fra, Democrat and Sentinel— Grove City Telephone— Sandy
Lake Kews— Lake Local.
The power which leavens and moulds modern society is the press. In this
respect it has supplanted oral instruction, which formerly was the power
behind the throne. Oral instruction in the pulpit, in the halls of legislation
232
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
and on the stump is, it must be confessed, very potent; but the educational
power of the press, with its daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly visitations
to the hovels of the poor equally with the mansions of the wealthy, is omnip-
otent. The newspaper is, as the term itself implies, a paper containing infor-
mation from the four cardinal points — north, east, west and south. The
laboring man sits down at his humble fireside, after the day’s toil is over, and
reads intelligence from all parts of the world. He is one member of the great
jury to whom facts are submitted, and feels himself called upon to form a
judgment. If the jury fail to agree in a verdict it is owing largely to the
fact that the case has not been presented clearly and in its details for intelli-
gent action. By the aid of telegraph and telephone, utilized by special and
associate press reporters everywhere, cities, states and nations are bound
together as near neigrhbors, and the actions of their citizens, from the humblest
to the highest, are daily recorded and spread before the world. Wisely used,
the press becomes the conservator of general intelligence and public morals.
Its responsibility in the premises is commensurate, however, with its boundless
power.
In the dissemination of news, as in other departments of human activity,
necessity is the mother of invention. At first written news letters were circu-
lated from hand to hand and place to place as a means of spreading the intelli-
gence of events occurring at the seat of government. Such manuscripts, in
the days of Henry VI, were issued as often as important news created the
necessity for so doing. The use of movable types, and later, various forms of
presses, with more or less of skill and efficiency, was regarded as a stride in
the promulgation of intelligence.
At first the desire to have others know what had occurred prompted corre-
sponding efforts to have the intelligence spread abroad. This desire finally
became contagious, and the recipients were as anxious to have their cravings
for information gratified as others were to gratify them. The spirit which
animated the ‘ ‘ Athenians and the strangers, which were there to spend their
time in nothing else but either to tell or to hear some new thing, ’ ’ was founded
in the necessities of human nature — the instinctive desire to communicate to
others any new item of intelligence.
In the history of English journalism is contained this succinct account of
the growth of the newspaper: “First we have the written news letter, fur-
nished to the wealthy aristocracy; then, as the craving for information spread,
the ballad of news sung or recited; then the news pamphlet, more prosaically
arranged; then the periodical sheet of news; and lastly, the newspaper.”
The English newspaper was born in London in 1622 . At first its liberty
was greatly abridged, nothing being allowed publication until it had passed
the necessary official inspection. In the great struggle for independence, the
press had to pass through many trying prosecutions and annoyances unknown
to the people of this afternoon of the nineteenth century. The blood of martyrs is
the seed not only of the church, but of the press as well. Governmental
interference with the subject-matter of the newspaper was regarded an in-
herent right of self- constituted dignitaries; hence we need not affect surprise
to find the House of Commons resolving, in 1729, that “it is an indignity and
a breach of privilege of the House of Commons for any person to presume to
give, in written or printed newspapers, any account or minutes of the debates
or other proceedings of this House or any committee thereof.” In 1764 the
editor of the Evening Post, of London, was fined £100 by the House of Lords
for mentioning the name of Lord Hereford in a disrespectful manner.
The severe treatment bestowed upon the publisher of the Public Adver-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
233
User, the paper in which the celebrated “Letters of Junius” began to appear
in 17G7, indicates the difficulties through which journalism had to struggle to
reach its present disenthralled and exalted position. The caustic manner in
which Junius flayed public functionaries for their gross dereliction in official
duty would, had his identity been known, have subjected him to assassination,
and resulted in the confiscation of the press which dared to give his efPusions
publicity. The extreme precaution necessary to shield the writer has left his
identity a question of impenetrable doubt to the present time.
Even so late as the close of the eighteenth century the English press was
greatly hampered. Sydney says: It is always considered as a piece of imper-
tinence, in England, if a man of less than two or three thousand a year has
any opinions at all upon important subjects; and in addition, he was sure at
that time to be assailed with all the billingsgate of the French Revolution.”
The good work continued, however, until England was given the boon of a
free press.
France has had a bitter experience in liberating the press. During the
reign of Louis Napoleon there were 6,000 prosecutions of publishers, but
persistence and heroic courage on their part ultimately prevailed, and France
to-day can hear from her peasants sentiments which, formerly, the throne did
not dare to utter. Not by German battalions only was Napoleon overthrown;
he was shot through and through by the paper bullets of a justly hostile and
terribly outraged public press.
The first newspaper published in America was entitled “Public Occurrences
Both Forreign and Domestick. ” It was issued in Boston, Thursday, Septem-
ber 25, 1690, by Benjamin Harris, a copy of which is still preserved in the
Colonial State Paper Office, in London. It is printed on the first three sides
of a folded sheet, two columns to a page, and each page about seven inches
by eleven in size. One of the objects of this pioneer journal, as expressed in
the preliminary announcement, was a worthy one, and is commended to the
attention of modern journalists. It is: “ That something maybe done toward
the curing, or at least the charming, of that spirit of lying which prevails
among us; wherefore nothing shall be entered but what we have reason to
believe is true, repairing to the best fountains for our information. And when
there appears any material mistake in anything that is collected, it shall be
corrected in the next.”
This paper was too pure to live. The legislative bosses, four days subse-
quent to the first issue, spoke of it as a pamphlet issued contrary to law and
containing “reflections of a very high nature,” and absolutely forbade any-
thing in print without license first obtained from those appointed by the Govern-
ment to grant the same.”
The first religious newspaper in America is supposed to have been the Her-
ald of Gospel Liberty, started by Elias Smith, at Portsmouth, N. H. , Septem-
ber 1, 1808. It began with 274 subscribers, which number in seven years was
increased to 1,500.
The emancipation of the press in America has progressed until journalism
is recognized, not only as an important, but an honored and professional call-
ing. Its work is systematized, and its usefulness constantly enlarging.
In 1886 there were, in the United States and Territories, the following
publications: Dailies, 1,260; tri-weeklies, 46; semi-weeklies, 152; weeklies,
10,979; bi-weeklies, 50; semi-monthlies, 186; monthlies, 1,401 ; bi-monthlies;
33; quarterlies, 93; miscellaneous, 7; total, 14,207.
234
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
MERCEE NEWSPAPERS.
The history of the press in Mercer County begins with the Western Press,
one of the oldest newspapers in Western Pennsylvania. The Western Press
began its existence in Mercer on Wednesday, February 21, 1811. Its proprie-
tor and editor was Jacob Herrington. He brought with him, from Meadville,
the materials which had been used for two years previous in publishing a
small paper in opposition to the Crawford Messenger, edited by Thomas Atkin-
son. Owing to the condition- of the road, which lay through a comparative
wilderness, the trip required four days. The ox team of that period did not
move with the ease and rapidity of the iron horse of the present.
With Mr. Herrington came William C. Keen, as his printer, and two ap-
prentices, Robert Burchfield and John Evans. Keen remained in Mercer
until the close of the War of 1812, and then removed to Vevay, Ind., where
he published a paper. He subsequently became a major-general of militia
among the Hoosiers, and also held the important position of postmaster.
Having served their apprenticeship with Herrington, Burchfield and Evans
started out to see the world; in other words, went on a tramp as journeymen
printers, but returned after a brief absence. The first was stricken with con-
sumption, and died shortly afterward. Evans resumed work in the Press
office, and remained until about 1822, when he went to Franklin and estab-
lished the Venango Herald, the first newspaper in Venango County. He be-
came a prominent man in public life, and died the 30th of November, 1871, in
the seventy- fourth year of his age. From him Mr. W. S. Garvin received
his instruction as a printer, and acquired the ‘ ‘ art preservative. ’ ’ About the
year 1815 another apprentice served in the Press office, David Crawford,
founder of the first paper published in New Castle.
To return to the origin of the Press, it began as a four-column folio, size
10x16 inches. In the sixth issue of volume 1, dated March 29, 1811, the
earliest paper seen by the writer, occurs the remark — “printed by David
Flemming for the proprietors. ” Whether the plural form, proprietors, was
used because of the excessive modesty of publishers in those days, or because
the ownership was vested, not in a corporation, but in several individuals, is
not known. It is probable that John Hoge had, at even that early date, some
pecuniary interest in it; for on the 15th of October, 1827, he became sole pro-
prietor and editor. Mr Herrington, on that date, issued a card in which he
said: “ Having retired from the editorial desk, I now want to have all out-
standing accounts settled, of whatever kind they may be. Grain will be
taken in payment at liberal prices, but must be delivered in November and
December ensuing.”
At the time of which we are speaking (October, 1827) the paper was called
the Western Press and Mercer County Gazette. The Press had just absorbed
its first competitor in the county, the Mercer County Gazette. It was a small
journal published by James Nelson. “The type,” says Wm. F. Clark, Sr.,
in a letter to the writer, dated December 12, 1887, “was inked with puff-ball,
and the impression made, one page at a time, with a screw press manufac-
tured by Adam Ramage, of Philadelphia.” This press is now the property of
Mr. E. L. Garvin, and is stored away on the third floor of the A. J. McKean
building in Mercer. The cumbersome annex, Mercer County Gazette, was
dropped prior to 1830, when Mr. Garvin became the nominal owner and active
manager of the paper. For nearly a year and a half Mr. Hoge was still
interested in the journal. A standing announcement at the head of the first
page was: “Published by William S. Garvin; ” and at the head of the editorial
page : ‘ ‘ Edited by Hoge and Garvin. ” It is understood, however, that Mr.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
235
Hoge’s real estate and legal interests required about all his time and efPorts,
so that Mr. Garvin was the real power behind the throne. At the age of
twelve Mr. Garvin began to learn his trade at the Press office, entering as an
apprentice in 1819 and remaining until 1825, when he left for New York and
other fields. He was absent until 1830, when he returned to take charge of
the paper. His sketch in detail will be found in another part of this history.
About the time Mr. Garvin left the Press office, in 1825, John Bigler,
subsequently governor of California, at the same time his younger brother was
governor of Pennsylvania, became an apprentice, remaining for a brief period,
but completing his trade with John McFarland, of Pittsburgh, at that time a
Democratic editor of considerable ability.
On the 14th of May, 1831, Mr. Hoge published a card as follows: “Hav-
ing disposed of all interest in the Press, it is necessary that those indebted to
me should settle and arrange their accounts. During the three years the
establishment was owned and conducted by me, no one indebted to it was
either dunned or sued — now it is hoped that all accounts contracted during
that period will be promptly closed.” A publisher like Mr. Hoge, who neither
dunned nor sued his patrons, would be welcomed by some modern subscribers,
who imagine that printers subsist and grow fat on fame and an occasional
piece of musty wedding cake. Mr. Hoge was wealthy, and could afi^ord to be
lenient.
The position thus vacated by Mr. Hoge was held by Mr. Garvin, with brief
interruptions, until the time of his death. “During two years (1836-38) it
was in the hands of J. M. Keuster. ” J. W. S. Chappell, now residing near
Sandy Lake, in his seventy-eighth year, came to Mercer on the 15th of
June, 1837. Being a young lawyer he was admitted to the Mercer bar on
the motion of Hon. William Stewart. Scarcity of money compelled him to do
something, meanwhile, to replenish his depleted exchequer. For about a
year he worked as editor of the Western Press, then under the management of
J. M. Kuester. At the expiration of this time Chappell bought the paper on
three years’ time, and continued the publication a part of 1838-39. He sub-
sequently sold the plant to a Mr. Bagley, who controlled it for a time, Mr.
Scott acting as editor. This arrangement continued but a short time, when
the management again fell into the hands of W. S. Garvin, its former owner
and editor. While Mr. Garvin was a member of Congress the office work was
done by Wm. Donnelly, the editor-in-chief sending editorial matter regularly
from Washington. In 1855 William McKnight became editor, and continued
to hold the position until about the breaking out of the great rebellion, when
his associate and lessee of the paper, Thomas McKean, son of William
McKean, took it in charge, and Mr. McKnight became editor of the Demo-
cratic Register.
When Thomas McKean became sole manager of the Press he at once
began advocating a more vigorous prosecution of the war. He issued it in
half sheets, twice a week, Tuesdays and Fridays, to give the latest war news.
This he continued to do until the lOth of September, 1861, when he entered
the army as an officer of the Tenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and left the paper
in the editorial hands of James A. Stranahan, “a young man in whose abili-
ties and political position he had the fullest confidence. ’ ’
Mr. Stranahan continued to edit the paper from September 10 to Novem-
ber 1, 1861, when the lease expired. The history of the paper is thus filled
in by Mr. W. S. Garvin in an editorial published in the Press of January 6,
1871: “ At the beginning of the war the Press establishment was in the
hands of Mr. Thomas McKean, who chose to put it into the support of the
236
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
■war. The Register, a rival Democratic paper, took -what V7e believed to be the
true ground, in entire opposition to the war. When McKean’s lease expired,
and the property came back to our hands, we decided to stay out of business
rather than enter into rivalry with a paper that was supporting our views,
and thus was left to Mr. McKnight a clear field for the Register. For some
cause it did not prosper, and eventually went down, leaving the Democracy of
the county wholly without a paper. The party that owned the Register print-
ing establishment, near a year afterward, induced Mr. C. W. Whistler to take
it and commence the publication of a Democratic paper. With our consent
and approbation he called it the Western Press, and thus was resumed the
publication of a journal, the first started in the county, the name of which
was familiar to all of the ‘ manor born. ’ Not meeting with the support he
felt himself entitled to receive, at the end of a year and four months he
abandoned its publication and surrendered the property to its owners. It was
then (January, 1867) that its use was ofPered to and accepted by us, and that
our pledge was given to the Democracy of Mercer County that so long as
life lasted they would never again be without a party organ.”
In January, 1867, Mr. Garvin again took charge of the paper. It was
then a small, six-column sheet. At the opening of 1868 it was enlarged
to seven columns. At the beginning of 1871 it was still futher enlarged to
an eight-column sheet, and a new press from the manufactory of Potter & Co.
added to the outfit. During this period the name of the firm was W. S. &
E. L. Garvin, the junior partner being the son of the senior. They contin-
ued to manage the paper until January 1, 1882, when Mrs. L. L. Garvin,
wife of the junior member, became proprietor, and T. W. McClain editor and
business manager. On October 6, 1882, the plant was bought by A. J. Palm,
R. J. Zahniser and W. B. Bard, and published under the name of the Demo-
crat Printing Company. It was thought wise to change the name from
Western Press to the Mercer County Democrat, but loud and numerous pro-
tests from old-time patrons and friends prevented the desecration of the
familiar title. For a time after this last purchase the editorial duties were
performed by W. H. Griffith and T. W. McClain, Mr. A. J. Palm being
then county superintendent of public schools. Subsequently, the interests
of Zahniser and Bard were bought by Messrs. Palm and McClain, the present
proprietors.
One peculiarity of the early days of the Western Press, and in fact of all
newspapers of those times, was almost the entire absence of local matter.
Long editorials upon political questions, full proceedings of legislative and
congressional bodies, excerpts from city journals, giving the latest intelligence
from foreign countries, and the annual messages of the governor and Presi-
dent, were deemed the kind of food most palatable to the average backwoods
reader.
The Westeni Press has during all the changes through which it has
passed been the exponent and defender of Democratic principles. When the
anti -Masonic excitement was at its height the Press, under the vigorous man-
agement of Mr. Garvin, espoused the cause of the persecuted Masons against
the Luminary, the organ of the opposition. Thomas JefPerson and Jefferson-
ian Democracy were the ideals which the distinguished and able editor
constantly held before his readers. Under Mr. Palm’s editorial management
the paper has lost none of its former vigor.
The Mercer Luminary was established in 1830 by William and James
Moorhead. It was an anti-Masonic paper, and was first published in a two-
story log building which stood on the southwest corner of the diamond, on the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
237
site of the present Anderson grocery. In 1833 it was purchased by William
F. Clark, who removed the outfit to an office on East Market Street, the struc-
ture standing on the lot now occupied by Dr. A. I. Hoon. Mr. Clark con-
tinued it as an anti-Masonic sheet until that party dissolved, when it and most
of the other anti-Masonic papers went into the ranks of the Whig party. It
continued as the exponent of Whig principles until the Presidential campaign
of 1844, when, refusing to support Henry Clay, it hoisted the banner of Hon.
James G. Birney, the Liberty candidate for the Presidency. In 1848 it sup-
ported the Free-soil Democratic candidate, Martin Van Buren. The last issue
of the Luminary occurred July 3, 1850.
It was changed to the Free Presbyterian, the publishing being done by
William F. Clark, but the editorial work by Rev. Joseph Gordon. .After two
years the Presbyterian was transferred to a society who removed it to Cincinnati,
Mr. Gordon becoming a corresponding editor from Cleveland, to which place
he had meanwhile removed.
In 1852 Mr. Clark began the publication of the American Freeman, and
uniting with it the Promulgator, of New Castle, continued it until 1859, when
he sold it to E. S. Durban, who changed the name to that of the Courant and
removed the plant to New Castle.
In 1857 began a paper known as the Mercer Dispatch. One wing of the
old Whig party, now Republican, was pro-slavery in sentiment. Its organ
was the Whig. William M. Stephenson, Esq., the leader of the anti-slavery
wing of the party, determined to have an organ. He furnished the money for
purchasing the outfit of a defunct Democratic paper, and S. T. McClelland,
John A. White, William F. Clark, Jr., and S. B. Stephenson became the
proprietors. All were practical printers, and young men of energy; hence the
name selected. William F: Clark, Sr., was selected as the nominal editor-in-
chief. Mr. White, a brilliant thinker and writer, also enlivened its columns
with his productions.
In the course of a year or so McClelland sold his interest and went to
Pittsburgh. In November, 1862, William F. Clark, Sr., having received an
appointment as revenue collector at Meadville, he and his son sold out their
interest in the Dispatch to S. H. Miller, who, with the assistance of Mr. White,
continued the publication of the paper. White died shortly afterward, leaving
Mr. Miller the sole manager of the journal. This position he maintained until
March, 1864, when a consolidation occurred of two papers occupying the same
field, the Dispatch and the Whig. At this point we halt to bring up the his-
tory of the latter paper.
The Mercer Whig began June 15, 1844. The Luminary refused to sup-
port Henry Clay as the Whig candidate for the Presidency, and in consequence
a company of prominent Whigs from all parts of the county determined to
establish an organ of their own, to be known as the Mercer Whig. The outfit
was bought in Pittsburgh, and shipped by the river and canal to Big Bend,
whence it was drawn by an ox-team to Mercer. At the same time a delegation
went to Pittsburgh to secure for its editor John B. Butler, then piiblishing a
campaign paper favorable to the election of Gen. Markle as governor, called
the Mississinewa War Club. Mr. Butler conducted the paper until December,
1845, when he sold his interest to William Waugh, of Greenville. Mr. Waugh
ran it about two years, when it became the property of William Gregory and
D. B. Hays, publisher and editor, respectively.
On the 15th of December, 1849, Mr. Hays, after a service of two years,
retired, leaving the editorial chair to be filled by A. H. Snyder, a young attor-
ney of Mercer. (Mr. Hays died 25th of January, 1851, aged thirty-six years.
240
HISTOEY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
it began to “sleep the sleep that knows no waking.” Hill was a native of
Ireland, but learned printing and book binding in England. He came to
Mercer County at quite an early date, and set type in the Western Press office.
He subsequently worked at his trade in Warren, Penn., and Ellicottville, N. Y.
He died in Greenville in 1841. His daughter, Mrs. Simeon Betts, is living
northeast of that borough.
In 1848 J. W. Mason started a paper which he called the Weekly
Express. It was subsequently enlarged to a seven-column sheet, and known
simply as the Express, and continued independent in politics until 1852.
It was then purchased by Rev. William Orvis, a Congregational minister,
who changed its name to Independent Press, and flung to the breeze the then
unpopular anti-slavery banner. In a short time it was purchased by William
Laird. In April, 1853, J. C. Brown, connected for two previous years with
the Jeffersonian Star, at Brookville, Penn., bought the press from Laird, and
for a time ran it under the same name. In 1854, Jacob L. Weir became
interested as publisher, and the firm was Brown & Weir. This arrangement
continued but a short time, when J. C. Brown, having meantime been
elected county superintendent, acted only as editor, William S. Finch and J.
L. Weir taking charge of the business management.
Before Mr. Brown’ s term of office had expired the office was purchased by
John S. Fairman, late editor of the Coal City Item, of New Castle, Penn. He
changed the name to West Greenville Times, and began a new series, issu-
ing his first number November 22, 1856. It was then a six-column folio,
flew the motto “Independent — not Neutral,” and its subscription price was
$1 per year, in advance. On the 1st of December, 1856, A. M. Campbell,
a druggist of the borough, joined Mr. Fairman in the paper, and the
firm became Fairman & Campbell. In April, 1857, H. A. Bowman bought
Fairman’ s interest, and Bowman & Campbell conducted the Times until the
following October, when failing health caused Mr. Bowman to retire from the
business. He went south, and died in March, 1858. Mr. Campbell contin-
ued to publish the paper until October, 1859, when he sold it to Allen Turner,
who purchased it for his sister, Mrs. Orpha Hammond. She edited the paper
nearly a year, and was then succeeded by W. F. Chalfant. Soon after
the war broke out James C. Brown traded to Mr. Turner a piece of land in
Crawford County, and again became the proprietor of the paper. He retained
the title and management until 1862.
The plant was then purchased by W. F. Chalfant, who changed the name
of the paper to the Rural Argus. After a short time, however, he sold it to
F. H. Braggins, and went into the army to fight the battles of his country.
In 1867 W. H. H. Dumars became a partner with Braggins, and continued
in such relation about a year, when he sold back to Braggins, and returned to
Erie. In 1869 Braggins sold his interest to J acob Miller, and went to Mercer
to become one of the managers of the Mercer Dispatch. Mr. Miller owned
the paper but a short time, when he disposed of it to W. F. Chalfant, who a
second time became its proprietor and editor. This relation continued until
October, 1871, when he sold it to Harry Watson.
Mr. Watson changed the name to the Shenango Valley Argus, and in the
fall of 1875 sold the paper to George Morgan, who ran it until November,
1877, when the paper again became the property of J. C. Brown, by whom it-
was finally consolidated with the Advance. Since the beginning of the war it
has been a strong Republican paper, and has always supported the measures
and candidates of that party.
The Advance was started January 7, 1871, by W. H. H. Dumars, Amoa
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
243
A. Yeakel and W. F. Harpst, as an eight-column folio at $2 per year. On
the 15th of the following April Yeakel and Harpst sold their interest to J. C.
Brown, and the paper was then published under the firm name of Dumars &
Co. On the 23d of September, same year, Dumars sold his interest to Mr.
Brown, who then became sole proprietor, and so continued until the 18th of
November, when E. W. Lightner bought the complete equipment, good will
and all. He ran the paper until the 25th of January, 1873, when Mr. Brown '
repurchased the paper, and contined to own and run it until November, 1877,
when, having also purchased the Argus, the two papers were consolidated
under the name of the Greenville Advance- Argus.
The Advance Argus was conducted by Mr. Brown until December, 1878,
when Leech & Beachler became publishers, and J. C. Brown, editor. This
arrangement continued until December, 1880, when Mr. Brown sold a fourth
interest to C. F. Beachler, and the firm name became Brown & Beachler, the
former remaining editor-in-chief. On the 14th of December, 1885, Mr. Brown
bought back Mr. Beachler’ s one-fourth interest, and at once sold a half interest
to L. Hippee. The publishers since that date have remained Brown & Hippee,.
the former being editor, the latter business manager. Such is, in brief, the ■
history of one of the live Eepublican papers of the county.
The Union Democrat is one of the defunct newspapers of Greenville. It
was established by William P. Hanna in May, 1861, immediately after he was
relieved from the postmastership of Greenville, by President Lincoln, and was
the first Democratic paper published in that borough. The Democrat was a
six-column folio, and its subscription price was $1.50 per annum. Mr. Hanna
published the paper until the fall of 1864, when he sold the office to F. H.
Braggins, of the Argus, who used the material in the publication of his paper.
Mr. Hanna came to Greenville in 1833, and was a resident of the town until
his death October 6, 1888.
The Greenville Progress was started as a five-column daily June 1, 1877,
by William Orr, Jr., proprietor and editor. It was the first and only daily
ever issired in Greenville. On the 21st of July, of the same year, the
Weekly Progress began, being made up from the daily. It was issued by
Amos A. Yeakel and William Orr, Jr. In the salutatory occurred the sentence:
“We are here, a true J effersonian Democratic paper, advocating local self-
government and honesty in office.’’ A careful examination of the dates shows-
that this journal had its inception during the stormy days of the great labor
strike of 1877, and for a time suffered from the stagnation that ensued. The
weekly was conducted for three months by Yeakel & Orr, when (November
3, 1877) Mr. Orr retired and the management consisted of A. D. Gillespie,
editor, and A. A. Yeakel, publisher. In their announcement they assert that
the existence of two Republican papers in Greenville was regarded a sufficient
reason for establishing a Democratic organ. On the 3d of January, 1880, Mr.
Gillespie announced the assumption of the entire proi^rietorship, Mr. Yeakel
having retired. W. F. Harpst was at once employed by Mr. Gillespie as fore-
man of the office. On the 2d of May, 1881, the paper was bought from Mr.
Gillespie by W. F. Harpst and Frank C. Huling, by whom it has since been
owned, managed and edited. In December, 1877, the paper was enlarged;
from a five-column quarto to a nine-column folio, the size which it still retains.
The Progress is recognized as one of the best newspapers in the county.
The Shenango Valley News was founded on the 11th of April, 1882, by
D. B. Robbins, from whom it was purchased in the summer of the same year
by W. H. JI. Dumars, its present editor and proprietor. It is a six -column
quarto, and always brimful of news. In the gubernatorial election of 1882
244
HISTOKY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
it espoused the cause of the Independent wing of the Republican party, and
did its utmost to secure the election of Hon. John Stewart instead of Gen.
James A. Beaver. Since that time it has returned to the fold of orthodox
Republicanism, and at the present time is one of the stanchest local advo-
cates of the Republican party. The editor of the iVems has had considerable
experience in newspaper work, and wields a trenchant pen. He is a bold,
vigorous writer, and though intensely Republican, exhibits far more independ-
ence of expression than is usually found in party organs. The Neivs is a good
paper, and has a fair patronage.
The Independent, of Greenville, was established by Austin H. Robbins,
and its first number issued May 23, 1885. It is a four-column quarto, issued
weekly, at 50 cents a year, and independent, as its name implies. Mr. Rob-
bins is a native of Delaware Township, and learned his trade in the Argus office,
during the ownership of W. F. Chalfant and Harry Watson. He assisted his
brother in establishing the Shenango Valley News, in 1882, and three years
afterward started the Independent, which he has since edited and published.
While the paper has quite a large local circulation, Mr. Robbins depends
largely upon office work, making a specialty of job printing and advertising.
SHAKON PAPERS.
The first paper started in Sharon, the metropolis of Mercer County,
was the Sharon Herald, whose first issue occurred Thursday, April 11,
1864. It emanated from an office under the banking house of Porter &
Perkins, the proprietors and projectors being R. C. Frey and his brother
J. C. Frey. It was printed on a No. 4 Washington hand press, and com-
manded the modest subscription price of $1.50 per year, always in advance.
It began as a seven -column sheet, and from the beginning advocated the
principles of the Republican party. On the 20th of April, 1865, Dr. John
Winter, a Baptist minister of the town, bought the interest of R. C. Frey, and
the business was conducted under the name of J. H. Frey & Co. until the
22d of March, 1866, when Frey bought Winter’s interest and became sole
proprietor. This condition of things existed until November 1, 1866, when
Calvin W. Ray purchased a half interest in the paper. On the 15th of the
following December the paper was enlarged to an eight-column sheet, and
the subscription raised to $2 per annum. On the 1st of January, 1869,
John L. Morrison bought Mr. Frey’s interest. Soon thereafter important
improvements were made in the equipment. On the 4th of August, 1871, it
was again enlarged to a nine-column sheet, and a new Cottrell and Babcock
power press purchased. On the 1st of July, 1874, the subscription price was
reduced to $1 per year, strictly in advance. On the 1st of January, 1876,
Mr. Ray purchased Mr. Morrison’s interest (the latter having been elected
recorder), and became sole proprietor of the paper. This position he occupied
until March, 1879, when he sold the plant to Mr. Morrison, the present pro-
prietor and editor. The Herald has been one of the potent factors in main
taining the supremacy of the Republican party in the borough and the county
It has outlived the doubts connected with its trial existence at the time it was
launched upon the stormy sea of journalistic and national existence in 1864.
Mr. Morrison has devoted his entire attention to making the Herald what it is
to-day — one of the leading newspapers of the Shenango Valley.
The Sharon Times, a Democratic organ, was started in 1868 by John A.
Lant and George D. Herbert, the firm name being Lant & Herbert. The first
issue appeared on the 17th of June of the said year. On the 6th of July, 1869,
Lant withdrew from the firm, leaving Herbert sole proprietor and editor. The
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
245
paper started as a seven-column folio, 25x37, and was printed on a Washing-
ton hand press. In April, 1875, a Potter cylinder press was secured, and in
August of the following year a steam boiler and engine were added. The first
number was issued from the second story of T. J. Porter’ s bank building, on
State Street, opposite the Shenango House. Some time in 1878 Mr. Herbert
became financially embarrassed, and the property passed into the ownership of
P. L. Kimberly, but Herbert continued as its managing editor until 1879, when
he went to Philadelphia. Reuben Williamson was then business manager, and
T. W. McClain, editor. This arrangement continued until shortly after the
Presidential election of 1880, when the outfit was sold to J. R. McNabb, of
the Sharon Eagle. Thus ended the career of the only Democratic paper ever
started in Sharon. It was a neat sheet and ably edited, but lacked' the pat-
ronage to keep it successfully sailing o’er the stormy sea of journalism.
In 1879 the Gospel Temperance Advocate was started by James R. Burch-
field, now of Greenville. After a year’s struggling against the waves of adver-
sity, it went down to rise no more.
The Sharon Eagle began its journalistic career on May 3, 1875, as the
Mercer County Eagle, J. R. McNabb being the editor and proprietor. It started
as a large nine-column weekly paper, “independent in all things and neutral
in nothing.” On the 6th of October, 1875, McNabb commenced the publica-
tion of a daily which he called the Evening Eagle, a venture which was looked
upon at first with a great many misgivings by the people of Sharon. Mr. Mc-
Nabb conducted both papers until the day of his death, which occurred in 1883.
The management of the paper then fell upon the shoulders of his son, Scott
R. McNabb, who conducted it until April 1, 1885, when the material of the
establishment was purchased by James L. Ray and Walter Whitehead, both
practical printers. Scott R. McNabb died in Pittsburgh, May 8, 1888, aged
twenty-five years. With an increase of patronage these gentlemen decided to
convert the paper into a Republican organ, which was done. In October, 1887,
Mr. C. W. Ray, formerly connected with the Herald, and the postmaster of Sharon
from March, 1879, to March, 1887, was admitted into the partnership, and the
style of the firm changed to the “Eagle Printing Company.” Under this
name is now published the only daily sheet in Mercer County, and by it, also,
the weekly began over thirteen years ago. The place of publication is the fine
basement of the First National Bank building.
SHAEPSViLLE PAPERS.
The Sharpsville Advertiser was established in 1870 by Walter Pierce,
Esq., of Sharpsville, the first issue appearing October 21. Its size was
18x24 inches, and it was printed at the office of the Sharon Times. It had
no subscription price, but circulated gratuitously among the business men of
Sharpsville, who liberally patronized its advertising pages. On the 8th of
February, 1871, it was enlarged to an eight-column, four-page sheet, 25x40
inches, and the price fixed at $1 per year. The printing was then done at the
office of the Advance, of Greenville. In 1871 Mr. Pierce purchased the material
of the Signal, established at Mercer about six months previously by William
McKnight, but suspended in June of that year, and organized the “ Sharpsville
Printing Company. ” P. J. Bartleson, then connected with the Greenville Argus,
was employed as editor. The first paper published in Sharpsville appeared
August 23, 1871, the subscription price being put at $2 per year. On the 1st
of January, 1872, another enlargement occurred, this time to a nine-column
sheet, 28x44 inches. The paper has had a prosperous existence, and is
still under the editorial and business management of Mr. Bartleson, the
long- tried secretary of the school board.
246
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
The Sharpsville Times is the title of a four-page, four-column weekly of
Sharpsville, which began in the summer of 1887. It was started by M. W.
Thompson and S. W. Hazen, at 75 cents per year. It is devoted largely to local
and personal news.
OTHER PARERS.
In November, 1873, the Jamestown Sun was started in Jamestown, a
four-page, eight-column paper, by D. L. Calkins and wife, publishers and
editors. It was independent. Price, $1.50 per year. It continued to bat-
tle against its evil star until March, 1879, when, owing to the burning of
Mr. Calkins’ house and the death of his son, foreman of the office, its rays
ceased to shine. In the fall of 1879 F. S. and F. A. Alden came from
Cleveland to Jamestown and began the publication of the Jamestown Era, a
seven-column folio, Eepublican in character, independent in pretension, but
neutral in fact. They continued it under their own management for about
four years, when they leased it to DeWitt & Nichols, who changed its name
to the Jamestown Democrat, and continued to preside over its destinies one
year. At the expiration of that time F. A. Alden took it and published it
one year as the Jamestown Sentinel. He sold his interest to F. W. McCoy
and J. B. Robinson, both from Sheakleyville, in October, 1885. They ran it
as an independent for six months, when McCoy retired, and the firm changed
to that of Robinson Brothers, its present proprietors and managers. They
have added new type and new presses, and are in a prosperous condition.
The Sentinel is independent in politics, and gives all parties fair treatment in
its columns.
The Telephone, now published at Grove City, began its existence at Karns
City, Butler Co., Penn., when that place was at its zenith as an oil town.
It was started by J. Borland in the interest of the Greenback Labor party,
but failing to receive proper support he changed it, in 1881, to an inde-
pendent journal, and added a column to each page. Karns City sufPering the
decline consequent to the wane of the oil excitement, Mr. Borland sought a
new field for his paper. Grove City, then called Pine Grove, ofPered better
inducements, and he consequently came thither and issued the first copy of the
Pine Grove Telephone on July 22, 1882. M. W. Moore, who learned the
printing trade in the office of the Kittanning Sentinel, came with Mr. Borland
as the foreman of the new paper. The Telephone having received a hearty
reception in its new field, began to prosper. On the 15th of November, 1882,
the name was changed from Pine Grove to Grove City Telephone, to corre-
spond with the changed name of the village. With few changes, it continued
under the management of Mr. Borland until August 1, 1884, when A. C. Ray,
now local editor of the Dispatch and Repidilican at Mercer, purchased a half
interest. Two weeks later he purchased the other half, and at once transferred
it to A. A. Little, of Millbrook, who still retains his interest. At that time
the Telephone was issued from what is now the office of the Union Heat and
Light Company, but December, 1884, was removed to the upper rooms of
W. A. Young & Son’s harness store, corner of Broad and Pine Streets. On
December 1, 1885, Mr. Little purchased Ray’s interest in the Telephone, and
immediately transferred it to Mrs. Maggie C. Moore, who is represented in the
business by her husband, M. W. Moore. He brought into the office an outfit
of job material, which he had used at Sandy Lake prior to joining in the Grove
City enterprise. When the new partnership was formed, W. H. McElwain,
student at law in Mercer, was chosen to do editorial work, and continued in
that relation until July, 1887, when he removed to Findlay, Ohio, his present
home. Since that date Mr. Little has occupied the editorial tripod. The
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
247
Telephone was printed on a hand press until the 6th of April, 1888, when it was
supplied with a power press, and now rejoices in increased facilities, growing
patronage and enlarged usefulness.
The Sandy Lake News was established August 4, 1874, under the fostering
care of Capt. James F. Johnston. It was a six-column folio, patent outside,
and for the first six months was printed by the Jamestown Sun. Capt. John-
ston was advised by the leading citizens to relinquish his efforts to establish a
paper in Sandy Lake, because they believed it would be a failure. He pro-
posed to “fight it out on that line,” and accordingly he bought an outfit of
type at Andover, Ohio, and moved it to the second floor of the Kirk Building.
He subsequently sold out to A. H. Owen, who in a few weeks disposed of the
business to L. E. Hogue, from whom it passed into the hands of its present
owner, L. I. Crawford, in 1876. Under its present management it is fighting
the traffic in alcoholic stimulants, and has built up quite a good circulation
among the temperance element of the county.
The Lake Local was established in May, 1879, in Sandy Lake, by W. R.
Eckles and J. A. Clary. It was a five-column folio, 17x24, and was printed in
the Foster Building. At the end of one year Clary sold his interest to A. E.
Long, who, after one year’s experience, sold to E. G. Eberman and V. C.
Place, and the paper was published for a short time under the firm name of
Eckles & Co. Rev. A. T. WolfP, now a Presbyterian minister located at Al-
ton, 111., bought out Eberman and Place, and with Eckles continued until he
sold his interest back to E. G. Eberman, who eventually became the sole pro-
prietor, and remains such. March 1, 1883, the office was transferred to its
present quarters at Stoneboro, and was at that time changed to a four- column
quarto, its present size. Mr. Eckles has continued from the beginning to edit
and manage the paper and the job department connected therewith, the office
being fitted up with an excellent supply of job type and good presses. Its cir-
culation is confined principally to the northeastern portion of the county.
Bench and Bar — The Law Profession— The Bench— Sketches of President
Judges— Associate Judges— The Bar— Brief Biographies of Deceased
Attorneys who Practiced at the Mercer Bar — Present Bar of Mer-
cer County.
AW is said to be a rule of action. Its purpose, as applied to human con-
duct, is to command and direct that which is right, and to restrain that
which is evil. Its foundation is justice. It cannot result in harm to anyone,
provided its behests are wisely and impartially enforced. Its temple is holy,
and no unholy feet may enter its innermost recesses. He who studies its
pages with a view of learning its sublime teachings, should early learn to re-
move the sandals from his feet, realizing that the ground upon which he is
about to tread is sacred. Advocates who have such a conception of her sphere
are invited to enter; demagogues are expected to maintain a respectable dis
tance. The law afPords an ample field for the exercise of the highest mental,
moral and social endowments. Education, a knowledge of human nature, a
love of justice, philanthropic impulses, patriotism — all these and other qualifi-
CHAPTER XL
248
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
cations should be possessed by him who would attain a fair position in the
courts of justice. The mere tricks, that win for the hour, can never secure
permanent fame. Honesty, integrity, true manhood, careful study of the
fundamental principles of law, an acquaintanceship with the various realms of
human knowlege, and a consecrated devotion to the profession, have all con-
spired to give true lasting fame to those who have achieved success, either as
attorneys or jurists.
The courts of Mercer County, like others in Western Pennsylvania, have
been dominated by judges and attorneys, some of whom were residents of the
county and acquainted with its struggles and successes, while others have come
only on missions of business. An examination of the lists of attorneys will
reveal the fact that many of the advocates at the bar were from adjoining
counties, and some even from other States. In treating this subject we give,
first, the list of the members of the bench, and then those who practiced at
the bar. So far as they could be obtained, sketches of the more prominent
are presented. Living representatives are placed in the regular biographical
department of this work.
THE BENCH.
The first judge who sat on the bench in Mercer County was Hon. Jesse
Moore, He was a native of Montgomery County, Penn., and a stanch Dem-
ocrat. While practicing law at Sunbury he was appointed president judge
of the Sixth Judicial District, his commission dating April 5,* 1803. Here-
moved at once to Meadville to assume the duties of his position, which he
held, without interruption, until the day of his death, December 21, 1824, in
the fifty-ninth year of his age. He was well educated, a diligent student and
a good lawyer, discreet, upright, and impartial in his judicial opinions and
decisions. He sustained, with becoming grace, the honor and dignity of his
profession, and is said to have made an imposing appearance. A competent
eye-witness (William S. Garvin) testifies that he was a heavy, solemn- looking
man, and retained the dress of the old-style gentleman — small clothes, shoe
buckles, knee buckles; bald head, with the long hair behind done up in a
queue; head and hair and collar of the black coat covered with powder
sprinkled thereon.
The second judge was Henry Shippen, also an adherent of the Democratic
party. He was born in Lancaster, Penn. , on December 28, 1788. He grad-
uated from Dickinson College, at Carlisle, in 1808. His law reading was
prosecuted with Judge Hopkins, of Lancaster, and in due time he was admit-
ted to the bar. During the War of 1812 he was captain of a company from
Lancaster which numbered as one of its privates James Buchanan, subse-
quently President of the United States. Keturning from the war, he started
and built up a large practice in his native town. He finally removed to Hunt-
ingdon, Penn., from which place he was appointed president judge of the judi-
cial district embracing Crawford, Erie, Venango and Mercer Counties. His
appointment was dated January 24, 1825. He continued in his judicial func-
tions until the time of his death, which occurred March 2, 1839. He is
reputed to nave been a man of good sense and sound judgment; and, though
quick tempered, was uniformly courteous and dignified to the profession. His
charges and decisions were characterized by dignity and uprightness.
A change having occurred in the composition of the district, Hon. John
Bredin became president judge on the 10th of May, 1831. He was a resident
of Butler, Penn., and was admitted to practice at Mercer November 18, 1817.
He was an able and upright judge, who labored earnestly to discharge
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
249
the duties of his liigh station. While doing equal justice to all, he was kind,
courteous and gentlemanly in all his relations with the bench, the bar and the
people of the district. All the counties in his district recommended him to the
Democratic State Convention for nomination for the Supreme Bench. He held
the position of president judge of the Seventeenth Judicial District for
twenty years. He died May 21, 1851.
The next on the bench was Hon. Daniel Agnew, then and still a resident
of Beaver, Penn. He was born in Trenton, N. J. , January 5, 1809. His
education was received mainly in Western Pennsylvania, and embraced a thor-
ough classical training. He began the study of law under Henry Baldwin
and W. W. Fetterman, and was admitted to the bar in the spring of 1829, and
shortly afterward opened an office in Pittsburgh. In the fall of the same year
he removed to Beaver, where he soon built up a large and lucrative practice.
He was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1837-38. In June, 1851,
he was appointed by Gov. Johnston to till the vacancy caused by the
death of Judge Bredin, and in the ensuing October was elected for a term of
ten years, and re-elected in 1861. In October, 1863, he was elected a judge
of the Supreme Court. In 1873 his term as chief justice began, and expired
in 1879. During the War of the Rebellion Judge Agnew charged a jury in Law-
rence County that sympathy in the North with the rebellion was treason, and
should be indicted. His patriotic firmness was a great support to the State and
national government. He is regarded one of the ablest jurists Western Penn-
sylvania has produced.
Another change in the district having occurred, John S. McCalmont was
appointed president judge June 15, 1853, and elected the 15th of the ensuing
October. He is the son of John McCalmont, of Franklin. He spent sev-
eral years in attendance at Allegheny College, Meadville, leaving it in
1838 because of an appointment as cadet to the military academy at West
Point, where he graduated a few years subsequently. He spent some time
afterward in the regular army. Returning to his home, he read law and was
admitted to the bar. When the rebellion began he entered the service as
colonel of the Pennsylvania volunteers, and did efficient service, being a brave
and conscientious officer. He is a Democrat, and was elected judge at a time
when his party was strongly in the majority in the district. W’hen the Cleve-
land administration began, he received an appointment in Washington, which
position he still occupies.
Judge McCalmont was succeeded on the bench by James L. Campbell, who
was elected October 11, 1861. He is a native of Centre County, but removed
to Clarion County shortly after its formation. He studied law in Centre, but
his practicing occurred mainly in Clarion, his adopted county. He is a strong
Republican. His election was brought about as follows: Hon. William Stew-
art, of Mercer, was the regular nominee of the Republican party. Some dis-
satisfaction existing, Mr. Campbell was designated by the Independent
Republicans as the people’s candidate. He was also endorsed by the Demo-
cratic Convention, which gave him sufficient strength to elect him. His
administration was efficient, meeting the most sanguine expectations of his
friends and earnest supporters. It is proper to state that Judge Campbell had
nothing to do with securing his nomination, it being an entire surprise to him.
The next occupant of the bench was Hon. John Trunkey. He was born Octo-
ber 26, 1828, in Vernon Township, Trumbull Co.. Ohio, while his mother was
visiting a friend of the family. His parents, Francis and Rachael (Fell) Trunkey,
removed to the farm in West Salem Township, Mercer Co., Penn., on the Ohio
line, where his aged mother still lives, immediately after their marriage. Here he
250
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
grew up, and received a good common school education. He afterward engaged in
teaching, and in 1840 entered the law office of Hon. Samuel Griffi th, of Mercer.
On September 17, 1851, he was admitted to practice, and the firm of Griffith &
Trunkey, formed shortly after the admission to the bar of the junior member,
was well known in Western Pennsylvania, and transacted a large share of the
legal business in Mercer and the adjoining counties. In 1853 John Trunkey
and Agnes Garvin, daughter of the late Hon. William S. Garvin, were
married. Three children were born to them, of whom only one is living,
William G. Trunkey, the eldest, now a member of the Warren bar.
On the 9th of October, 1866, Mr. Trunkey was elected as the Democratic
candidate for president judge in the district then composed of Venango and
Mercer Counties. His great personal popularity, and his conceded integrity and
ability, enabled him to overcome a large adverse political majority on that occa-'
sion. Shortly after his election he chose Franklin as his residence, and that town
was his home up to his death. In 1876 he was chosen to preside over the courts
of Venango County, which had been erected into a separate judicial district.
The following year he was elected, on the Democratic ticket, a justice of the
Sujireme Court, his term of office commencing in January, 1878. He died in
London, England, on June 24, 1888. The following tribute to his memory
fully illustrates his high character:
IN MEMORIAM.
At a court of common pleas, held at Mercer, in and for the county of Mer-
cer, Penn., on the second day of July, 1888, the Hon. S. S. Mehard, president
judge, presiding; was pi’esented and read the following memorial on the death of
Hon. John Trunkey, associate justice of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania,
adopted at a meeting of the members of the bar of said county on said second
day of July, and which, on motion of Hon. Samuel Griffith, was ordered to be
entered upon the record of said court:
Gentlemen of the Bak: Your committee respectfully report the following minute:
Hon. John Trunkey, justice of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, died in London
June 24, 1888. With deep sorrow we enter a minute of this sad event on the records of
our court.
.Judge Trunkey was born and reared in Mercer County. In 1849 he began the study
of law in Mercer, under the tuition of Hon. Samuel Griffith, and was admitted to the bar
in 1851. Having formed a partnership with his preceptor he entered upon a large prac-
tice. To this he gave zealous attention until called to the bench. In 1866 he was elected
president judge of the Twenty-eighth .Judicial District, then consisting of Mercer and
Venango Counties, but in consequence of the new constitution his district was, in 1874,
made to consist of Venango alone, where he at that time resided. He was re-elected to
the same position in Venango County, but before he had served a year of his second
term he was chosen justice of the suiireme court of the State, upon the duties of which
he entered in January, 1878. Judge Trunkey was a man of remarkable qualities. He
had a clear, strong mind, a calm, noble spirit. His heart was always with the right, but
not unduly bitter against wrong. As a lawyer he was high-minded, diligent and able,
distinguished at once for his faithfulness to his clients and his fairness to his opponents.
As a judge he was not only painstaking, accurate and learned, but clear, broad, upright
and just._ No inffuence was so subtle as to deceive his judgment; no interest so great as
to turn him frorn his duty. By his death the State has lost a servant of commanding
ability and untiring faithfulness. Mercer County has lost a son who will ever be to her
a distinguished liouor, and we of this bar have lost a member who was long our com-
panion and always our friend.
To this minute we add assurances of warm sympathy for Judge Trunkey’s family in
this affliction, and do resolve, as a mark of our sorrow and respect, to attend the funeral
in a bodi'.
The secretary is instructed to furnish a copy of this minute to the family of
Judge Trunkey, and to the press for publication. S. S. Mehard, j
W. Maxwell,
Johnson Pearson,
S. Griffith,
Thomas Tanner,
I Committee.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
251
Col. William Maxwell, of Greenville, succeeded Judge Trunkey as presi-
dent judge of Mercer County. He was appointed in May, 1874, to fill the
vacancy caused by the erection of Mercer into a separate judicial district.
Judge Maxwell brought to the bench a ripe legal experience, gained through
more than forty years’ practice. He came to Mercer in February, 1832, and
is yet one of the active practitioners of the Mercer bar, being to-day its oldest
member, and one of the oldest lawyers in Western Pennsylvania. Judge
Maxwell served on the bench until January, 1875, and during his brief term
of service was recognized as an able, indefatigable, impartial and dignified
judge. Thoroughly versed in the groundwork of legal science, his rulings
exhibited careful study and a logical mind.
Judge Maxwell’s successor was Arcus McDermitt. He was born in Find-
ley Township, and was a son of Joseph McDermitt, a native of Ireland. His
early education was secured at the district school, but he subsequently
attended Mercer Academy, where he acquired the rudiments of the Latin and
Greek languages. Of this he was somewhat proud, for in his teaching in the
South he was required to be able to inform the people that he had studied the
classics. He read law in Butler, Penn., under the skillful direction of Charles
Sullivan, a prominent attorney of that place, and was admitted to the bar
there. He subsequently removed to Mercer, where he was admitted to prac-
tice September 1, 1851. He served as treasurer of Mercer County one term.
He was the first judge elected under the new constitution, which constituted
Mercer County a separate judicial district. He was chosen at the general
election of November 6, 1874, and held his position until the date of his
death, which occurred in December, 1883, about a year prior to the expira-
tion of his term of office. He was a man of marked ability, and had aspirations
to be placed, like his predecessor, upon the supreme bench of the State. The
bar of the county passed complimentary resolutions as to his worth and ability.
Judge McDermitt was succeeded on the bench by Samuel S. Mehard, the
present incumbent. He was a student under Judge Trunkey, with whom he
began, and under whose instructions he was admitted to the bar at Mercer
September 18, 1872. Though a comparatively young man, he was appointed
by Gov. Pattison as the successor of Judge McDermitt on the 10th of De-
cember, 1883, and at the regular election, November 4, 1884, was chosen to
preside over the judicial proceedings of the county for a period of ten years.
Though his party was in the minority in the county, he was chosen by a com-
bination of Democrats, Prohibitionists and Republicans over Hon. Samuel H.
Miller, the regular Republican candidate. Judge Mehard’ s decisions on the
license problem in the county have given him a notoriety beyond the limits of
the territory over which he presides. Ho is recognized as a fair, impartial
jurist, and thoroughly in earnest in fulfilling the duties of his high office.
Other judges than those mentioned in the preceding list officiated at times,
but only for brief intervals. Among these may be mentioned Isaac G. Gor-
don, now chief justice of the State, since July 14, 1887. He was a supply at
Mercer during the war. After the burning of the court-house, in the spring
of 1868, J udge Gordon held sessions in the Union school building. His ser-
vices, however, did not continue very long.
Glenni W. Schofield, of Warren, Penn., subsequently a distinguished mem-
ber of Congress, and a prominent official in the treasury department at Wash-
ington, also performed supply service at Mercer, in consequence of the divis-
ion of the district. This occurred prior to 1874, under the old constitution.
It will be seen that the Mercer bench has contributed its share of distin-
guished men to the State and nation, three of its judges subsequently occu-
252
HISTOPiY OF MERCER COUNTY.
pying positions upon the supreme bench of the State, and. two of these the
chief place.
Associate Judges. —Prior to the adoption of the constitution of 1874 Mer-
cer County had its band of assistants on the bench, taken largely from the
ranks of ordinary unofficial life, and known as associate judges. These
were well known and reputable men from all parts of the county, the names
of whom indicate that they were selected from the substantial families. The
following is the list; Alexander Brown, Alexander Wright, William Amberson,
James R. Wick, John Mitcheltree, John Findley, Thomas Wilson, John New-
ell, Thomas S. Cunningham, William Leech, William Waugh, Samuel Kerr,
■\Villiam McKean, Thomas J. Brown, David T. Porter, Joseph Kerr, Robert
Patterson, David W. Findley, John Lightner, Milton A. Leech and Richard
Carr. Their respective dates of service will be found in Chapter lY, under
the head of “Public Officials.”
THE BAR.
One of the eminent attorneys admitted to the first court in Mercer, Feb-
ruary 16, 1804, was Samuel B. Foster, a younger brother of Alexander
W. Foster, under whom he read law. He was a native of West Chester,
Penn., where he was born in 1774. He graduated from Princeton Col-
lege, New Jersey. By a competent member of the Meadville bar he is said
to have been a man “possessed of a fine classical education, high legal at-
tainments, and great reasoning power, clear and forcible in argument, and
often very eloquent before a jury.” He came from West Chester to Mead-
ville as the agent of the Holland Land Company, and subsequently removed
to Mercer, where he practiced until the day of his death, March 4, 1831, in
his fifty -eighth year. He married Miss Elizabeth Donnell, of Meadville, who
became the mother of the following children: William A., married to Maria
Hurst, of Meadville, became a merchant at Catlettsburg, Ky. ; Imilda, daugh-
ter, died at the age of seven; Henry D. , a prominent attorney at Greensburg,
and member of Congress from the Westmoreland District; Margaret H., mar-
ried in 1835 to James P. Rogers, of Gallia County, Ohio, who died in 1883.
She was born December 10, 1809, and is still living in Mercer, with her son-
in-law, Hon. S. H. Miller; Hannah B., married to William M. Stephenson, a
prominent attorney of Mercer; Samuel B. died young; Jane Eliza, deceased
at the age of twenty -three ; Caroline, married to Hon. Samuel Griffith, of
Mercer, both of whom are still living, and James A., who died at Salt Lake,
at the age of twenty-seven, while serving as quartermaster in the army of the
United States. Samuel B. Foster was the first regular attorney that located
in Mercer County.
J ohn W. Hunter is the first attorney in the list of those who were admitted
at the first court of Mercer, February 16, 1804. He was a resident of Mead-
ville, and a brother-in-law of Samuel B. Foster, the latter having married a
sister of Mrs. Hunter. He finally removed to Pittsburgh, where he lived and
practiced, but ultimately received an appointment at Washington, where his
death occurred. He practiced very little at the Mercer courts.
Joseph Shannon was another of the attorneys admitted at the first court.
He lived about three or four miles south of Mercer, on the New Castle road.
His wife was Susan Warner, a sister of Mrs. Bevan Pearson. He never had
much of a practice, but was treasurer of Mercer County in early days. He died
April 16, 1839, aged sixty-nine years. His remains lie in the old graveyard
back of the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
Alexander W. Foster, an elder brother of Samuel B. Foster, was admitted
to practice at the Meadville courts on the 6th of October, 1800. He was a
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
253
prominent and able lawyer. He was considered a very successful attorney in
matters pertaining to real estate. In 1804 be and Roger Alden were prin-
cipals in the only duel that ever occurred in Crawford County. The hostile
meeting took place on the banks of French Creek, about a mile and a half from
Meadville. Alden was wounded. Subsequently he removed to Pittsburgh, where
he occupied a prominent position at the bar, and where he died in March, 1843.
The bar of the city passed resohitions in which they referred to his “long
career at the bar as distinguished by profound and varied learning, and en-
deared by the many virtues of his private life.” He had four children, viz. :
Alexander W. Jr., an attorney; J. Herron, the projector of the Pittsburgh
Dispatch; Francis, subsequently the wife of John Pearson; Garrett, of Mercer,
and Hannah, the wife of Gen. Grosman, who became prominent in the regular
army.
Cunningham S. Semple was another of the first attorneys. He was a fleshy
man, who took the world easy, giving very little attention to legal matters.
He was the first postmaster of Mercer, holding the position from 1st of July,
1805, to 1st of July, 1810. He lived on the east side of the diamond, and
owned all the land from A. J. McKean’s corner north to the alley. He had
two children, Henry Harrison, who removed to Tennessee, and a daughter,
who became the wife of Samuel Calvin Tait, Esq., the son of Rev. Samuel
Tait. Mr. Semple died in Mercer.
Col. Ralph Marlin came from Central Pennsylvania in the spring of 1801
and settled at Meadville. He had been admitted to practice prior to his
coming west. He went out as a major in the regular army in War of 1812,
and was at Erie during the building of Perry’s fleet in 1813. He served in
the Legislature from 1815 to 1818, but finally became somewhat dissipated,
and about the year 1826 returned to one of the eastern counties. His practice
at Mercer was not extensive.
Edward Work was a practitioner at Meadville, and the second postmaster
of the village. He ultimately removed to Jamestown, N. Y., where he lived
until his death.
Patrick Farrelly was an Irish Catholic who came from Ireland to the
United States in 1798, studied law at Lancaster, and coming to Meadville in
1802, was there admitted July 11, 1803, and at Mercer February 16, 1804.
He represented his district in the State Legislature and in Congress. He
died in Pittsburgh, February 12, 1826, while on his way to Congress, aged
fifty-six years. Mr. Farrelly was one of the most prominent, brilliant and
successful attorneys of the pioneer bar, and built up a very large practice.
George Selden read law with Hon. Horace Binney, of Philadelphia, and
was admitted to the bar in 1817. Two years later he removed to Meadville.
He was skilled in legal practice, but allowed his mind to become diverted by a
multiplicity of business interests to the injury of his professional practice.
He spent about five years in Pittsburgh, but returned to Meadville in 1835,
and died shortly afterward. He practiced somewhat in the Mercer courts.
John B. Wallace was a Meadville attorney who did considerable business in
Mercer. He was a native of New Jersey. He was a large, well-formed man
of majestic mould, a vigorous thinker and an eloquent speaker. He lived in
Meadville from 1821 to 1835, during which time he paid his visits to Mercer.
Alexander Addison, a learned and highly accomplished Scotchman, was
admitted to practice in the Mercer courts on the 18th of March, 1807. He
was a resident of Washington, Penn. Prepared for the ministry, in which he
labored for a time at Washington, Penn., he was thoroughly trained in the
principles of justice and equity. Having studied law, he was admitted to the
bar in 1787. Learned, patriotic, philanthropic, judicial, he labored constantly
254
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
for the highest good of society, as will be seen by reading his letters, essays,
public lectures, addresses and charges to juries. There was in his composi-
tion none of the elements of demagogy. Fearless and impartial, he did his
duty as he understood it. His bold and conscientious course in supporting
the General Government during the whisky insurrection of 1794 secured for
him many personal enemies, who were bent on his ruin. Of course no judicial
body would or could convict him. Failing in the courts, his persecutors
sought the aid of a partisan Legislature. The House ordered his impeach-
ment, and the Senate convicted him, the sentence being his removal as president
judge of the Fifth Judicial District, and perpetual disqualification for holding
a judicial office in the State. Says Judge J. W. F. White; “No person can
read the report of the trial without feeling that it was a legal farce; that
gross injustice was done Judge Addison from the beginning to the end, and
that the whole proceeding was a disgrace to the State. The trial took place at
Lancaster, where the Legislature sat. The House and Senate refused to give him
copies of certain papers, or give assistance in procuring witnesses from Pitts-
burgh for his defense. The speeches of counsel against him, and the rulings of
the Senate on questions raised in the progress of the trial, were characterized by
intense partisan feeling. It was not a judicial trial, but a partisan scheme to
turn out a political opponent. It resulted in deposing one of the purest,
best and ablest judges that ever sat on the bench in Pennsylvania.” This
trial, which occurred in 1802, crushed the spirits of this good man. He
continued, however, to practice in various courts until the time of his death,
which occurred in Pittsburgh on the 27th of November, 1807.
Thomas Collins was an attorney at the time, of Pittsburgh, and was admit-
ted at Mercer, May 17, 1804. He subsequently removed to Butler County,
where he died. His wife, Sarah Collins, was a daughter of a gentlemen in
the East, who owned large landed possessions in Butler County. Two of his
daughters married Judges McClure and McCandless, respectively. Collins was
a good scholar and a man of marked ability.
Steel Semple was a noted attorney and a man of eminent ability — a fine
classical scholar. He lived at Pittsburgh, but was admitted to the Mercer
bar February 16, 1804. He was addicted to the use of intoxicating drinks,
which impaired, somewhat, his great usefulness and power.
John Armstrong was a member of the Pittsburgh bar, admitted at Mercer
May 17, 1804, and, like others of his day, rode the circuit of Western Penn-
sylvania.
James Allison, admitted at Mercer May 17, 1804, was a resident of Beaver
for more than half a century, and identified with all the early struggles and
improvements of the town and county. He was highly educated, and known
throughout his long career as a man of the highest integrity. He was a man
of ability, and was from the organization of the county until his retirement
from practice one of the acknowledged leaders of the bar. Chief Justice
Gibson said he was ‘ ‘ the best case lawyer in Pennsylvania. ’ ’ He served in
Congress from 1823 to 1825, and was re-elected, but declined to serve, pre-
fei’ring the happiness of domestic life to the strifes of politics. He was the
father of the late John Allison, of Greenville, who served both in the State
Legislature and in Congress, and who became widely known by the signature
he attached to United States bank bills as register of the treasury. ■
Robert Moore, admitted to the Mercer bar May 17, 1804, was another
distinguished member of this group, and a resident of Beaver from 1803 to
the time of his death, which occurred January 14, 1831, aged fifty-four years.
He was a member of the State Legislature in 1829, and was an exemplary
HISTOBY OF MEBCEB COUNTY.
255
citizen, filling several important trusts with honor to himself and credit to the
public. At the time of his death the Beaver Argus contained the following
flattering encomium upon him: “As a public servant, he was vigilant, able
and successful. As an attorney, he was learned, faithful and honest. As a
citizen, he was upright, sociable and esteemed. As a neighbor, he was
obliging, attentive and much beloved.”
He was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was
the father-in-law of Hon. Daniel Agnew, late chief justice of Pennsylvania,
and still an honored resident of Beaver.
Henry Baldwin was, next to Gibson, probably the most powerful and dis-
tinguished member of the Mercer court of February, 1804. He was a native of
New Haven, Conn., and graduated from Yale College in 1797. He studied
law in Philadelphia with Alexander J. Dallas, and was admitted to the bar in
that city. Early in the year 1800 he moved from the city of Brotherly
Love to Meadville, where he assisted in organizing the first court of the
county. About 1804 he removed to Pittsburgh. In 1810 he was elected to
Congress, where he served without interruption until 1828. During his Con-
gressional career he was prominent as the champion of domestic manufactures,
and participated freely and effectively in the public discussions upon those
subjects. He was deeply interested in the iron business, but owing to the
financial depression resulting from the War of 1812 failed, as many others did.
During the campaign of 1828 he took a deep interest in the election of Jack-
son to the Presidency. He was an applicant for the position of Secretary of
the Treasury, but failing in that he was appointed a member of the supreme
bench of the United States.
In 1842 he returned to Meadville, where he continued to reside until the
time of his death, which occurred April 21, 1844, while attending court in
Philadelphia. While on the bench he published a volume of reports, contain-
ing his own decisions in the circuit of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He was
a jovial, generous and high-toned gentleman, an eminent lawyer, a strong,
vigorous speaker and an incorruptible judge. He was justly regarded one of
the intellectual and legal giants of his day.
William Ayres was a man of great ability and prominence at the bar, and
was admitted at Mercer May 17, 1804. He was a resident of Butler, to which
place he came from the southeastern part of the State. He was a large, fine-
looking man, a bachelor, and noted for his wit. He took an active part in the
ejectment suits which were brought in his county, and became quite wealthy.
He was elected a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1837, and
shared in its deliberations both in Harrisburg and Philadelphia. An incident
is related concerning Ayres and Baldwin that illustrates the freedom with
which the old-time attorneys perpetrated practical jokes upon each other.
Baldwin and some other attorney had informed an innkeeper not to allow Gen.
Ayres to have any more whisky, inasmuch as he was unable to control him-
self. It happened on one occasion that Ayres asked these two gentlemen to
drink. The barkeeper set up two glasses, which were taken by Baldwin and
his friend, and gave Ayres none, as he had been instructed to do. Ayres saw
the trick and accepted the situation gracefully, secretly determining to be even
at an early opportunity. In the town was a woman of not most reputable
character. Ayres gave her $10 as a gift to go into the court-room that day with
a counterfeit bill, and while Baldwin was making a speech to the jury to pass
up the aisle, and, handing out the spurious bill, say to him: “The money
you gave me is a counterfeit.” She did according to contract. Baldwin saw
at once that he was caught by his wily attorney friend, and reaching into
his pocket drew out a genuine bill and handed it to her.
256
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Judge Maxwell, of Greenville, relates the following incident with much
satisfaction; “When I first appeared at the Mercer bar, in March, 1832, I
boarded at the Hackney (now Whistler) House, which was then the stopping
place for all the attorneys who attended the bar. I was introduced to all the
legal gentlemen. Gen. Ayres seemed to take special interest in my case.
Said he: ‘I had the pleasure of an acquaintance with your father in the East,
and esteemed him highly. Now it is important that you start out aright in
your practice in this new county. If you will permit it, I shall be most happy
to aid you in any way I can.’ He then examined my papers, and advised me
how to present the cases. He also attached his name in the form of a tem-
porary partnership — Ayres & Maxwell. My cases, some four in number, were
won, and I ever afterward had his warmest friendship —a favor I greatly ap-
preciated. The influence of an able and venerable attorney like him was no
ordinary affair.”
John Bannister Gibson was probably the ablest of the entire number ad-
mitted at Mercer in 1804. He was born on the 8th of November, 1780, in Sher-
mans Valley, Cumberland Co., Penn. At the age of eighteen he graduated
from Dickinson College, at Carlisle, studied law with Thomas Duncan, and was
admitted to the bar of Cumberland County in March, 1803. He first opened
a practice at Carlisle, and then removed to Beaver, where he spent several
years. His practice at Beaver was not regarded a successful one. He was a
man of large dimensions, a regular giant in both physique and intellect.
Standing considerably above six feet in height, he was muscular, well-propor-
tioned, full of intellect and benevolence, and indicative of strong character.
He was called, by way of derision, ‘ ‘ Horse-head Gibson, ’ ’ on account of the
height of his head. In his early practice he would, in rising to read a paper,
shake and quiver, and his voice would tremble. He was exceedingly fond of
the violin, and would spend hours in producing music upon it. It is said that
afterward, when he had become chief justice, some of his best decisions were
studied out while he was engaged in solacing himself by the strains of this in-
strument. He was very social at times, and liked his pet associates very much.
Among his intimate friends at Beaver was Gen. John Mitchell, formerly of
Bridgewater. His practice at Beaver was neither extensive nor lucrative. The
people of the county had not yet discovered the mighty genius which subse-
quently made him the learned judge of the supreme bench. In the Beaver
Court records is found the following memorandum:
Elias Milor vs. .James Magaw, issue summons wherefore with force and arm he the
said James Magaw on the said Elias Minor an assault did make at the county aforesaid,
and him did there beat, wound and evilly treat, and other wrongs to him did, to the great
damage of the said Elias and against the peace. [Signed] Elias Milor.
To David .Johnston, prothonotary.
The bearer says he has not money enough about him to pay for the writ, but if you
don’t think to trust him I will be accountable for the price of it.
[Signed] John B. Gibson.
This note of the future chief justice seems to have been satisfactory to the
noted prothonotary, and the case was put upon record.
Judge Gibson never looked upon his stay at Beaver with much pride, his
practice being made up of petty cases, that annoyed without affording the cor-
responding remuneration. Hence we need not be surprised at the statement
made by him once at a social party, when the question of ages was up for con-
sideration. Like other aged people he was disposed to turn the dial backward
a little. Said he: “lam sixty-two.” “But,” says his friend, “ you were
twenty-four when you went to Beaver, and you were there five years.” “ My
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
257
God, ’ ’ says the old chief, ‘ ‘ I hope you are not going to charge me with that. ’ ’
His success was achieved after he returned to Carlisle. In 1827 he became
the successor of Chief Justice Tilghman on the supreme bench, and retained
that position until 1851, when, by a change in the Constitution, the judiciary
became elective. He was the only member of the bench retained, but only as
an associate. Even in a subordinate position ‘ ‘ his great learning, venerable
character and overshadowing reputation still made him,” in the language of
Judge Black, “ the only chief whom the hearts of the people would know.”
Versed in the ancient classics, familiar with the whole round of English litera-
ture, and thoroughly informed in the science of medicine, he was an oracle in
all departments of law, and justly entitled to the following eloquent tribute
by Judge Jeremiah Black, which is placed upon the tall marble shaft at Car-
lisle that marks his final resting place:
In the various knowledge
Which forms the perfect scholar
He had no superior.
Independent, upright and able,
He had all the highest qualities of a great Judge.
In the difficult science of jurisprudence
He mastered every department,
Discussed almost every question, and
Touched no subject which he did not adorn.
He won in early manhood,
And retained to the close of a long life.
The AFFECTION of his brethren on the Bench,
The RESPECT of the Bar,
And the confidence of the people.
He died in Philadelphia May 3, 1853, in the seventy-third year of his age.
The Hon. John Banks was born in February, 1799, in Juniata County,
Penn. His education was received at his father’s house, from a private tutor.
Rev. Mr. Hutchinson, a Presbyterian minister, who had been a professor in
the University of Edinburg, Scotland. Under his tuition he became a profi-
cient scholar in the Latin, Greek and Hebrew languages. He read law with
Mr. Anderson, the leading attorney at Lewistown, then the county seat of
Juniata, commencing in the year 1816. In 1819 he removed to Mercer,
where he opened an office, and at once entered into a large and lucrative prac-
tice. He was first elected to Congress in 1830, and for two terms subse-
quently. The last year of his service he resigned to accept from Gov.
Ritner the judgeship of the district embracing Berks, Lehigh and North-
ampton Counties. He served upon the bench eleven years. He was then
nominated by the Whigs as their candidate for governor, but was defeated.
He was elected State treasurer, but refused to serve longer than one year. He
was offered by President Taylor a foreign mission, either to France or England,
but declined the position. After his retirement from political life, he devoted
himself to the legal profession in Reading until the time of his death, April
3, 1864. He was married in 1822 to Katherine Keiser, of Lewistown, Penn.
His wife and two children, son and daughter, still survive him at their home
in Reading.
Among the many bright attorneys who stood conspicuous at the Mercer
bar it is highly proper to place John J. Pearson, the late honored ex-judge
of the Dauphin and Lebanon County Court at Harrisburg, where he died in the
spring of 1888. John J. Pearson, the son of Bevan and Anna (Warner) Pearson,
was born in Delaware County on October 25, 1800. His paternal grand-
father, John Pearson, was of English descent, the family having hailed from
258
HISTOBY OF MEECER COUNTY.
Cheshire at an early period. When John was five years of age he removed
with his parents to Mercer County, where he received the best education the
schools of the new county afforded. He studied law under the instruction of
Hon. John Banks, and was admitted to the bar of Mercer County in August,
1822. He practiced law in Mercer and adjoining counties, and was a leader
in all political, business and philanthropic movements. In 1849 he was
appointed by Gov. William F. Johnson to the office of president judge of the
Twelfth Judicial District, composed of the counties of Dauphin and Leba-
non. The position he held for a period of thirty -three years, his term expiring
in January, 1882. At the end of every judicial term he was re-elected by a
unanimous vote of the people, without opposition. Dxiring his residence in
Mercer he was twice elected to office, first to the Congress of the United
States, for the counties of Beaver and Mercer, 1835-36, afterward tq the Sen-
ate of Pennsylvania for the same counties in 1837, three years of which term
were spent as chairman of the judiciary committee. Mr. Pearson married
twice, first to Ellen, only daughter of Gen. Samuel Hays, of Venango Coun-
ty, and next to Mary Harris Briggs, daughter of Joseph and Caroline Briggs,
granddaughter of Gen. John Andre Hanna, and great-granddaughter of
John Harris, the founder of Harrisburg. He was always an old line Whig,
until 1856, when he joined the ranks of the newly formed Republican party,
and was identified with it up to his death. His religious heritage was
that of the Quakers, but though not a member, he attended Presbyterian
services.
Thomas Scott Cunningham, one of Mercer County’s prominent men, was
born in Washington, Washington Co., Penn., on March 30, 1790. His fa-
ther, Alexander Cunningham, was a native of Ireland; his mother, Elizabeth
(Scott) Cunningham, a citizen of Washington County. He spent his early
days in Washington County, and graduated from the Washington College. He
studied law in his native town, and was also admitted to the bar at that place.
He came to Mercer, and was admitted to the bar of the county on November
17, 1813, when in his twenty-fourth year. On April 7, 1824, he married Miss
Matilda Cook, of Washington County, and his subsequent life was spent in.
Mercer, except when engaged in official life at the State capital. He was a
man of fine legal attainments, but he had not the opportunity to develop his
powers fully in his chosen calling, for he soon entered political life, and was
greatly honored by his constituents. He was, as will be seen by reference to
the list of State assemblymen and senators, a member of both branches of the
State Legislature, and served with great ability as speaker of the Senate.
While in the Legislature he introduced a bill for the complete abolition of
the laws of imprisonment for debt. He received for this humane measure
much praise from the poor. His support of the bank measure in the Legisla-
ture, in opposition to his (Democratic) party, produced a bitter antagonism,
from which he never fully recovered. From 1836 forward he was identified
with the Whig party. He twice held the position of postmaster of Mercer —
from October 1, 1817, to March 22, 1822, and from January 22, 1844, to Jan-
uary 20, 1845. He was associate judge for a period commencing February
15, 1849.
He had the following children, viz. : Alexander, Presbyterian minister (de-
ceased); Grace Sax'ah, married David Findley (deceased); Elizabeth, married
Rev. William Findley, still living as his widow at New Castle; Dox'cas, Jane
and John (all deceased), and Thomas Scott, a merchant in Waynesboro, Penn.
Gen. Cunningham, as he was familiarly called, was a generous, kind-
hearted man, possessing many of the elements of the successful politician and
258
nis;v;v or MT.’.rv;r oii'Ni i
nt :iii <‘iuis i'
wi*h ii!~ [V"u>'ir> 'd \ft-
.iI'Im tdi:? d t l i •- '
Hdi’. J' '!i n V';ii- 1.‘ ,
'^i‘r •• ^
MOt' ( 1- : ;
I
. .i 'Xtud. .folui W'-i* i’r !' I iip removed
• < i ]■■ H;*’ i-(h;oatiou the
r rT . -i !f*vv ’.ILi - I U:.'tl’UCtioil of
l tn :!.d ; :>;■ McrCei ' ill August,
i oounties, i . i-Hs a leader
. :.!■ | h m n’citients.. lu he was
, « 1 *ji' ojii.-e of presidi Jii ’n8ge of the
of 'i,” (.-iiunties of Dfiviphiii and Leba-
. ‘-rhrd of !i.> itr three year . his term expiring
■ . f . very judicial term iu- v, as re elected by a
■ ill. ill opposition. P tiring his re.sidence in
r?. ••nii-v., first to tfif U-uigi'ess of the United
Pr u 1 ! Mercer, l83o--H(), afteiw nr.l tq the Sen-
-I' l.e..* in 1837, three years of which term
i.imraittee, Mr. Pearson married
- '^,1-'. '■ muel H.-iys. of Venango Cotui-
■ 1.:,^- toseph and Caroline Briggs,
= • ‘ ;:nd gi-eat-granddaughter of
P , i V,;)., always an old line Whig,
■ " ‘ 1 •. 1 iy formed Republican party,
u- lua His i-.'!igi‘ius heritage was
1 -i.. mber, he alin'.ied Presbyteriari
... >1 Hes c 'I- Cor.iitv's ppt.minont men, was
1- . , u Mii.-cb 30, 1790. His fa-
• ' lo ll bis n.otber, Elizabeth
• d 5. , 1,. . lit), iipoTit his e.arly
i . .,- --.f : . ,t..' \\ ii-.!ii.,gion < .ji'idge He
'll was ttibi: ^ J ’be a* iUni jMtico.
.Uiiiiedto the bin . 1>.| > itv mi ■ .-.(Ju i .
.mirth year
On 4
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i.4 ois
bi-
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b He wus a
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i bit ;u.-
i poll till itv *
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; V . : .'Hlling. for ■
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• poi-ili...'
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the ItiVi.- . ! liu; "’ ;- dm u! for debt. He
f.'.r -
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itmcb pi.ii-i- nom the p. or. His suppov
t.nre. in opjiosition to his (Pemocr. ‘i.
, 1 . _ .
' i M -
frum ivhich he uevor fully roc< ’ >
; b ' '3*1
.. i.. iifid
with the Whig part • -wu;
oosUioo 1
f .
.
from October 1, IS, 7. , >b, ‘
and from
' •o-m
uarv LiU, 1845. H; was '■ ..:iig,.
for a p* >
oi'.xy
1M9.
Hi- ii.id . • ••'.nidreii, V'
•V i tde-
• • • ' ' ■ ■ •* : ■ i'id s 1
irried
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- J-*enn.
0 . as he w
• -.IS. kind-
r,. • : .. friiui'iy of
-biieian and
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
261
man of the world. He was reared in the Associate Church, but never made a
public profession of religion. He died at the home of his daughter, Mrs.
Grace S. Findley, in Mercer, on March 28, 1855, aged sixty-four years. His
remains are moldering in the old grave-yard attached to the First Presbyte-
rian Church.
Robert C. Rankin was another early member of the Mercer bar. The
Mercer Whig of January 29, 1855, thus speaks of him: “It is with feelings
of deep sorrow that we chronicle the death of Robert C. Rankin, Esq. He
died on the morning of Monday, the 22d inst. , after a severe illness of sev-
eral weeks’ continuance, at the age of about forty years. Col. Rankin has
been a resident of Mercer since his youth, and his social disposition, his kind-
ness of heart and gentlemanly bearing had endeared him to all of our citizens-
He graduated with honor at Washington College, Penn., in the class of 1838,.
and, while we were there several years afterward, we often heard those who-
had known him, and had associated with him, speak in the highest terms of
his attainments and abilities. After devoting two years to the study of law
he was, in December, 1840, admitted to practice in the courts of this county,
since which time he has been diligently and successfully engaged in his pro-
fession. He was a true friend, a well-read lawyer, and endowed with abilities
of no common order. In his death society has lost a useful and energetic citi-
zen, the bar an ornament, and his family a son and brother whom they es-
teemed and loved and cherished. When he had attained the meridian of life,
when by his industry, talents and energy he had gained a competency, and
was looking forward with bright hopes to the future, death, the destroyer,
comes and strikes deep the fatal shaft, and the strong man lies low.”
One of the early and prominent attorneys of the Mercer bar was Samuel
Holstein. He was a native of Montgomery County, Penn., but came to
Mercer County as an attorney in 1826. In February, 1830, he was commis-
sioned by Gov. W olf as register and recorder of the county, which position he
held during the continuance of the governor’ s term. Retiring from that office,
Mr. Holstein formed a successful partnership with William M. Stephenson. The
new firm was retained in many of the most important cases of the county. In
1854 he removed to Neshannock Falls, and engaged in farming and man-
ufacturing. He had a clear and well balanced mind, and acquired a compe-
tence. He died in New Castle May 20, 1869, in the sixty-ninth year of his
age.
William M. Stephenson, one of the leading members of the Mercer County
bar, was born in what is now known as Worth Township, Mercer County, in
the year 1808. His father, John Stephenson, was, at the age of ten years,
brought to this country by his father, J ames, about the close of the Revolu-
tion. The family remained in Northumberland County, Penn. , until this region
was opened up to settlers. William’s mother was Jane Mortimer, a niece of
the William Mortimer who was one of the trustees, with William McMillan
and John Findley, to sell the lots of the borough of Mercer to raise the funds
with which to build the first jail and court-house. Mr. Stephenson received a
good classical education from a well-known and successful educator. Rev.
John Gamble, the father of Dr. Gamble, of Jamestown. Mr. Gamble taught
academies in Jamestown and Greenville, and enrolled among his pupils some
of the brightest men of the county. William first studied medicine, then the-
ology, but finally entered the law office of John J. Pearson. After having
served a term as register and recorder, and having been admitted to the bar in
1836, he married Hannah B. , daughter of Samuel B. Foster, one of the prom-
inent attorneys at the organization of the county. His natural talents, com-
15
262
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
bined with his studious habits and purity of life, placed him among the leaders
of the bar in this and the adjoining counties, where he continued to practice
until his death in 1861. In politics he was an outspoken abolitionist, and his
house was one of the stations on the ‘ ‘Underground Railroad. ’ ’ He was in 1857
the originator of the Mercer Coxmiy Dispatch, to represent the anti- slavery ele-
ment of the new Republican party, he furnishing the money to four young men
(one of them his son, S. B. Stephenson), and William F. Clark, Sr., the latter
being the political editor. The Union school building of Mercer is a monument
to his labors, being built by him in the face of the most determined opposition,
and even at the end of a lawsuit. He left two sons, S. B. and John M., both
of whom were in the army at the time of his death. The former is still living
in Mercer, where he pursues the duties of a civil engineer. The other died in
Mercer in the year 1870, leaving two children. The most of Mr. Stephenson’s
friends and clients have gone to join the ranks of the great silent majority, but
some remain to cherish his memory with love and respect.
Hon. William Stewart. At a meeting of the bench and bar, held in the
court-house October 20, 1876, of which Hon. L. L. McGuffin, of Lawrence
County, was president, and James A. Stranahan, secretary, a committee, con-
sisting of William Maxwell, Samuel Griffith, Johnson Pearson, James A.
Stranahan, R. M. De France, S. H. Miller and A. D. Gillespie, was appointed
to prepare resolutions bearing upon the death of Hon. William Stewart. On
October 23 the committee reported the following, which was unanimously
adopted; “Once more have we been called upon to assist in laying away the
remains of a distinguished member of our profession, and an honored and re-
spected citizen. On the 17th of October, 1876, after a protracted illness of
over three years, Hon. William Stewart peacefully departed from the land of
the dying and entered the land of the living. He was born in Mercer, Mer-
cer Co., Penn., on the 16th day of September, 1810. He had an academic
education, and having read law with Judge Banks, at that time a practicing
attorney of this place, he was admitted to the bar in 1832. He first opened a
law office in Brookville, Jefferson Co., Penn., where he remained but a short
time, removing thence to Franklin, Venango Co. , Penn., where he remained
for two years, and thence to Mercer, the place of his birth and education and
the home of his relatives and acquaintances, entering the office of Hon. John
J. Pearson. During his long, brilliant and active public career he filled the
offices of State senator, and represented the district composed of Mercer,
Lawrence, Beaver and Butler Counties in the 34th and 35th Congresses of
the United States. As an attorney and jurist Mr. Stewart early took rank
with his associates, and his native ability, comprehensive mind and active tem-
perament, supplemented by his courteous and dignified bearing toward the
Court and his brethren of the bar, soon placed him at the head of his pro-
fession. Always zealous of his honor and conscientious in'the discharge of his
professional duties, his promise once pledged to his opponent was regarded as
sacred. The amenities which to-day so strongly mark the professional inter-
course of the members of the bar, one with another, and with the Court, are
largely due to his example and practice. As a citizen he was public spirited
and benevolent, earnestly patriotic, and uncompromisingly devoted to the per-
petuity and unity of his country. Socially, he was kind, considerate and
attentive to acquaintances, and generous and loving to friends.
“In view, therefore, of the distinguished character, the moral and social
virtues, the honored name and the legal attainments which so signally charac-
terized the life and career of William Stewart, be it
‘ ^Resolved, That the members of the bar hereby bear testimony to his well-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
263
earned reputation for purity of life, honesty of purpose, and ability as a
jurist.” * * *
J. H. Robinson, attorney, editor and politician, was one of the active and
reputable citizens of Mercer, who, cut off in the prime of life, had endeared
himself to all classes of his fellow countrymen as a patriotic citizen, an honor-
able business man and a philanthropic neighbor. He was born May 29, 1826,
and died March 7, 1872, in his forty-sixth year. His early education was se-
cured in Mercer, and subsequently at Washington College, from which he grad-
uated with honor in 1849. In 1851 he began the study of law under Hon. Will-
iam Stewart, and was admitted to the bar August 10, 1853. He served one term
as district attorney by election, and one year by appointment. In 1854 he
became the editor of the Mercer Whig, which position he held until 1863. Its
columns during that period attest the ability and loyalty with which he main-
tained the principles of his party. He was a cogent writer, as was shown by
the editorial and foi-ensic articles which graced the pages of his journal. In
1860 he was elected to the position of State senator, and held the place for
four years of the most important part of our national history. He was a
genuine supporter of the national and State administrations during those try-
ing times. Hon. William Stewart once said of Mr. Robinson, “that he was
not surpassed as a lawyer by any member of the Mercer or any other bar
within his knowledge.”
We will briefly mention a few more of those who have been connected
with the bar, none of whom are now living in Mercer County except Judge
William Waugh, of Greenville. He was admitted to practice in 1842, but
after a few years gave up the profession.
B. F. Baskin, a native of Selins Grove, Union Co., Penn., was one of
the well-known members of the bar. He studied law in Selins Grove, came
to Mercer about 1844, was elected district attorney in 1847, and served one
term. Some years afterward he removed from Mercer to Greenville, and fol-
lowed his profession there and at Meadville up to his death, at Greenville,
July 8, 1862.
George W. Carskadden was engaged in the law at Greenville from his ad-
mission, in 1845, until his death September 18, 1884.
James Galloway was admitted in 1846, and practiced in Mercer until the
California gold excitement, when he went to the Pacific slope. He afterward
attained considerable prominence in that State.
David B. Hays came from Franklin to Mercer in the forties, and formed a
partnership with John J. Pearson. The latter was appointed president judge,
and Hays continued in practice alone until his death a few years afterward.
William L. Christy was one of the first lawyers to open an office in Green-
ville. He did not do very much business, and finally went West and died.
A. H. Snyder, admitted in 1849, was a brother-in-law and partner of Will-
iam Stewart, and one of the leading members of the bar. He went into the
war as captain of Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and was killed in the Wilderness May 5, 1864. He then held the
rank of major, and was recognized as a gallant officer.
George W. Decamp was also admitted in 1849, practiced some years in
Mercer, and then removed to Erie. From there he went to Pittsburgh, and
thence to Kansas.
Archibald Cook began to practice in Mercer in 1853, but soon removed to
Washington, D. C.
Robert M. DeFrance practiced in Mercer from his admission, in 1853, up to
his death.
264
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Robert Taylor commenced legal practice in Mercer in 1853, and continued
in the profession until entering the ministry of the Presbyterian Church.
Thomas Zuv.er was admitted in 1853, but finally removed from Mercer to
Venango County.
William G. Rose was admitted in 1855, and after a few years’ practice in
Mercer went to Cleveland, Ohio. He has become prominent in the social and
political interests of that city and State; has served as mayor of Cleveland,
and been once the popular Republican candidate for lieutenant-governor.
William Scott practiced a few years in Mercer, commencing in 1855, and
Charles A. Wood had an office in Greenville for a time before the Rebellion.
Both went west to “grow up with the country.”
Died, July 23, 1870, H. H. Foster, in the thirty-eighth year of his age.
At a meeting of the bar, of which Hon. William Stewart was chairman, and
Arcus McDermitt, secretary, a committee on resolutions, consisting of J.
H. Robinson, Arcus McDermitt, R. M. DeFrance, Johnson Pearson and D.
L. Hoge, declared that ‘ ‘ in his death the bar had lost one of its ablest mem-
bers, and the community one of its most useful citizens. He was a good law-
yer, a faithful friend, and an honest man.” He was admitted to practice in
1855. Mr. Garvin says of him: “ Universally esteemed for his social quali-
ties and kindness of heart, respected for his genius and great ability as a
member of the bar, he had a grasp on the affections of our people that will
hold him long in remembrance. It is said, with truth, that lawyers are not
born such, but Mr. Foster came so near being so as to endanger the standing
of this long admitted axiom. Correct, ready, brilliant in his conceptions, and
always cool and collected, his legal brethren have ever felt proud of his abili-
ties, and claimed him as a great ornament to their association.”
Died, James B. "VVhite, Esq., August 18, 1870, at New Wilmington. He
was a member of the Mercer bar, which body passed a series of resolutions de-
claring in one that in his death ‘ ‘ the bar of Mercer has lost an able and hon-
orable member, whose usefulness and fame was limited only by his unfortu-
nate physical weakness, and whose integrity, sincerity and ability were recog-
nized by all with whom he came in contact.” He had a genial nature, philo-
sophic mind, refined wit and kindliness of heart, which endeared him to his
associates.
The present bar of Mercer County has some able representatives. In the
ranks of older members are found Judge William Maxwell, of Greenville, the
Nestor of the bar. He has been in the county continuously since March,
1832.
A. D. Gillespie, of Greenville, is likewise an old practitioner, and is still
in the active field. Full sketches of these veterans will be found in the bio-
graphical chapter of Greenville.
At Mercer there are several representatives of the older class — Hon. Sam-
uel Griffith, Hon. Johnson Pearson and Hon. Samuel R. Mason. They have
long stood before the public in the capacity of attorneys and citizens and offi-
cials. Their names have been connected with the public movements of the
county. Their personal sketches are not repeated here, but will be found in
the biographical department.
The bar of the county at the present time embraces the following attorneys :
Mercer. — Johnson Pearson, admitted in 1843; Samuel Griffith, June 25,
1846; S. R. Mason, March 23, 1853; Beriah Magoffin, April, 1862; James A.
Stranahan, April 20, 1864; J. G. Elliott, May 15, 1865; W. A. McCormick,
January, 1866; S. B. Stephenson, November, 1867; J. G. White, February
22, 1870; Samuel H. Miller, 1871; S. S. Mehard, September 18, 1872; S. F.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
265
Thompson, September 18, 1872; A. B. Thompson, February 17, 1873; J. R.
W. Baker, February 17, 1873; H. H. Zeigler, February 17, 1873; A. H.
McElrath, 1873; John W. Bell, May, 1874; S. B. Griffith, March, 1876;
H. B. Bowser, April 17, 1876; Q. A. Gordon, May 22, 1876; Robert A.
Stewart, 1876; J. J. Alexander, August 18, 1876; Samuel Redmond, April
8, 1878; W. H. Cochran, April 12, 1880; William Miller, June 15, 1882;
W. W. Moore, June 15, 1882; G. W. McBride, August 12, 1882; J. C.
Miller, February 14, 1884; J. D. Emery, January 5, 1885; Henry Hall,
January 6, 1886, and L. Bingham, June 13, 1887.
Greenville. — William Maxwell, September, 1831; A. D. Gillespie, Decem-
ber 17, 1845; W. H. Sheakley, 1860; Lester Kuder, 1860: A. F. Henlein,
June 27, 1874; E. P. Gillespie, August 18, 1874; John W. Vosler, April 25,
1876; E. S. Templeton, 1877; D. P. Packard, January, 1885, and ,A. J. Gil-
lespie, December 15, 1886.
Sharon. — Joseph N. McClure, January 16, 1866; Thomas Tanner, Noyem-
ber, 1868; William C. Haus, May, 1874; John McClure, September, 1874;
John H. Elliott, January, 1877; W. W. Shilling, June, 1882, and A. W.
Williams, June 10, 1884.
CHAPTER XII.
Religious— Predominant Faith of the First Settlers— Their Efforts to
Establish Churches and Schools— Sketches of the First Presbyterian
Organizations — Call Extended to Reu. Daniel McLean in 1801— Who
Signed the Call— Methodist Church— Beginning of Methodism in Mer-
cer County — Bishop Roberts and Cotemporary Methodists— First Class
Organized in the County— Growth of the Church — Salaries Paid
Methodist Preachers from 1800 to 1816— Itinerants of the Shenango
Circuit— Other Denominations Establish Churches— An Attempt
Made to Organize a Mormon Church— First Bible Society— Early Mis-
sionary Society.
The majority of the first settlers of Mercer County were Irish Presbyterians,
or descendants of that race, and hence had much to do in shaping the
religious tendencies and sentiment of the community. The early settlers prized
highly their church and school priyileges, and hence the effort made to estab-
lish both secular and religious instruction. An examination of the facts shows
clearly that schools and churches were about simultaneous in their establish-
ment, and rightfully, too. The school-house often became the church edifice,
for a time, and vice versa. The following history of the Presbyterian Churches
up to 1875 is sketched, in a general way, by Mr. Gaiwin, whose account is
in^^erted yerbatim. Fuller sketches of the congregations will be found in the
boroughs and townships.
Presbyterian Churches. — In the very first settlement of Mercer County
the Presbyterians took active measures to plant their churches within its limits,
probably with a view to a future occupancy of the held, but certainly with a
strong desire to carry the Gospel of Christ into every family that was seeking to
build up a home in the wilderness. It is presumed that every settlement was
visited by their young missionaries before the close of the year 1800, in most of
which church organizations were formed, and in several pastors installed. Before
roads were cut out, or streams bridged, the missionary, on horseback, was
266
HISTORY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
following the blazed paths from settlement to settlement, and from house to
house, and where a few could be got together, delivering his message with
such sincerity and earnestness as to make deep and lasting impressions on the
hearers. These young preachers came mostly from Washington County and from
the theological school of Dr. John McMillan, a log-cabin institution that through
its graduates has exercised a powerful influence for good in Mercer and
adjoining counties. The Revs. Tait, Wick, Lee, Satterfield, Wood, Riggs,
Matthews and Condit, who were severally called to the pastorates of different
congregations in Mercer County, all studied theology with Dr. McMillan.
It is difficult now to determine which was the first organization in the
county. In Eaton’s History of the Presbytery of Erie, that of Fairfield is
mentioned as having occurred in September, 1799, the first elders being Daniel
Axtell, David Condit and Ithiel Dodd, and a faithful search has failed to dis-
cover any prior organization. The settlement in this neighborhood, far
and near, was familiary known as the “ Ten Milers,” and was considered
remarkable for its fervid and consistent piety, although outsiders charged it
with being straight-laced and a little over plumb. These settlers were all pretty
much from Washington County, and came to Mercer County together, reaching
their destination on a Saturday evening. The next morning their first prayer-
meeting was held in the woods, a sermon read, and the c-hildren catechized.
This was in 1797 or 1798. In 1799 they were visited by Elisha McCurdy and
Joseph Stockton, two of the Presbyterian missionaries that were traversing the
Northwest, and by them organized into a church. Rev. William Wylie was
their first pastor, staying with them from April, 1802, to December, 1804.
Their next ordained pastor was Rev. Cyrus Riggs, who was installed in 1807,
and released in 1812. In 1814 Ira Condit was installed pastor, holding the
position to his death in 1836. The pastorate of the Rev. David Waggoner
followed, commencing in 1838, and ending in 1853; and then that of the Rev.
James Shields, who was ordained in 1855 and released in 1864.
Neshannock -was organized about 1800, at least the Rev. William Wick was
installed pastor in that year, in connection with Hopewell. He was succeeded
in 1802 by the Rev. James Satterfield. The first elders were William Jack-
son, Thomas Scott and Robert Stevenson. From 1813 to 1815 Rev. William
Matthews officiated as its pastor. In 1816 Rev. William Wood became its
pastor, continuing in the charge until 1837, when he was succeeded by Rev.
Absalom McCready, who was pastor when Neshannock was cut off into Law-
rence County.
Hopeivell was organized about the same time as Neshannock, with the same
pastor, who continued with it until his death in 1815. Rev. William Wood
succeeded Mr. Wick in 1816, continuing until 1828, when he removed to Ohio,
dying at Utica, Licking County, in 1839. The next pastor was Rev. William
Nesbit, who was released in 1840. When the county was divided, in 1849,
Rev. William Webber was pastor.
Cool Spring was organized in 1800, with Rev. Samuel Tait as pastor. In
1813 this organization seems to have been suspended, the members thereof
consenting to worship at Mercer, where Mr. Tait was also pastor. This
arrangement continued until 1827, when the Cool Spring people determined
on a reorganization, and two years after the Rev. Ira Condit was installed
pastor. His death occurred in 1836. He was followed by Rev. David Wag-
goner, and he again by Rev. James G. Wilson, whose pastorate continued
until 1850. The present pastor (1875), John W. McCune, was installed in
1852, and at this writing has been nearly a quarter of a century the pastor of
the Cool Spring congregation.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
267
Mr. Tait was the first pastor of Salem, the organization taking place in
1800. When a church was organized in Mercer, in 1804, Salem was relin-
quished by him until the consolidation of Cool Spring and Mercer, in 1813,
when he again became the pastor of Salem, giving it half of his time until the
year 1826, when he gave it up. In 1828 Rev. James Alexander became the
installed pastor, in connection with Greenville and Big Bend, remaining with
it until 1834. In 1836 Rev. James G. Wilson was installed, in connection
with Greenville, remaining with it until 1851. From this time until about
1860 it was supplied by Revs. Callen, Johnson, Coulter, Grier and others,
when Rev. John W. McCune became its pastor, for one-third his time, in con-
nection with Cool Spring.
Rev. Alexander Cook was the first pastor of Lower Neshannock (now New
Castle), being installed in 1803. He was followed by Rev. Robert T. Sample,
in 1810, and he by Rev. Wells Bushnell in 1839, during whose pastorate the
division of the county occurred.
Plain Grove is claimed to have been organized before 1800. Its first pas-
tor was Rev. William Wood, installed in 1802, its elders being William Mc-
Neel and Joseph Campbell. Mr. Wood was succeeded by Rev. John Munson
in 1818, and he by Rev. R. B. Walker, in 1839, who was most probably the
pastor when this church was cut ofP into Lawrence County, ten years after.
Centre was organized about the same time as Plain Grove, its first pastor
being also Mr. Wood, succeeded by Mr. Munson in 1818, who resigned his
charge in 1859, after a pastorate of forty-one years. In 1861 the Rev. W.
W. McKinney was installed pastor, followed by Rev. S. A. Hughes in 1866.
The First Presbyterian Church of Mercer was organized in 1804, with Rev.
Samuel Tait as its pastor, who remained such until his death in 1841. Rev.
Joseph T. Smith then became pastor, relinquishing the post in 1849, to enable
him to accept a call in the city of Baltimore. Rev. Robert S. Morton suc-
ceeded him in 1851, and remained one year. Rev. Robert T. Sample followed,
but was released in 1856. The Rev. tfohn R. Findley was installed pastor in
1857, and continued until 1874, when he relinquished the post to accept a call
at Rock Island, on the Mississippi. This congregation has since been sup-
plied by Revs. H. R. Van Pelt, J. F. Stonecipher and J. V. Stockton.
The Second Presbyterian Church at Mercer was a colony from the first
church, organized in 1863, with Elias Alexander, Joseph Fleming, and R. M.
J. Zahniser as elders. A disagreement with the pastor of the first church, Mr.
Findley, in relation to the civil war then raging, rendering their position some-
what uncomfortable, they concluded to colonize and form a new congregation.
Their first pastor was Rev. William M. Robinson, installed in 1864. He re-
mained with them until May, 1872, when he relinquished his charge. Rev. B.
M. Kerr was installed in September, 1872.
Rocky Spring had Rev. Robert Lee for its first and only Presbyterian pas-
tor, installed in 1801, in connection with Amity. About 1807, when Mr. Lee
was released from both these charges, it connected itself with the Associate
(seceders) Presbyterian organization.
Amity, the congregation which was made up from both Mercer and
Venango Counties, appears to have had no regular pastor from the resignation
of Mr. Lee until 1825, when Rev. Ira Condit was installed. He continued
rintil 1829. In 1832 Rev. Robert Glenn was installed pastor, who was
released in 1850. The next was Rev. Mead Satterfield, who died while in this
charge in 1856. The next was Rev. John F. Boyd, who was succeeded in
1866 by Rev. W. D. Patton.
Upper Sandy, now Georgetown, claims to have been organized in 1799, by
268
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
Eevs. McCurdy and Stockton, with William Byers and Alex. McCracken
for elders. The first pastor was Rev. William Wylie, installed in 1802 and
released in 1804; after this it was supplied occasionally by Mr. Stockton,
pastor at Meadville, and others, for a time, when finally the organization
ceased to exist. In 1814 a re-organization was effected, taking the name of
Georgetown, Mr. Condit becoming pastor in connection with Fairfield. His
death occurred in 1836. Mr. Waggoner was the next pastor, installed in 1838
and released in 1853. Rev. James M. Shields followed, being installed in 1855
and released in 1864. The same year Mr. Waggoner was re-installed for
two-thirds of his time, Greenfield, in Crawford County, taking the other third.
Moorfield had but one pastor. Rev. James Satterfield, who was installed in
1802, in connection with Neshannock. In 1834 he no longer found himself
able to perform the active duties of the ministry, and as churches had recently
sprung up in the villages around (Sharon, Middlesex and Clarksville), the
membership of Moorfield gradually became absorbed in them, while the old
organization was permitted to die oiit. The cemetery attached to it is con-
trolled by a corporation. In it were deposited the remains of its only pas-
tor, and many of the pioneers, as well as those of the Hon. M. C. Trout.
Sandy Lake was organized in 1835, with Alexander Brown, Homer Bailey
and Eli Bntler for elders. Its first pastor was Rev. Robert Glenn, succeeded
by Mr. McCune in 1852, and three years afterward by Rev. John G. Condit,
and he again, in 1857, by Rev. John Rice.
Greenville was organized in 1825, with Rev. James Alexander for its first
pastor, installed in 1828 and released in 1834. The place was next filled by
Rev. J. G. Wilson, who retired in 1842. Next, Rev. Henry Webber, who
remained with it but two years. The next regular pastor was Rev. J. H. Cal-
len, installed in 1848 and released in 1852. He was followed by Rev. David
Grier, installed in 1854 and released in 1859. The next was Rev. A. C. Jun-
kin, installed in 1862 and released in 1867. Then came Rev. J. E. Wright,
1869-74, and B. C. Critchlow, installed in 1875.
Big Bend was organized about the same time as Greenville, with the same
pastor, Mr. Alexander. But after his severance from it, in 1834, it seems to
have become extinct, its members most likely becoming absorbed in the Mercer
and Clarksville churches.
Milledgeville was organized in 1856, being dependent on supplies. In 1866,
July 11, Rev. Henry B. Lamb was installed pastor, and released May 9 in
the following year.
The United Presbyterian Church, of Greenville, is the successor of the old
seceder organization, established by Rev. Daniel McLean in 1802. He was
pastor until 1840, and was succeeded by his son. Rev. D. H. A. McLean, D. D. ,
now of Rochester, Penn. , who has furnished us a copy of a paper which accom-
panied the first call for pastoral services received by his father. It bears date
December 28th, 1801. At that time there was a preaching station at “Shank’s
Ford,’’ which subsequently became the Salem Associate Church, and after-
wards the United Presbyterian Church of Greenville. The following is the
paper, with the signatures attached;
We, the undernamed subscribers, members of the Shenango and Sandy congregations,
pray that this Reverend Presbytery would sustain our call and put it into the hand of
the candidate, for whom it was brought forward, and adopt every legal measure for has-
tening his settlement among us, as our case needs the greatest attention. The enemies of
Christ’s Cross are numerous in the place where God in his providence has cast our lot,
and we are deprived of what we conceive a pure dispensation of gospel ordinance dis-
pensed among us in a stated way, all which we conceive very distressing to those who
desire to follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
269
The sum we engage to pay annuall}^ for the labors of the Rev. Daniel McLean is one
hundred and thirtv-tive pounds, Pennsylvania currency. As witness our hands this 28th
day of December, in the year of our Lord oue thousand eight hundred and one.
David Nelson, elder; Joseph Work, elder; Thomas Ewing, elder; Hugh Fletcher, elder;
A. Dumars, Robert Bean, Jonathan Culbert, David Beatty. John Snodgrass, Isaac Mair,
William Snodgrass, Benjamin Snodgrass, Quinten Brooks, William Brooks, Francis Moss-
man. John Brown, Jr., Thomas Gillis, William H. Mossman. John Gillis, George Mc-
Cord, James Nelson, Matthew McElhaney, David McConaughey, Robert McCouaughey,
James McElhaney, John Brooks, Hugh Richardson, Alexander Caldwell, Moses Logan,
Thomas Mento, John Work, John Cook, John Minteer, William Bean, Thomas Bean,
Hugh Brown, Robert Story, John Moreland, Isaac Moreland, James Wilson, Thomas
Lochrey, Hamilton Armor, Hugh Lackey. .
The spelling of some of the names is not in harmony with the present
orthography, and we have taken the liberty of changing it. Thomas Ewing was
the grandfather of Judge Ewing, of Pittsburgh. Alexander Dumars was the
grandfather of A. D. Gillespie, of Greenville. Robert, William and Thomas
Dean were the forefathers of the Bean family, still in this county. Hugh
Fletcher was the grandfather of O. N. Fletcher, of Greenville. David Beatty
was the grandfather of James W. and Henry W. Beatty, of Salem and Otter
Creek Townships, respectively. John, William and Benjamin Snodgrass were
the ancestors of the Snodgrass families around Jamestown and Greenville.
William H. and Francis Mossman were pioneers of West Salem Township, on
the Ohio line, and many of their descendants are residents of the county.
Thomas and John Gillis were also pioneers of West Salem, where some of the
family still live. James Nelson was an early settler of West Salem, and some
of his descendants are residents thereof. Matthew McElhaney lived in Craw-
ford County, and was the grandfather of Dr. M. J. McElhaney, of Greenville.
James McElhaney was the father of James and Charles S. McElhaney, of West
Salem. Hugh Brown was a pioneer near Greenville, and the grandfather of
Hon. James C. Brown, of the Advance- Argus, and John Brown, Jr., was his
son. John and Isaac Moreland were early settlers of Greene Township,
near Jamestown, and the forefathers of the family of that name, still living
there. A few of the remaining signers of the call lived in Mercer County, but
the majority were residents of Crawford.
Methodist Church. — Methodism made its appearance in the county about
the close of the last century. The pioneer was, doubtless. Rev. R. R. Rob-
erts, afterward so well known as Bishop Roberts. He was born in Frederick
County, Md. , August 2, 1778. In 1785 he removed with his father to West-
moreland County, Penn., where he continued to reside until the spring of 1796,
when, at the age of eighteen, in company with his brother Thomas and three
other young men of his neighborhood, he started to make his fortune in a yet
newer country. The point finally reached was the tract lying north of what
is now called Leech’ s Corners, where he began a settlement by erecting a log
cabin. In the spring of 1797 Thomas and Lewis Roberts, in company with
Rev. Jacob Gurwell, a local Methodist preacher, made their appearance in the
settlement, and continued to share its hardships. The privations of those pio-
neers make an interesting narrative, but cannot be given .here. This is the
introduction of Methodism into Mercer County.
Mr. Roberts began to preach’in 1801, and subsequently became famous in his
church. In the year 1798 the parents of Mr. Roberts moved to the neighbor-
hood in which he had settled. They were soon followed by the Stevensons,
the Walkers, the McLeans, the Dumars, etc., all of whom were members of
the Methodist Church. The two Irish local preachers, Jacob Gurwell and
Thomas McClelland, settled in the same district, and began their work by
preaching in log cabins and groves and wherever people could be assembled
270
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
to hear them. The class formed at that time, of which R. R. Roberts was
leader, became the nucleus of Methodism in the Shenango Valley. It included
R. R. Roberts, Thomas McClelland and wife, James Stevenson and wife, Will-
iam Lindsey and wife, Lewis Roberts and wife, John Honnell and wife, John
McGranahan and wife, William McGranahan and wife, John Caughey and
wife, John Rodgers and wife, William McLean and wife, William Stewart and
Nancy Wilson. A year or two later the inflowing tide of inhabitants extended
southward and established what was known as the South class, embracing
George McFetridge and wife, Thomas Dumars and wife, John Waters and
wife. Rev. Jacob Gurwell and wife, Bradson Gibbons and wife, Morris
Dunlavy and wife, William Gurwell and wife, and in 1802 John Leech and
wife; some twenty-two all told.
Mr. Roberts had, in February, 1799, been married in Ligonier to Miss
Elizabeth Oldham, of York County. She, in company with her husband and
Lewis Roberts, about two weeks after marriage, rode on horseback through
the woods to their new home in the Shenango Valley. She was mounted on a
good horse, with cooking utensils and a blanket strapped to her saddle. As
they were going through a dense forest, her brother-in-law being ahead with
the provisions, she and her husband were compelled to stop over night in the
woods. Building a fire, they lay under their blankets, but were not permitted to
sleep on account of the howling of the fierce wolves about them. Thus they
spent the supperless night.
At this date this whole region was in the Baltimore Conference. At its
session held May 1, 1801, it made the following appointments: Pittsburgh
District, Thornton Fleming, P. E. ; Erie Circuit, James Quinn; Shenango,
Joseph Shane. The Pittsburgh District embraced eight circuits, covering a
vast territory in the present West Virginia, Erie and Pittsburgh Conferences.
The Erie and Shenango Circuits embraced the country west of the Allegheny,
between Lake Erie and the Ohio, except the Shenango Circuit, which was the
southern one, and embraced the valley by that name. The compensation in
those days was not enormous. From 1800 to 1816 it was as follows:
1. The annual salary of the traveling preachers shall be $80 and their traveling
expenses.
2. The annual allowance of the wives of the traveling preachers shall be $80.
3. Each child of a traveling preacher shall be allowed $16 annually to the age of
seven years, and $24 annually from seven to fourteen years; nevertheless, this rule shall
not apply to the children of preachers whose families are provided for by other means
in their circuit respectively.
In 1817 Shenango Circuit was divided into Erie and Beaver Circuits. Its
name then disappears from the records. Its preachers were as follows: P.
B. Davis, 1800; Joseph Shane, 1801; Asa Shinn, 1802; George Askins, 1803;
Joseph Hall, 1804; R. R. Roberts, 1805; James Reed, 1806; James Watts,
Thomas Church, 1807; James Charles, 1808; Jacob McDowell, Eli Towne,
1809; James Watts, 1810; Abel Robinson, 1811; James Watts, William Knox,
1812; Jacob Gurwell, 1813; John Elliott, 1814; J. Summerville, 1816; R. C.
Hatton, 1816. The history of individual congregations will be found in other
portions of this volume, to which the reader is referred for information on the
local growth of Methodism.
Other Churches. — The Baptists made their first efforts in the county about
the beginning of the century. The records show an organization at Sharon in
1804. The Lutherans, Disciples, Reformed, Episcopalians, Congregational -
ists, Catholics, Evangelicals, United Brethren and other religious organizations
will be found reported in their proper places in the sketches of boroughs and
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
271
townships. They all came later than the Presbyterians and Methodists, but
have succeeded in establishing flourishing congregations and erecting comfort-
able and commodious houses of worship.
Mormonism. — An attempt was once made to establish Mormonism in this
county. On the 8th of February, 1832, two Mormon missionaries called at
the house of Benjamin Stokely, near Mercer, and declared that they had been
sent by God to preach the Gospel to every creature, and offered, if the neigh-
bors would assemble, to announce more fully their mission in the way of an
exegetical address. The neighbors were accordingly assembled, and listened
to the preaching of the disciples of Joe Smith. Notes of this service were
made at the time by Mr. Stokely, and subsequently published in the Western
Press. One of these preachers was Orson Pratt, who became, in later days,
one of their ‘ ‘ Apostles. ’ ’ While the mission was unsuccessful in establishing
a congregation, it was effectual in scattering seed which finally grew into fruit.
Rev. Sidney Rigdon, at that time a Baptist minister at Sharon, finally became
one of their proselytes, and endeavored, after his expulsion from the Mormon
Church at Nauvoo, 111. , to form a colony of like faith and character near
Greencastle, Franklin Co., Penn. He failed in his purpose.
Bible Society. — When the first Mercer County Bible Society was formed
has not been ascertained. Mention of it is made as early as May, 1849, when
the board of managers, through its secretary, B. F. Baskin, announced that it
had employed Rev. O. Flying as an agent to distribute Bibles and collect funds.
Missionary Society. — It would seem that a county missionary society had
an existence at an early day. The announcement is made that Mercer County
Missionary Society held its first annual meeting in Mercer on the 11th of June,
1834, with Rev. Samuel Tait as president. Rev. A. W. Black, vice-president,
and Rev. J. L. Dinwiddie, secretaxy. The officers for the next year were
Rev. Tait, president; William McElheney, vice-president, and A. W. Black,
secretary. Judging from the composition of its officers, it was a Presbyterian
institution.
CHAPTER XIII.
Medical— Physiology — Proper Knowledge and Observance of Physical
Laws Necessary to a Sound Body and Mind— Ignorance the Main
Cause of Most Human Infirmities— Sen.seopathy— Progress in Medical
Science— The Old-fashioned Doctor— Pioneer Physicians of Mercer
County— Brief Sketches of the Best Remembered Practitioners of
Pioneer Days— Epidemics— Medical Societies— First Medical Society
OF Mercer— Organization of the Mercer County Medical Society in
1848 — Its Demise and Reorganization— Officers of the Society since 1882.
WHEN the poet wrote in satirical verse the oft repeated sentiment.
Presume not God to scan —
The proper study of mankind is man,
he expressed a truth which the ages have not yet fully comprehended or ap-
plied. “I am fearfully and wonderfully made,” was an attempt of the
sweet singer of Israel to grasp the mysteries connected with his physical or-
ganization. Despite the efforts of moralists to give transcendent importance
to the demands of the soul, often to the neglect of the best needs of the body,
reflecting and intelligent people have insisted upon giving some attention to the
272
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
“ house I live in.” While the teachings of the past may have caused Sir
AVilliam Hamilton to place above the door to his studio the maxim: “On
earth there is nothing great but man; in man there is nothing great but
mind,” yet the demands of a progressive civilization will not be satisfied with
any theory which neglects to give due attention to the requirements of the
bodily organization.
Mens Sana in sano corpore — a strong mind in a strong body — is a classic
dictum which ought to prompt sensible people to halt and carefully survey the
ground of their terrestrial existence. “ I beseech you, by the mercies of God,
that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God,
which is your reasonable service,” indicates that divinely inspired men in-
sisted strongly upon the claims of physical Christianity. “Do thyself no
harm,” was the timely advice of a philanthropic messenger to one who was
bent upon the infliction of bodily injury.
All these quotations, and a host of others that might be cited, tend to fix the
lesson that man’ s physical organism instead of being simply a mass of corruption,
and the abode of Satanic influences, is as much the workmanship of God as the
spirit, and therefore entitled to the same thoughtful attention and culture.
Its care, whether supervised intelligently by the person himself or conducted
by some one specially set apart for such work, demands proper and judicious
direction. Nor can this responsibility be wholly delegated to another. Car-
lyle confessed that he was past seventy before he discovered that he possessed
such an organ as a stomach; but such ignorance, feigned or real, did not ex-
empt him from the penalties which inevitably follow the infraction of physical
laws, nor preserve his spirit from the acerbity which such a physical condition
necessarily engenders. If the doctor of medicine should return to the
standard from which he started originally, and become what the term doctor
implies, a teacher of health principles and a preventer of disease, by judicious
advice and precautions, rather than a migratory drug store in miniature, feel-
ing pulses and examining tongues, the halcyon days of health and pristine
vigor might be restored. But the ignorance and credulity of the people has
necessarily perverted and defeated the true mission of the physician by insist-
ing, practically, that no medical service has been rendered unless something
tangible to the senses has been given. The patient must taste something, see
something, smell something. AVholesome advice, in nine cases out of ten all
that is actually required, is not appreciated, and therefore not remunerated. In
consequence, the physician practices medicine on a bread and butter basis,
and the people are compelled to pay the bill. The public mind needs to be
correctly informed upon these matters, and then the merited reform will begin.
A physician’s intelligent advice, unaccompanied with “big pill” or “little
pill,” will be appreciated as the lawyer’s is, and paid accordingly.
Not unfrequently, too, will the individual be much better off, the testimony
of intelligent, conscientious physicians being accepted, if he shall apply com-
mon sense principles of health as revealed by the study of his own system, and
its wants, and not rely upon the patent remedies which he finds advertised on
every hand. Such a state of things was evidently in the mind of the writer of
the following stanzas, when he broke away from the restraints of both “reg-
ulars ” and “ irregidars, ” and launched himself upon the sea of self-preser-
vation, in the ship which he denominated
SENSEOPATHY.
Take the open air,
The more you take the better,
Follow nature’s laws
To the very letter.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
273
Let the doctors go
To the Bay of Biscay;
Let alone the gin.
The brandy and the whisky.
Freely exercise.
Keep your spirits cheerful,
Let no dread of sickness
Make you over fearful.
Eat the simplest food,
Drink the pure cold water.
Then you will be well,
Or at least you ought ter.
The science of medicine has had many difficulties to encounter. In addi-
tion to the ignorance of hygienic laws on the part of the people; already
referred to, it has had to contend with unreasonable superstitions, reliance
upon faith cures, trust in patent nostrums and all sorts of cheap medicines
advertised through bills and the public press. Ignorance has been imposed
upon. People have often consented to take, from irresponsible parties, medi-
cines of a cheap grade, the taking of which resulted in permanent injury
unless counteracted by the timely interference of an accredited physician.
Notwithstanding all these difficulties, the practice of medicine has made
great advancement. The blood-letting process of the olden times has been
superseded by more rational treatment. The publication of medical journals,
the organization of medical associations, the cultivation of the mental and
physical sciences, the abandonment of irrational modes of practice, and the
general desire on the parts of its members to elevate the standards of the pro-
fession, have given an impetus in the right direction. It is not irrational or
unkind to say that we are rapidly leaving the period when the condition of
things was truthfully represented by H. C. Dodge, in his description of
THE OLn-EASHIONED DOCTOR.
O, don’t you remember the old-fashioned doctor.
Who, when we were children, would enter the room.
And, looking as wise as an owl or a proctor.
Would frighten and fill us with thoughts of the tomb?
He’d stalk to our crib-side and order us grutfiy
To stick out our tongue, which we’d do with such dread.
And give, while he handled our pulses so roughly,
An ominous shake of his solemn old head.
And then, while he listened to mother’s description
Of things we had eaten and what we had done.
He grimly would write his old Latin prescription
For nastiest medicines under the sun.
Those horrible doses. How mother would scold us
And beg us and buy us to take ’em in vain.
And O, how we’d struggle when father would hold us
And squeeze shut our noses regardless of pain.
And, when forced to open our mouths, quickly mother
Would shove in a spoonful that strangled us till
We spluttered it out — just in time for another.
It’s vile, deathly taste’s in our memory still.
Thank goodness that old fashion dosing is ended.
With sweet candy pellets and powders in lieu.
The sick little toddlers who take ’em so splendid
That even the well ones all cry for ’em too.
274
HISTOKY 01<’ MEJRCER COUNTY.
Pioneer Physicians of Mercer County. — Unfortunately no available record
has been found of the physicians who from time to time have come into the
county. Had the present registry laws existed in the primitive days, we
could give much more reliable and satisfactory information concerning those
who established the medical practice; or had files of the early papers pub-
lished in the county been preserved, the same result might have been secured.
Of those who practiced at Mercer one of the early ones was Dr. Clark.
Concerning him nothing definite has been learned. The only resident who
remembered him was Mrs. Rogers.
The two Cossitts, Epaphroditus and James S., were probably next to appear
in the place, the former as early as 1809. The following facts were obtained
concerning them and the third brother, H. D. La. , who located at Greenville,
from notes left by Mr. Garvin; Silas Cossitt migrated from Granby, Hartford
Co., Conn., in the spring of 1805, and settled in Trumbull County, Ohio. He
had served as a captain in the Revolutionary War. When he came West,
besides his wife, Sarah, he had seven children, five sons and two daughters.
He left two sons at Yale College to complete their education, Epaphroditus
and John. On leaving college Epaphroditus settled in Warren, Ohio, in
1805, and commenced the practice of medicine. He at once obtained a repu-
tation as a surgeon. His first operation was the amputation of the thigh of
Hon. Webb, a prominent attorney at law. He also established a newspaper.
In 1808 he removed to Mercer and resumed the practice of medicine, and was
regarded one of the best surgeons in Northwestern Pennsylvania. When the
War of 1812 broke out he went to Erie as a captain of Mercer troops. He
was transferred to Harrison’s army, where he was made surgeon- general, a
position he held until the close of the war. He then returned to Mercer,
where he practiced for many years, or until his removal to the West. He was
one of the organizers of the first Masonic order in Mercer, in 1822.
Dr. James S. Cossitt also lived and practiced in Mercer for a long time,
but finally removed to New Castle in April, 1831. He returned to Greenville
in old age, where he practiced a few years, and again went back to New Castle.
Dr. James Magoffin, Jr., was one of the early physicians of Mercer. His
son. Dr. Magoffin, thinks his father located in Mercer in July, 1821. He was
the son of Dr. James Magoffin, Sr., who subsequently came to Mercer and did
a little practicing. The senior member died February 7, 1840, aged seventy
years, and his remains lie in the old Presbyterian grave-yard. He had formerly
been a practicing physician in the town of Newry, Ireland. When he came to
Mercer the present iron-clad code of medical ethics did not exist, and he
announced himself in the following newspaper card:
.lames Magoffin, Sr., Physician, Surgeon and Accoucher, informs his friends and the
public, that he has removed from the City of Pittsburgh (wliere he has practiced for a
number of years) into the borough of Mercer, Penn. He tenders his services to the
inhabitants and vicinity, and hopes, by care and attention to his patients and moderate
charges, to merit a share of public patronage. He is well supplied with a regular assort-
ment of the most genuine medicines. He may be consulted at all hours, if not professionally
engaged, at his house, formerly occupied by the Rev. Dinwiddie, Market Street.
lt^“He has been very successful in the cure of very malignant fevers, etc., etc.
October 12, 1830.
Dr. James Magoffin, Jr., had a very extensive, lucrative and successful
practice. As early as 1831 he announced that upward of $10,000 were
standing out, and that a settlement must be had prior to the 1st of May of that
year. In 1834 he and his father appear as partners in business as physicians
and surgeons. He died the 25th of November, 1879, aged eighty-two years.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
275
Later, probably about 1840, a brother of James Magoffin, Jr., Beriah
Magoffin, came from Butler and began the practice of medicine in Mercer.
He was a good physician. A full sketch of the Magoffins will be found in the
biographical chapter of Mercer.
Dr. Christopher Heydrick, one of Mercer’s earliest practitioners, was born in
Philadelphia County, Chestnut Hill, in 1770. After having fitted himself by
a thorough literary education, he studied medicine under the instruction of the
celebrated Dr. Benjamin Say, of Philadelphia, and in 1792 graduated with
high honors at the University of Pennsylvania. Six years afterward, in 1798,
he was elected a member of the Philadelphia Society of Medicine, and during
the same year and for some time afterward he was physician of the Philadelphia
Hospital. In 1815 he was elected resident member of the Cabinet of Sciences
in Philadelphia. Having been engaged in the practice of medicine in Chestnut
Hill and Philadelphia from 1792 to 1820, he at the latter date removed to the
borough of Mercer. He resided in this place several years, and had a very
successful and lucrative practice. But from his youth having a passion for
agriculture, he determined to abandon his profession, and to enjoy for the
remainder of his life his favorite pursuit; and having this object in view he
removed fi’om Mercer to a farm in the valley of the French Creek, Venango
County, where he continued to reside until his death February 9, 1856, in his
eighty-sixth year. During the last ten or twelve years of his life he was afflicted
with blindness. Dr. Heydrick left two surviving children, Charles H.
Heydrick, Esq., of French Creek Township, Venango County, and a daughter,
who is the wife of Thomas J. Brown, of Mercer.
Thomas Coffey was one of the early physicians of Mercer. He attended
lectures in Philadelphia in 1822-23. Dr. Gr. W. Yeager, of Mercer, has in his
possession the notes taken by him of the lectures delivered. He was a post-
master at Mercer, a bachelor then, but subsequently removing to St, Louis was
there married, and also died in that city.
On the 9th of November, 1833, Dr. M. K. Johnston offered his services to
the citizens of Mercer and adjacent country, in physic, surgery and obstetrics.
His office was on North Erie Street.
Dr. E. W. Glezen was in Mercer as early as October, 1830. He lived then
in the stone house opposite Dr. J. S. Cossitt, on North Pitt Street, owned at
present by Mrs. J. H. Robinson.
Dr. John Baskin, a physician of considerable prominence in Mercer, suc-
ceeded Dr. Glezen about 1844. He had two sons who became well known, one
as an attorney and the other as a physician. The attorney was B. F. Bas-
kin, whose name occurs in various connections in this work as a lawyer in Mer-
cer and Greenville. The physician, George W. Baskin, was the efficient sec-
retary of the second Mercer County Medical Society. He was stricken down
when but twenty-eight years of age by the hand of an assassin, the deed having
been committed in Mercer April 10, 1853. Dr. John Baskin came to Mercer
from Union County, Penn., where he had served as associate judge, being ap-
pointed by Gov. Porter in 1841. He continued to practice until severely
hurt by his horse running away, from the effects of which he died September
26, 1851, in his sixty-third year.
The two Mehards, S. S. and J. W. , father and son, had quite an extensive
practice. Both died in 1883, comparatively young men. The records of the
medical society show how they supported that means of professional growth.
In addition to these, John W. Rogers (eclectic), J. B. Pauley (eclectic),
G. T. Monroe and Dr. Blakeley, both homoeopathists, and Dr. Slemmons were
in the town, and engaged in practice at a later date.
276
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
At Greenville the earlier physicians were Dr. Hardscrabble, who was in the
place about 1819; Dr. Lane, some three years later: Dr. Obadiah Hall, 1824;
Dr. H. D. La. Cossitt, 1825; Dr. Samuel Wylie, 1826; Dr. Beriah Magoffin,
1827, and Dr. E. E. Breiner, 1835.
H. D. La. Cossitt grew up in Ohio, and received his principal education in
Mercer, where he attended the academy under the principalship of Prof.
Anderson. He read medicine with his brothers, and attended lectures in the
sessions of 1824-25 at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Fairfield, Her-
kimer County, N. Y. , and subsequently at Geneva, N. Y. Dr. Cossitt was
married June 9, 1825, and the following August located in West Greenville,
where he commenced the practice of medicine. He continued the active duties
of his profession in Greenville and vicinity until his death, at his homestead
southwest of that borough, March 1, 1877. He was recognized as one of the
leading practitioners of Mercer County. A fuller notice of Dr. Cossitt will be
found in the biographical chapter of West Salem Township.
Dr. R. E. Breiner located in Greenville in the spring of 1835, and soon
after formed a partnership with Dr. H. D. La. Cossitt, who had then been
practicing in that town for ten years. His parents were George and Maria
(Spiegal) Breiner, of Lehigh County, Penn. Dr. Breiner was born in
Maccungie Township, Lehigh County, April 13, 1808, and at an early age
began the study of medicine under Dr. Peter Martin, of Maccungie, Penn.
He attended lectures in 1828-31 at Jefferson Medical College, Philadel-
phia, and in 1831 commenced practice in Maccungie, whence he came to
Greenville, where he devoted the rest of his life to the duties of his profession.
Soon after locating in Mercer County Dr. Breiner graduated at Willoughby
Medical Institute, of Lake Erie, now Starling Medical College, Columbus,
Ohio, which added to his previous knowledge of medical science. He always
kept well up with the progress in medicine, and won and retained one of the
largest practices in this section of the State. Dr. Breiner was married June
10, 1841, to Miss Sarah Ann, daughter of Robert G. Mossman, one of the most
prominent pioneer business men of Greenville. She died June 1, 1861, leav-
ing two daughters, Maggie M. E. E., wife of E. T. Beatty, of Greenville, and
Susan J. P. , wife of W. H. Findley, of the same borough. Dr. Breiner was
one of the pioneer medical practitioners of Mercer County, and the fact that he
practiced medicine successfully in one community from 1835 up to 1868 is
abundant proof of his ability and worth. Owing to declining health he ceased
regular practice about two years prior to his death, which occurred at Minne-
apolis, Minn., August 25, 1870, whither he had gone the previous May, with
the hope of recuperating his shattered constitution. Coming of English and
German ancestry, he possessed many of the rugged, sterling characteristics of
those races. Positive in opinion, of strong likes and the opposite, he was,
nevertheless, of a courteous and affable disposition. He was, however, deeply
wedded to his profession, and devoted all of his indefatigable energy to the
duties which his calling imposed. He practiced for miles in every direction,
and was well liked and respected, both by the profession and the people at
large. A writer in one of the local papers paid Dr. Breiner the following
tribute at the time of his death: “Few men have endured more hardships,
few have discharged the difficult and toilsome duties of the medical profession
so unceasingly and so long. Both his co-laborers and his patients will testify
to the promptness and fidelity, the energy and watchfulness, with which he
performed his professional duties.’’
Dr. Daniel B. Packard may also be classed among the earlier medical
practitioners of Greenville. He graduated at Willoughby Medical Institute
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
279
in February, 1842, and soon after began practice at Clarksville, Mercer
County, whence he removed to Greenville the following August. He entered
into partnership with Dr. Cossitt, which lasted about ten years. Dr. Packard
continued in active practice until 1854, when he retired from the profession
and engaged in mercantile pursuits.
Dr. R. G. Stephenson appears as a physician at Greenville in 1847, his card
bearing date April 30 of that year. Some others were probably here, but
these are the best remembered and remained longest in practice.
Dr. John Mitcheltree located south of Sharon at quite an early day; it is
claimed in 1807. He was a native of Ireland, and married Jane Irvine, a sis-
ter of Dr. John M. Irvine, of Sharon. Dr. Mitcheltree was the first resident
physician in that part of the county, his practice extending along the Shenango
Valley for many miles. He accumulated a large estate, but left no children to'
inherit it. He died February 6, 1852, his widow surviving him two years.
The first physicians who practiced in Sharon were Drs. Mitcheltree and
Elijah Flower, the latter of Brookfield, Ohio. Dr. Robert McCormick was,
however, the first resident physician of the town. He came from Cumberland
County, Penn., about 1839. These were succeeded by Drs. Martin, Edward
Reynolds, Christy, AVolf and W. N. Reno, the last of whom practiced from
1841 to 1850.
One of the prominent physicians of a later date was Dr. J. M. Irvine, who
was born at Mount Vernon, Ohio, October, 11, 1814. Being left an orphan at
a very early age, he was adopted into the family of Dr. Mitcheltree, who had mar-
ried his oldest sister. He was thus enabled to secure what educational facilities
were afforded by the common schools. After completing this scholastic training
he engaged in mercantile business with his elder brother, Armstrong Irvine, and
at the same time began the study of medicine. He pursued the latter under-
taking so faithfully that in 1837 he had completed a course at the Cincinnati
Medical College, and graduated with the degree of M. D., locating shortly
afterward at Lexington, Mo. Remaining in this place for a year only, he
returned to the East, and located in Sharon, where he resumed the practice of
his chosen profession. In the spring of 1842 he married the oldest daughter
of Rev. John AVinter. Three years later, in the winter of 1845, Dr. Irvine
removed to Texas, remaining several months. Becoming dissatisfied he
returned to the North, locating for a time at Nauvoo, 111. , where he became such
an active leader among the Gentiles in their efforts against the Mormons that
he became fearful of their enmity. After a period of two and a half years’ suc-
cessful practice, he again removed to Sharon, in which place he continued the-
performance of professional duties until 1862, when he retired from active-
practice. Dr. Irvine was an enterprising, public-spirited man, always giving
freely his support and money to worthy purposes. In politics he belonged to
the Democratic faith, and in his later years espoused the cause of temper-
ance. In 1866 he was a candidate for State senator, and greatly reduced the
majority of his successful Republican opponent. At the outbreak of the-
Rebellion he raised a company of cavalry and tendered its service to the gov-
ernment. That kind of military forces not being in active demand, the offer
was not accepted. Dr. Irvine was a member of the Masonic order, but was.
never identified with any church. He died April 29, 1878, in the sixty-fourth
year of his age. He left three children, all of whom are yet living. Of these
Mary is the wife of Prof. S. P. Dame, and resides in Pittsburgh; Armstrong
is engaged in cattle raising in the AV^est, and Frank, who was recently mar-
ried, is also living in the West. Mrs. Irvine is still living in Pittsburgh, at
an advanced age.
16
280
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Dr. Robert Irvine is represented to have lived in the vicinity of Wheatland
as early as 1808.
Dr.* Dowling was at Jamestown in 1832. He lived in the John Williamson
house.
Dr. William Gibson arrived in Jamestown in the fall of 1836. He was
born January 22, 1813, in Oswego County, N. Y., the son of Samuel and
Mary Gibson, who came to America at the time of the insurrection in 1791.
Samuel Gibson died in 1815, leaving two children, William and Mary, the latter
the wife of Dr. William Cotton, deceased, of Brownsville, Penn. William spent
his youth at Harrisburg, Penn. , where he commenced the study of medicine with
Dr. Samuel Agnew. He subsequently continued his study with Dr. Alexan-
der Proudlit, of Oswego, N. Y. He graduated at the New York Medical
University, and at the time of his death held the oldest diploma in Mercer
County. He commenced the practice of medicine in Oswego, with Dr. Proud-
fit, his preceptor. In the fall of 1836 he started for St. Louis, Mo., but
en route was detained at Jamestown, where he subsequently established him-
self permanently. He married Susan, youngest daughter of Joseph Beatty,
of near Meadville, who survives him. Years ago he bequeathed to the
United Presbyterian Foreign Mission Board of the United States the perpet-
ual annual income of two large brick blocks in the city of Erie, costing over
$75,000, for the gratuitous distribution of the Scriptures in Arabia, Egypt
and Palestine. The Doctor and Mrs. Gibson traveled extensively in Europe,
Asia and Africa. They were members of the Quaker City excursion, which
Mark Twain so graphically describes in his “Innocents Abroad.” Dr. Gib-
son obtained, while at Jerusalem, a fine museum of Assyrian, Babylonian,
Roman, Greek and Hebrew coins. They were to be presented by the United
States Consul to the National Museum at Washington, but were given to Dr.
Gibson instead. This collection has been greatly augmented by valuable
contributions from many other sources. All is yet in the possession of Mrs.
Gibson. Prior to his death, which occurred July 16, 1887, Dr. Gibson began
the erection of a granite monument from material obtained in New Hampshire.
It cost upward of $75,000. It is simple, bearing on the south, “William Gibson,
M. D.”; on the east, “ WTlliam and Susan Gibson” ; north “ Susan Gibson.”
Samuel Axtell, the original of the line of physicians of that name in Mer-
cer County, was born in Washington County, Penn., on the 28th of Novem-
ber, 1791. He removed with his family to Mercer County, and located in
Sheakleyville in 1825. He practiced in the village and the surrounding
country until 1852. By reference to the sketch of the two first medical socie-
ties, it will be seen that he was an active and honored member of the same.
He died in November, 1864, at the round age of seventy-three.
His successor in practice, as well as his associate for many years, was his
son, Dr. W. H. Axtell, usually called Dr. Harvey Axtell. He was born under
the parental roof in Washington County, November 27, 1816, and came with
his parents to the new country, where he enjoyed such educational facilities as
the times furnished. He finally studied medicine, and began to practice in
1840. His success was such as the most ardent could desire. He has always
been esteemed among the medical gentlemen of the county, and still lives and
practices at Sheakleyville, the oldest physician in Mercer County. Like his
father, he began and continued under the old system of practice; and like him,
he has held to the Presbyterian form and system of theology. He has the con-
solation in his old age of knowing that his son, John L. Axtell, who graduated
in 1885, at one of the most reputable schools, is thoroughly competent to
become his successor, and to vindicate the fair name of the Axtells.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
281
Drs. Brainard and John Vath were the first two physicians in Sandy
Lake.
Died, near North Liberty, April 13, 1847, Dr. George Kirtpatrick. He
had been a practitioner in the county for more than thirty years.
Dr. Grier was at New Hamburg in 1839, and Dr. Harnett about seven
years later.
Dr. J. R. Andrews settled at New Vernon about 1845, and died in that place
in 1867.
Dr. Cornelius Byles is said to have been the first physician in Fredonia.
As early as 1841 Dr. Jesse McMurray was at Sharpsville.
Epidemics. — Mercer County has been comparatively free from epidemics.
Of course, while the country was new, the vast amount of vegetable matter
which occupied the lower districts, and the imperfect means of dr.ainage then
existing, produced more or less of fever and ague, and various forms of
malarial disease. As the country became more fully cleared, and the drain-
age was improved, these special forms of disease naturally decreased, until
at present they are comparatively scarce. Then, again, medical practice
became more conversant with the physical features of the country, and the
necessary tendencies of the inhabitants, all of which aided in mastering the
most pei’plexing types of disease.
From Dr. W. H. Axtell, of Sheakleyville, we learn that in 1838 an epidemic of
dysentery occurred in Sandy Creek and New Vernon Townships. It began in
July and continued until October or November. It was extensive, and fatal in
its results. Dr. Samuel Axtell was the leading physician.
In 1844, commencing in July and continuing until November, an epidemic
of malignant dysentery raged in French Creek and Sandy Creek Townships. It
was more extensive, and fatal, too, than that of 1838. The symptoms were
the same — the most violent purging. Nearly every family in the infected
region had its victims. Drs. Samuel and W. H. Axtell, and Drs. Bennett and
J. R. Andrews were the physicians in charge.
The most extensive and fatal epidemic, however, which ever reached Mer-
cer County, was that of 1847. It was the same in kind as those of 1838 and
1844. Its territory embraced French Creek, Old Sandy Creek and a portion
of Salem Townships, in Mercer County, and a part of Greenwood Township,
in Crawford County. The physicians employed were Drs. Samuel Axtell, W.
H. Axtell and G. W. Brush, of Sheakleyville, and Bennett and Andrews, of
New Vernon. Dr. Samuel Axtell himself became afflicted with the disease,
and his patients had to receive the attention of his son, requiring riding nearly
day and night for a long period. The disease, by some called dysentery and
by others bloody flux, began in June, but its most disastrous results were
produced in August and September. The symptoms are described by William
M. Burns, of Milledgeville, one of its victims, thus; “Vomiting and purging;
some fever, and bloody stool, with severe griping or pain.”
The number of victims is variously put, ranging from eighty to 200.
Jacob Zahniser, of Jackson Township, represents the number as 131, but Dr.
W. H. Axtell informed the writer that there were over 200 deaths within the
bounds of his own practice. William M. Burns has furnished the names of
the following victims: Mrs. John Rice and two children, Mrs. Mumford,
two children of William M. Burns, child of Joseph Andrews, Daniel Williams,
Andrew Williams’ wife and several children, W. G. Voorhies’ child, Benjamin
Bumgartner’s son, Israel Gear’s son and others. Dr. W. H. Axtell had the
greatest labor imposed upon him — too much to be successfully prosecuted.
282
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
He is said to have been very successful in the cases committed to his care
from the first attack. The cause of these epidemics seems never to have been
satisfactorily fixed upon. The season was very dry, and water somewhat
scarce. In this condition, possibly, existed the origin.
In the winter of 1842-43 typhoid fever broke out with great virulence in
Sandy Creek and Deer Creek Townships. It continued about six months,
and proved qiiite fatal.
In 1850 or 1851 quite an epidemic of typhoid fever prevailed in Sandy
Creek and Deer Creek Townships, Mercer County, and Greenwood Township,
Crawford County. A. L. Streight, grandfather of George H. Caldwell, the
superintendent of the county poor farm, was one of its victims.
In the spring of 1856 the region about New Lebanon was visited by a
severe scourge of typhoid fever. Among its victims who died were Jacob and
William Reed, brothers; Taylor Farver and R. C. Gordon, Mrs. Price Dilley
and her son David, William Uber and others. The leading physicians were
Abijah C. Axtell, of New Lebanon, and E. X. Giebner, of Sandy Lake.
From some of the old newspapers glimpses of early medical matters in the
county are obtained. In the Western Press of August 27, 1831, occurs this
statement; “ Bilious fever has been prevalent in this county during the sum-
mer and autumn months for several years. ’ ’ In the same paper, under date
of August 13, 1831: “ Considerable excitement existed in our village in the
early part of this week relative to mad dogs, one of which was killed on Tues-
day morning. Four dogs that were unquestionably rabid have now been
killed in the borough (Mercer) within a few weeks. A meeting was held in
the court-house on Tuesday, 9th, to devise means for escaping hydrophobia,
and petitioning the council to pass proper ordinances for the safety and wel-
fare of the citizens. ’ ’ On the 14th of J anuary, 1832, the same paper stated
that small-pox was very prevalent fifteen miles south of Mercer, and that
several deaths therefrom had already occurred.
Medical Societies. — No records having been preserved, we are unable to
determine when the first medical society was organized in the county. The
first trace we have discovered of any was a brief notice in the Western Press,
that the medical society of Mercer met December 23, 1843, at the Temper-
ance Hotel, kept by Mrs. C. Shannon. The president was Dr. Samuel Axtell,
and the secretary, T. L. Harper. The next trace is an announcement of a
meeting held January 23, 1844, at which the following officers were elected:
President, Samuel Axtell; vice-president. James Magoffin; secretary, Robert
McCormick; censors, John Baskin, H. D. La. Cossitt and George Kirkpatrick;
publishing committee, J ohn Baskin and Robert McCormick.
At this meeting the following pronunciamento was made : ‘ ‘ Resolved, that
this society deprecates the use of patent quack nostrums; and also the em-
ployment of patent quack steam and urine doctors, knowing them, as well as
we do, to be injurious to the health of the community, and not infrequently
dealing out death to the credulous victims of their false pretensions.” Still
further to place a quietus upon that much-dreaded enemy of human kind, the
“quack,” Dr. Axtell was appointed to read, at their next session, a paper on
the distinguishing marks between the scientific practice of medicine and
quackery. "Unfortunately, we are not able to present that paper, no copy of
it having been preserved for future generations. One of the quack nostrums
which was anathematized in the foregoing resolution was Dr. Duncan’ s Ex-
pectorant Remedy. It was extensively advertised, and the unsuspecting were
caught by such tempting promises as the following:
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
283
Does sickness weigh upon your heart,
Or pains afflict your breast?
Try Dr. Duncan’s healing art,
And it will give you rest.
That worm of death might be defied.
If Dr. Duncan’s art were tried;
And many lovely damsels saved
The fate of an untimely grave.
The second Mercer County Medical Society was organized June 14, 1848,
in the house of Mrs. Bradley, of Mercer, with Dr. Samuel Axtell, president;
Dr. John Baskin, vice-president, and Dr. J. M. Irvine, secretary. At the
second meeting, held July 24, same year, a constitution and by-laws, prepared
by Drs. G. W. Baskin, J. W. Grier and J. P. Hosack, were adopted. At
this meeting there were present Drs. Samuel Axtell, John Baskin, J. M.
Irvine, J. P. Hosack, J. W. Grier, D. B. Packard, B. P. Gordon, C. M.
Stewart, W. N. Reno, G. W. Baskin, Rosenberry Vath and George Bagnell.
Subsequently the following named physicians became members of the society:
R. E. Breiner, John T. Ray, H. D. La. Cossitt, J. H. Rankin, J. H. Mason,
W. G. Henderson, A. G. Hart, P. H. Hanset, A. Harsha, W. H. Axtell, J. W.
Riddle, George Veach, C. I. Dawson andC. Henderson. Its principal object was
‘ ‘ to secure the advancement of medical knowledge; the elevation of professional
character; the protection of the interests of its members; the extension of the
bounds of medical science, and the promotion of all measures adapted to the
relief of suffering.”
The society as first organized continued its existence until the early part
of the war, probably 1862. From that time until January, 1867, its condition
was one of suspended animation. At the latter date, in pursuance of a call
issued by a number of prominent physicians, a meeting for re-organization was
held at the office of James & Barber, in Sharon. An ostensible revivication
ensued, and for about five years a mere existence was maintained by Drs.
Hosack, Mossman, Leet and Giebner, through social and professional visits.
Increased membership and augumented interest on the part of the physicians
of the county have since that period rendered the meetings of the society more
fruitful and instructive.
The following officers have guarded the interests of the society during the
past seven years of its history:
1882: President, J. H. Twitmyer; vice-presidents, T. M. Jackson and
L. G. Meyer; secretary, J. H. Reed; examiners, B. E. Mossman, A. T. Clark
and H. M. Bishop; censors, J. B. Livingston, Salem Heilman and A. T. Clark.
1883: President, J. W. Mehard; vice-presidents, Salem Heilman and J.
B. McElrath; secretary, J. T. Shutt; treasurer, H. M. Bishop; examiners, H.
M. Bishop, A. T. Clark and B. E. Mossman; censors, L. G. Meyer, A. T.
Clark and Salem Heilman.
1884: President, J. P. Hosack; vice-presidents, G. W. Shilling and J.
T. Shutt; secretary, J. T. Shutt; treasurer, H. M. Bishop; examiners, A. T.
Clark, B. E. Mossman and H. M. Bishop; censors, Salem Heilman, L. G.
Meyer and A. T. Clark; delegates to American Medical Association, R. M.
Hope, G. W. Shilling and J. H. Twitmyer; delegates to State Medical Society,
A. T. Clark, B. E. Mossman, R. D. Morford, T. H. Mitchell, J. H. Reed and
J. T. Shutt.
1885: President, Salem Heilman; vice-presidents, R. M. Hope and F. H.
Leet; secretary, R. D. Morford; treasurer, H. M. Bishop; examiners, B. E.
Mossman, H. M. Bishop and A. T. Clark; censors, A. T. Clark, Salem Heil-
man and L. G. Meyer; delegates to American Medical Association, B. E.
284
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Mossman and Salem Heilman; delegates to State Medical Society, G. W.
Shilling, E. J. Tidd, D. B. Hanna, L. G. Meyer, R. M. Hope and R. D.
Morford.
1886: President, G. W. Shilling; vice-presidents, A. T. Clark and F. M.
Temple; secretary, R.^ D. Morford; treasurer, A. T. Clark; examiners, H. M.
Bishop, A. T. Clark and B. E. Mossman ; censors, T. H. Mitchell, A. T. Clark
and Salem Heilman; delegates to American Medical Association, A. T.
Clark, F. M. Temple and H. M. Bishop; delegates to State Medical So-
ciety, L. G. Meyer, J. W. Hamilton, D. B. Hanna, R. D. Morford and G. W.
Shilling.
1887: President, R. M. Hope; vice-presidents, E. J. Tidd and J. H.
Reed; secretary, R. D. Morford; treasurer, A. T. Clark; examiners, J. H.
Twitmyer, E. Griswold and J. M. Scoville; censors, E. Griswold, J. H.
Mitchell and A. T. Clark.
1888: President, L. G. Meyer; vice-presidents, D. A. Phillips and J. B.
McElrath; secretary, J. M. Scoville; treasurer, A. T. Clark; examiners, J. H.
Twitmyer, E. Griswold and J. M. Scoville; censors, A. T. Clark, E. Griswold
and J. R. Caldwell.
CHAPTER XIV.
Philanthropic and Patriotic Movements— Temperance— Early Temper-
ance Agitation — Organization of the Mercer Temperance Society —
The Leading Spirit in the Movement— Its Rules and Supporters— The
Influence It Wielded— Counter Agitation— Resolutions Passed at an
Anti-Temperance Meeting in Sheakleyvili.e — Growth of the Temper-
ance Cause — Prohibition Movement of 1854-55— Temperance Convention
IN Mercer— Other Temperance Movements — The Crusade— Woman’s
Christian Temperance Union— Murphy Movement — Prohibition — Anti-
Slavery Agitation in Mercer County— A Society Organized — Its Prin-
ciples AND Declarations — Growth of the Abolition Sentiment— Un-
derground Railroad — Assistance Rendered the Irish People in 1847 by
Mercer County Citizens — Strong Protest Against the Desecration
OF THE Lord’s Day— Fourth of July’ Celebrations.
Selfishness is a strong element in human society. Its behests are
imperious, and often relentlessly cruel and oppressive; and yet gleams of
a higher light sometimes break through into benighted human nature and reveal
ennobling traits. Men and women can be found who rise above the selfishness
and bigotry that characterize a large part of the race. To such exceptional
characters, and they may perhaps be regarded exceptional, the term philan-
thropists may be applied; persons who love not the specific man alone, but the
race; persons who accept the fundamental doctrine that “God has made of
one blood all nations of men to dwell on all the face of the earth.” With them
the surface and accidental distinctions of the world have no existence. Intel-
ligence and character are more important than the fortuitous positions of mere
wealth or social caste. The color of the skin, or the shape of the physical out-
line, or the social position occupied, are not the marks by which either God or
enlightened humanity judges rational creatures. He who is limited in his
sympathies or benefactions by the narrow boundaries of party or race, presents
very meager evidences of liberal culture or enlightened conscience. He can
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY,
285
justly lay claim to a very little of that spirit which declares that “God is no
respecter of persons; but in every nation he that feareth Him and worketh
righteousness is accepted of Him.’’
Temperance agitation in some form dates with the beginning of society. Tf
we accept the only comprehensive definition of temperance, viz. , a moderate
use of the good things of life and a total abstinence from those that are harmful,
we shall readily see that two dangers must always be encountered: 1. The
keeping within the bounds of moderation. 2. The observance of complete
non-use of hurtful objects.
Human nature has its weaknesses. The conflict between the flesh and the
spirit, between appetite and reason, between the baser and the nobler instincts
of our nature, is a constant warfare. The great problem involved is whether
man shall be governed by his stomach or his brain. In the natural economy
the brain has the uppermost position, and should sit as the ruler; but how often
is this order reversed. Very wisely has Solomon said that he who governs his
own spirit is greater than the conqueror of a city. This superiority of the
spiritual over the animal is the result of religion and education, and finally
becomes, so to speak, a matter of enlightened habit. It cannot be regulated
entirely by acts of the legislature. Moral regeneration cannot be secured
directly by the preambles and resolutions of legislative bodies; and yet these
have their importance as educational agencies, as means of developing and
fostering an enlightened and sensitive public conscience. All acts of prohi-
bition, to be permanently effective, must be passed by the unanimous voice of
the person’s individual legislative faculties and enforced by the executive power
of his own will, guided by the promptings of a properly educated and respon-
sive conscience. Legislatures and societies and associations aid in this matter,
and in so far are they highly important and desirable. Parents should realize
that sobriety in their children must be cultivated by developing habits of self-
denial and self-control in all domestic matters. Habit, in short, is the basis
of character, and habit must be formed by sound religious training and edu-
cational agencies.
Individual protests had been made against the general use of liquors
in the family, and at the “log-rollings ” and “ huskings’’ in the early days,
but apparently with little effect. The distillery was regarded as quite as im-
portant as the grist-mill or school-house. Every community was well supplied
with such institutions, run, often, by the leaders of churches, and patronized
by the minister of the gospel.
In 1827 the first public movement in the county in the direction of active tem-
perance work was made. Rev. Samuel Tait, pastor of the Presbyterian Church
at Mercer, being the originator and leading spirit of it. He began his efforts
by first pledging himself to abstain from the use of ardent spirits, and believ-
ing that precept would likewise prove efficacious, preached a strong sermon
on temperance, in which he enjoined a rigid adherence to the spirit and letter
of Christian abstinence. Not content with this, he appointed a meeting for
the purpose of permanently organizing the temperance workers of the county.
As might be expected, little interest was at first manifested. Whisky in those
early days was almost universally regarded as a household necessity, being in
special demand in the harvest field and at huskings, log rollings and raisings.
But notwithstanding the freedom with which it was used, a sentiment against
its consumption gradually arose, and in due time attained formidable propor-
tions. Organizations were established in every township in the county. Dur-
ing the twelve years of the existence of this movement much good was accom-
plished directly, and more, indirectly, by the impulse thus given to the work.
286
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
The immediate result of Rev. Tait’s efforts took shape as the “Mercer
Temperance Society.” The officers elected February 10, 1829, were as fol-
lows: President, Alexander Brown; vice-president, Samuel Holstein; secre-
tary, William Fruit. Following are the rules on temperance adopted by the
organization :
We agree to discontinue the use of ardent spirits during our membership,
except as medicine.
We agree that it shall not be considered as any mark of friendship for
any member of this society to offer ardent spirits to any one on any occasion,
except as medicine.
We agree that it would be highly improper for any member of this society
to give, solicit, or receive drams in stores.
We agree that we will neither give or receive treats at public elections,
military trainings or any other public meetings.
We agree to withhold our suffrages from all drunkards.
We agree to use all friendly means that we can to reclaim those who drink
to excess.
We agree to prefer helping those who need manual labor when they have
no ardent spirits.
We agree if any of us are known to use ardent spirits, except as medicine,
our name shall be stricken from the society by the officers.
We agree that such members of this society as have on hand, or contracted
for, ardent spirits, are at liberty to dispose of them according to their best
lights, provided they abstain from them themselves.
These rules were signed by the following persons: S. Tait, James Haw-
thorn, Joseph McClain, James K. Caldwell, Thomas Vaughn, George Smith,
W. Young, James S. Cossitt, John Bowman, Sr., Elias Alexander, Lyman W.
Shepard, William Johnson, Robert Glenn, Samuel Vaughn, Willis Alexander,
William McMillan, Samuel Glenn, Jr., William Glenn, Robert Rice, Jones
Glenn. Hugh Donaldson, Nesbitt Ramsay, John Fruit, W. M. Smith, John Young,
Jonathan Calvin, Robert Glenn, Abijah McClain, Ebenezer Alexander, A.
Brown, William Fruit, William Glenn, Valentine Glenn, James Kilgore, David
Young, William Findley, Samuel Beatty, William Gordon, William Junkin,
Thomas Pew, T. C. Cone, A. Bagley, Robert Patterson, Robert Stewart, William
McCauley, J. P. Smith, William Alexander, C. Herrington, Eleanor L. Davitt,
Eliza Davitt, David W. Findley, Esther Hackney, Agnes G. Bingham, H.
Bingham, James Galloway, Margaret Ramsey, Elizabeth Bagley, Sarah Neal,
Nancy Marshall, Susan Clark, Eliza Alexander, E. L. Dinwiddle, Stephen Jen-
nings, Hester Young, Sidney J. Brown, Nancy Amberson, Mary Amberson, Char-
lotte Kline, Rebecca E. Smith, Samuel Hawthorn, Sr. , Mary Ann Espy, Nancy
Templeton, Jacob Herrington, Margaret Donaldson, E. W. Glezen, Jane Davitt,
J. Herrington, Sarah North, T. B. Davitt, Elizabeth T. Kilgore, Mary Findley,
Margaret Patterson, Mary Ann Bingham, Elizabeth Bowman, Sarah Bowman,
Eliza Neal, Mary M. Patterson, John D. Hawthorn, Thomas Templeton, John
Bowman, Jr., William Stewart, Asa Arnold, Robert Johnson, George Blackson,
Adam Forker, Joseph Moore, Samuel Cooper, Elihu Cozad, R. Hanna, Samuel
Holstein, A. W. Porter, John Alexander, Samuel Gordon, Thomas Fruit, Will-
iam Pew, Joseph Pew, John Pew, John Vann, Thomas Service, William Alex-
ander, Jr., J. McPherrin, Rosanna McDonald, Mary Vaughn, Elizabeth Cald-
well, John Craig, Christopher Wirtz, Samuel Bowman, J. L. McQuillen, Mary
Arnold, Harriet Patterson, Rebecca Jones, Mary Rice, John Alexander, F. B.
Glezen, Sarah Stewart, Maria Shipler, Jane Stewart, Sarah J. Moore, Sarah
Dinwiddie, Maria Black, Margaret Harvey, Hannah Caldwell, James W.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
287
Smith, John Henderson, Mary Hawthorn, Mary Williams, Joseph Junkin,
William McBride, John Orr, Oliver Alexander, Elizabeth Patterson, Lavina
Vaughn, Samuel Hawthorn, John Law, William D. Smith, William Rehard,
Mary Sample, Susanna Bolton, Elizabeth Alexander, Amelia Tait, Samuel Flem-
ing, Eliza Junkin, Mary Ann Rankin,ClarissaAmberson, Elizabeth Kline, Kath-
erine Kline, H. Mason Bingham, Mary Stewart, Hannah J. Stewart, John Y.
Stewart Eliza Smith, Mary Junkin, Mary McBurney, Mary Ann Caldwell,
Sarah McQuade, James C. Hawthorn, Enoch Williams, William Jennings.
This society grew to be a power in the county. An account of its various
meetings would be interesting to those concerned in the growth of public sen-
timent. Such a sketch, however, is not possible. We can give but a few inti-
mations along the line of temperance progress. A spirited meeting of the
society was held at Center Church, seven miles southeast of Mercgr, on the
8th of September, 1832. Malcom McComb was president, and S. Calvin
Tait, secretary. Addresses were delivered by Rev. John Munson and Will-
iam McMillan, Esq. In the resolutions passed, to the efPect that the visitation
nf the country by malignant cholera demanded total abstinence from ardent
spirits; and that, notwithstanding some defection from its ranks, the cause of
temperance was making progress in the county.
The active work done by the society in the county resulted in counter
movements. One of the most noted of these was a meeting held at George-
town (now Sheakley ville) on the 14th of March, 1834. Ebenezer Miller was ,
chairman and J. Montgomery, secretary. A long series of resolutions, con-
demning, in the strongest terms, the formation and maintenance of temper-
ance societies, as “calculated to disorganize our civil institutions, to engender
strife and envies, to break the peace and harmony of society, to arm brother
against brother, and father against son, and throw us into a state of revolu-
tion and war,” were passed. This array consisted of a preamble of 3,000
words, and twenty-nine distinct resolutions. As specimens we here insert
three resolutions:
Resolved, That the principle on which abstinence associations are formed are destruc-
tive of all government, that is, that private societies liave the right to combine together
in order to put down an article of domestic trade and manufacture, in which thousands
of citizens are engaged, and from which the government receives a revenue for its sup-
port. Admit this principle, and there is an end to all established rules and regulations,
for if they have a right to do so in one case, they will liave a right to do so in another,
until the government becomes a mere name, a shadow without substance.
Resolved, That it is with sorrow and regret that we see and hear of ministers of the
gospel, who profess to take the Word of God as the only rule of their faith and practice,
engaged in the catch-popularity scheme of peddling about abstinence addresses, teaching
their hearers to resist the ordinances of God, to depart from the faith and to give heed to
seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, commanding to abstain, etc., which, however, is
unanswerable proof that the Scriptures are of divine inspiration; for the Apostle Paul,
who spoke almost eighteen hundred years ago, has told us that such things would take
place in the latter days.
Resolved, That the abstinence plans are a mean species of nullification — a sneaking
attempt to lessen the public revenue and injure property, forsooth, because the laws of
God and the laws of country do not comport to their views and wishes.
The work of the county society, however, was not to be thwarted by such
protests. The advocates of temperance were determined to push the war into
the enemy’s country, as was foreshadowed in a meeting held at the Presby-
terian Church, in Neshannock Township, on the 26th of February, 1835, with
Alex. Brown, president; William F. Junkin, vice-president; and S. C. Tait,
secretary. After listening to addresses by John A. Bingham and J. P. Smith,
resolutions were passed, declaring:
288
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
That the officers of this society divide the county into districts, appoint an individual
to deliver an address in each district, and adopt measures to have the temperance pledge
presented to every family in the county.
That the manufacture and sale of ardent spirits, except as medicine and for mechan-
ical purposes, are a violation of the principles of political economy, and impose enormous
burdens upon the industry and wealth of the country.
That all who continue the traffic in ardent spirits, except as medicine or for mechan-
ical purposes, stand in an intimate and criminal relation to all the evils of intemperance,
and must, on the principle of moral accountability, be made partakers of those evils.
The historical development of this subject presents some interesting phases
that should not be overlooked. In the first part of the chapter it is stated that
the use and even the manufacture of liquor by church members, and in some
cases by preachers, even, was not regarded disreputable. The public con-
science, however, became enlightened. We are not surprised, therefore, to
find the County Temperance Society, in a meeting held at "the court-house
January 24, 1851, at which J. L. McQuillen was president, and Theo. Mc-
Donald, secretary, report the following; “The members of this society,
regarding the making, vending and using of intoxicating liquors as a beverage
an immorality, we call upon the churches to treat them as an offense, calling
imperatively for the exercise of strict discipline.”
The agitation of this temperance problem culminated in a new movement
— or rather a new phase of the question — prohibition by State enactment. In
the Mercer Whig of June 14, 1855, we find the following address, calling for
a temperance convention:
TO THE FRIENDS OP TEMPERANCE IN MERCER COUNTY.
Fellow Citizens: — In view of the present position of the reform, we deem it our duty
to call a county convention of the friends of a probibitor}^ liquor law, to meet at the
court-house in Mercer, on Friday, June 22. This salutary law has been enacted by the
Legislatures of many States, but it has not yet found a place on the statute books of
Pennsylvania. An act, restrictive to a certain extent, was passed at the last session, and
it becomes the imperative duty of the friends of temperance to urge the passage of an act
looking to the entire suppression of the liquor traffic. On the other hand, those interest-
ed in this traffic have declared their intention to prevent further legislative restriction,
but to repeal the laws of this nature already in force, and thus« open the flood-gates of
vice, misery and crime. Let the friends, then, in Mercer County come up en masse to the
Convention of the 22d, and declare their position before the political parties have placed
candidates before the people for their suffrages, to represent this in the next Legislature.
D. W. Findley,
A. J. Grier,
D. R. Barker,
W. W. W. Wood,
Alexander Thompson,
Samuel Kerr,
F. B. Hubbard,
William F. Clark,
Dr. a. G. Hart.
The result of the foregoing meeting, called for June 22, at which Theo-
dore Newcomb presided, and B. McDowell acted as secretary, may be inferred
from the subjoined resolutions, which were drafted by William F. Clark, and
unanimously adopted by the assembly. The terseness and vigor of the senti-
ments then used can scarcely be excelled by those of any modern meeting,
however learned or earnest:
Resolved, That the great object of civil government is to prevent and suppress, rather
than sanction and encourage, crime and immorality; to protect the weak and defenseless,
and to promote the general welfare.
That the statement and admission of the foregoing proposition necessarily carries
with it the conclusion that government is vested with the power to enact and enforce all
laws necessary to accomplish the end proposed; and moreover, that it is under the highest
obligation to exercise the power.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
289
That, as the traffic in intoxicating liquors is the grand promoter of vice, immorality
and crime — is destructive of the general welfare— and as the drunkard himself, his abused
wife and hungry and half-naked children need the strong arm of the law to protect them
against the ravages of the rum-seller — therefore, it is the bounden duty of the law-mak-
ing power to enact a law that will entirely prohibit the traffic.
That we hail with joy the rapid progress which the principles of prohibitory legisla-
tion have made since the first enactment of the Maine law, it having found a place in the
statute books of some ten States, within the short period of a few years: and that we con-
template, with unmingled satisfaction, the condition of our country when every State
Legislature shall prohibit the importation of intoxicating liquors.
That, as the triumph of this principle thus far has been secured in the face of invet-
erate opposition from those interested in the liquor traffic, so will be its future progress;
and the friends of prohibition must not abate one jot or tittle of their labor until victory
shall have crowned their efforts.
That, while we are thankful for the restrictive laws enacted by the last Legislature
of this State, yet we believe that any legislation recognizing the legitimacy of this traffic
is wrong, and that nothing but a prohibitory law will effect thoroughly the end'proposed.
Therefore, it is the duty of the friends of temperance to direct their energies to secure
this result.
That to this end representatives must be chosen who are firm, unwavering advocates
of such a law. None others can be trusted, and none others can or will receive the sup-
port of the genuine friends of prohibition.
That, as the sense of this convention, we do not desire to mingle this beneficent
cause with the conflict of political parties, and will not, unless circumstances compel us
to do so. We, therefore, decline designating any candidates for the Legislature, in the
hope that the political parties will place good and true men before us; but should this
hope be disappointed, we authorize the County Committee to call another convention, at
a suitable time, to adopt such means as may be deemed necessary to secure the consum-
mation of the high and holy objects we have in view.
The prohibitory movement in Pennsylvania in 1854-55 became very popu-
lar, and the amendment submitted for popular vote lacked only about 5,000
of being carried.
Several society movements were at work throughout the country, commenc-
ing with the popular movement of Father Matthew, the great Irish Catholic
temperance orator, the Sons of Temperance, the Sons of Malta, and the Good
Templars. Each one did its part in arousing popular interest in the cause of
temperance, and had numerous orders in all parts of the country.
In the spring of 1874 there originated in Hillsboro, Ohio, what was popu-
larly called the Woman's Crusade. It organized praying bands of ladies, who
made direct appeal to the saloon keeper to cease his nefarious business, and
aimed to deter men from drinking. It spread extensively and rapidly through-
out Ohio, and invaded the adjoining States, east, north and west. Quite an
efficient organization was established at Sharon, and possibly at other points
in the county. The crusade at Sharon was a vigorous one, and was instru-
mental in enlisting in favor of temperance many prominent citizens who had
previously occupied an attitude either of indifference or of absolute opposition.
The crusade was but a tidal wave, temporary in its operations, but permanent
in the results that followed the agitation which it developed.
The crusade movement culminated in a movement more philosophical in its
methods and permanent in results — the Woman’s Christian Temperance
Union.* Its origin in Mercer County was as follows: In March, 1875, Mrs.
M. Wolf kill and Mrs. A. P. Hamilton, from Sharon, attended a convention in
Philadelphia for the purpose of organizing a State W. C. T. U. Mrs. Hamil-
ton was appointed vice-president of the 26th Congressional District, comprising
the counties of Mercer, Crawford and Butler. In June, of the same year, she
called a convention at Mercer, which organized a county Union. Its history
is thus stated by Miss M. Luella Crawford, of Sandy Lake, county superin-
*For the facts herein contained, the writer is indebted to Mrs. A. P. Hamilton, of Sharon, and Miss M.
Luelia Crawford, of Sandy Lake.
290
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
tendent of the press department: “ The Woman’s Christian Temperance Union
of Mercer County was formally organized in the court-house, Mercer, June
10, 1875. The meeting was called to order by Mrs. A. P. Hamilton, of
Sharon. The temporary officers were: President, Mrs. Kev. B. M. Kerr;
secretaries, Mrs. Rev. R. McWatty and Miss Sarah Pew. Ladies were present
from Sharon, West Middlesex, Greenville, New Castle and Franklin. The follow-
ing officers were elected for the year: President, Mrs. Rev. S. A. Bignell, of
Greenville; vice-presidents, Mrs. Rev. B. M. Kerr, Mercer, Mrs. Rev. B. K.
Ormond, Sharon, and Mrs. Emily Rayen, West Middlesex; recording secre-
tary, Miss Sarah Pew, Mercer; corresponding secretary, Mrs. Jennie Martin,
Greenville; treasurer, Mrs. Ward, Sharon.
The subsequent officers were as follows: Presidents, Mrs. B. M. Kerr,
Mrs. M. Wolfkill, Mrs. A. J. Kerr, Miss Narcissa E. White, Mrs. E. C. Eckles,
Miss Sarah Pew.
Recording secretaries. Miss Sarah Pew, Mrs. Knight, Mrs. Wolfkill, Mrs.
C. Cunningham and Mrs. L. I. Crawford.
Corresponding secretaries, Mrs. Jennie Martin, of Greenville, Miss
Sarah Pew, Mrs. Bennett, Mrs. Dr. Martin, of Grove City, Mrs. A. P. Hamil-
ton, Mrs. J. W. Stevenson and Miss Sarah Pew.
Treasurers, Mrs. Ward, Mrs. A. P. Hamilton, Mrs. J. M. Wilson, Miss
Sarah Pew, Mrs. M. Wolfkill and Mrs. A. P. Hamilton.
The full corps of officers for 1887-88 is as follows : President, Mrs. E. C.
Eckels, Stoneboro ; vice-president, Mrs. Dr. Martin, Grove City ; correspond-
ing secretary. Miss Sarah Pew, Mercer ; recording secretary, Mrs. L. I.
Crawford, Sandy Lake ; treasurer, Mrs. A. P. Hamilton, Sharon.
Annual conventions have been held as follows: Greenville, 1875 and 1884;
Mercer, 1876, 1877 and 1879 ; Sharon, 1878 ; Sharpsville, 1880 and 1887;
N. Salem, 1881 ; Clarksville, 1882; Jackson Centre, 1883; Sheakleyville, 1885;
Grove City, 1886, and Stoneboro, 1888.
The treasurer’s books show the following receipts during the successive
years: 1875, 148.50; 1881, $82.61; 1882, $108.88; 1883, $62.59; 1884,
1115.84 ; 1885, $125 ; 1886, $234.16 ; 1887, $289.70.
The efficiency of this work in the county is seen in many directions, in the
various departments into which it is organized. Its power is specifically felt
at the season of renewing licenses in the various boroughs of the county. In
addition to the regular Woman’s Christian Temperance Union, there are an
equal number of young women’s Christian temperance unions, whose mission
is confined to the more youthful classes. The two organizations enroll over
1,500 members in the county.
Another temperance movement originated in 1876, and exerted a marked
influence throughout the land. It was known as the “ Murphy movement, ”
in honor of its leading spirit, Francis Murphy, a reformed inebriate, who has
done a great deal in the temperance cause.
Prohibition, quite a successful temperance movement, which purposes to
correct the ills of humanity by prohibiting the manufacture, sale and con-
sumption of intoxicating drinks, has acquired considerable strength. It relies
largely upon the moral regeneration, assisted by acts of legislation, and has
been organized into a political party. It is the second effort to solve the
temperance problem by prohibitory legislation, the first having been made in
1854-55.
Anti-Slavery Agitation. — Mercer County was not agitated as much over
the enormities of the African slave system in the South as other portions of
the State lying contiguous to that region; and yet the abolition of the evil
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
291
was advocated, not as a political but as a reform movement, early in its his-
tory. A discourse having been delivered in the Presbyterian Church in Mer-
cer, June 15, 1835, by the Kev. Nathaniel West, on the subject of slavery and
measures for its extinction, a meeting was called on the dismissal of the assem-
bly, and organized by calling John Young to the chair, and S. C. Tait, secre-
tary. A free interchange of opinion was had as to the proper course to be pur-
sued on this subject, when the following resolutions were unanimously adopted;
Resolved, That in the opinion of this meeting it is expedient to form an anti-slavery
society in this county.
Resolved, That a committee, consisting of Gen. T. S. Cunningham, William F. Junkin,
William McElhaney, William S. Rankin and S. C. Tait, be appointed to draft a constitu-
tion for adoption by such a society.
At an acijonrned meeting of the anti-slavery advocates, held at the court-house, in
Mercer, Saturday, July 4, 1835, William Fruit was called to the chair, and John Keck
appointed secretary. The committee appointed to draft a constitution reported one with
the following preamble, which was adopted by the society:
Whereas, We hold, with the venerable signers of the Declaration of Independence,
these truths to be self-evident: That all men are created equal; that they are endowed
by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among tliese are life, liberty and the
pursuit of happiness. We believe that God hath made of one blood all the nations of
men; that with Him there is no respect for persons; and that He requires of all that they
should do unto others as they would others should do unto them; and that slavery in the
United States deprives more than two millions of our fellow men of their inalienable
rights, and therefore is a gross violation of the fundamental principles of our government,
and incompatible with the laws of God and the requirements of the Gospel, and in direct
opposition to the healthful influences of all republican institutions — that it is a system of
injustice and oppression calculated in its very nature to sow discord in our national
councils, and to impoverish and enfeeble slave-holding States, to l)ring honest inquiry
into contempt, and to make the poor an easy and coutinuecl prey to the lawless passions
of the avaricious, the rapacious and licentious. That it begets and fosters an aristocratic
spirit, befitting the pampered lordlings of despotism rather than American citizens.
That wherever it prevails it breatlies a moral and political pestilence, alike destructive to
the endearments and purity of domestic and social life and to the privileges and princi-
ples of republican freemen. That its continuance in this boasted land of liberty, in the
view of all enlightened nations, pronounces our Declaration of Independence “the
poetry of philanthrophy rather than the dictates of common sense and common justice.
Therefore, we hold that duty to God our Creator, and love to our fellowmeu, as well as to
redeem our nation from the charge of inconsistency and to stay the arm of the Almighty
from executing deserved wrath for the awful guilt of its oppression, we are bound to re-
pent instantly, to undo the heavy burdens, to break every yoke, and let the oppressed go
free.
The purpose of the society, as enunciated in Articles 3 and 4 shall be to induce the en-
tire abolition of slavery in the United States, by collecting and diffusing information
concerning its true character, by endeavoring to convince our countrymen, by arguments
addressed to their understanding and consciences, that slave-holding is inconsistent with
the religion of our Savior, and a heinous crime in the sight of God, derogatory to our
national character, and that the duty, safety and interests of all concerned require its
immediate abandonment.
This society shall aim to elevate the character and condition of the people of color, by
encouraging their intellectual, moral and religious improvement, but never countenance
the oppressed in vindicating their rights by resorting to physical force.
On motion it was Resolved, That the diffusion of anti-slavery sentiments through the
Northern States is not only necessary in order to convince our Southern brethren of the
enormity of the traffic in human souls, but also that the whole moral energies of the
nation be brought to bear on the monster, slavery, which sits like an incubus on our land.
The first officers chosen by the society were: President, John Hoge; vice-
presidents, William F. Junkin and Wdlliam McElhaney; recording secretary,
John Keck, and corresponding secretary, Eev. A. W. Black.
The sentiment of abolition continued to grow. In 1843 we find the first
traces of a political organization known as the “ Liberty Party,” whose object
was the ‘ ‘ deliverance of the North from the expense, disgrace and crime of
slavery.” The central committee of this party in the county consisted of
292
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Kobert Stewart, William H. Scott, Eobert Hanna, John Young, F. B. Hub-
bard, Joseph McDonald, Joseph Sykes, Joseph L. McQuillan and James Kil-
gore. The subsequent passage of the Fugitive Slave law and the Dred Scott
decision were not calculated to allay this anti-slavery feeling. Men were
found in various parts of the county who were efficient agents of the “Under-
ground Railroad,” whose stations were always open to the runaway negro.
The agitation was kept up until the great Rebellion was precipitated, which
extinguished the evil forever.
Assistance Rendered the Irish People. — One of the philanthropic appeals
of the last half century which struck the American people feelingly was
that in behalf of the famishing people of Ireland in 1847, brought to star-
vation by English misrule and tyranny. Mercer County, like other portions
of the country, was keenly alive to the distress caused by the severe famine
in the Emerald Isle, and its citizens, largely of Irish descent, acted nobly
in furnishing immediate and necessary relief. In pursuance of previous
notice, a meeting was held at the court-house in Mercer on Friday, March
5, 1847, to act in the premises. Rev. J. T. Smith was chosen president,
and Hugh Bingham, secretary. William F. Clark, by request, stated the
object of the meeting, and offered a preamble and series of resolutions,
which expressed the condition of things existing in Ireland and the neces-
sity of taking steps for immediate relief. The resolutions suggested the
appointment of a central committee, to address the people of the county
and solicit liberal contributions for the end in view. The resolutions were
unanimously adopted, and the following gentlemen appointed as the central
committee of supervision: William F. Clark, chairman; L. Weaver, seci’e-
tary; E. W. Carter, William McElhaney, John Bowman, J. P. Garrett,
Thompson Graham, Jacob Zahniser, James Sheriff, R. L. Maxwell and J. E.
Rogers. William F. Clark, James Sheriff and William McElhaney were
appointed to prepare an address to the people of the county, urging a liberal
and hearty response to the appeal of perishing humanity. Mercer, and the
Avarehouse at Big Bend kept by Messrs. McFarland & King, were designated
as points at which contributions would be received. We regret that we are
unable to give the results of this movement specifically, but they were gen-
erous and timely. The collections were shipped to the Ohio, and thence by
boat to the destitute.
Desecration of the Lord’s Day. — The observance of one day in seven
as a day of rest and religious worship has met the approbation of the
wisest and best statesmen and philosophers of the world. Its importance
Avas also recognized by the early settlers of Mercer County. On the even-
ing of March 26, 1846, the citizens of West Middlesex and vicinity met
to express their denunciation of the profanation and desecration of the
Lord’s holy day. R. B. Young was chosen chairman, and Robert Craw-
ford, secretary. Rev. A. C. Rockwell, J. D. Foreman and Thomas
Sweezy were appointed a committee to express the sense of the meeting.
They reported a *preamble and resolutions, the former expressing the
sanctity and divine appointment of the Lord’s day, and calling attention to
the laxity and, in some cases, the irreverence with which it is observed. In
their resolution they said:
Resolved, by us, the citizens of West Middlesex and vicinity, that as public opinion
is, under God, the prime source of security to our laws and morals, we solemnly declare
and hereby publish to the world that we disapprove of, and wholly discountenance, such
a disposition to desecrate God’s sacred day, and in testimony of our determination to set
our faces against this great, this growing, Heaven-daring evil, and unitedly, and by every
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
293
proper means, to use our influence for its restraint and entire suppression, we set our
names to this our resolution: Abram Robinson, Amos Smith, William Clingan, J. D.
Foremen, N. H. Pritt, Charles Eaton, Janies Canon, John Lover, William Crossman,
John McCall, William Steen, Thomas Miles, Jacob Brinker, James Bell, John Welch,
John W. Edeburn, Jacob Davis, Henry Davitt, Joseph Edeburn, R. G. Garlick, Jackson
Robinson, William IMathers, Isaac Pounds, James Satterfield, Erasmus Canon, William
Mitcheltree, S. C. Sample, Thomas Miles, Jr., R. B. Young, Ross Robinson, Wesley Hoge,
Thomas Sweezy, S. C. Johnson, Jerome Vernon, David Walan, A. O. Rockwell, R. E.
Johnson, William Johnson, John Campbell, Robert Mayers, John McConnell, Samuel
Bell, John Hill, John Mitcheltree, Mead Satterfield, William Hill, John McBride, R.
Crawford, W. G. Henderson, A. F. Everhart, James B. Ward, J. B. Mathers and James
Satterfield, Jr.
Fourth of July Celebrations. — The celebration of our natal birth-day was,
in the earlier days of our country, attended with patriotic exercises and beneficial
results. There is no doubt that American patriotism, and the grandeur and
achievements of the American nation, owe much to the inspirations of those occa-
sions, when martial music familiarized the young with Yankee Doodle, the Star-
Spangled Banner, Hail Columbia and other national airs ; when the reading of the
Declaration of Independence portrayed vividly the causes which led to the revolt
against the mother country; when the oration for the day supplied the popular
information which the school-boy of to-day obtains from his history of the
United States, and when the toasts responded to by leading citizens gave prom-
inence to our republican form of government, its fiag and its civic institu-
tions. Free dinners in the grove, copious draughts of pure whisky, and all
the pageantry of martial parade, called out vast crowds of people. The intro-
duction of the fire-cracker and sky-rocket at a later date added special attract-
iveness to the occasion for the average boy and girl. The sketch of these suc-
cessive occasions would, if carefully written, be a valuable contribution to
American patriotic literature. Sad will it be when America neglects to observe
properly her natal day. Let banners float ; let rockets glare ; let martial music
enliven every occasion; let cannon boom; let children decorate, and enjoy them-
selves; let fire-crackers be discharged; let orations spread-eagle in style be
delivered; let the Declaration of Independence be read, and let the rising
generation know the rich heritage they have received from a loyal ancestry.
Lives there a man with soul so dead
Who never to himself hath said.
This is my own, my native land?
294
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
CHAPTER XV.
Military'— The Revolution, War of 1812 and Mexican War— Condition of
Western Pennsy’lvania during the Revolution— Period of Settlement
— Revolutionary Soldiers Who Settled in Mercer County — AVar of
1S12— Early Incidents of the Struggle— Military' Organization in
THE County' before the AVar— Rosters of Companies from Mercer
County— Character of the Troops — Events of that Period— Sojie
Veterans Whose ISTayies do not Appear on the Rosters— Mexican AVar
— Opposition of the AVhig Leaders to the AVar — Enthusiasyi of the
People— A Company Raised in Mercer and Its Services Tendered the
President— Public Meetings Held to Sustain the Government.
WHEN the Declaration of American Independence was made, and even as
late as the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown in October, 1781, not a
single family of white men resided in what is now Mercer County. Through-
out its territory, and, in fact, throughout the greater portion of what is now
Western Pennsylvania, “the rank thistle nodded in the wind and the wild fox
dug his hole unscared.” Through the vast forests which covered its lands the
dusky Indian chased his panting game, and in its rippling waters the savage
hunter looked for the delicious food which the finny tribe furnished in great
abundance. Beneath the branches of the giant oak, mighty robed senator of
the forest, the Indian youth wooed and won the heart and hand of the maiden
whose untrained sylvan voice was a source of life to his developing soul. All
was wild and uncultivated.
After the Bevolutionary struggle in the East and South had ended, and the
independence of the colonies was recognized, the course of empire began to
take its w'ay westward. Lands set apart for donation purposes, as described
elsewhere, began to be occupied — in many cases by those who had been stanch
friends of American institutions, and had fought for them during the war just
closed. Such, then, were the representatives of the Revolutionary W ar in Mer-
cer County. Their martial conflicts -were elsewhere, but their trials with the
wilds of nature were here; and in many a resting place within the confines of
Mercer County may be seen, to-day, some evidence of the gratitude with which
their descendants hold their memory in loving remembrance. Side by side wdth
those who fought in subsequent wars they rest, while the twinkling stars above
and unseen angels keep the watch of unsleeping vigils over their consecrated
ashes. May their hallowed and patriotic memories ever be cherished by their
descendants, and all others who have entered into the fi’uition of their unselfish
sacrifices.
AVe regret that we are unable to give the names of all such heroes. In the
biographical sketches of this volume will be found references to many of these
ancient worthies, and tributes to their memories. We append the names of
some as they have been collected :
Godfrey Carnes, who came to Pymatuning Township as early as 1801, was
one of these patriots. Many of his descendants are residents of the county.
Capt. James Duncan, whose diary of the Revolutionary AVar is now in the
possession of A. L. Duncan, of Greenville, was a settler four miles northwest
of Clarksville. His ashes rest on the old homestead.
AA^illiam Simonton, a participant in the battles of Brandywine and Long
Island, in the former of which he was badly wounded, settled about two miles.
-G.Kerj’ian^C^^
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HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
297
southeast of Clarksville. His remains rest in Moorfield Cemetery. His
descendants are still found in and around Clarksville.
David Hayes, one of the pioneer pedagogues of the county, was a neighbor
of Mr. Simonton, and now rests in the same ‘ ‘ city of the dead, ’ ’ Moorfield
Cemetery.
Abraham De Forest was a captain in the Revolutionary War, taking part in
the campaigns in New Jersey. He died near Sharon in 1847, aged ninety-
eight years, nine months and fifteen days. His children, grandchildren and
great grandchilch’en are still living in and around Sharon.
Benjamin Raster, whose remains are in the Moorfield Cemetery, came to
Hickory Township in 1802.
Capt. William Findley and Joseph Junkin were both residents of Findley
Township, the first settling about 1799 and the latter about 1806.
Benjamin Stokely, whose history is given in extenso elsewhere, aided in
the suppression of the whisky insurrection in 1794.
John Carmichael, a Scotchman, who, drafted into the British army, served
under Wolfe at Quebec in 1759, lived in Worth Township, whither as an
old man he accompanied his sons in 1802.
Peter Wilson settled in Jackson Township in 1797, and built one of the
first mills of the county the same year. He was of Irish extraction.
William Gill was a resident of Liberty Township, James Williamson was
an early settler of Otter Creek and Martin Carringer of Perry Township. All
fought for independence.
Daniel Harper located in Lake Township in 1797, and was a pioneer horti-
culturist.
William Egbert, a settler of Sandy Lake as early as 1800, was a pioneer
blacksmith.
Among the Revolutionaries in Wilmington Township were Joshua Cook,
James Young. Mr. Dumars and Christopher Irwin.
Samuel Waldron was a pioneer in Worth, John Perry and William
Dougherty likewise of Pine.
Cyrus Beckwith, a resident of Cool Spring, was a captain from 1776 to the
end of the war.
Archibald Titus is buried in Oakwood Cemetery.
Garrett Cronk and William Nickle are buried in the Pearson grave-yard in
Jefferson Township.
Capt. John Elliott located on the Shenango, in Hickory Township, late in
the eighteenth century.
Capt. Samuel Quinby settled at Sharon in 1808-09. For a number of
years preceding his death he was blind. He died September 9, 1842, and was
buried the following day, the anniversary of Perry’s great victory on Lake
Erie, with military honors.
John Morford, a pioneer of Hickory Township, was a Revolutionary patriot
as was also William McClimans, of West Salem.
WAR or 1812.
The War of 1812 was unlike that of the Revolution, thirty-five years pre'-
vious, in several respects, but mainly in the fact that during the latter strug-
gle the invading army came from the north instead of from the east. Canada
was the base of operations, and hence our northern border was exposed to
constant menace. Says Mr. Garvin, in some manuscript notes:
“ In the War of 1812 the people of Mercer County were frequently called
upon to give their aid in defense of Erie, where the fleet of Commodore
17
298
HISTOBY OP MERCEK COUNTY.
Perry was being built. On these alarms, which were about as frequent as a
ship of the enemy hove in sight, the whole county would be aroused by
runners in a day, and in a very few hours most of the able-bodied male popu-
lation would be on the march to Erie. On one occasion the news came to
Mercer on a Sunday, while the Rev. Samuel Tait was preaching in the court-
house. The sermon was suspended, the dismissing benediction given, and
immediate preparations for the march commenced. On the next day the
military force of the county was well on its way to Erie.
“At another time the news of a threatened invasion came in the midst of
the grain harvest. This made no difference; the response was immediate. It
was on this occasion that Col. John Findley dropped his sickle in his tracks in
the wheat field, hastened to his house, and seizing his gun, with such pro-
visions as his wife had at hand to put in his haversack, hastened on his way to
the defense of his country. On his return, some weeks afterward, the sickle
was found by him where it had been dropped. This was the spirit of the
Mercer County people in the War of 1812.”
It would seem that local military organizations had been maintained for a
number of years prior to the breaking out of the war. These afforded nuclei of
the organizations which rendered efficient service when called into the field.
As early as 1807 there were two regiments in this region, the One Hundred
and Thirty-fourth and the One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Pennsylvania Militia.
The organization of the One Hundred and Thirty fourth at the time was as
follows ;
Lieutenant-colonel, James Montgomery.
Majors; First Battalion, John McCoy; Second Battalion, James Braden.
Captains in First Battalion; John McNulty, John Emery, Joseph McCoy,
Benj. Woods, William Smith, John Minnis, Richard McElwain, John Stew-
art, John Caldwell, James Denniston.
Lieutenants First Battalion; James McBride, Michael Huttenbaugh, Oliver
Reeves, James McCoy, William Breckenridge, James Weakley, Daniel Carry,
John Clark, Samuel Clark, William Gibson, William Zahniser, Joseph Collins.
Ensigns First Battalion; Josiah Winters, Robert Ramsey, James McCoy,
John Gilmore, John McCartney, Samuel Clark, Samuel Scott, Archibald
Montgomery, David Hart and John Haggerty.
Of the Second Battalion; John Findley was captain; John Junkin,
lieutenant, and Peter Rambo, ensign.
The One Hundred and Thirty -fifth Regiment had the following organiza-
tion at the same time (1807);
Lieutenant-colonel, Henry Hoagland.
Majors; First Battalion, John Christy; Second Battalion, John Porter.
Captains; John Gilliland, Alexander McGaughy, Samuel Robinson,
James Watson, Samuel Christy, John McCready, William McMillan, Will-
iam H. Mossman, John Hannell, James Gault, Bashara Hull.
Lieutenants; John Mossman, William Anderson, Robert Mayberry, John
Fisher, John Sims, William Young, George Davis, James King, David New-
ell, Matthew Dawson, David Hayes, Lewis Carey.
Ensigns; John Ferguson, John McCombs, John Moore, James Patton,
Thomas Bean, John McCord, Joseph McClain, James Bailey, Isaac Mickey,
David Clark, Azariah Dunham.
The organizations of these two regiments in 1811 (August 3) are as
follows;
One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Regiment. — Lieutenant-colonel, Thomas
Hosack.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
299
Majors: First Battalion, John Stewart; Second Battalion, John McCoy.
Captains: James Denniston, John Caldwell, Job Egbert, Abraham Clark,
Thomas Courtney, Samuel Clark, Samuel Thompson, James McCune, Joseph
McClintock, James Montgomery, James McCoy.
First Battalion, R., John Junkin, Epaphroditus Cossitt; L. I., Samuel
Clark.
Second Battalion, R. , David Robinson.
Lieutenants: John Haggerty, Jesse Kilgore, George Able, Samuel Scott,
James Ramsey, George McBride, William Turner, George Sheakley.
First Battalion, R., Walter Oliver; L. I., Frederick Minner.
Second Battalion, R. , Hugh Jamison.
Ensigns: Hugh Jamison, William Orr, Thomas Ireland, Abraham Clark,
Archibald McCormick, Charles Stevenson, Samuel Thompson, Asa Arnold,
Henry Emery, Eliab Axtell, George Wilson, Martin Cochran, David Ross,
Ichabod Dilly, Jacob Smith and John Dougherty.
First Battalion, R. , Samuel Leek, Samuel B. McCune; L. I., Stephen
McKinley.
Second Battalion, R. , Isaac Taylor.
One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Regiment. — Lieutenant Colonel, Andrew
Christy.
Majors; First Battalion, James Gault; Second Battalion, John Sims.
Captains: Matthew Dawson, John Gilliland, Samuel Christy, Robert
Mann, John Rea, George Pearson, Robert McCord, Alexander Thompson,
Thomas McMillan, John Fisher.
Lieutenants: Robert Stewart, John Ferguson, Thomas H. Bean, James J.
Bean, Isaac Gibson, James Limrick, John Docan, James Clark, Joseph Will-
iamson.
Ensigns: John Canon, Robert McDowell, Thomas W. Bean, Francis
Beatty, Francis Scott, Andrew Chestnut, Matthew Black, Henry Hoover,
James Woods.
When actual service occurred the organizations seem to have changed
somewhat, many of the men belonging to the Militia companies for drill pur-
poses not going to the front. Col. Christy led a battalion of his regiment to
Pittsburgh in the summer of 1812. At that point the battalion joined Gen.
Crook’s brigade, and marched through Ohio to operate with Gen. W. H. Har-
rison against the British around Fort Meigs. We have succeeded in securing
the rosters of his command, consisting of the companies of Capts. Matthew
Dawson, John Gilliland,. Robert Mann, John Junkin and Robert McCord;
Captain, Matthew Dawson; lieutenant, John Ferguson; ensign, Francis
Scott.
Sergeants: Thomas Jewell, John T. Bean, George Pearson, Robert Lock-
hart.
Corporals; Edward Douglass, John Gibson, Jeremiah Ralston, Joshua
Chenowith.
Privates: Joseph Allen, Samuel Awkwright, William Beatty, Frederick
Baum, Alexander Boyle, William Byers, John Canon, Frederick Carpenter,
William Carnes, Benjamin Castor, William Clark, Jacob Cooper, Thomas
Cherry, Thomas Crawford, Jacob L. Gurwell, James Graham, Jeremiah Hazen,
John Henry, John Irvine, Daniel Klingensmith, Andrew Marquis, Samuel
Marquis, William Means, Henry Mercer, Isaac Moreland, John Moreland,
Christian Moats, John H. Monteith, William McClurg, John McCord, William
McCord, Samuel McCrumb, Andrew McFadden, Robert McIntyre, Samuel
Patterson, Elijah Patton, Jacob Pool, Andrew Reed, William Sample, Samuel
300
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Sample, Thomas Sampson, William Scott, John Siverlin, Francis Slayman,
Eobert Sheal, Thomas Speir, John Sommerville, John Thompson, John
Vannoston, David Warner, Lott Watson, William Zuver.
Captain, John Gilliland; lieutenant, John Ferguson; ensign, Charles
Eichardson.
Sergeants: Eobert Johnston, John W. Brown, James Brush, John Stev-
enson.
Corporals: William Leech, Andrew Beatty, Benjamin Lodge, Cornelius
McCurdy; drummer, Thomas Calvin.
Privates: Thomas Bole, James W. Brown, John A. Bean, Baptist Brush,
Gabriel Calvin, William Calvin, John Campbell, Noble Dumars, Peter Grim,
Adam Hill, Eichard Hill, Jacob Hoobler, Daniel Keck, William Kerr, Thomas
Leech, William Lindsey, John Long, John Mahan, Isaac Moreland, Alexan-
der Moreland, John Moreland, Eichard Moore, John F. Mossman, James Mc-
Cullough, John McClimans, John McGranahan, William McGranahan, Will-
iam McMillen, Hugh Nelson, James Nelson, Samuel Parker, Samuel Potter,
Jacob Ehodes, John Eichardson, Philip Sherbondy, Jacob Sherbondy, James
Tunison, Zebulon Tunison, William Trimble, George Walker, Samuel Walker,
James Williamson.
Captain, Eobert Mann; lieutenant, James J. Bean.
Sergeants: James Donaldson, James Bole, Thomas Morford, John Lout-
zenhiser.
Corporals: Adam Gault, James Thompson, Thomas H. Bean, Charles
McCreight.
Privates: William A. Bean, Thomas W. Bean, Alexander Bean, John W.
Bean, Eobert Beatty, John Calvin, John Christy, John Donaldson, David Haun,
Jacob Hommer, Joseph Hommer, John Hommer, Jacob Kamerer, Samuel
Kamerer, Irwin Kerr, William Kirby, Matthew Kirby, Peter Klingensmith,
John Klingensmith, Joseph Klingensmith, Daniel Keck, David Leech, Samuel
Lininger, Joseph Long, James Linn, James K. Marshall, Christopher Miller,
Thomas Morford, Jr., John McLean, Hugh McFetridge, Matthew Ormsby,
David Patterson, Eobert Ealston, Matthew Ealston, Christopher Streight,
Henry 'Williamson, James Williamson, Thomas Williamson, David White,
James Woods. This company was formed in and around Greenville, and went
to Erie to resist the threatened invasion from the north.
Captain, John Junkin; lieutenant, Walter Oliver; ensign, Samuel B. Mc-
Cune.
Sergeants: Andrew Clark, James Eambo, Thomas Eambo, Jacob For ker.
Corporals: John Feltibarger, John Moore, George F. Kurtz, Thomas Bran-
don.
Fifer, James K. Caldwell; drummer, Samuel Phinesy.
Privates: John Alexander, Henry Black, Joseph Black, David Barnhill,
Samuel Bowman, Josias Campbell, Thomas Canon, John Carmichael, Abraham
Clark, John Clark, Solomon Cook, Alexander Coyle, John Coyle, Alexander
Denniston, Eobert Gibson, James Glenn, Thomas Gordon, William Gordon,
Joseph Harber, John Hawthorne, Samuel Hawthorne, Frederick Helverin,
John Johnston, Henry Jordon, Joseph Junkin, John Lowry, Charles Lucas,
Joseph Moore, Samuel Moore, Daniel Maurer, James McCord, James McClos-
key, John McCoy, David McCurdy, James McCracken, Allen McDonald, John
McDonald (Wolf Creek), John McDonald, Thomas McEwen, Jacob Osburn,
John Perrine, Peter Eambo, John Eihel, Chapman Eose, Andrew Eose, Fran-
cis Scott, Ezekiel Sankey, William Sheriff, Matthew Simpson, Thomas Simp-
son, Aaron Taylor, Washington Tait, Joseph Thorn, Abraham Truxel, Charles
Williams, William Zahniser.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
301
Captain, Robert McCord; lieutenant, Andrew Chestnut; ensign, James
Melvin.
Sergeants: Samuel Howard, Andrew Brown, John Boston, William McCord.
Corporals: George Fell, John Fry, Robert Ellis, Carlisle Lessee.
Drummer, Adam Miller; fifer, John Burns.
Privates: Jacob Artman, Richard Brown, Solomon Brown, Stephen Burns,
Andrew Campbell, Jonas Fell, Jacob Fry, John Gravat, William Gravat, Jon-
athan Hoover, Thomas Howard, James Hunter, Matthew Hunter, Edward
Johnson, Thomas Laughead, James Mossman, John McLaughlin, John Mc-
Clurg, William McClurg, George McCord, Joseph McCord, John Smail, Rob-
eit Steel, Henry H. Vernon, John Vernon, Alexander Woods. These men
went out from the northwestern part of Mercer County, most of them from
West Salem Township.
Capt. Junkin’ s company was known as the “Mercer Blues. ” Concerning
it Mr. Garvin says, and the remarks will apply equally to the whole battalion:
“A rifle company, the ‘Mercer Blues, ’ under the command of Capt. John
Junkin, volunteered its services for six months under Gen. Harrison, and was
at Fort Meigs in the winter of 1813. Their time expiring before the siege
made by Proctor was commenced, when the Virginia volunteers under Gen.
Leftwick left the fort, they were among the Pennsylvania brigade that re-
volunteered to remain until Gen. Harrison was able to relieve them. Some of
them even remained to participate in the defense against the siege of Proctor. ’ ’
The Mercer Blues, as will be seen by an examination of the roster, was
made up of exemplary men. In his biography of George Junkin, D. D. , the
Rev. D. X. Junkin says: “ They numbered some eighty rifles; and so large
a proportion of them were pious young men that, in every tent except two,
family worship was maintained by the mess during the campaign, and in those
two the captain often officiated. Nor did their devotion diminish the perfec-
tion of their military discipline and efficiency. Their drill was as perfect as
that of regulars, and Gen. Harrison often complimented them for their gal-
lantry and soldierly bearing. ’ ’
While these troops were on their way to the front, they had occasion to
encamp near Mansfield, Ohio. While there a serious misfortune occurred on
the 29th of November, 1812. A violent storm came up early in the morning,
hurling a hugh oak tree upon the line of tents occupied by Capt. Dawson’s
company. Jeremiah Ralston was killed instantly, and William Beatty, John F.
Bean, John Gibson, John H. Monteith and William Clark were all wounded.
Bean had his right collar bone broken. Beatty and Monteith had their ankles
mashed, and Clark had five ribs broken. Gibson subsequently died of pneu-
monia at Wooster, Ohio. W illiam Clark is still living and in good health at
Clarksville, Penn., having passed his ninety-fourth birthday on June 8, 1888.
Six other men in an adjoining tent were injured more or less by the top of the
tree.
These troops passed from Mansfield via Fort Ball (now Tiffin), and Upper
Sandusky to Fort Meigs, where they joined Harrison’s army. A letter
written from what is Perrysburg, Ohio, by Capt. John Junkin, to his brother,
gives some facts and views of interest to the reader. We reproduce it :
Headquarters, Miami Rapids, February 12, 1813.
Bear Brother: I received yours of the 26th iilt., and intended answering it from Upper
Sandusky, but was ordered off suddenly, and had not time ; and now you can have but
barely an acknowledgment. We arrived here yesterday. Our force I do not precisely
know, perhaps five thousand. More will soon join us. Winchester’s misfortune at the
river Raisin, you will have heard of perhaps more correctly than I could state it. Harri-
son pursued a body of Indians, two nights since, about twenty-five miles. They headed
302
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
for Malden, and he returned to camp. Our army is well supplied. Desertion is not now
frequent. The cowards. I think, are now all drained from among us, and the men now
present in the army will do more than if they that have deserted had remained with us.
What the intended movements of the army are, none but General Harrison knows ; and
it is right it should be so. What the results of the movements may be, God only knows.
He who ruleth the armies of man, and giveth the battle to whom He pleaseth, can save by
many or few. That we may all be enabled to place our trust in the King of kings is the
prayer of your most affectionate brother, John Junkin.
These troops were absent from September, 1812, to May, 1813.
In the summer of 1813 another demand was made for the troops of
Mercer County. The approach of the British fleet on the lake demanded the
assembling of the troops at Erie, where Commodore Oliver H. Perry was
building his fleet. To that point the Militia of Northwestern Pennsylvania
repaired. The urgency of this demand is clearly shown by the following order
issued by a Mercer County man to another Mercer County officer. The Col.
Hosack refeired to was the son of Henry Hosack, a pioneer of Findley Town-
ship, and an uncle of Dr. J. P. Hosack, at present practicing medicine in
Mercer. The colonel met a sad death, having been completely cremated,
when he was an old man, in the conflagration of his own house.
Sir: In pursuance of General Orders, you are commanded to march the whole of your
company to the town of Meadville, prepared to march forthwith to the town of Erie;
there to perform a tour of thirty days, unless sooner discharged. Each officer and
soldier will appear equipped for the field of battle. A court of appeals will be held at
Joseph Alexander’s on Monday, tlie 18th day of October next. Rations will be prepared
at Meadville. . Thomas Hosack,
Sunday, July 25, 1813. Lieutenant- Colonel Regiment P. V.
Captain James McCoy.
Papers are extant showing that Capt. McCoy was discharged from service
on the 5th of February, 1814. This will indicate, probably, about the length
of time these services were given.
It is a source of regret that the names of all who responded so patriotically
to their country’s call in the War of 1812 cannot be given. In addition to
those already given in the rosters, we mention some that have been picked up
in various ways. These, with the names found incidentally in the biograph-
ical chapters, will do something to reclaim their memories from oblivion.
Hickory Township. — Archibald Titus, Ebenezer McGowan, Nathan Hazen,
Samuel Quinby, Washington Porter, Henry Hoagland, Samuel Hoagland,
John Hoagland, John Rankin, Elam Bentley, John B. Henderson, Joseph
Stinedorf, Jacob Dillinger.
Jackson Township. — Samuel and Abraham Pew, George and James Wil-
son.
Lake Township. — William, Valentine and Michael Zahniser, Andrew and
John McClure.
Sandy Lake Township. — Daniel Perrine, Charles A. Giebner and his sons,
William and Augustus.
Wilmington Township. — Benjamin Junkin, William Young.
Findley Township. — Thomas and John Hosack, Joseph Forker.
Springfield Township. — James Denniston, Alexander Black, Capt. Robert
Black, Adam Black.
Salem Township. — John Leech, Sr.
Cool Spring Township. — Joseph Alexander, Zachariah Johnston, Samuel
Johnston, John McEwen.
Wolf Creek Township. — William Montgomery and five sons, William,
Thomas, John, Alexander and David; Nathaniel and Joshua Coleman.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
303
Worth Toumship. — Caleb Ball.
Pine Township. — Samuel Perry, Thomas Dunlap, John Dunlap.
Liberty Township. — James George, James Foster, William Foster, John
Foster.
Jefferson Township. — William Atkinson, Andrew Brest, William Craig,
John Mitchell, William Mitchell, Isaac Sowash.
Shenango Township. — Bobert Stewart.
Mill Creek Toivnship. — Francis Dunn, Samuel Glenn, James Montgomery.
Deer Creek Township. — Aaron Boylan, William Ross, Ithiel Tuttle.
Sandy Creek Toivnship. — William, Moses and George Sheakley, Andrew
Davidson, Thomas Philips, James Brush, John Thompson, Richard Davis,
Samuel Clark, David Gai-dner, Thomas Craig, John McCracken.
West Salem Township. — Francis and Hugh Mossman.
Perry Township. — Jacob Carringer.
Pymatuning Township. — Samuel Clark, Daniel Koonce.
In the Shenango Valley Cemetery, at Greenville, are buried the following:
Andrew Campbell, Cornelius Tunison, John Long, William Emery, Robert
Bean, James McCurdy, James Nelson, Benjamin Boyer, Peter Miller, George
Davis, Peter Roberts, Robert Mann, William Fonner and James W. Brown,
some of whom have already been mentioned.
MEXICAN WAR.
The war with Mexico did not strike the leaders of the Whig party with any
degree of patriotic force. They feigned to regard it as a scheme of President
Polk and the Democratic party to popularize his administration in the slave-
holding States by increasing the boundaries of our territory in the Southwest.
The people, however, exhibited unbounded enthusiasm in the support of the
government, and a large addition of the richest territory in the Union was the
final result of the war. It is not our purpose here to trace the stages of the
struggle, but to call attention to the role that Mercer County played.
The records reveal the fact that on the 20th of June, 1846, there was or-
ganized at Mercer a company known as the “Mercer County Infantry,”
whose services were at once tendered to the President. Its officers were:
Captain, James Galloway; first lieutenant, J. H. Williamson; second lieuten-
ant, Dawson Wadsworth. The services of these patriotic men were not accept-
ed, and hence they were not permitted to inscribe their names upon the roll of
Mexican veterans who upheld the flag from the Rio Grande to the City of
Mexico.
The next account of an efPort in the direction of influencing public sentiment
was the report of a large and enthusiastic meeting held at the court-house on the
22d of December, 1847. It was called to voice the sentiment of the people upon
the subject of prosecuting with vigor the then pending war. William S. Gar-
vin was chairman; John Findley, Joseph Kerr, M. L. Mordock and John
Barns, vice-presidents, and B. F. Baskin and M. C. Trout, secretaries. John
Hoge, B. F. Baskin, James Dickson, Thomas Wilson, William L. Christy,
Benjamin Polly and Thompson Graham were appointed a committee to draft
resolutions expressing the sentiment of the meeting. While this committee
was drafting its report, James Galloway, Esq., who had previously been de-
prived of the privilege of leading his company to the field, was called upon
to make an address. He spoke eloquently of the right of the United States
Government to the territory of Texas, up to the Rio Grande, and maintained,
likewise, that the war had been commenced by Mexico. He commended the
administration for conducting the war vigorously and economically.
304
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
The committee reported a preamble in which the United States was upheld
and vindicated for the part she was taking in the pending conflict, and intro-
duced a series of resolutions, the first of which asserted ‘ ‘ that it is the duty of
all good and trne men to stand by their country in this war, and to uphold by
their voice and strengthen by their sympathy the hands of the government in
its efforts to secure a satisfactory peace.” Another resolution demanded of
Mexico a snfficient indemnity for the injuries she had inflicted upon citizens
of the United States, and for the expense incurred by the latter government
in the prosecution of the war. The Congressman of the district, Hon. John
W. Farrelly, was instructed to vote ‘‘supplies of men and money for the
vigorous prosecution of the war to a successful and speedy termination.”
This meeting was composed largely of Democrats, the Whig leaders not
endorsing the movement. Mr. Garvin, in the Western Press says: “There
were a few patriotic Whigs present, who, though they did not figure as officers
or on the committee, nevertheless countenanced the meeting and sanctioned its
proceedings. It is not known that any troops went to Mexico — certainly no
organization as such. Individual soldiers may have gone in some other organ-
izations, if so, the cases have not been made matter of record.
CHAPTEE XVI.
War of the Kebellion— The Seed of Discord Planted with the Colonial
Set tlements — Growth of the “ Irrepressible Conflict,” and its Final
Culmination— Some Causes Accounting for the Intensity and Dura-
tion OF THE Rebellion — Events Preceding Its Commencement — Parti-
sanship IN Mercer at the Beginning of the War— Sublime Patriotism
OF the People Irrespective of Party— Their Devotion to the Union —
Prosecution of the War— Troops Furnished by Mercer Countv'— Reg-
imental Sketches and Rosters of Companies— Thirty-ninth— Fifty-.sev-
ENTii — Seventy-sixth — Seventy-seventh— One Hundredth — One Hun-
dred AND Thirty-ninth — One Hundred and Fortieth — One Hundred
AND Forty-second— One Hundred and Forty-fifth— One Hundred and
Sixty-ninth- Two Hundred and Eleventh— Miscellaneous Troops —
Closing Events of the War.
The intestine war, which raged in this country with unwonted fury from
1861 to 1865, was a gigantic rebellion — not a war between the States as
such — not a war between the North and South, except so far as the for-
mer stood as the representative and defender of national government,
and the latter as the exponent and defender of a slave-holding con-
federacy. It was not a revolution, because that would imply just grounds
for such an unusual and destructive action; and further, because a revo-
lution, according to the authority of the eminent Sir James McIntosh, is a
movement crowned with success. It will not do to underestimate the conflict
by s-Pplying to it the rhetorical euphemism — “the late unpleasantness.”
Fealty to the facts of history, and to the demands of the unborn future,
requires that it should be called by its proper name — the Southern Rebellion.
He who expects to study, intelligently, the history of this colossal military
and social conflict, will utterly fail if he begins with the stirring scenes of
1861. They are but the beginning of the last, but most tragic, act in the great
drama of American civilization. They are but the culmination, on the field of
HISTOllY OF MEECER COUNTY.
305
battle, of a conflict which had been in progress, with varying fortunes and
constantly increasing intensity, since the colonial settlements were made upon
the Atlantic coast. The basic conflict in the elements of man’s nature — the
struggle between his spiritual nature, which is guided by intelligence, and
held amenable to the promptings of an enlightened and responsive conscience,
and the fleshly instincts, which constantly enslave and debase him, is abund-
antly illustrated in the two types of civilization that originated resi^ectively at
Plymouth and Jamestown. The former, always intolerant, and often perverse
and in error, was permeated by the teachings of a church, whose conscience
•was vigorously and persistently held to established standards. Freedom of
speech, of the press, and of human action, restrained by personal responsibil-
ity to rigorous and often tyrannical laws, was a leading characteristic of the
Puritan type. Industry and the dignity of labor, equality of all classes before
the law, personal responsibility for individual acts — these things characterized
the New England colonies. Jamestown was composed originally, of men, the
leaders of whom cared for little else than bodily ease and the accumulation of
wealth. Naturally and readily they accepted the institution of African slavery,
because it coincided with their notions of ease and superiority, was suit-
able to the climatic conditions of the country, and afforded a means of devel-
oping wealth wholly compatible with their original notions in seeking this
country. Property in bone and muscle and brain was easily reconciled with
their sense of the eternal fitness of things.
The “irrepressible conflict,” which began two and a half centuries ago
between these two radically unlike types of civilization, grew with time and
opportunity, and frequently threatened the peace and permanency of the imper-
fect local self-governments established. The only peace existing during that
time was the truce enforced by a necessary conflict with enemies external and
more powerful than either party alone. Permanent peace could not, in the
nature of things, exist. Compromises but deferred the final conflict. All the
efforts made to have two irrepressible elements permanently harmonized in our
government were, in the nature of things, unsuccessful. Human nature, and
all that we know of truth and error, right and wrong, conscience and preju-
dice, Christianity and infidelity, could not be reconciled to such an anomalous
condition of things. The only possible basis for peace and progress was the
utter and absolute overthrow of one or the other type of civilization. All
effort at harmony by diplomacy had failed. An appeal was finally made by
one power to the arbitrament of war. The tongue and pen gave way to the
sword. Under the new regime the only possible terms to be offered were :
“ Unconditional surrender. ” This demand was made from first to last, and
finally the deferred decision was made at Appomattox. J amestown, that had
furnished the regnant ideas of the slave-holding South, and consequently of
the Southern Confederacy, surrendered to Plymouth, the progenitor of the
free North. The Declaration of Independence, which asserts that all men are
created equal and endowed with certain inherent rights, was at last interpreted
philanthropically, and steps were at once taken to readjust and reconstruct our
civilization.
With the acceptance of the foregoing philosophy of the great conflict that
simply terminated in 1865, we have little difficulty in deciding the causes of
the late war. The charging of the matter upon John Brown’s raid on Har-
per’s Ferry; the publishing of “ Uncle Tom’s Cabin” or Helper’s “ Impending
Crisis;” the speeches of hot-headed anti-slavery orators; the harangues of South-
ern leaders; the passage of the Fugitive Slave law; the enactment of “Per-
sonal Liberty Bills” by certain States ; the repeal of the Missouri Compromise,
30G
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
the division of the Democratic Convention, at Charleston, in 1860, which defeated
Douglas for the Presidency, and the subsequent election of Abraham Lincoln,
were but the culminating manifestations of the great conflict we have already
menticfhed. They were but ripples on the great sea of troubled waters of con-
flict. Recognizing the philosophy of what has been said, we are partially
prepared to interpret the history of the late war. In addition, however, to
what has already been given, it may be wise to remember a few other facts
that account for the intensity and duration of the conflict.
1. Owing to the warm climate and the use of carbonaceous food, the
people of the South were excitable and courageous, and hence deadly in
earnest from the beginning of the war. The people of the North were
lethargic, and required to be pounded- and defeated for a time to arouse them.
The first two years of the war were favorable to the Southern Confederacy.
2. The young men of the South were trained to horseback riding and the
use of fire-arms. Hence their soldiers were good in cavalry and skillful as
sharpshooters. Northern men, taken from the fields and workshops, were
wanting in these matters.
3. Southern troops were organized upon a better basis. Men were
brigaded by States, and thus retained their State pride. New recruits, too,
were put into old organizations, and thus made efficient from the first. They
acted as veterans because they had competent comrades and leaders. Able-
bodied men, too, were not put to driving ambulances or provision wagons, but
into the ranks to do actual military service. An army of 30,000 Confederates
was equivalent to 40,000 Union soldiers for the reasons just given.
4. At the opening of the war the best generals of the old army were in the
South — the Lees, and Johnstons, and Hardees, and Braggs, and Jacksons, and
Longstreets, and Beauregards, and Stuarts, etc.
5. It must be remembered, too, that Jefferson Davis, the President of the
Southern Confederacy, was a military man, a graduate of West Point, and
better qualified to conduct military movements than President Lincoln. This
fact was a source of ffreat strength.
6. The fighting was principally upon Southern soil, where its men were fight-
ing at home and for home. They were inspired, too, by the near presence
of their chivalrous ladies, who were equal to an army in reserve.
7. Both parties mistook and underestimated the strength and skill of their
adversaries. The “breakfast job” proved to be a four years’ struggle, in-
volving millions of men and billions of money. Washington’s whole army
during the Revolution would not have supplied the pickets for either army
during the Rebellion. After four years’ of conflict the great North and the
sunny South became introduced. A costly introduction, it is true, but the
progress and destiny of the great Republic are its fruitage.
Mercer County, loo, was interested in this conflict. She helped to elect
Abraham Lincoln, the “rail splitter” from the western prairie, whose success
was taken as the pretext for the secession of the cotton States and the form-
ing of a separate government, with slavery as both the foundation and arch
stone. Before Mr. Lincoln was inaugurated public excitement was at tiptoe.
The closing days of Buchanan’s administration were full of painful anxiety.
State after State was j^assing the ordinance of secession; supplies were being
shipped to the Southern States for the use of the conspirators; the national
executive was undecided as to the course of action he should pursue; Southern
members of his cabinet, tinctured deeply with the heresy of secession, were
resigning and leaving their places to be filled in the closing hours of his adminis-
tration, when most of the preparatory mischief had already been done; states-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
307
men in Washington were holding conferences looking toward some compromise
that would prevent actual hostilities; the celebrated Crittenden compromise, con-
ceived in a generous and charitable spirit, had been offered in vain to the erring
South; the authorities at Washington, asphyxiated by the dilatory policy of
the President, wore helpless to check the general stampede toward national
disintegration; and the incoming administration had no power to stay, if it
could, the tide of ruin and desolation sweeping over the country. Party
prejudices had not been given up, and the people were not yet in a frame of
mind to appreciate fully the gravity of the danger that threatened them on
every hand.
Under these circumstances several meetings of historical significance
occurred in Mercer, the relation of whose leading points now demands our at-
tention. On the 22d of January, 1861, Kev. W. T. McAdam, then pastor of the
Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer, but subsequently of the Presby-
terian Church of Sharon, delivered a lecture at the Mercer court-house,
entitled “Our National Troubles.” By two distinct committees, representing
prominent business and social men of the town, he was requested to permit its
publication. He consented. The document occupies about nine columns of
the Mercer County Whig, and is a carefully prepared discussion of the question
of slavery as being the innocent cause of the war. It is not our purpose to
give an outline of the lecture, but to call attention to a few points as showing
its drift. His reason for delivering the lecture is thus expressed; “At a
time like this, when the citizens of several States in this magnificent confederacy
are in open rebellion, * * * * it is the duty of every patriot and philan-
thropist to stand up in defense of his country.”
He planted himself upon the proposition that there had ‘ ‘ been nothing in
the legislation and administration of the General Government which caused
the secession movement in the South.” He was disposed to treat sections of
the country fairly, but was courageous in his advocacy of the right as he under-
stood it. Said he: “ We should scnipulously yield to the South all the rights
guaranteed them by the Constitution of our common country, and not one
iota more, should it even save us from all the calamities of civil war. It is no
time for unholy compromises. Sure that we are right, we should stand as
inflexible as justice, and trust the issue to Almighty God. ’ ’
He then reviewed, in order and at length, the various charges brought by
the South against the people of the North, viz. ; (1) The passing, in certain
States, of “Personal Liberty Bills;” (2) The existence of “under-ground
railroads” for aiding the fugitive slaves; (3) The holding of opinions hos-
tile to the institution of slavery, the publication of books like “ Uncle Tom’s
Cabin,” Helper’s “ Impending Crisis,” etc., and the making of inflammatory
anti- slavery speeches.
After discussing these points, Mr. McAdam concludes by saying: “What-
ever may be the immediate result of the existing state of things, one thing is
sure — the ultimate issue will be glorious. ’ ’ His idea of solving the problem
then up for solution is tersely put thus; “But what must be done with those
citizens of the United States who are now in rebellion against the government ?
There is but one course — the Federal laws must be enforced, cost what it will.
There has been too much lenity already exercised, and the government should
bring all its resources to enforce obedience to its laws. ’ ’ His remarks through-
out were fortified by copious quotations from the leading statesmen of the
South; but they were not acceptable to the entire community. There were
many who felt that the effort of the preacher was tinctured with partisanship,
and needed rebuttal. Two plans were pursued. First, a rejoinder, occupying
308 •
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
about five columns and a half of the Democratic Register, was made in the
form of an open letter written and signed by the editor, William McKnight.
It criticised the lecture strongly for two reasons: First, because it was deliv-
ered by a preacher of the Gospel, it being held that the man of God should
not leave his usual field and dabble in politics; and, second, because it was
claimed to contain partisan statements not in harmony with the truth.
The second effort was to hold a public meeting, at which speeches were to
be made and a series of resolutions passed that would reflect the sentiment of
the opposition. Accordingly posters signed “Many Citizens” were put up
in the town calling ‘ ‘ a public meeting of those who prefer the Union and the
Constitution to a party platform.” The Register likewise published the call,
announcing, editorially, that “a Union meeting will be held at the court-
house this evening. Turn out.” The meeting was held Thursday, January
22, 1861, the organization consisting of Peter Harnett, Esq., chairman, and
Maj. H. Graham and Hon. T. J'. Brown, vice-presidents. The opening
address was made by John Trunkey, Esq., the recently deceased supreme
jiidge. He pursued, it is said, the general line of argument presented in
McKnight’s open letter, published the same day. After Mr. Trunkey closed,
calls were made for D. W. Findley and K. M. De France. At this point a
difficulty arose. The organization embraced only members of the Democratic
party, and the speakers belonged only to it, though there were many Bepub-
licans in the audience. There was no disposition to hear Judge Findley, inas-
much as he was not in sympathy with the spirit of the meeting, whose object,
it was alleged by the Republicans, was to pass a series of resolutions con-
demning the Republican party as being responsible for the then existing con-
dition of the county and indorsing the Crittenden compromise measure. The
Republicans were unwilling to sanction this course, and insisted upon their
right to be heard. When it was objected that the gathering was one of
Democrats, Johnson Pearson mounted a table and began to read the call for a
“Union Meeting,” which had been posted all over town. Most of the Repub-
licans finally withdrew from the meeting, and the Democrats carried out their
previous intentions. The occasion at that time was a critical one, and but
for the ascendancy of the wise counsels of cool-headed men of both parties,
bloodshed might have ensued. It is a source of much rejoicing that such a
favorable termination occurred, for the people at that date, the inauguration
of Mr. Lincoln not having yet occurred, were not in a frame of mind to divest
themselves of partisan prejudice.
Two months later, however, when rebel guns had fired upon Fort Sumter
and compelled its garrison, under the gallant Maj. Anderson, to surrender,
mere partisan sentiment was somewhat dissipated, and men of all shades of
political belief began to see that armed treason was really in dead earnest. The
only alternative then left was to rally to the support of of the general govern-
ment, put down treason and traitors, maintain the supremacy of the national
government under the stars and stripes, and discuss technical points after the
matter was all over. As the better class of men viewed the matter, it was
unwise, while the house is on fire and devouring flames are sweeping through
it in all directions, to stop to discuss how the fire originated and who is respon-
sible for the misfortune. The wise policy is to go to work manfully to save
the building, and leave the discussion for a less heated and more auspicious
time. Patriotic men — men who loved their country more than they did parties
and dogmas — came to the rescue of oiir imperiled institutions. They furnished
means and men and all else necessary to suppress rebellion. ,
From the ranks of the two great political parties, who a few months before.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
309
with almost equal numbers, had stood opposed to each other in a hotly con-
tested campaign of words and ballets, sprang the loyal defenders of the Union.
They responded to the call of the new President for aid in suppressing rebel-
lion and maintaining the supremacy of the Constitution and the Union. The
roster of every company and every regiment bore the names of these men.
They can not be too highly honored for their patriotic course. To them is the
nation indebted to-day for its perpetuity and the proud position it occupies
among the powers of earth.
In passing, mention of another class must not be forgotten to be made.
While troops were enlisting and going to the front, first for the three months’
service, and later for nine months, a year and three years, there were devoted
friends at home. Men who could not go themselves furnished means to those
who did go, or provided protection for the families of those who went. The
services of such friends of the government have never been properly appre-
ciated and recognized. And then still another class have been overlooked — the
loyal ladies who provided the delicacies and mementoes that encouraged soldiers
in the field. Sanitary commissions and Christian commissions and ladies’ aid
societies of various kinds were invaluable auxiliaries in the crushing of the
Rebellion. All such as aided in these directions, as well as by sending letters
of cheer and encouragement to loved ones in the field, are deserving of the
most grateful recognition by the nation. Could their names be made a part
of the war record, as they should, a halo of imperishable glory would encircle
the wreath.
It is proper to state, in this connection, that while there were many — too
many — of the stay-at-home class, yet, as the war progressed, the better class of
people, irrespective of party, rallied to flie support of the government. The
feeling is very happily expressed in a call issued at Mercer September 2, 1861,
and signed by O. H. Gould, W. P. Leech, Samuel Griffith, J. H. Robinson
and John Trunkey, for a Union convention. The committee says: “Believ-
ing that the preservation of our government, and our institutions under it, are
superior to party success, or mere partisan considerations, the delegates to the
county convention unite in a call for a Union convention of all true and loyal
citizens of the county, irrespective of past party associations, who are in favor
of the Union and the Constitution, and of sustaining the government in a vig-
orous prosecution of the war for the suppression of the existing rebellion and the
enforcement of the laws, * * ^ to nominate a Union ticket.”
This union sentiment prevailed, and was a wonderful source of encourage-
ment to soldiers in the field, and to the authorities at Washington. Time
and space forbid our giving all the phases of the home contest throughout the
war. At times sentiment ran high between the supporters of the Union
and those who looked upon the war as a mere partisan afPair, prosecuted for
personal and partisan aggrandizement. In September, 1863, after the fall of
Vicksburg, the capture of Morgan and the battle of Gettysburg, the Union
convention at Mercer passed the following resolutions unanimously. They
were but part of a series adopted: ,
1st. We here renew our vows of devotion to the government transmitted to us by the
patriots of the Revolution, and pledge our last efforts to maintain its authority and integ-
rity unimpaired.
2d. It is the duty of every friend of the Union to merge all sectional and party feel-
ings in a common patriotism, and by a united and earnest effort, sustain the constituted
authorities of the government in their efforts to crush the cruel and wicked Rebellion,
which aims at the destruction of the liberty and happiness of thirty millions of an un-
offending people, and the universal enslavement of men, women and children, without
distinction of race or color.
310
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
3d. We approve the policy adopted by the President of the United States in prose-
cuting the war in support of the authority of the government, and the suppression of the
Rebellion, and pledge our support to the administration as the only means of securing a
return of that peace and security so much to be desired.
The year 1804 was an exciting one, Gen. Grant having been made lieu-
tenant-general, and commander of all the armies of the United States, the
war was prosecuted with special vigor. Sherman moved upon Atlanta, Grant
upon Richmond, while Sheridan ran, like a weaver’s shuttle, through the
valley of the Shenandoah. From that time onward the fortunes of the new
Confederacy waned rapidly, and the decree was plainly to be read that “ a gov-
ernment of the people, by the people, and for the people, should not perisTi
from the earth.”
It is not possible in this historic sketch to enter fully into details. They
must be found in Bates’ History of Pennsylvania Volunteers and in special
histories of regiments.
Thirty-ninth Regiment, Tenth Reserves. — This regiment had two companies
from Mercer County, B and G. The first was recruited mainly in the vicinity
■of West Middlesex. It was first under the command of Capt. Thomas
McConnell, but subsequently under that of Capt. Joseph B. Pattee.
Company G was recruited at Mercer by Capt. A. J. W arner, then principal
of the Mercer schools, but latterly a member of Congress from Marietta, Ohio.
He was promoted successively to lieutenant-colonel and colonel, and was finally
brevetted a brigadier-general in March, 1864. He was wounded at White Oak
Swamp and Antietam.
The regiment was mustered into the United States service July 21, 1861.
For a brief period it encamped near Washington. It was transferred in June,
1862, to McClellan’s army operating against Richmond, and participated, June
26, at Mechanicsville, where Capt. McConnell was seriously wounded. It
met the enemy on the 27th at Gaines’ Mill, and again on the 30th, capturing
some sixty prisoners on the latter date. The regiment was transferred from
the Peninsula to join Gen. Pope, and shared in the terrible battles during the
closing days of August and opening days of September, 1862. It was present
at South Mountain and Antietam, and later the slaughter of Fredericksburg,
where it lost heavily. It shared in the memorable campaign through Mary-
land and into Pennsylvania in 1863, and was present at Gettysburg. It
participated in the pursuit of ihe retreating hosts, and subsequently in the
campaign against Richmond in 1864. Its term of service expiring May 30,
it was mustered out June 11, 1864.
Company B. — Captains, Thomas McConnell, Joseph B. Pattee; first lieu-
tenant, Charles N. Jackson; second lieutenant, David Farrell.
Sergeants; John W. Porter, A. H. McWilliams, William N. Johnston,
John B. Crawford, Jefferson C. Wentz, David Gilliland, Irvine Miller.
Corporals: George Wareham, William F. Barnett, Robert C. Crossman,
William A. Edeburn, John B. Caldwell, Joseph Baker, Norman Johnson,
Frazer Dillen, Denison Jacobs, John McConnell, John Brown, William
B. Maxwell.
Privates; Eli J. Ague, Henry M. Arbaugh, Menzon Beverly, Walter D.
Byers, S. Bartholemew, Garret Buckalew, Samuel M. Bell, George W.
Beaver, Samuel B. Clark, Charles R. Clark, Samuel B. Clawges, Henry W.
Case, Leonard Curtis, Samuel Clark, Timothy Campbell, Robert Caldwell,
R. A. Dunmire, Jonathan Dunham, Clark C. Davis, Cornelius Donavan,
Alfred C. Day, Isaac Eaton, James R. Feathers, James Faucett, William J.
Gardner, John H. Greer, William B. Gibson, William C. Henry, W. W.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
311
McB. Houston, Isaac Hilkirk, Urias W. Heasley, James Hogue, William
Hunt, William Jellison, Lafayette Jacobs, George Kelso, Benjamin J. King,
James Kirkwood, Thomas Kelly, Andrew Kelly, F. M. Livermore, John W.
Leasure, John E. Lyon, Alexander M. Mayberry, Alfred Mathews, Morris
Madden, William H. Mallory, Edward McGarvey, Lemuel Marsteller, William
J. McGinn, John McGowan, John McCann, Alonzo McCall, James McCloskey,
Patrick McConnell, Alexander McKibben, John Near, James O’Hara, Samuel
Piper, Frank Peters, John W. Powell, Alexander W. Porter, George Paden,
Milo Padeii, Lyman B. Robinson, Joseph W. Russell, James Reznor, Payette
Root, Milton Simpson, David C. Stambaugh, George W. Shearer, Robert D.
Smith, James S. Scott, John Sutley, Thomas Thomas, David Thomas,
William Towman, Elijah Thompson, David Tait, John H. Walker, John F.
Webster, Thomas C. White, Orrin Walker.
Company G. — Captains, A. J. Warner, J. Parker Smith, Peter E. Shipler;
first lieutenants, Thomas B. Rodgers, Joseph S. Marquis; second lieutenants,
C. W. Whistler, N. G. McQuillan.
Sergeants : George Reznor, Milton I. Bean, John M. Bogardus, George T.
Sykes, John H. Forker, J. Boyd Robinson, George W. McCracken, William
H. Rowland.
Corporals: John B. Emery, William Paden, Joseph H. Wright, Thomas
McLaughry, Samuel Graham, James W. Hanna, Isaac D. Kirk, John Nevin,
Joseph Weaver, Elias Orr, William Galloway, Hamilton Houston, John N.
Pew, Hugh L. Sawhill.
Musicians: H. H. Henderson, Oscar D. Madge.
Privates: John R. Albin, John A. Andrews, John M. Arnold, John J.
Alexander, Henry G. Boise, Valentine Beaver, William J. Bodell, Aaron Bush,
Joseph A. Bond, Henry H. Bush, Samuel M. Brown, Edward W. Bloomer,
Benjamin H. E. Bohn, Asa Comstock, J. Charles Cherry, Joseph R. Caldwell.
Joseph Cummings, William H. Craig, John W. Cowan, Charles AV. Dentler,
William H. Ellsworth, William Forbes, John AV. Fruit, Aurelius L. Fell,
Alfred B. Filson, Charles W. Foulk, Samuel F. Fisher, W. Frank Gibson,
James Grace, AATlliam D. Graham, George R. Graham, J. Newton George,
William H. Goodrich, Edward L. Garvin, Samuel C. Grace, Albert H. Ger-
mer, Felix G. Galbraith, Charles W. Giebner, John Gardner, James Howard,
Sr., C. P. Humphrey, James Howard, Joseph Houston, AVilliam H. Houston,
Milton Hines, Baldwin C. Kirk, James M. Keck, David C. Kitch, George W.
Lafferty, William Legore, John Lowry, Edward Miller, Oscar A. Mossman,
AV alter S. Maguire, Joseph S. Morrison, Daniel S. Meals, Joseph C. Mahood,
Christopher Meals, Robert McKnight, William P. McDonald, S. J. McPherrin,
Wallace McClure, R. W. McCracken, James G. Nunemaker, Jonas M. Nelson,
Joseph A. Nunemaker, Joseph G. Perry, William F. Patterson, James G.
Pew, Francis M. Proudfoot, Albert Pearson, Henry Pearson, Peter E. Runkle,
Henry G. C. Rose, George Roberts, Joseph E. Shipler, Robert Stranahan,
Lester Stull, Samuel Stewart, John M. Stevenson, Samuel B. Stevenson,
Thompson Shannon, Joseph A. Shout, John W. Sedwick, David Sheehan,
George Shannon, George Tanner, David C. Taylor, John R. E. Waugh.
Fifty -seventh Regiment. — This organization was formed largely from Mer-
cer County, though companies were obtained in Crawford, Venango, Bradford,
Tioga, Wyoming and Susquehanna Counties. Its two principal officers. Col.
William Maxwell and Lieut. -Col. E. AA^. Woods, were both from Mercer
County. It rendezvoused at Camp Curtin. In December, 1861, it was sent
to Washington, and in February following was assigned to the Army of the
Potomac. Col. Maxwell resigned March 1, 1862, and was succeeded by Capt.
312
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Charles T. Campbell, of Franklin County, an officer in the Mexican War. He
was promoted to the rank of colonel and assigned command of the new regi-
ment. It participated in the Peninsular campaign under McClellan, being a
member of Jameson’s brigade, Heintzelman’ s division. It operated against
Yorktown for a month following April 4, 1862, sleeping in the mud as it dug
trenches. It lost one man killed and hve wounded. During this period much
sickness prevailed. On the 24th of May it crossed the Chickahominy, and
participated at Fair Oaks on the 31st, where it lost eleven killed and forty-
nine wounded. Among the former was Maj. Culp. His place was taken by
Capt. S. C. Simonton, promoted to major. He is now postmaster at Clarks-
ville. Col. Campbell was severely wounded, and was succeeded in command
by Lieitt. -Col. Woods.
On the 30th of June the regiment was engaged at Charles City Cross
Koads, losing seven killed and fifty-six wounded. Among the latter were
Maj. Simonton and Lieut. Morse. It was subsequently engaged at Malvern
Hill, where it lost two killed and eight wounded. Lieut. C. O. Etz was one
of the former. When the regiment reached Harrison’s Landing its ranks
were reduced from nearly a thousand men a few months before to fifty-six for
active duty. Col. Woods left the regiment here on account of sickness, and
soon thereafter was mustered out. Capt. Ralph Maxwell, of Company F, was
in command of the regiment for a time. Subsequently Maj. I^’illiam Birney,
of the Fourth New Jersey, brother of Gen. D. B. Birney, was assigned to the
command. Having recruited in health, the regiment Avas transferred with
other troops to the army under Gen. Pope. It participated in the terribly
severe battles of Second Bull Run, August 29 and 30; Chantilly, September
1. At the latter place was killed the gallant Gen. Kearney, whose body fell
within the rebel lines. Four companies of the Fifty- seventh, under a flag of
truce, escorted the body into the Union lines. For a month the regiment
performed picket duty at Conrad’s Ferry, on the Potomac.
Col. Campbell rejoined the regiment on the 10th of October, and was
with it at the terrible slaughter at Fredericksburg, December 13, where he
was again wounded. In this engagement the losses were twenty-one killed,
seventy-six wounded and seventy-eight missing. Capt. Ralph Maxwell, now
of Greenville, commanded the regiment temporarily after Campbell’s being
wounded, but Capt. Peter Sides, of Company A, was promoted to be lieu-
tenant-colonel, and relieved Capt. Maxwell. The next severe engagement
was that of Chancellorsville, in May, 1863. The regiment lost in killed, two
officers and eleven men; in wounded, three officers and forty -five men. Among
the killed Avere Capt. Edson Rice and Lieut. Joseph Brady.
From July 1 to 3, at the famous battle of Gettysburg, the regiment
performed a conspicuous part, its losses being: Killed, twelve; wounded,
forty- five, and missing, forty- five. Lieuts. Henry Mitchell and John F.
Cox were killed; Col. Sides was wounded, and Maj. Keeper and Lieuts.
Burns, Crossly and Hines were captured. It performed efficient service in
chasing the retreating rebels from Pennsylvania soil back to “Old Virginia.”
Many of the men, having re-enlisted during the' winter of 1863, received a
veteran furlough on January 8, 1864. They returned with numerous recruits
for the campaign of 1864. On the 3d of May it was heavily engaged with the
enemy at the intersection of the Brock and Plank roads. Its losses Avere:
killed, twenty-two; wounded, 128. Among the latter was Col. Sides.
The command devolved upon Capt. A. H. Nelson, of Company K. It was
a member of Hancock’s command on the 12th of May, when an entire
rebel division was captured. The regiment lost seven killed, twenty wounded
\
<
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
315
and three missins:. Amons: the killed ■was Lieut. J. C. Green. It bore a
conspicuous part at North Anna River and Cold Harbor, losing many men.
Capt. Edgar Williams and Lieut. John Bowers and Henry M. Adams were
killed.
The regiment participated in the siege of Petersburg. Lieut. -Col.
William B. Neeper, long exhausted by imprisonment, returned and assumed
command of the regiment. Col. Sides having tendered his resignation, it
was accepted November 26, 1864. Capt. L. D. Bumpus was appointed to
be his successor. The command was consolidated into six companies
January 11, 1865. A few days later the same was done wuth the Eighty-
fourth, and its battalion was joined with that of the Fifty-seventh. Lieut. -Col.
George Zinn, of the Eighty-fourth, became colonel. Capt. George W. Perkins,
of Company K, was promoted to lieutenant-colonel, and Samuel Bryan, of the
Eighty-fourth, was made major. At the hghting about Fort Steadman the
regiment took more than a hundred prisoners. It was present at the surrender
of Lee’s army at Appomattox Court-house. It was mustered out of service
at Alexandria, Va. , June 22, 1865.
Company B — (recruited in Mercer and Bradford Counties). Captains,
Samuel C. Simonton, John W. Gillespie, George W. Perkins; first lieuten-
ants, Israel Garretson, Thomas O. Collamore, Daniel C. Comstock; second
lieutenants, James Burns, William H. Bell.
Sergeants: James Ramsey, James M. Ball, David A. McKnight, William
J. Harry, Joseph Y. Brown, Jason Comstock, William R. Herrick, Zebulon
Berlin, Matthew Foster, Jabez B. McKnight.
Corporals: David W. Green, John A. Jackson, Francis Lewis, Milo
White, David Miniss, James L. Brooks, Walker AV. Brown, James C. Craw-
ford, Hiram R. Morford, Aaron A. Fell, James F. Stillings, Oliver B. Christy,
John McDowell, Valecious A. Polley, Charles Chambers.
Musicians: John H. Christy, Edward M. Marvin.
Privates: James C. Andrews, William A. Andre’n's, Joseph Arios, James
K. Allison, Thomas Barnes, Henry P. Bails, Emanuel Beal, Leonard C. Brom-
ley, Jacob Blake, David D. Benton, John Buchanan, George Blank, Perry O.
Brown, Benjamin P. Boil, H. Bumbgardner, Samuel Burns, William D. Coder,
DeAntonia Costa, John P. Cline, Delton Y. Caswell, Samuel B. Carter, Oliver
H. Clark, Thomas H. Campbell, George B. Caswell, Hiram C. Carpenter,
James Carmo, Robert Carnes, Charles Chandler, James Daughins, John E.
Darrah, George Dixon, Hiram Dixon, Joseph Dickens, Dennis Donavan, Jo-
seph C. Dickenson, Hiram Dindar, Michael Deer, James English, John En-
glish, Daniel A. Frazier, Cassius M. Fell, Daniel Frits, Leonard C. Ferguson,
Aaron A. Fell, Jonas J. Fell, Levi J. Fight, Thomas J. Ferguson, AVilliam
Fry, John J. Foster, James D. Foster, Thomas Fry, Parker J. Gardner, Hor-
ace Granger, William J. Garrelson, M’illiam R. Greenman, AVilliam Grooms,
Alexander C. Grim, Elliott S. Gilkey, Israel Gongaware, Hiram Ginder,
George Herman, Abram D. Homer, Hathael Hoover, Hiram Hess, Enoch C.
Harper, Simeon Haun, Willis Hazen, Daniel P. Harty, Charles Hudson, James
Hunter, Charles AY. Hitchcock, James Harry, AYilliam M. Harry, Joseph
Hunter, Samuel Hodge, William J. Johnson, George Johnson, Daniel John-
son, David Jones, Albert Jackson, Abraham Johnson, James K. Johnson,
Nicholas Johnson, Samuel Johnson, Henry Jaxthimer, Thomas AY. James,
Elisha S. Keeler, David Kocher, H. Klingensmith, Jeremiah Koler, William
J. Laven, Thomas J. Leech, James L. Lucas, Harvey Lucas, Daniel L. Law-
son, John AY. Lawson, Michael Murphy, Victor P. Mott, George AY. Mastella,
John A. Murray, Francis Martin, Wesley Moyer, John Masenus, George Ma-
le
316
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
penus, John N. Mumford, Hiram R. Morford, Hiram Masenus, William Mar-
shall, Ira E. McKnight, John McGarry, James A. McChesney, James McCon-
nell, George McLaughlin, William Mclntire, John McKinley, Thomas J.
McBride, John A. Owens, Abraham Peterman, William Palm, Joseph Phillips,
John Rook, Marion Rice, Michael Rice, Hiram Richter, Samuel Ralston, Da-
vid A. Reeher, George Richardson, George W. Reeher, James Ramsey, Will-
iam D. Ray, Israel D. Risher, William Robinson, William H. Salada, Josiah
N. Smith, George W. Simons, Thomas Stewart, John Switzer, Samuel Smith,
Walter B. Simpson, Eli Simmons, Thomas P. Siddles, Frederick Tingley,
Arthur T. Vase, Samuel Vanderpool, Nelson Vanderpool, Francis Vanderpool,
John Vanderpool, John Welsh, William Woodel, Mark L. Wescott, Abner D.
Woods, John Woods, George Wetmore, Allen Weir, Oliver P. Wescott, Chris-
topher Young, Reuben Young.
Company C (recruited in Mercer and Allegheny Counties). — Captains,
Jerome B. Hoagland, William B. Neeper, Sprague S. Hill, Michael W.
Houser; hrst lieutenants, Enoch C. Cloud, Alexander B. McCartney, Robert
J. Campbell; second lieutenant, George W. Miller.
Sergeants: Robert G. Madge, Milton L. Campbell, John W. Brownlee,
George Byerly, Coryden E. Thayer, John A. Lowry, George G. Portei’, James
W. Thompson, Frank Gregg.
Corporals: Thomas H. B. Pond, Francis A. Bishop, William Shuttleworth,
Robert Z, Newton, David Vannovan, H. M. Krennings, James H. Dunmire,
Alexander L. Douglass, Henry Scholl, James Strain, George W. Kimmell,
George W. Keefer, William McMahon, John McCall, John Koonce, David
Stewart.
Privates: Junice W. Allen, Eno Ague, Joseph Arbuckle, Francis Ackley,
James M. Archer, Charles Angle, William W. Allen, Nicholas Brink, George
M. Bush, Charles Butler, Isaac Byers, Welcome Bass, Alonzo Benjamin,
Milton Boovend, Garvin Brownlee, Peter Boise, Smith Byerly, Samuel M. Bates,
James Briggs, Robert W. Bell, Andrew Bailey, John B. Cole, James C.
Campbell, Charles R. Coburn, William H. Copp, Robert A. Couch, Peter P.
Cole, Jonathan Douglass, Abner Dunmire, James Dawson, Charles Dougherty,
James Dougherty, Thomas Dempsey, Thomas J. Duncan, George W. Dennis,
Richard C. Douglass, George Davison, Oliver Dickson, Denard Donly, Harvey
M. Dawson, Samuel W. Dunham, John C. Downing, Richard Ely, John M.
Eberhart, Josiah Edeburn, Curtis Foster, John E. Frye, Charles Fehmel,
Oliver Freeland, George Grogan, Albert Gridley, Henry M. Grow, John M.
Goodman, William Giasbonner, James Glass, Solomon Ginder, John B.
Hedges, W. W. Hildebrand, Harvey Haugh, James K. Hamilton, Peter
Hornsburger, Levi Hatcher, Harrison Huff, David Harps, Arthur Hurley, N.
Hollibaugh, Max Hamras, Jotham Hutchison, Lucellus Hull, Henry Illgen,
John H. Jamison, Samuel Johns, John H. Kline, Joseph Kane, Milo Kains,
George Keller, William Limber, William Lockhart, A. Ladd, Jacob Layton,
John Lowstetter, Benjamin Lee, Constantine Lits, Thomas Limber, Henry
C. Luce, A. J. Lineberger, Thomas Lowry, John Miller, George Miller,
Richard Morrison, Francis Marron, Dennis Monnihan, Wreford Madge, M.
Myron Moody, Ebenezer Miller, John Matthews, D. Monnihan, Henry Mar-
shall, Josiah McFarland, D. M. McMillan, W. S. McClelland, M. McLaughlin,
William H. McCaslin, John R. McConnell, Phineas Pond, Henry Powell,
William Price, Thomas Roach, Michael Ryan, Patrick Roherty, Edwin S.
Rhodes, Edwin H. Rickert, Gottlieb Schmidt, Samuel Stull, John Smith,
William Stewart, Thomas Sullivan, Peter Snyder, William Snyder, C. B.
Salsbury, Thomas Stewart, Caleb Sodden, John Smith, Isaac Shultz, John C.
HISTOKY OF MERGER COUNTY.
317
Thompson, Thomas Thornton, George Tenhollow, Samuel Thompson, E. C.
Thompson, A. S. Thompson, Hiram Thompson, Charles Tanner, Joseph
Urmson, Ambrose Vincent, Ezra H. Wiggins, John Widdall, Samuel Wilson,
Henry C. Wells, A. J. Woodbury, Milo White, Amos White, Henry S. Wilson.
Company D. — Captains, W. H. Caulking, James D. Moore; first lieut-
enant, Charles O. Etz; second lieutenants, William O. Mattison, Cyrus P.
Slaven.
Sergeants: Joseph S. Sharp, Perry C. Bristol, William Brooks. Levi
Christ, Albert Hayne, Abram P. Pew, John Hay, Samuel Shields, John T.
Labar, H. F. Westbrook, B. P. Managan, Daniel Holmes.
Corporals: Adam McCormick, Jacob Lutes, C. B. Kennedy, John Turner,
Somerville Hill, George W. Harrison, Louis Barzoni, Marion King, S. H. Mc-
Cartney, H. W. Babcock, B. D. Ellis, H. B. Douglass, E. C. Goodrich, Sey-
mour Ingalls, Charles Maynard, Bobert C. Hill.
Musicians: Henry Crull, Daniel Downey, W. S. Lambacks.
Privates: John W. Anderson, Milton M. Andrews, David Brest, Jackson
Breakman, Lewis F. Brest, William Bostwick, William A. Burns, Stephen S.
Beeman, Jonas Brobst, John Brooks, James H. Break, John Booth, David
Baddiff, E. Brannon, Albert Bailey, David Bowman, Elias Christ, Joseph
Christwell, William J. Creighton, Harvey T. Christ, John Cubbison, Hiram
Clair, Joseph Clouts, Patrick Coyle, Hampton A. Conger, David A. Cox, Phi-
lemon Catlin, William Christ, Harvey L. Cubbison, William H. Curtis, Perry
Childs, Benjamin Card, Joseph Christwall, John Dobson, John Dumire.
Bruce Dickey, Hiram Delong, Henry Dewald, Jacob Derr, John Dougherty,
Harrison Davidson, John S. Donohue, William W. Davidson, Bobert David-
son, John Drake, Addison Dimmick, Thomas Dickey, Evan Evans, James
Evans, Jonas Furl, Lewis C. Fesser, Dubois Frear, William Gixher, Joseph
Gaston, Bobert S. Gatchell, Miles S. Green, George T. Granger, Winfield
Guish, James Grant, Thomas Gibbons, Jr., Abram Gaskill, Elias Gearhart,
Washington Hood, Jesse Harrison, Washington P. Hill, James Hill, William
Hagey, Stoughton M. Howard, C. W. Humison, John J. Harrison, Isaac Hol-
labaugh, Alexander B. Hunter, Arthur Hanna, David Hay, Henry Jones,
Bichard Johnson, William K. Johnson, George Johnson, Wheeler P. John-
son, Oliver G. Johnson, Henry N. Kellogg, Henry Kent, Anthony Knox,
Merritt Lillie, Jason Lemon, William E. Lightcap, Augustus G. Lytle, Will-
iam J. Little, Miles Luton, Bobert H. Martin, Nathaniel Markel, James Mea-
dows, William Magner, Michael Magner, James F. Mateer, David Millison,
Charles Maxiona, Thomas B. McLain, Henry McCloud, Patrick O’Keefe, John
B. Parks, George Patton, John W. Piper, Joseph V. Pew, Joseph W. Parker,
Amos Baybuck, Edward Biley, William T. Bichards, Elias Bodgers, Henry
Bow, Lewis Bedman, Charles W. Scott, John Spear, Christian Shick, John
Shouts, John Schenk, Charles E. Smith, Joseph. Strieker, Walker Slaven,
James Sharp, Elijah B. Silliman, Aaron Stage, George Stage, Samuel Simons,
William Snow, Thomas D. Thomas, Elijah Thompson, John Thompson, James
M. Tyler, Edward Thatcher, William Vanderpool, James Vanderpool, Jerry
Vanderpool, Francis Vanaman, Henry Vanderpool, John Vangilder, James
Vanderpool, Samuel Williams, Joel E. Wilsoncroff, George Weisor, Henry
Weisor, Samuel M. Woods, Thomas Walty, Bobert M. Wells, Joseph Woods,
Thomas C. Wykoff, Marion Young, Valentine Zahniser.
Company E (recruited in Mercer and Allegheny Counties). — Captains,
James B. Moore, William S. Eberman, Edson J. Bice, Edgar Williams, Ellis
C. Strouss ; first lieutenants, Henry Mitchell, John W. Parks, Thomas J.
Crossley, John A. Silliman ; second lieutenant, Joseph Freeman.
318
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Sergeants : George E. Kellogg, William D. Murray, Eex Brown, James
K. Kerr, John W. Wilkins, Walter E. Rice.
Corporals : Maurice Donovan, James W. Hummer, John D. Mclntire,
Adam Wert, Wolford Case, John C. Marsh, Able L. Marsh, Peter C. McAvoy.
Privates : John Anderson, James Archer, Benjamin Anderson, F. S.
Anderson, Arthiir W. Banks, Moses Boyer, William J. Brown, William H.
Buchanan, Patrick Burke, Alfred G. Burnett, Columbus Beer, James W.
Burns, John W. Burns, William Carey, John Coleman, Robert Carbutt, James
E. Curry, John Clark, Theodore Catlin, John A. Cussins, James Craven,
E. L. Cunningham, Samuel Crossgrove, Leander Douse, Hiram J. Dyke,
Sanford P. Dempsey, David M. Elderkin, James Flaherty, James Frederick,
Ambrose Frisbee, Cyrus France, John Forrester, Esquire B. Fisk, John
Gerow, Eliphalet S. Green, John Gilvare, Henry Griffith, Abraham Giles,
Moses W. Gregg, David Haight, James Handlin, Charles R. Hatch, William
A. Hawk, J. C. Hendershott, Charles E. Higgins, George B. Haight, Freder-
ick Hinman, Thomas H. Harford, James Houghtaling, Winfield S. Harvey,
Reuben Irwin, James Kelly, Patrick Kelly, John Kenny, Isaac W. Lyons,
Jonathan M. Lock, Marcus Lockruit, John Leech, William Martin, Joseph
H. Miller, Jacob S. Moyer, Robert Masters, John H. Miller, John Murray,
James Martin, Henry McConnell, Cassius McCurdy, Patrick McGarvey, John
McCarthy, Joseph McNamara, Edward J. O’Connor, William Phillips,
David Putt. Josephus Peddicord, Albert L. Peck, Willett Pierce, William
Redmam, Hiram Rogers, Benjamin Ross, William Rourke, Oliver P. Rugh,
Michael Ruland, Elias B. Rich, Philip N. Robison, James A. Raymond,
George W. Rafenberg, Lines D. Richards, Jacob Schaeffer, Joseph Shara,
Louis Shell, Andrew Shepherd, William A. Sloan, William Smith, Andrew
J. Stroup, William Steen, William W. Switzer, Cary A. Slayton, Horace
Sweet, Levi Shreeves, Jones Snow, Alfred M. Sarvey, Charles T. Thompson,
Joseph Thornton, Thomas Thouge, Perry H. Tillotson, Edward Tarman,
Adolphus Thompson, Benjamin F. Umstead, John B. Warbutton, Samuel
Wike, James Wigfield, John WTlhoff, John C. Whaley, Joseph Whacker,
Samuel S. Willehelm, Jacob Wilson, David E. Wilson, Daniel Yockey,
Thomas Zeliff.
Company F (recruited in Mercer County). — Captains, Ralph Maxwell,
George Clark, Harrison Nelson, Elisha C. Bierce; first lieutenants, Isaac Cum-
mings, William B. Neeper, James F. Ruger; second lieutenants, Lafayette
Cameron, W^illiam H. H. Hury.
Sergeants: Thompson Zahniser, H. R. Douglass, T. K. Hamlinton, Curtis
WTngard, Walter Rice.
Corporals: Hudson J. Bierce, Thomas B. Henney, Peter H. Ebbert, Sam-
uel G. Pew, H. A. Hoover, M. C. Zahniser, Charles Main, Thomas Bunny.
John C. Lightner, William Oddell, George Spencer, Henry Wymer.
Privates: James Ackworth, George W. Baker, William Bailey, Henry By-
eiiy, William Baker, Enos Bush, Thomas P. Black, K. B. Bunting, William
H. Black, Abraham Byers, A. F. Black, Andrew Boyer, Abraham Black,
Joseph D. Baker, James M. Bush, W'illiam Barnhart, Michael Carroll, John
Cochran, George S. Corcoran, John Cable, Amsi M. Coovert, Jonathan Col-
grove, William C. Clough, Cyrus Cramer, David M. Corcoran, Zachariah H.
Conn, James M. Collins, Albert Chilson, James Callahan, Harmon Decker,
Patrick Dougherty, Frederick E. Darke, Fernando D. Decker, George W.
Douglass, Jerome Eli, Curtis Emery, Joseph A. Fulton, John C. Ferguson,
Daniel W. Fisher, John Funk, Frederick Gulick, Daniel Guiger, John Gib-
son, Archibald Glenn, James F. Gibson, Thomas Gallagher, George H. Gam-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
319
ble, ’William M. Harry, Joseph A. Heasley, John E. Heasley, James Huson,
Asa S. Harding, Peter Huron, Joseph Heasley, James Hardy, O. Harshin-
baugh, W. B. Henderson, Michael H. Huffman, Thomas Hewitt, Gottlieb
Hanna, Edward Hanna, Alva Hart, William Heasley, Lewis Heasley, O. P.
Huffman, James C. Irwin, Matthew A. Irwin, Chandler Inman, Samuel C.
Jenkins, James J. Johnson, Carey M. Kisbaugh, John C. Kishroff, Robert
Kimmerling, William B. Kater, Rudolph Lits, Hezekiah Lightner, Francis M.
Michael, James T. Michael, James Miles, James Y. Miller, James Murphy,
William Morton, Henry Myers, T. C. Middaugh,T. Benjamin Mattison, Miles B.
Morehead, Benjamin Mattison, Smith Mozier, Lafayette Mattison, Silas B.
Mattison, Benton McVannon, John McGwinney, Wesley McDowell, Charles
McMullen, James McDermott, George Newcomb, Thomas Nallan, Israel Osman,
Samuel Phenicy, Archibald Potter, George W. Parker, Sidney Ei Penney,
Charles Potter, W. H. Phenicy, James Y. Raymond, Edward Rosencrans,
Peter R. Rite, Jesse Rahauser. Adam Rupert, Melvin Rice, John Snyder,
James W. Smith, Leonard R. Scott, John Shaffer, Joshua, Snyder, Christo-
pher Sthrome, William W. Scott, Perry Sweet, George G. Smith, Daniel
Trude, John C. Taylor, Charles Tompkins, George W. Vaughn, William
Y’ilkinson, Jacob Wolfgang, George P. Wiley, Calvin Wingard, William H.
Wesley, Samuel Walker.
Company I. — Captains, Thomas S. Strohecker, Lorenzo D. Bumpus, James
D. Moore, John R. Ross; first lieutenants, George Supplee, John Bowers,
Thomas E. Merchant; second lieutenants, Jesse R. Williams, Edwart S. Ben-
edict, John F. Cox, Henry M. Adams, Cyrus P. Slaven, James M. Lewis.
Sergeants: George W. Lower, William C. Stewart, O. D. Waterman,
William Curtis, Alfred Aurandt, Henry H. Snare, William Bone, Orsemus R.
White, James W. Cummings, James L. Wykoff.
Corporals: Joseph Enders, Lartis Campbell, Jacob W. Miller, John C.
Shinefelt, Amon Hauck, James Colbert, Elijah Gorsuch, Samuel L. Hare,
David A. Stewart, James A. Davis, Virgil Brigham, Elijah Estep, James
Zahniser, L. N. Herringer, C. G. Barker, A. C. Hanna, Levi McFadden,
Albert Reynolds.
Musician: Jeremiah Black.
Privates: James B. Armstrong, Jacob Ashton, Howard D. Avery, John
Bradley, Anson M. Bidwell, K. H. Basset, Edwin E. Brown, David Bell,
Jacob Blake, Oscar A. Bailey, Grin D. Brigham, Eliphalet Bush, Peter Ben-
ner, William B. Bruner, William Barrett, James J. Bruner, Demetrius Barn-
hart, George Cassell, J. J. Clevenger, John Charles, Wayne Campbell,
Robert Collins, John C. Cathumas, Francis Chilson, Jacob Cramer, Thomas
Dugan, JudsonDany, Frank Duaenhaffer, John Drake, James Ellerson, David
Estep, A. Eichman, Flenry C. Estep, Joseph D. Everhart, Samuel Eddleman,
James Evans, Henry Ford, Henry Felber, George A. Flannegan, James Gal-
lagher, George Garner, Warner Hurley, Henry Heverly, Austin Hoban,
Robert Startley, John Herman, Isaac D. Harris, Henry Hale, William Hurley,
William A. Houck, Samuel Hale, Isaac Hollenbaugh, Caleb Higbee, Michael
Haggerty, William Isham, William M. Johnson, John Kilgore, Hugh Kear-
man, Levi Kessler, Daniel King, Richard Lanely, Samuel Lessick, James M.
Lias, Frank Lewis, George R. Mountain, William A. Maxwell, Charles Mon-
roe, Simon Middaugh, James Miller, Levi Metzker, Andrew J. Mosher, Jacob
S. Miller, J. Andrew Marks, C. Maxum, Henry McLaughlin, Samuel McDon-
ald, Julius C. McGonigle, Adam Nash, Samuel Nunamaker, Edwin North,
William Newhouse, Daniel Oberly, Levi Ostrander, George W. Parks, George
Patton, James Rue, Charles W. Richards, Henry Smith, Henry Schwmb,
320
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
William Scott, Henry Snyder, Jacob Shaffer, Bradley Sherwood, Andrew
Tetwiler, John Taylor, Joseph Tetwiler, John E. Ullery, Loomis Vargason,
Jesse D. Vargason. Julius Veit, David S. Walters, Moses Wood, David H.
Weaver, John C. Wilson, E. Wayland, August Wagoner, Thomas C. Wykoff,
Henry B. Wood, William Wanrick, James A. Tingling.
Seventy-sixth Regiment. — This regiment had one company from Mercer
County, Company B. Its captain was D. C. Strawbridge; first lieutenant was
Martin Stambaugh, and the second, Andrew J. Marshall. Strawbridge was
promoted to colonel. It operated along the Atlantic coast at Hilton Head,
Fort Fisher, Fortress Monroe, etc. It was mustered out of service July 18,
1865.
Cojwpau?/ B (recruited in Mercer County). — Captains, D. C. Strawbridge,
David B. Hoagland, William J. Brady; first lieutenants, Martin Strawbridge,
Adam C. Reinoehl, De Forest F. Wheeler; second lieutenants, Andrew J.
Marshall, A. N. Strawbridge, Seth Thompson.
Sergeants: Samuel Mahanna, Thomas Mounts, John A. Porter, Henry
Keiser, James E Arner, James Buchanan, Godfrey Turner, Howard Baker,
John L. Reno, William Morgan, Martin Gundy, James I. Rebout, Washing-
ton Winnel.
Corporals: John Hawk, John L. Miffert, Jesse B. Collom, Henry Miller,
William Fordice, Robert Hunter, Loverend E. Ague, John Waddle, Morris
Cochran, Thomas McHestney, George Norman, Hugh D. Moses, Adam Defflin,
James Parker, John Rainey, George W, Dutcher.
Musicians: William J. Dougherty, John Stevens.
Privates: John M. Alexander, William A. Ashton, William Airoy, George M.
Bartle, James Booth, John Boylan, Lewis Bowmaster, James Bradley, Will-
iam Brown, Ebenezer F. Bennett, William Bridget, Joseph Baker, Spencer
Briggs, James D. Butler, John Beam, Hosea Chase, Marquis R. Cole, Joseph
Cole, Charles F. Christy, Robert Campbell, Joel E. Canon, Hugh Canon,
John Clark, George Currie, Lindsey Currie, Francis M. Cole, Joseph H.
Christy, Peter Currie, Prime Carson, Robert Carson, Edward Cozad, Thomas
Campbell, Hiram Corey, James A. Dodel, Henry Dowhower, David Davis, Will-
iam Daily, Henry Daily, Franklin Dennis, David Deifenderfer, John Edgar, Ben-
jamin Evans, John Fitch, Conrad Fisher, Christian Fink, Ransom Ford, Andrew
Fagley, James Fisher, Daniel Farrister, Charles W. Foster, Abraham Groover,
Michael Graham, Benjamin K. Gardner, Henry Glenn, Harrison Gunther,
William Hainey, Daniel Hardesty, George W. Hoover, David Heasley, John
Hader, Samuel S. Harris, Joseph Hilsher, Christian Hurst, Edward D.
Haughy, Perry Hippie, Frank Herron, Madison Harris, Stephen Harris,
Isaac Hawk, George Huffman, Seth Hull, Jonathan Harris, Josiah Hanson,
John Harris, Joseph Hiill, Edward Hambright, Martin H. Ingram, Edwin
Jones, Herman Jennings, John James, Henry Kraise, Henry Koonce, Jacob
Koonce, Frederick Kugler, Samuel A. Koonce, Abraham Kennedy, Daniel
Kelley, Henry Lucas, Fernando Lake, A. Longenecker, John Lytle, Benjamin
E. Lefever, L. P. Linebarger, Addison Law, John L. Moyer, James Morgan,
Samuel Mounts, Walter H. Mallorie, Nicholas Mahanna, Harrison Messenger,
Alexander Moses, John McCoy, John McElroy, George McFadden, Thomas
McFarland, Albert McDowell, Silas McClure, John McClosky, Samuel Mc-
Callen, James McGregor, John Naugle, David Pentz, Benjamin Plank, A. W.
Pollock, William Potter, Samuel Paris, Francis M. Phillips, Samuel C.
Quinby, Jonathan Ryer, Isaac Ream, William Reichter, William B. Reno,
James B. Reno, Thomas Rice, Samuel Rice, John M. Rodgers, Charles
Rodgers, John M. Smith, Thomas Smith, John Shrink, Benjamin Seaburn,
HISTOllY OF MERCER COUNTY.
321
Abraham Skelley, Myers Sargen, Frederick Shady, William Strause, Benjamin
F. Starrett, Robert Stoner, David Sarver, John D. Sample, David Sample,
Edwin M. Scott, Phillip Stambaugh, Daniel Shatzley, Sebastian Steece,
Samuel Seaburn, G. Shendeldecker, Henry Stewart, William B. Shaw, Law-
rence Shields, Joseph Shonefelt, James Shonefelt, Reuben Shull, Amos Sny-
der, Joseph Thomas, Emory Tribby, Oscar F. Terance, S. Umbowerwer,
Charles Ulp, John Vought, Alexander Williams, Sylvester Williams, Michael
AYireman, Samuel Weller, Thomas White, Wilmer West, Isaac Wells, William
Wright, Charles Wilbur, John Williams, James Young.
Seventy -seventh Regiment. — Only a part of one company (E) went from
Mercer County. The regiment was organized at Pittsburgh, and went thence
to the western army, arriving at Louisville October 18, 1861. In the follow-
ing March it proceeded to Nashville, when it moved with Buell’s army to the
battle-field of Shiloh, where it participated in the second day’s engagement,
April 7, the only Pennsylvania regiment on the bloody field. It took part
in Halleck’s farcical siege of Corinth, and subsequently belonged to the Army
of the Cumberland, and bore a heroic part with Rosecrans in the bloody battles
of Stone River, Liberty Gap and Chickamauga. It took part in the later
movements around Chattanooga, shared in the Atlanta campaign, and then
aided Schofield and Thomas in the sanguinary struggles of Franklin and
Nashville. After the war was virtually over it was sent to Texas. Remaining
some months, it returned to Philadelphia, January 16, 1866, and was mus-
tered out soon thereafter.
Company E (recraited in Mercer and Allegheny Counties). — Captain,
William A. Robinson; first lieutenant, Robert H. Long; second lieutenants,
Beverly S. Gould, William P. Price.
Sergeants: Alfred T. Carnes, James R. Martin, John W. Crawford, Alfred
Ray, William T. Morrow, Thomas C. Stubbs.
Corporals: Albert Oliver, George Walters, Charles Sw'artz.
Privates: A. C. Behrends, John A. Butler, Homer Bailey, John Barnsley,
Nathan Barnaby, J. S. Bartholemew, A. M. H. Behrends, Isaac L. Boyer,
Jesse Brine, Chauncey F. Boylan, Isaac R. Baird, Ezra T. Clark, Thomas J.
Crawford, Jesse Coy, Frederick Carpenter, Johnson E. Clark, H. M. Cum-
ming, Isaac N. Chase, Martin Christ, Thomas L. Cathcart, David Dally,
Christian W. Ditzell, John R. Duncan, Joseph Donelson, Asa Eckles, John
Eckles, Joseph Eckles, Enoch Eckles, William F. Emmick, A. D. Eastwood,
Townsend E. Fall, Edward F. Findley, John Fitzgerald, David Fitzgerald,
Christian Glatzan, Frederick Garmes, William P. Griffin, Thomas Hardy,
Emory H. Harnish, Joseph Plill, Warren Hill, Joseph C. Hill, John A. Hake,
George W. Haumer, Francis Lambert, Joseph Lambert, Robert Little,
William Long, John Lockhart, William Loper, Robert Materre, Edward J.
Murphy, Michael McNulty, E. G. McLaughlin, Robert McCartney, William
McLain, Hughey McCanna, Samuel Parker, Michael Rutledge, James H.
Reed, James Rodgers, John Richardson, William P. Rowley, Thomas A.
Richardson, William J. Smith, David P. Sloan, George W. Swartz, Henry
M. Schell, David Sunderlin, David A. Stamp, Richard J. Shorten, George
Stamp, David Taylor, James R. Thompson.
One Hundredth Regiment. — This regiment, known as the “ Round-heads,”
had one company from Mercer County, Company G, recruited mainly in Worth
Township. Simeon A. Brown was the first captain. He was succeeded re-
spectively by Capts. Thomas H. Curt, John P. Blair and Samuel R. Grace.
Capt. Brown was killed at the second Bull Run battle, August 29, 1862, and
Lieut. Curt was wounded. Capt. Grace, then only a sergeant, was wounded
322
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTYT
at Chantilly, September 1, and subsequently at Petersburg. Lieut. P. B.
Rayen was killed at Bull Run on the same day with Capt. Brown. The regi-
ment went successively to Port Royal, Charleston and then back to Port
Royal. It was with Pope in Virginia during the month of August, 1862,
and then at South Mountain, Antietam, Fredricksburgh ; then with the Ninth
corps went to Vicksburg, Miss., then to Jackson, and thence to Knoxville,
Tenn., during the siege of that place. Having passed through Grant’s cam-
paign, in 1804, it was mustered out July 24, 1805.
Company 6r (recruited in Mercer County). — Captains, Simeon H. Brown,
Thomas H. Curt, John P. Blair, Samuel R. Grace; first lieutenants, Henry L.
Grace, William G. Ashton, William Taylor, Thomas W. Douglass; second
lieutenants, John Cochran, Philo P. Rayen, John F. Grace, Lester K. Kirk,
Robert P. Douglass.
Sergeants: Charles Clawson, Thomas Bestwick, William Eastlick, Samuel
Buckley, John Wood, Jacob M. Ball, George B. Mathews, William S.
Kilgore, James B. Page.
Corporals; William Clulow, Robert Davis, William Runkle Robert Shields,
Samuel C. Wood, John Forquer, Thomas Jones, James M. Hamilton, Burch
G. Perrine, L. B. Williamson, John D. Kirk, James Gilliland, Andrew J.
Jacobs, James F. Johnson.
Musicians: Jonathan Carroll, James F. Carroll.
Privates: Oliver Asch, James A. Archibald, Joseph A. Allison, John
W'. Alcorn, Louis Brown, Frederick Bohl, Samuel Bean, Enoch Buckley,
Daniel Buckley, Milton Barker, Jacob Bentlif, Adam Barner, William R.
Buchanan, James Bird, Conrad Beadel, William Bland, John P. Buckley,
W illiam P. Buckle_y, Henry A. Cozad, Peter Cunningham, Leonard A. Cleary,
Wescott Corbin, William Corsnitz, Joseph Cleary, Robert S. Crawford, Sam-
uel Curt, David Care, George W. Clark, John N. Connelly, John W. Crooks,
Thomas Clark, Samuel B. Campbell, Stephen Devall, Peter H. Deardorff,
John Dobbins, William G. Dickey, Siba C. Dilley, Ezra M. C. Dunn, James
M. Fury, Jacob Ferree, A. F. Fenstermacher, Emanuel Fry, Alexander Fra-
zier, Thomas Fisher, Uriah Forrest, John Gadsy, Wilmot Grace, Christian
M. Good, Elias Gilmore, George A. Galloway, William Graham, Sizer Gelatt,
Henderson George, Peter Godfrey, William C. Golder, Samuel Godwin, W411-
iam R. Grace, Thomas J. Grace, Thomas Griffith, Henderson Hurlburt,
Abraham Hart, Noah Heise, George D. Hufhan, Edward H. Hoovler, W. R.
Henderson, John A. Johnson, Samuel W. Johnson, George T. Jack, Lester
K. Jacobs, Joseph Johnson, William J. Jacobs, Daniel Kain, Joseph Kelso,
John Kunkle, John C. Kugle, George Kelso, Henry Kesselring, Ira C. Kitch,
Henry O. King, William Kinney, Daniel S. Lanigan, Samuel Landis, David
W. Lock, James Low, John Linn, John Lump, John Lockhart, JohnH. Lark,
Bernard S. Lamber, Richard H. Lyner, Francis M. Limber, Reuben Mahne,
Frank Messner, Phillip Miller. George Moyer, James Montgomery, David
H. Magee, William J. Miller, William J. Mor rison, Joseph Mountain, James
A. Monck, Patrick Marrion, Henry H. Myer, Gottlieb Mayer, John Miles,
William L. McCartney, Robert W. McCurdy, John McClellan, J. P. C. Mc-
Williams, George McWilliams, M. E. McCommons, George McClure, William
A. McLean, James K. P. McClellan, John H. McCartney, John McFarland,
Alexander McKee, Robeid G. Nicholson, Morgan C. Osburn, Joseph Osburn,
Jared A. Pauley, Harrison W. Pitzer, James Patterson, George Palmer,
Thomas J. Perrine, James Perrine, James W. Perrine, Thomas J. Prior,
Samuel N. Richards, William M. Rodgers, Jared K. Rayen, Emanuel F.
Rice, William O. Robinson, James E. Smith, Francis Sennet, Martin Spen-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
823
cer, Charles Shott, Stephen Steward, Enoch Snyder, John Shields, Francis
Swain, Augustus_ T. Spence, John L. Stroup, Harvey A. Squires, David
Smith, Leander Sweeney, Charles Sharp, Joseph H. Slemmons, Paul Stein-
bach, Willis W. Tiffany, James Tracy, Edward Tomoney, Thomas S. Tidball.
William Thompson, George J. Vogan, George Westlake, John H. Wyland,
Louis Weaver, John Wilson, G. W. Washabaugh, Henry Westlake, James
Wheeler. John Williamson, James P. Wallace.
One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment. — Of this regiment, Company A
was from Mercer County, mainly from Mercer, Leesburg, Hamburg, New
Lebanon, and the townships of Delaware, Fairview and Wolf Creek. Capt.
A. H. Snyder and Lieut. James P. McKean were from Mercer; Lieuts.
A. C. Douglass and William S. Leech were from New Lebanon; Lieuts.
John Orr and McLean Thorn were from Leesburg; Lieut. A. T. Black was
from Liberty, and Lieut. E. C. Grace from Worth. Capt. Snyder, promoted
to major, was killed in the Wilderness May 5, 1864. Lieut. Grace shared the
same fate the same day. Lieut. Orr died September 27, 1863. Lieut. Doug-
lass was promoted to be captain, and brevetted a major. He was wounded in
the Wilderness May 6, 1864. The regiment performed its first military service
on the field of Second Bull Run battle, where they burjed 1,799 bodies which
the rebels had left upon the ground. The regiment was present at Freder-
icksburg, but did not participate in the battle. At Chancellorsville it lost 123
men in killed and wounded. It was also engaged at Gettysbttrg, where Com-
pany A lost one killed and several wounded. It shared in the Richmond cam-
paign until July 9, when it accompanied the Sixth corps to Washington,
and thence to the Shenandoah under Sheridan. After Early’s defeat it
returned to the Army of the Potomac around Petersburg, and continued with it
until Lee’ s surrender at Appomattox. It was mustered out shortly thereafter.
Company D had Sergts. William Gregory and Stephen H. Barnett, two Mer-
cer County men.
Company A. — Captains: Abraham H. Snyder, Arthur C. Douglass; first
lieutenants: John Orr, William S. Leech, Joseph T. Black; second lieuten-
ants: McLean Thorn, Ephraim C. Grace, James P. McKean.
Sergeants: James S. Maguire, Ephraim C. Voorhies, Carlton Rice, Alex-
ander M. Hoge, Thomas Tanner, John E. Beil, Samuel Walters, Robert J.
Pardoe.
Corporals: James M. Stamm, Francis A. Filson, James Patterson, David
P. Orr, James B. McCurdy, S. B. Patterson, John N. Reznor, John I. Gor-
don, Reed W. Moore, George W. Burns, Allison N. Clawson, William H.
Dight, Franklin E. Cole, Hector McCahan, William J. Gibson, James F. Bran-
don, R. W. McFarland.
Musicians: Wilson Dean, George W'. Riddle.
Privates: Alexander Adams, Samuel B. Alexander, Samuel N. Axtell,
James C. Allison, Thomas Armstrong, Irwin Amon, Milton Andrews, William
Boyd, Thompson N. Bell, John Boland, James H. Burns, William Corbin,
Andrew J. Clark, James F. Craig, Edmund Cornell, James H. Clark, Joseph
B. Camble, T. M. Cunningham, James D. Carpenter, Andrew Denniston,
William Eberle, John G. Folwell, William Fiery, Solomon Firster, Samuel
Fisher, Joseph A. Fei’guson, Levi Flowers, James Foster, Charles G. Fisher,
Edward Googe, Samuel H. H. Gibson, Samuel Greenlee, Hugh A. Gamble,
Absalom Grove, James S. Henderson, James W. Hildebrand, Ira Hoyt, Wil-
son Homer, William O. Hamilton, Albert B. Hubbard, Christian Hahn, David
C. Hosack, Jacob P. Homer, John H. Homer, William Jack, Isaac R Kelly,
John Kimple, James W. Kerr, Richard H. Lymer, Marshall Long, William
324
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
W. Lundy, James S. Moore, Daniel Madden, J. B. Montgomery, W. M. Mont-
gomery, Levi Moyer, John L. Morrison, Leander Millner, John B. Mitchell,.
George A Moiil, Norval W. Muse, A. P. McWilliams, James S. McKean,
William T. McKean, John H. McDowell, James W. McClelland, William J.
McKay, John W. McCord, J. M. McCutcheon, Samuel Olds, Joseph L. Parks,
Daniel Palmer, Stephen J. Phinicie, Jacob E. Keker, Ephraim L. Kose, George
Keznor, George M. Bay, Samuel C. Rhoat, James A. Ride, John B. Snyder,
Jonathan R. Snyder, Samuel F. Stewart, Andrew Shields, William States,
Charles E. Stamm, Robert Stewart, George H. States, Timothy Thomas,
William R. Thompson, Adam Urey, Abraham Voorhies, H. J. Vandeventer,
William A. White, Stephen A. Wood, George W. Worrell, James B. AVhite,
Henderson Wimer, Seth Worley.
One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment. — This regiment had but one company
from Mercer County, viz.. Company B. Its officers were: Capts. Thomas
B. Rodgers and Jason T. Giebner, from Mercer; Capt. A. C. Grove, from
New Lebanon; Capt. R. C. Craig, from Pine Grove (Grove City); Lieut.
John Satterfield, from Hickory Township; Lieut. George Tanner, from Mercer.
Capt. Grove and Lieut. Satterfield were wounded at Cold Harbor. The first
fighting by the regiment occurred under Hancock, at Chancellorsville. It
next engaged at Gettysburg, where its gallant colonel, R. B. Roberts, was
killed; Capt. Rodgers was taken prisoner. He was promoted to major to date
July 4, 1863. The regiment took an active part in the great campaign of
1864. Its muster-out occurred May 31, 1865.
Company B. — Captains: Thomas B. Rodgers, Jason T. Giebner, Abram C.
Grove, Ranels C. Craig; first lieutenant, John Satterfield; second lieutenant,
George Tanner.
Sergeants: John Fox, James C. Nolan, Charles W. Giebner, George Per-
rine, James L. Griffin, Samuel B. Rodgers, George W. Small, John W.
Johnson.
Corporals: James I. Smith, Alfred Ritner, Benjamin A. Paston, George
Rose, Daniel B. Moyer, John Roberts, George D. Moore, Price Dilley, Isaac
Davis, Henry Rafferty, Alexander Patton, William Patton, Robert G. David-
son, Robert B. Porter, Thomas G. Eagles, Samuel Holmes.
Musicians: David B. Sinclair, Charles Vath, Thomas J. Cozad.
Privates: D. W. Armstrong, William Blair, William Brannan, Hugh Brad-
berry, Wilson Bean, George M. Bennett, Nathaniel Breast, Joseph Brackle,
William P. Buchanan, Samuel B. Bruner, John L. Baily. William Bowman,
John Buckley, Aaron Bollinger, JohnL. Cochran, Melvin L. Cole, Wilson Cal-
vert, Adam Clark, Ransom U. Custer, Adam C. Dilley, George, E. Dilley,
Horace A Dewey, James H. Dean, Daniel Deross, Lewis F. Egbert, Caleb N.
Fades, John Fishcorn, Hartley Findley, William Griggs, Adam George, George
W. Gardiner, George W. George, Charles Griggs, John E. Hunter, Robert H.
Howe, Martin Henderson, Michael Haines, Oliver M. Hanna, Calvin Hummel,
John A. Hunter, Samuel Huff, John Jones, Allen Kirby, Michael Kilbulley,
John G. Lytle, Joseph Mook, George Mears, William H. Mumford, Cyrus
Moreland, William Mears, H. C. Montgomery, James Mercer, JohnO. Marsh,
Samuel McKinley, James McCoy, Michael D. McGeehan, James McKay,
Ephraim Osborn, James O’Hara, James B. Porter, William M. Perrine, Will-
iam J. Perry, Benjamin F. Powell, Thomas W. Petty, Norman J. Pettis,
James M. Robb, Robert G. Smith, Hugh Shaw, William P. Sutherland,
Charles Smoyer, Moses A. Spencer, W. W. Sherbondy, John Seiple, Justice
Smith, Joseph S wager, William Shaw, Thomas Swager, John Shannon,
Edward Scott, Madison Thompson, William H. Turner, Charles Townsend,
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
325
George Thompson, Crawford Thompson, Henry C. IJrey, Jesse M. Vogan,
George W. Vogan, Samuel J. Wier, Anson A. Williams, Lewis Wright,
Thomas M. White, Daniel Walford, Henry A. Writtner, George Young, Jacob
R. Zahniser, Matthias Zahniser.
One Hundred and Forty second Regiment. — Of this regiment. Company
A was from Mercer County, mainly from West Middlesex and vicinity; Capts.
Horatio N. AVarren and Frank M. Powell and Lieut. Martin A. Gilson were
all from AVest Middlesex. The regiment, tinder command of Col. Robert P.
Cummins, Lieut. -Col. Alfred B. McCalmont and Alaj. John Bradley, rendez-
voused at Camp Curtin in August, 1862. Its service was confined to work on
Fort Stevens, AA^ashington; in guarding Frederick, Md. , and taking care of
the wounded from South Mountain and Antietam; under Meade to share in
the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, and subsequently at
Gettysburg. At the latter place Col. Cummins was mortally wounded; Lieut.
F. M. Powell was also wounded. Capt. Warren was promoted in succession
to be major, lieutenant-colonel and colonel. In the last capacity he acted
until the day of muster-out, May 29, 1865.
Company A. — Captains; Horatio N. Warren, Frank M. Powell; first lieu-
tenant, Martin A. Gilson.
Sergeants: Cyrus B. Thompson, Thomas J. Wood, Alfred H. Goble, Alex-
ander S. Love, John Harsh, John McConnell, William G. Drum, Morgan B.
Shirk.
Corporals: Beriah Orr, John Gundy, Jr., John Hosack, William Healey,
Lester Moore, Edwin F. Stiles, Joseph Jones, William Jeremiah.
Musicians: Robert E. Gundy, AA’illiam J. Reed.
Privates; Thomas Brandon, Joseph S. Blair, AATlliam C. Brandon, George
B. Barnes, William Beatty, Thomas Brown, David Campman, Cyrus Crossman,
Henry Campman, John Corey, John Coyl, John AV. Coleman, Samuel D.
Campbell, H. H. Dougherty, John Davis, David Davis, George T. Dunmire,
Thomas AA^. Davis, Lotwig Evans, Charles L. Ellis, Henry B. Edeburn,
Henry Evans, John A. Ewart, Joseph A. Edgar, William Early, John C.
Ginger, John H. Green, David Gregg, George H. Hardman, William B. Hall,
George Hunt, Thomas Jones, John Jeremiah, AVilliam Koonce, John W.
Lytle, William Leek, William L. Lightner, Lemuel Marsteller, James Morton,
Abijah Morford, James K. P. Morris, Isaac McCullough, Alexander C. Mc-
Nabb, Alexander McCoy, John S. Orr, William A. Orr, Freeman N. Piper,
Allen C. Patton, John H. Preston, Henry W. Perry, Albert Rice, James H.
Russell, William W. Smith, John R. Smith, John Smith, H. Warren Stinson,
Linus M. Stewart, Noah M. Thompson, Alfred Tate. John M. AA^ebster, Will-
iam AVilliams, William T. Williams, James AV. AVebster, James A. Will-
iamson, Job Williams.
One Hundred and Forty -fifth Regiment. — This regiment rendezvoused at
Erie, under Col. Hiram L. Brown, Lieut. Col. D. B. McCreary and Maj. John
W. Patton. Company G was recruited by its captain, William W. W.
Wood, in and about Greenville. Its captains, following Wood, were Thomas
F. McCreary and George F. C. Smart; its lieutenants were Joseph L.
Linn, John W. Vincent, Robert C. McClure and Stephen A. Osborne.
The regiment left Erie for Chambersburg September 11, 1862, and was
present at Antietam, its first sanguinary engagement. , After the battle
it was detailed to bury the dead, which produced much sickness among the
men. It engaged in the battle of Fredricksburg, December 13, where
it lost heavily. Capt. Wood and Lieut. Vincent were mortally wounded.
It took part subsequently at Chancellorsville and Gettysbuig, losing
326
HISTOBY OF MERCEB COUNTY.
many men and capturing many prisoners. In tlie great campaign under
Grant in 1864 it did its work manfully. In the operations about Petersburg
many of its members were captured and sent south — the officers to Macon, and
the men to Andersonville. The portion not captured remained with the army
of the Potomac until the close of the war. They were mustered out June 5,
1865.
At the annual reunion of the survivors of the One Hundred and Forty-fifth,
held at Corry, Penn., September 18, 1888, Capt. J. C. Hilton read a sketch of
the regiment, from which we cull the following to illustrate its gallant record:
‘ ‘ I would like to call the attention of any who have read the Century mag-
azine of May, 1888, to the part your regiment figured in the late war. We
will take for our basis the killed and mortally wounded. I would not wish to
take any honors from any regiment, but will only use in comparison the figures
of our old neighbors, the Fifth New Hampshire of the Second corps. This
was the best regiment in the whole army (according to Col. Fox’s report).
Col. Cross, as he marched directly behind me into the battle of Gettysburg,
spoke to me as follows: ‘Don’t forget to-day that you are fighting in your
own State, and give them the best you have. ’ In fifty minutes afterward he
was killed, after having been wounded in eleven different engagements.
‘ ‘ This regiment lost during the war 295 — yours lost 205. They lost eighteen
officers, and you lost eighteen officers, killed and wounded. Their percentage
was 17.9; yours 14.1, you having enrolled 1,456 men. There were 2,200,000
enlistments during the war, and the loss in killed was 5 per cent. The larg-
est number lost by the Fifth New Hampshire in one battle was 69 at Cold
Harbor. You lost at Fredricksburg, with only eight companies engaged, 91
men and 9 officers killed. The Fifth New Hampshire lost of disease, acci-
dents, etc., 178; you lost 227. Total killed, wounded, and missing (which in-
clude 98 taken prisoners and starved to death), the Fifth New Hampshire lost
1,051; you lost 947.
“Now take from after the battle of Antietam in 1862, when your regiment
joined the army of the Potomac, and we find the Fifth New Hampshire lost
230 and you lost 205, the best regiment losing but 25 men more than yours,
and from Antietam you participated in all the engagements with the best corps
in the army — the Second Corps — the corps that made the longest marches, did
the most fighting and lost the most men; and why should it not be when it
had Hancock, the superb, to lead it.
“These are statistics obtained from the rolls and histories at Washington,
and not idle words. The largest number of officers killed in any one battle
from one regiment was ‘ in the Seventh New Hampshire at Fort Wagner. ’
Y’’ou come next with nine officers killed at Fredericksburgh (and only eight
companies engaged). You are numbered among the forty-five regiments who
lost over 200 men killed in the war.’’
Company G. — Captains, William W. W. Wood, Thomas F. McCreary,
George F. C. Smart; first lieutenant, Joseph L. Linn; second lieutenants,
John W. Vincent, Robert C. McClure, Stephen A. Osborne.
Sergeants: George H. Nickerson, James Heckman, Clinton C. Hutcheson,
Emanuel Kile, Amos A. Yeakel, William A. Keck, Andrew E. Slater, John C.
Dickey, Robert B. Warnock, George W. Poole, James W. Boies.
Corporals : David W. Webster, Elias A. Jones, George L. Palm, Francis
Menold, Isaiah McCartney, Thomas E. Clingan, Joseph M. Kitch, William
Heckman, J. Q. A. McPherrin, John H. Leech, B. F. Zimmerman, Josiah C.
Long, George W. Lee, William M. Davis, George Benson.
Privates : Andrew T. Axtell, James Aldenderfer, Daniel Belig, John
HISTOBY OP MEBCER COUNTY.
327
Bloodhart, Samuel Bumbarger, John Brown, L. Burkenstock, Justus Bockins,
James Boyle, Meredith Batchelder, Abner Bradburg, Henry H. Bear, Samuel
Bowman, C. F. Billig, Thomas B. Corner, Thomas Crawford, Henry Carrin-
ger, Henry Carriher, A. M. Crawford, John H. Clingan, David Cole, William
C. Carpenter, W. H. H. Dumarsj T. L. Dikeman, James M. Dunn, Robert
Davidson, Charles Dugan, David Davis, Nathan W. Downey, John C. Dumars,
George D. Emerick, William H. Eastwood, James Foulk, Cornelius Feathers,
Joseph A. Feathers, Elias Foust, H. H. Felthousen, Henry Fox, Frederick K.
Guthrie, John T. Guthrie, Albert Goodrich, William Griston, Aaron D.
Hoffman, Edward Hoffman, Albert Henry, Michael Hawley, John Henninger,
Seth A. Hays, Lewis F. Heller, Henry C. Hoobler, Leonidas H. Hill, H. J.
Henninger, Charles Irish, Edward Johnson, Anthony Jackson, William Jones,
Joseph A. Kashner, William N. Kemm, George O. Keck, Henry Kremis,
Ephraim W. Keck, Reiiben Lewis, Andrew S. Long, Jacob Loutzenheiser,
Samuel Loutzenheiser, John Loutzenheiser, Sylvester J. Linn, David J.
Logan, William Loudermilch, Robert Mills, William Morrison, Michael Mar-
tin, Thomas Miles, Michael Maier, Henry Miller, John L. Mohr, Newton
Morford, James A. Mowry, James Mohr, William Mullings, William Morgan,
W. H. McFatrich, James A. McCleery, Patrick McCann, Cornelius McKain,
William McFarland, Alexander McCracken, James McDougal, Joseph A.
Nelson, Charles O’Geara, William H. Parker, Syrenus Pearsoll, John C.
Robison, John H. Rutter, Rexiben R. Reynolds, Jacob G. Rutter, Andrew T.
Roberts, Keller Reynolds, Michael W. Ream, John Reynolds, John Reed,
David Secondgost, Francis S. Sisley, John M. Schofield, C. L. Satterfield, H.
C. Stephenson, George A. Stephenson, William Swartslander, Edward
Sanborn, William Smith, Henry Smith, Elias Swartslander, David Sheppard,
Simon Smith, John M. Stevenson, James K. Swisher, Benjamin Saul, Edward
P. Sheppard, John Schultz, Quincy Stephenson, Daniel Trine, Nathan Trine,
■John M. Taylor, Samuel Vernon, Charles E Vernon, William H. C. Walker,
George Whitney, John Wagoner, Hiram Williams, James Weekly, William
Weekly, Charles W. Willard, George W. Woodworth, Henry D. Young, Daniel
Zimmerman, J. W. Zimmerman.
One Hundred and Sixty -ninth Regiment. — This regiment was raised for
nine months. It was organized at Pittsburgh, October 28, 1862. It went to
Washington and thence to Fortress Monroe. For a time it did picket duty at
Yorktown and Gloucester Point. Much sickness characterized its career. In
the early part of 1863 it was attached to the Eleventh Corps, and did valiant
service. It was mustered out July 27, 1863. Companies A and D were from
Mercer County, the former being commanded by Capt. John D. Hill, and the
latter by Capt. Anthony Struble.
Company A. — Captain, John D. Hill; first lieutenant, William M. Coch-
ran; second lieutenant, James R. Bean.
Sergeants: Dr. William C. E. Martin, Alexander B. Black, John Car-
michael, Hugh Martin, John L. McCormack.
Corporals: Joshua F. Davis, James W. Cozad, Samuel M. Hawn, James
Gill, James H. Hamilton, John J. Porter, Matthew J. Andrews, George W.
Armstrong.
Musicians: Cyrus McDowell, James W. Nelson.
Privates: James Adams, James Aldenderfer, George W^. Allen, Adam Boyer,
George Buck, Samuel H. Blair, James Blair, William Bruce, Henry W. Billig,
G. E. Burns, Uriah Burns, JohnE. Brown, Reuben Bortz, JohnBacher, Freder-
ick B. Barnard, Henry Baker, Henry Beil, Joseph Bond, Samuel Betts, Joseph
B. Campbell, John Calvin, James Coultei’, Milton L. Chatley, James L. Cook,
328
HISTOKY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Charles Craven, Henry Cook, John Connor, Abram DeFrance, Clark Davidson,
Jacob Ervay, Anthony Eshel, S. Frankenberger, Samuel Fnltz, Leonard K. Fer-
ree, Frank Follensbee, William J. Gill, Albert Gridley, John Hughes, John H.
Henderson, Matthevp J. Hoover, Paul Hoff master, James Hull, John Harper,
Jacob Judy, James Jones, William Klingen smith, William H. Kemp, Warren
Knoss, George Konzen, David Livingston, John Moore, Norman Moreford,
Simon Millison, William P. McCracken, D. M. McClintock, William McClure,
Matthew S. McDowell, James B. McCamant, Marcellus Noss, Charles Nims,
Nathan D. Phelps, George Pfaff, Albert Reed, Henry Reagle, Robert Reed,
Marcus C. Rogers, Henry Rihel, Porter Ritchey, John A. Recher, Robert Stew-
art, Mansfield Stanton, William Stanton, Thomas Struthers, William Smith,
Joseph Snyder, Tracy Shepard, Oliver H. Simons, John S. Smith, Henry
Taylor, JohnR. Wilson, Harrison Wingard, JohnC. White, Samuel Williams,
William H. H. Zuver.
Company D. — Captain, Anthony Struble; first lieutenants, William Sim-
mons, Albert Alexander; second lieutenant, William Kile.
Sergeants: James T. Carmichael, Elijah W. MatOx, Samuel H. Fry, Alva
Coon, Hugh Mounts.
Corporals: John Jennings, William W. McCallen, Joseph M. Emery,
James S. Marshall, Benjamin J. Lattimer, James Greenman, Jacob Young,
Simeon Hamilton.
Musician: David M. L. Beard.
Privates: William Armor, Henry Beil, Daniel Bower, Simon Baker, Adam
Bailey, Joseph H. Black, Henry Bigeler, John Donahoo, John Donaldson,
John Duncan, William C. Emery, Daniel Fuller, Elias H. Francis, William
Flowers, Valentine Gilbert, Phoenix Grandy, John Gloyd, John W. Herrings,
Jacob Hasenplug, William Holt, Reuben Heckman, S. D. Hasenplug, James
Hagen, Peter Higgins, James Hine, John Houston, Charles B. Hubbard,
James C. Jewel, William Johnson, William K. Johnson, George Johnson,
William Johnson, Peter Keefer, Sylvester H. Kinstel, John Kane, Remage
Kessler, Daniel Kamerer, William Kelley, Remagy Kaslin, Samuel Landis,
John Lennan, Richard Latts, John Long, Allison Lauderbach, Samuel Moyer,
George Metzger, John Martin, Irvin Mulhollen, Miller Myers, John Murphy,
James McKeever, Thomas L. McMahon, John McCarty, Charles J. McCor-
mick, JohnP. McCrogan, Samuel Patterson, William Parker, John A. Pann,
William J. Pann, George Ott, Henry Ott, George O’Brien, John Rhodes, Henry .
Raub, George Reherd, Hezekiah Reinert, Robert Wk M. Reyner, Isaac Rose,
John Rowe, James Sewel, Joseph L. Sehade, Robert Steen, Lewis M. Sim-
mons, Samuel F. Smith, George Scott, Thomas W. Schultz, John Snyder,
Abraham Shafer, William Sullivan, Uriah Thompson, Henderson Walker,
Robert F. Woods, John B. Young, MTlliam Zahniser.
Two Hundred and Eleventh Regiment. — Company D, Capt. William
A. Colton in command, was from Mercer County. The regiment was recruit-
ed for one year, and was organized at Pittsburgh in September, 1864. It went
to Bermuda Hundred, and was assigned to the army of the James. It was
transferred, November 27, 1 864, to the army of the Potomac, and attached to
the Third Division of the Ninth Corps, under command of Gen. Hartranft.
Under command of Capt. Coulter it shared in the capture of Fort Steadman,
March 25, 1865, with small loss. In the assault upon the enemy’s lines April
2, 1865, it lost 135 men. It continued in service until after Lee’s surrender,
being mustered out J une 2, 1865. Capt. Coulter was promoted for gallant
conduct to the lieutenant-colonelcy May 10, 1865.
Company D. — Captains, William A. Coulter, Thomas C. Gibson; lieuten-
ants, Albert Alexander, James F. Johnston.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
329
Sergeants: William E. Moore, Henry R. Grace, Joseph Slemmens, Benja-
min J. Lattimer, Thomas Alexander.
Corporals: John J. Moore, Daniel A. Snyder, Thomas C. Glenn, Joseph
Bentley, Uriah S. Zahniser, William C. Black, Wilson Donaldson, James T.
Baker, E. H. Armstrong.
Privates: Charles W. Allen, James Armour, Robert Armour, George W.
Armstrong, James W. Armstrong, Fletcher Arnold, W. Edgar Ashley, James
B. Balliet, James Barrett, James Bentley, William D. Boyd, J. E. Brecken-
ridge, Henry L. Brown, Robert C. Clark, Lambert Coon, Milton Coon, John
Casper, Robert H. Coulter, Augustus Craig, Robert Crout, John R. Cum-
mings, John T. Cummings, Andrew Cowan, Jefferson Dunn, James M. David-
son, Thomas Dickey, William -H. Dunn, D. Fenstermaker, Peter Fox, Leon-
ard Fry, Andrew George, Jacob Glass, Andrew J. Groscost, Jasper Graham,
Wesley Guist, Robert Hamill, M. D. Hartshorn, Samuel Hays, Samuel Hodge,
Morgan Hofius, Joseph Hodge, Andrew J. Jacobs, William J. Jacobs, John
Kahl, Michael Knapp, William Klingensmith, Harvey Larimer, Caleb Leon-
ard, Reuben Lightner, JohnB. Maxwell, Henry A. Miller, John Mack, Robert
P. McClelland, Wilson McDonald, John McEwen, Samuel McEwen, Adam H.
McKean, Ira L. Neyman, John Parks, Dwight J. Powell, John R. Ross, Hugh
Reid, Samuel R. Rodgers, George W. Rupert, William H. Swagger, William
Siddall, Benjamin F. Sisley, Jacob H. Snyder, John Sprinker, Henry S.
Stamm, Thomas Stewart, William Stewart, James P. Stevenson, Samuel P.
Turner, Matt. Thompson, George W. Thompson, Daniel W. Wingard,
Ezra S. Wait, George S. Westlake, James L. Weese, Robert Young, John
Yagerlehner, D. R. P. Zahniser.
Miscellaneous Troops. —Many volunteers left Mercer County and enlisted
elsewhere, and it is impossible to give the names of all these men. A number
of men went from Greenville and vicinity to Erie, Penn., and enlisted under
Capt. T. M. Austin, in Company K, Eighty-third Regiment Pennsylvania
Volunteers, for three years, from September, 1861. Their names, as furnished
by W. H. Beil, cashier of the Greenville National Bank, are as follows: James
McMahon, Isaac Keck, John Greenawalt, Henry Heckman, Thomas J. Power,
Jr., E. W. Reed, Adam Urmson, Nelson E. Hays, Philip J. Harlow, Herman
Miller and W. H. Beil. Most of these gentlemen returned and are still living.
Capt. A. J. McKee and Lieuts. A. C. Douglass and Fleming Smith, of the
same regiment, were also from this county, and served in the army of the
Potomac. Privates Thomas and Hosea Morrison, David Pattison and William
Ayres were in the same regiment.
In the fall of 1861 Judge Taylor, of Franklin County, secured from the
vicinity of New Vernon the following men, who served in Company I, Fourth
Pennsylvania Cavalry, of which Taylor was captain: Captain, F. M. Ervay;
lieutenant, John B. Hogue; sergeants, John Findley, H. A. Ross and Daniel
Holloway; corporals, William Streight and M. B. Roberts; privates, David Mc-
Cracken, Alexander James, G. W. Bromley, William McCutcheon, John Vorous.
Thomas B. Beil, of Sharon, served in Company K, Sixty-third Regiment;
T. J. Gillespie, of Sharon, was in Company B, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania
Militia; Daniel Hasenplug, of Greenville, served in the Fifty-eighth and One
Hundred and Ninty-ninth Regiments, successively; James B. McClimans, of
Greenville, was in the Second Pennsylvania Cavalry, and Christian Keller,
father of the late Frank Keller, of Greenville, served in Company K, Sixty-
first Pennsylvania Volunteers.
Several physicians of Mercer County served in the capacity of surgeon,
among whom were Drs. Elisha Griswold, of Sharon, and F. H. Leet, of Green-
330
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ville. The former was appointed surgeon of the One Hundred and Twelfth Eeg-
iment in November, 1861, and served until 1864, and afterward was promoted
to other responsible positions in the medical service. Dr. Leet was appointed
assistant surgeon of the Fifty-seventh Kegiment in January, 1863, and served
nine months. Dr. Anson T. Clark, now of Oreenville, was appointed from Craw-
ford County in May, 1863, assistant surgeon of the Twenty third Regiment,
and filled that position until the fall of 1864, when the regimental term of
enlistment expired. Dr. J. P. Hosack, of Mercer, was a surgeon during the
war, as was also Dr. John Barber, of Sharon.
The closing operations of the Union armies brought victories most signal.
The last great battle had been fought and won, and every patriot participated
in the inspiration of the triumphs of our arms over the hosts of rebellion. But
an appalling sorrow suddenly overshadowed the land. The assassin’ s hand
struck down the nation’s ruler, and turned its joy into grief. In all the bitter
sorrows of the previous four years none proved so startling as this, and every
true heart was filled with consternation at the inhuman desperation of the act.
The succeeding days in Mercer County were days of gloom and sadness, and
the deep impression made by the assassination of Lincoln, so closely associated
as it was with the Rebellion, can never be effaced from the hearts of the people.
If the foregoing sketches will serve to perpetuate the glorious part taken
by the soldiers of Mercer County in the Rebellion, our object is attained.
When the tocsin of war sounded they went forth in all their vigorous man-
hood to battle for national life, and on many a bloody field carried the dear
old flag to victory. Many went down in the crash of battle; scores sickened
and died from exposure and hardships on the tented field, or starvation in
rebel prisons; others returned scarred and maimed for life, while many came
out unscathed again to resume their places in civil affairs. The events of
this war have passed into history. The youthful student is bewildered with the
recital of its gigantic proportions, and the son listens with woPder to the tale
of bloody strife as it falls from the lips of the surviving father who served in
the struggle. The mother relates the anguish and long years of anxiety and
suffering in those dark days. All are familiar through written records with
the causes which produced the great Rebellion, its fierce continuance, its
glorious termination, and the fruits left for the enjoyment of coming generations.
CHAPTEK XVII.
Historical Notes — Local Indian Tribes — Some Indian Heminiscences —
Pre- Historic Remains — Indian Mound at Greenville — The Old Indian
Port in YVest Salem Township— Slaves in Mercer County— Natural
Occurrences — Wolf Killino Among the Pioneers — A Veritable
Snake Story^ — A Bare Surgical Operation — YVhy Lawrence County
YVas Erected— Mercer County’s Phrenology— Distinguished Visitors
— An Incident of President Tay'lor’s Visit to Sheakleyville — Mijn
OF Mark — First Piano in Mercer County — Muster Day's.
IN the gathering of material for a local history much valuable information
cannot be classified under the ordinary heads. YVe shall therefore place
such fragmentary matter in this chapter, and believe our readers will find much
interest in the many historical items which it embraces. When Mercer County
was first settled Indians were quite numerous, especially along the Shenango
fyr' G.Key'n&.n
HIST.OEY OF MERGER COUNTY.
333
and its tributaries. They were, in the main, friendly, and lived at peace with
the whites. They had a number of villages in the county. One of these,
called “ Centretown, ” was located near that village, in Worth Township.
It was among the sugar trees where they raised their corn. Another was on
the present site of Sandy Lake; it occupied the Knoll property, which formerly
belonged to Dr. Vath. Another was at the Big Bend of the Shenango. It
was occupied by some families of the Corn-planter tribe of the Senecas.
Among their hunters were Flynn, Tioga, Kindoshawa, Harthegig, Peter and
Petty.
The venerable James Bentley, still living in Ohio, near Sharon, in his
ninety- first year, relates the following concerning the fate of Flynn. Flynn
had obtained some whisky near Mercer, and becoming beastly drunk killed his
wife. Capt. Petty refused to punish him for the offense. Finally Hugh Carr,
a white man, said that if he found Flynn he would punish him. Ultimately,
at Keel Ridge, six miles east of Sharon, on the present Samuel Phillips farm,
he overtook Flynn tying his moccasin upon his foot. True to his word, Carr
drew up his rifie and shot Flynn through the head, killing him instantly. Mr.
Bentley, then a boy (it was about 1804), asked Capt. Petty why he did not pun-
ish Flynn. The answer was: “Him drunk. Him never do so any more.”
The Delawares lived at the junction of the Shenango and the Mahoning.
Their chief was called Billy Bowlegs. Shenango was the Indian warrior who
owned all the hunting lands from New Castle northward along the stream
which bears his name. Pymatuning and "Wannock were his subordinates, and
gave their names to the two creeks, Pymatuning and Lackawannock. In the
latter case, the little lake which is the source of the stream was prefixed, mak-
ing it Lacka (Latin Laciis) wannock.
Concerning the fate of Harthegig, the reader is referred to the sketch of
Samuel Pew, found in another part of this volume. The Pews knew much
concerning the Indians. Samuel related the following incident concerning
Peter, one of their number. Peter was a favorite red man with the Pews.
One day he came to the Pew cabin in Mercer just as Mrs. Pew had taken out
of her Dutch oven a large corn pone that she had been baking. Peter pro-
posed a trade. He wanted the pone, and would exchange a bear for it. Mrs.
Pew thought he was cheating himself. She would give him the pone, but
thought it would not be right to take the bear for it. Rising with all his
Indian dignity, he said; “ Me know what is right — the bear for the pone.”
There was no disputing the Indian without insulting him, and hence the bar-
gain was closed. Mr. Pew went with Peter for the bear, which was found
but a little distance up the hill, near the intersection of Otter and East Market
Streets; there, indeed, was found a large and neatly dressed bruin. In addi-
tion to the pone, set down on the table for the use of Peter, was a slice of
butter and a tin of milk. After eating and satisfying his hunger, Peter com-
plimented the lady of the house by saying as he rose: “White woman such
good cook.” The Indians aided the whites in their house-raisings. They
appreciated very highly, on such occasions, the whisky and the good meals
provided for the hands.
On one occasion the Indian known as John, belonging to the Centretown
family, came to Mr. Pew to borrow some lead. Pew showed him that he was
short, having only enough to make one or two bullets. “ No lead, no venison;
we must have it,” said John. Then instructing Mr. Pew to have a big fire in
the afternoon, he left. He came back at the appointed time with ore enough
to produce ten pounds of lead, which was equally divided between himself and
Pew. He went in the direction of Bald Hill, but it was never ascertained where
19
334
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
he obtained the ore. The query still remains: Does Mercer County produce
native lead ore?
Prehistoric Remains. — It has always been believed that a mound which
formerly stood between the two Shenangos, within the borough of Green-
ville, was a prehistoric earthwork. The elevation, which measured some sev-
enty-five feet in diameter across the base and twenty feet in height, was
graded down some three or four years ago by Mr. Packard. The round con-
dition of the pebbles still remaining in the base, and the general structure of
the valley about it, would seem to indicate to the geologist that the founda-
tion of the mound, at least, was produced by the action of the water from the
two streams forming an eddy, rather than by the dusky tribes, though the
latter may have built an earthwork upon this foundation in ages long ago.
In the southwest part of W est Salem Township, on the lands of Messrs.
Pollock and Bidlick, are the remains of what is called the ‘ ‘ Old Indian F ort. ’ ’
It is situated between two small rivulets flowing from the east, and entering
Booth Run at right angles. These rivulets, flowing along parallel ravines or
gulches, are more than a hundred feet beneath the top of the intervening ridge,
and are about a fourth of a mile apart. The earthen embankments which con-
stitute the supposed fort are parallel, and run at right angles with the gulches.
These embankments, which are about twenty- five rods apart, were several feet
high, and were thrown up from the outside and inside, respectively, commenc-
ing on the east. When the fort was constructed, by whom and for what pur-
pose, are simply fruitful subjects for conjecture. On the easteim embankment
is the stump of a tree which was cut down about twenty years ago. The stump
measures twenty -seven inches in diameter. The tree had grown since the
embankment was thrown up, and would indicate the lapse of several hundred
years, thus throwing the construction back of the French and Indian War,
beyond the times of even the French exploring expedition of Celoron. Its
purpose seems to have been mainly defensive. It would seem that an attack
was expected mainly from the west, and that the parallel trenches were double
lines of defense, the eastern one being used in case the other was carried by
assault. It may have been the work of an Indian tribe to defend itself against
the assaults of a powerful enemy.
Slaves in Mercer County. — According to the census of 1830 there were six
slaves within the limits of Mercer County, as follows : Males between 10 and
24 years, 2; males between 24 and 36 years, 1. Females under 10 years, 1;
females between 10 and 24 years, 2; total, 6.
Natural Occurrences. — Some of the most interesting things in all history
are preserved in a very ordinary way. Tombstones, ordinary friendship and
news letters, diaries, memorandums, church registers, family records, news-
papers, memories of old people, books of travel, family and personal biogra-
phies, monuments, legends — all these are instrumental in chronicling the
events in the lapse of time. If people would be more careful to keep these
records, history would be more reliable, and much litigation would be pre-
vented or made more just, because actual knowledge would be substituted
for promiscuous guessing.
The following miscellaneous facts may be of general interest:
1 . Heavy Snows. The deepest snow of the past ninety years occurred in
the winter of 1799. It began to fall on Friday evening, and continued to fall,
without interruption, until the next Monday morning. It was from three to
five feet deep. It was impossible for horses and cattle to reach their water-
ing places. Deer and other wild animals died from starvation.
The second heavy snow was that of February 4, 1817, which was three
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
335
and one-half feet deep. The writer has been informed by J. Pearson, Esq. ,
that his father drove a team from New Castle to Mercer at that time. He
was unable to find the road, and hence followed direction instead. After the
snow was gone he found, from the trees and other marks, that he had driven
some rods from the road, over fences and logs.
The year 1856 was noted for its long continued snow. There were ninety
days of uninterrupted sleighing. The winter was exceedingly cold, too.
2. Peculiar Winters. January 19, 1810, was said to have been the cold-
est day within the memory of the oldest inhabitant. The winter of 1824 was
almost destitute of snow. The first sleighing of the season occurred on the
15th of February. January 1, 1864, is generally remembered as the “ Cold
New Year’s Day of ’64.” The writer was at the headquarters of the Twen-
ty-third Army Corps, at Strawberry Plains, East Tennessee. The corps com-
mander, Maj. Gen. J. D. Cox, afterward governor of Ohio, and Secretary of
the Interior under President Grant, says that the Union army in East Tennes-
see endured suffering equal to that of Washington’s army at Valley Forge in
1777--78. The winter of 1875-76 was very warm. On January 1, 1876, the
mercury stood at 68° in the sun, and men walked the streets in their shirt
sleeves. The winter of 1871 had eighty days of continuous cold weather.
3. Miscellaneous Facts Concerning the Seasons. On May 18, 1833,
there had been snow and freezing for three days, the ice being half an inch in
thickness.
September 8, 1835, there was a hard frost, which killed the corn. Seed
corn sold at |2 per bushel in consequence.
June 2, 1845, a severe frost, which nearly ruined the wheat and corn.
1854 was known as the dry summer. Extensive fires raged in the forests,
burning trees out of root. Weevil began to destroy wheat.
The year 1855 was noted as being very wet. Grain was harvested with
difficulty, much of it being spoiled in the shock. The ensuing winter was
cold, and supplied with deep snow.
June 5, 1859, was the day of the heavy frost which entirely destroyed
wheat, rye and corn.
March 17, 1860, bees returned to their hives laden with honey. The next
day the ground was covered with snow, and the weather was extremely cold.
4. Heavy Floods. The heavy floods in the Ohio River, which affected its
tributaries, occurred in 1810 (the “Punkin Flood’’), 1832, 1852, 1865 and
1884. The last one was the highest and most destructive.
5. Locust Years. Without referring to the swarm that came upon Pha-
raoh to induce him to let the Israelites depart from the land of Goshen, let it
be noted that the first remarkable visitation of this insect, of which any rec-
ord is had, occurred in 1795. They came up from the south in dark swarms,
and remained about six weeks. Subsequent visits were made every seventeen
years, viz., in 1812, 1829, 1846, 1863 and 1880. Because they happened to
come in 1812, 1846 and 1863, during the wars with England, Mexico and
the great Rebellion, they are supposed to have war- like proclivities.
Wolf -killing among the Pioneers. — The deadly enemy of the pioneer flocks
was the wolf. A premium of |8 was placed upon his head, to be paid out
of the common funds. The presentation of the scalp, together with the certifi-
cate of the hunter, was sufficient evidence to the commissioners to issue
a warrant upon the treasurer for the amount. This warrant enabled the pioneer
to pay his taxes and other expenses. An examination of the records of the
commissioners’ office for 1807 reveals the number of wolves killed, the names of
the hunters, and the amount paid for such service. The following is the record:
336
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Jan. 13. Andrew McClure 1
Jan. 27. Hugh Means 1
Jan. 27. Francis Irwin 1
Jan. 27. Caleb Hall 1
Jan. 27. John McConnell 1
Feb. 13. Archibald Gordon 1
Feb. 13. George Moore 1
Feb. 13. Richard Moore 1
Feb. 13. Joseph Buckmaster 1
Mch. 4. John Gillespie 1
Mch. 10. Peter Klingensmith 1
Mch. 10. Isaac Randall 2
Mch. 13. John Gordon 1
Aprl. 15. Hugh Means 1
May 8. Nicholas Curry 3
Aug. 11. William Clark 1
Sept. 1. John McKee 1
Sept. 1. Hugh Means 1
Sept. 14. William Carroll, Jr 1
Sept. 16. Hugh Means 1
Sept. 28. William Clark 1
Oct. 3. Hugh Hill 1
Oct. 17. Chistopher Kykendall 1
Kov. 9. William Clark 1
Nov. 9. JabezCoulson 1
Nov. 24. Daniel Waldron 1
Nov. 24. Thomas Means 1
Dec. 15. John Giebner 1
Total 31
A Veritable Snake Story. — The following story has come to us through a
number of reliable sources. In no instance has it been diminished. We give
it as recorded in Mr. Garvin’s note-book: “John Johnson’s wife went out
early in the morning to get her cows. In a little while she found herself sur-
rounded with rattlesnakes, and her retreat cut ofP. They appeared to be in very
great numbers, and the woman sought safety by climbing a dogwood that stood
nearby. Her cries alarmed her husband, who, when he came, was so astounded
with their numbers that he feai’ed trying alone to relieve his wife. ‘ Polly, I
cant’t relieve you alone, there are so many of them;’ and running to his
neighbor, Asa Arnold, for his assistance, he came back with new courage. W ith
large hickory poles, or withes, these two cut their way through the snakes
until the beleaguered woman was relieved. Both men sickened in their work
of destroying the reptiles, and had to desist and rest for a time, and then go
at it again. The yellow rattlesnakes were counted and piled, and numbered
no less than 200, while there were many black and other snakes left on the
ground uncounted. Some of the sets of rattles counted as many as twenty-
five.” This battle with the rattlesnakes occurred between 1800 and 1803,
on the Asa Arnold farm, on the west side of “ Yankee Bidge. ” The snakes
seemed to crawl out of the rocks on the west side of the ridge by hundreds.
A Rare Surgical Operation. — Miar Cook, who lived on the Wilmington
road, a few years later, was bit by a rattlesnake. His leg was very much
swollen, and at length gangrene commenced. Dr. Slemmons, who was then
located in Mercer, determined that to save his life the limb must be amputated,
and the patient submitted to the operation. The doctor performed the cutting,
but McCurdy, a carpenter, was called upon to do the sawing. Whether this
was because the doctor was not the possessor of an amputating saw, or pre-
ferred to use the skill of a mechanic, is not known. Cook was seen to dance
on his wooden leg as late as 1812.
Why Lawrence County Was Erected. — In 1849 was formed, from Beaver
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
337
and Mercer Counties, what is now known as Lawrence County. The agitation
of the question of forming a new county began as early as 1820, and was
continued with great persistence through the intervening years, and by all
legitimate agencies, until it was finally consummated. The reasons urged by
the advocates of the new county were as follows: 1. New Castle was a
thriving place and favorably located to accommodate those living in its vicin-
ity, either north or south. 2. The dividing line between Beaver and Mer-
cer ran through the corporation. Legal process served in one county was
easily thwarted by stepping into the adjoining county. 3. Many citizens
were compelled to travel long distances to transact county business at either
Mercer or Beaver. The new county project was supported by such men as
L. L. McGuffin, William Dickson, William Moore, JohnL. Warnock, Joseph
T. Boyd, James Dickson, Isaac Dickson, Thomas Falls, Joseph Kissick, John
N. Ewer, Dr. Charles T. Whippoo, James Cubbison, and others. The bill
for the division was introduced in March, 1849, and signed by Gov. William
F. Johnston on the 5th of April following.
Mercer County's Phrenology. — An examination of the outline map of the
county, published some years ago, reveals a peculiar phrenological configura-
tion, as developed by the Shenango River. It is that of a human head, look-
ing steadily and intently into Ohio. Commencing at the Big Bend, the river
flows first westward, and then, returning upon itself, moves southward and
eastward, until it passes, in succession, Clarksville, Sharpsville, Sharon, Wheat-
land and West Middlesex, going on to contribute its waters with those of the
Neshannock and Mahoning to the Big Beaver and the Ohio. If we conceive
the outline to be completed, Mercer would be found on the rear of the head,
and Hickory Corners, or Hermitage, would be located at the ear. Under this
arrangement Mercer would be found at philoprogenitiveness. Big Bend at
firmness, Clarksville at veneration, Sharpsville at benevolence, Sharon being
found above and between the eyes would be found at memory, Wheatland at
the mouth, and AVest Middlesex at the Adam’s apple. As to Greenville, Sheak-
leyville. New Lebanon, Sandy Lake, Stoneboro and Grove City, they would all
appear as ornaments on the hat or high bonnet which surmounted this head.
They need not regret their position, for the great question now is, whether the
hat belongs to the head, or the head to the hat.
Distinguished Visitors. — Mercer County has had some distinguished visit-
ors. It is thought that AA'ashington, in executing his mission from Gov. Din-
widdie in 1753 to the French forts, passed through the northeastern corner of
the county. Gen. Lafayette, in his second trip to the United States, in 1824,
passed through Mercer, and occupied a room over night at the Hackney House.
The year 1849 was noted for the appearance of two distinguished officials in
Mercer County. The one was Zachary Taylor, President of the United States.
He remained all night at the Hackney House. He was accompanied by Gov.
Johnston, of Pennsylvania. From Mercer they went to Meadville and Erie,
stopping for dinner at Sheakleyville, where he made a brief speech in response
to an address of welcome by George Sheakley.
While at dinner his attention was drawn to the booming of a cannon, and
on inquiring as to whom was paying him the honor, learned that it was not
his Whig admirers, but Mrs. William Dunn, wife of the Democratic landlord
of the opposition hotel, familiary known as ‘ ‘ Queen Ann. ’ ’ Gen. Taylor at
once expressed a wish to call upon her. On reaching Dunn’s hotel, called the
‘ ‘ Spirit of ’ 76, ” he asked for the hostess, and taking her hand thanked her for the
patriotic courtesy shown the President. “ Queen Ann,” with true Democratic
courage, at once said: “ That salute was not given in honor of the President,
338
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
sir.” ‘ ‘ Then for whom was it given, madam?” asked the now astonished
dignitary. ” It was given in honor of the bravest General of the Mexican
Warf replied ‘‘Queen Ann.” President Taylor bowed gallantly and laughed
heartily at the characteristic Democratic reply, and again warmly thanking
her for the honor paid him, and the patriotism exhibited, bid her good-bye
and soon after left the village.
The second person was James Buchanan, subsequently President of the
United States. He remained over night in Mercer, whither he had come from
Meadville, where he had been visiting his sister, Mrs. Dr. C. M. Yates, seri-
ously ill at the time.
Men of Mark. — Mercer County has never furnished any Presidents. She
has, however, supplied other positions with men and women of note, who have
acted well their parts in their several spheres, and gained distinction. Two
of her adopted sons subsequently held gubernatorial honors, John Bigler, in
California, and William Bigler, in Pennsylvania, both being elected at the
same time, in 1851.
In the ranks of divines it has turned out Rt. Rev. Thomas S. Becker,
Catholic Bishop of Savannah, Ga. ; George and D. X. Junkin; J. T. Smith,
now of Baltimore; William Findley, lately deceased at New Castle, D. H. A.
McLean, of Rochester, Penn. , and many others of less brilliant attainments.
In the ranks of journalism it produced William S. Garvin, Adam Black
Chambers, William F. Clark and John B. Butler, all of State reputation.
In the line of Congressional representatives it has marshalled Hons. John
Banks, William Stewart, William S. Garvin, Michael C. Trout, John J. Pear-
son, Samuel Griffith, James Sheakley, S. H. Miller and Norman Hall.
In the ranks of brilliant attorneys it has had S. B. Foster, T. S. Cunning-
ham, William M. Stephenson, William Stewart., Henry D. Foster, H. H.
Foster, John Banks, John J. Pearson, Arcus McDermitt, John Trunkey, and
others, all deceased.
For the bench it has furnished John Banks, John J. Pearson, John Trunkey,
William Maxwell, Arcus McDermitt and S. S. Mehard, all of wide reputa-
tion.
James Bowman achieved a popularity both in America and Europe as a
portrait painter.
In other fields of noble activity, her sons and daughters have not been want-
ing when weighed in the balance.
First Piano in Mercer Counhj. — The first piano that was brought to this
county is still in the possession of the family of Dr. James Magoffin, of Mer-
cer, and is highly prized for the hallowed memories with which it is associated.
It was brought from Dublin, Ireland, by Mrs. Magoffin, then Miss Grace E.
Mitch eltree, who came to this country with the family of her father. Dr.
William Mitcheltree, in the year 1825. It is of English manufacture, Astor
& Co. , London. Although smaller than the pianos of the present day, it is
of exquisite workmanship. The frame work is of mahogany and satinwood.
It was a great curiosity at that time, and many were the visitors to see and
hear it.
Muster Days. — Every citizen above middle age remembers vividly the
‘ ‘ muster days ” of the olden times, when companies would collect at stated
places once or twice a year, to go through the prescribed routine of training.
The uniforms were as various as the individuals, and the arms presented the
same mixed condition, consisting of muskets, wooden guns, broomsticks, corn-
stalks, canes, etc. , ad infinitum. The occasions were made memorable by the
number of fights had, the amount of whisky consumed and the “general good
HISTOEY OP MEECEE COUNTY.
339
time enjoyed.” Old grudges were settled on the field of martial combat, and
the various champions of the region round about had a fair opportunity to
display their powers.
Kev. D. X. Junkin relates substantially the following: About 1821 there
were several uniformed companies in the county, the ‘ ‘ Mercer Light Infantry, ’ ’
Capt. Benjamin Junkin; the “ Shenango Marksmen,” Capt. William Sheriff;
the “Wolf Creek Rangers,” Capt. David Robinson; the “Salem Rangers,”
Capt. Samuel Williamson; a company from the vicinity of Harrisville (name
unknown), and one from New Castle, Capt. Samuel Byers. These were organ-
ized into the One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment Pennsylvania Militia.
Capt. Samuel Williamson was elected colonel, Benjamin Junkin, lieutenant-
colonel; M. O. Junkin, major, and Capt. Samuel Byers, adjutant. These com-
panies were arranged so as to distribute the honors of position. The “ Mercer
Blues,” or “ Light Infantry, ” was the oldest company, and always occupied
the head of the regiment.
Capt. Job Egbert, of Sandy Lake, was a soldier in the War of 1812, prob-
ably a member of the “Blues.” He was at Erie, and in after years sported a
swallow-tailed coat of blue, trimmed up with buff. The coat grew rusty with
years, but on State occasions (reviews) he sported it. He had outgrown it, and
it, when buttoned, had split over his hips. On one occasion (a review) Pitt
Street, Mercer, near Hackney’s Hotel, was crowded with the formidable array of
militia companies marching to and fro, with shrieking fifes and rattling drums.
Capt. Egbert, who commanded the Seventh Company, was marching down
the street at its head, followed on foot by all the chivalry of Sandy Lake,
armed with sticks and brooms, with here and there a rifie or shot-gun. The
redoubtable captain had for his drummer a Guinea negro, named Adam; but
in default of a lifer, Adam had puckered his voluminous lips, and was whis-
tling the “White Cockade,” and using his drum sticks with zealous skill —
performing the double functions of lifer and drummer. Another company
was marching up street, and the head of the columns, as they passed through
the narraw avenues formed by the spectators, met and could not pass. “Left
face, ’ ’ said Capt. Egbert. ‘ ‘ Eight face, ’ ’ said the chieftain of the other band.
This order brought the head of each line in the same direction. ‘ ‘ Right
face,” said Capt. Job. “Left face,” said the other, causing a movement to
the other side of both. By this time the military patience, even of Capt. Job,
was exhausted, but not his military resources. Knowing that the men of his
command were more familiar with the terms used in driving oxen than with
military phrases, he cried out, with presence- of mind worthy of so trying a
crisis, waving his sword in the style of an ox-wattle, ‘ ‘ Come, whoa here, ’ ’
and they “whoad.” With vociferous laughter they followed their intrepid
leader and sallow whistling drummer down into the public square.
340
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
CHAPTEK XVIII.
Borough of Merger — The Town Laid Out — Derivation of Name — Sketch
OF Dr. Hugh Mercer— Streets and Alleys— Public Square— Incidents
that Occurred in I.aying Out the Town— Sale of Lots— Size, Shape
and Location— First House Erected— Hotels of the Past and Pres-
ent— Early Settlers and Business Interests— Manufactures — In-
corporation AND Borough Officers— Eire Department — Churches —
Schools— Pioneer Schools and Teachers— Mercer Academy— Public
Schools— Soldier Orphan School — Secret and Other Societies — Bank-
ing Institutions— Gas and Water Companies— Cemeteries— Popula-
tion.
ERCEE, the seat of government of the county, was laid out in August,
1803, by William McMillan, John Findley and William Mortimer, trustees
appointed for that purpose, on a tract of 200 acres, donated by John Hoge,
who was the owner of two warrant tracts of 400 acres each. The site for the
county-town was selected by live commissioners, viz. ; Isaac Weaver, Thomas
Morton, John Hamilton, Pressly Carr Lane and James Brady. The deed
executed by him to the trustees was dated May, 1804, and stipulated that 200
acres should be used for the purpose of a county seat.
The act of March 12, 1800, creating the county of Mercer, gave to it the
name of a distinguished physician and officer of the Revolution. Both the
town and county were named in honor of Dr. Hugh Mercer, concerning whom
not as much is generally known as should be relative to a distinguished name-
sake. Hugh Mercer was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, in 1721. After being
liberally educated he began the study of medicine. In the memorable battle
of Oulloden, between the forces of Charles Edward and the Duke of Cum-
berland, Dr. Mercer served as assistant surgeon. The Scotch army being
defeated, and the Pretender compelled to flee. Dr. Mercer left his native
country a refugee, and came to America. He located near Greencastle, Frank-
lin Co., Penn., about the year 1750, and was the first practicing physician of
the county. His location was a wild one, and not destined to prove a very
lucrative field for medical practice by a stranger. The region was sparsely
settled by whites, and open to constant incursions from the wily and treacher-
ous red man of the forest. He remained, however, without injury or fear until
the Indians, emboldened by Braddock’s defeat, in 1755, made frequent and
bloody forays into the Kittatinny or Cumberland valley. To jirotect them-
selves against these incursions, the settlers formed themselves into military
companies, of one of which Dr. Mercer was made captain. His commission
was dated March 6, 1756. His company, a part of the troops under command
of Col. John Armstrong, did valiant service in the region of Mercersburg,
Welsh Run and Fort McDowell, all within the limits of Franklin County.
Finally, in the autumn of 1756, he and his company went with Col. Armstrong
in the expedition against Ivittanning, which Indian village they surprised and
destroyed.
On this occasion he marched from Fort Shirley, in Huntingdon County, at
which post he discharged the duties of surgeon to the garrison as well as
those pertaining to his military station. At Kittanning he was severely
wounded in the shoulder by a rifle bullet, and was carried from the field to a
place of supposed safety. Being separated from his companions, he was sud-
HISTOEY OF MEECER COUNTY.
341
denly surrounded by the savages. He saved himself from capture by crawling
into a fallen and hollow tree. During the continuance of the light, the
Indians stood upon the tree in which he was concealed, not suspecting his
presence. After the rout of the savages Mercer crept from his place of con-
cealment, but found that his friends had also left the field. His situation was
full of embarrassment and danger. Faint from the loss of blood, and suffer-
ing from a severe wound, he was alone in the wilderness, surrounded by blood-
thirsty savages, more than a hundred miles from any settlement, and without
the means of procuring subsistence. Under these trying circumstances, his
intelligent courage did not forsake him. He determined to reach Fort Cum-
berland, which then stood on the present site of Cumberland, Md. , a station
on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. During his painful and tedious journey
thither he lived on roots, berries and the body of a rattlesnake, which, with
difficulty, in consequence of his wound, he succeeded in killing. After encoun-
tering many hardships and enduring almost inexpressible fatigue, he reached
the fort, but not too soon, for his powers of endurance were about exhausted.
He slowly recovered, and in the following year, 1757, was made commander of
the garrison in the fort at Shippensburg, then considered a frontier post.
On the 4th of December. 1757, he was commissioned a major in the
“forces of the Province of Pennsylvania,” and “was posted west of the Sus-
quehanna.” He accompanied the expedition of Gen. John Forbes, the fol-
lowing year, against Fort Du Quesne. During this trip he first met Wash-
ington, then a brigadier- general of Virginia troops, and laid the foundation
for the intimate and enduring friendship which existed between these noted
men. After the evacuation and burning of Fort Du Quesne by the French
and Indians, Mercer, with the increased rank of colonel, was left in command
of the post. Under his direction the garrison of 409 men, embracing 200 of
Washington’s Virginia troops, partially rebuilt the works. At the close of the
French and Indian war, and the consequent evacuation of the western forts
by the French, Mercer temporarily retired from military life, and at the
urgent solicitation of Washington transferred his residence from the w'ilds of
the Cumberland valley to Fredericksburg, Va. , where he resumed the practice
of medicine.
When the Revolutionary War broke out ho was commissioned as colonel
in a Virginia regiment. Shortly after he was, on the recommendation of Wash-
ington, given the rank and position of brigadier-general. He accompanied his
chief during the retreat through New Jersey, and “rendered him valuable
aid at the battle of Trenton,” when the Hessians were captured, December
26, 1776. At the battle of Princeton, January 3, 1777, he led the vanguai-d of
the American army, and while exhibiting skill in the handling of his forces, his
horse was shot under him, and he was compelled to continue the contest on foot.
He was speedily surrounded by British soldiers, who ordered him to surrender.
Disregarding the summons, he drew his sword and began an unequal contest
with overpowering foes. He was finally beaten to the ground with muskets
and brutally thrust through with bayonets. Having received seven wounds,
five in his body and two in his head, he was left on the field supposed to bo
dead. He was carried to a neighboring house by a son of Col. John Arm
strong, his old friend and neighbor. When Washington heard of the fate of
his old friend and compatriot, he sent his nephew. Major Lewis, to watch
over his final moments and minister to the wants of the dying hero. A few days
having elapsed the spirit of Hugh Mercer took its flight to the eternal world.
Thus died a brave and patriotic man, he after whom both the county and the town
were named. The sixty thousand people now living within the limits of the county.
34‘2
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
and enjoying the liberty which he made such heroic sacrifices to secure, should-
hold his name in grateful and loving remembrance. Would it be too much
for them to erect, within the limits of the court-house square, in Mercer, a
ffranite shaft to attest their devotion and gratitude to their patriotic bene-
factor ?
The streets of Mercer running north and south, commencing on the east,
were called Otter, Pittsburgh (usually called now Pitt), Erie and Shenango.
The alleys in the same direction. East, Cherry, Strawberry, Turkey, Sassa-
fras and West. The streets running east and west, commencing at the north,
were Venango, Market, Butler and Powers. The alleys in the same direc
tion. North, Quince, Gooseberry, Currant, Peach, Pear, Plum and South.
Market, Butler, Pittsburgh and Erie were laid out ninety feet wide, while-
Shenango, Otter, Venango and Beaver were only seventy.
The public square, to be used for court house, was laid out 460 feet long
and 330 feet wide. Lots numbered 249 and 250 were reserved for the jail.
They were subsequently used as the site of the Mercer Academy.
While the survey was in progress a turkey’s nest, with the eggs yet un-
hatched, was found by Abraham Pew as an alley was being run. Whereupon
the surveyor, Mr. Eindley, said: “We’ll call this Turkey Alley,” hence the
name now in use. The first stake driven in the survey was held by the late
Samuel Pew, then but a mere lad. While this stake w'as being driven by Mr.
Findley, he said to the boy: “ Now, Sam, you hold up the stake, and if you
live to be an old man, you can tell that you did so, and that I drove it down
on this corner.” This stake was driven down at the northeast corner of the
public square, where the Whistler House stands. The square was first sur-
veyed, and then the streets. The site of the new town was mainly a hazel
prairie, with a few low trees scattered through it.
On the 5th of December, 1803, lots were sold at the house of James Brad-
en (formerly occupied by John Pew, near the residence of Mrs. Theodore Mc-
Donald), on the following conditions, substantially: 1. The highest bidder to-
be the buyer. 2. No bid for less sum than 25 cents to be entertained. 3.
Bids of persons under twenty-one years of age not to be received. 4. One-
third of purchase money to be paid in advance; the other two-thirds to be
paid within nine and eighteen months, respectively. 5. Failure to pay sub-
sequent claims to forfeit money already paid. 6. Failure to meet first payment
to result in the forfeiture of ten per cent of the sale value. 7. Deed to be
given at the time of last payment. The primitive town plat of Mercer was near-
ly in the form of a square, and embraced the 200 acres donated by Mr. Hoge.
In 1873 the borough limits were extended to include about 700 acres, assum-
ing a rectangular form, averaging some 441 rods in length by 252 rods in
width. The high hill on which the town was laid out was a desirable place for
the weary settlers to locate. From it they could look off in all directions and see
the vast scope of country which lay open to improvement by the sturdy pio-
neers coming in from the old counties. It, too, was infested with wild game
in rich abundance, which the skillful aim of the Pews and the other pioneers
succeeded in converting into palatable food. Deer and turkeys and bears and
squirrels could be shot within a few hundred yards of the present site of th e
court-house.
The first house built in Mercer stood on the northwest corner of East Mar-
ket and Otter Streets. It was erected by David Watson, and was a log struc-
ture, the timbers being hewed on four sides. Nathan Patterson, subsequent-
ly sheriff of the county, owned and occupied it for tavern purposes. No
vestige of it remains to tell its interesting story. On its site now stands a small
one- story frame structure, the property of Miss Belle Black.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
34S
HOTELS OE THE PAST AND PRESENT.
Near the spring now known as the Griffith Spring, north of the res-
idence of Hon. Samuel Griffith, stood as early as 1798 a tavern known
as the “Bine Ball.” Its significant sign invited to the hospitable en-
tertainment afforded by its proprietor, John Garvin, father of the Hon.
William S. Garvin, many a weary traveler between Pittsburgh and Erie,
between which places it was a well-kept half-way house. The second tavern
erected in town stood back of the present Whistler House, and was known
as the “Dobbins House.” On the site of the present Magoffin Block,
southeast corner of the public square, was erected the first brick house in the
town. The structure was put up by Ebenezer Magoffin, the uncle of Drs.
James and Beriah Magoffin, and was used, for a long time, as a dwelling, and
for store and other public purposes. After the death of Mr. Magoffin it was
converted into a hotel, the American House, and used for such purpose by
Joseph Wood, Hugh Evans, Noah Shipler and possibly others. In process of
time it was again used as a bakery and grocery, and so continued until the
present block was erected.
On the site of the present John Magoffin residence, on South Pitt Street,
stood in primitive days the Thompson House, Samuel Thompson being pro-
prietor. In it were kept grocery and, probably, some dry goods stores. From
its proprietor Samuel B. Foster, Esq., obtained the tallow candle by the aid
of which he intended to read the President’s message in 1831. It was kept
likewise by Joseph Wood, Charles Bush, Hugh Evans, and when finally sold
became the property of Dr. James Magoffin. A house was kept, at one time,
on the southwest corner of the Diamond, by Peter Shipler, father of the pres-
ent Peter Shipler, cabinet-maker.
At a very early day Hugh and Thomas Bingham built on the northwest
corner of the diamond, on the site of the present Miller & Gordon block,
a frame structure which was used for store-room and dwelling purposes.
It stood next to the old log jail, the upper story of which was used for a court
room. It is said that Judge Moore was holding court at the time the Bing-
hams were roofing their structure. The pounding and other noise disturbed
the court, whereupon Judge Moore ordered the tip-staff to go down and have
the confusion stopped. The message was delivered, but to no avail. The
judge, angered by the supposed slight of his judicial authority, then ordered
the officer to arrest the daring workmen. When they saw the officer come to
serve the summons, they quietly drew up the ladder by which he was to
ascend, and thus a second time defeated the irate judge’s purposes. This
building was first kept as a hotel by Thomas Rogers, grandfather of the pres-
ent John W. Nickum, of Mercer, by whom the structure was changed from a
business room to a hotel. Subsequently it was conducted by Mr. Patterson,
from New York; Charles Whistler, father of Capt. C. W. Whistler, James
Stewart, Charles William Stewart, Noah Shipler, Hugh Evans and C. W.
Whistler. It was a popular house in its day. It was finally supplanted by
the old Opera House block, which the devouring flames swept away a year or
two ago.
The Whistler House was erected in 1817, by Aaron Hackney, by whom it
was run for many years, and subsequently by his widow; William Turner, of
Sandy Lake, being her bartender. It was then and long afterward known as
the Hackney House. In it Gen. Lafayette remained over night, when travel-
ing through the United States in 1824. Additions have been made to it at
various times, until it has attained its present dimensions, the main part be-
ing a three-story brick structure. James Stewart, Martin Reed, Thomas
344
HISTOBY OF MEBCEB COUNTY.
Duiiars, John Brownlee, Levi Jones, Mr. Whann, Daniel Nelson, C. W.
Whistler, and doubtless many others whose names can not be recalled, have
presided over its destinies, the last mentioned being the present proprietor.
The Northwestern Hotel was built about 1830, as a dwelling house, by
Gen. John Forker. Subsequently John Brownlee became proprietor, and,
building the west wing, converted it into a hotel. Changes were quite fre-
quent, the structure having been occupied for inn pirrposes by Alex. McCart-
ney, Elijah Satterfield, John McKinney, subsequently sheriff of the county;
Noah Shipler, Charles Evans, Mrs. Mary Bradley, A. J. Wiese and Charles
Livingston, the present proprietor.
What is now the St. Cloud Hotel was built as a private dwelling by John
Crill, at an early day. It was changed into a hotel, and frequently known as
the Yellow House. Every new proprietor gave it a name. It changed hands
quite rapidly, being conducted in turn by John S. Thompson, James Miles,
John Gumfory, Thomas Conley, Mr. Brown, from Greenville; the Wilson
Sisters, Mr. Brown, of Sandy Lake, and numerous others. The proprietor-
ship of the property is at present in dispute between Levi Jones and Hunter
Pardoe.
Several other houses in town, the Moon House, erected in 1866 by A. B.
Moon, its present proprietor; the Graham House, built by F. Graham,
and the Armstrong House, being the private residence of the late Hon. W. S.
Garvin, are comparatively recent in their uses for hotel purposes.
J ust outside of the borough limits, to the right of the Meadville road, is a
time-honored house of entertainment. It was built about 1830 by Robert
Simcox, by whom it was called the Forest House, and run for a number of
years. In its construction William Bigler, subsequently governor of Penn-
sylvania, was employed as a carpenter. Its gables had painted upon them by
John K. Coxson, subsequently a local Methodist preacher, and an attorney,
unique designs, which still attract the passer-by. On the west gable is the
representation of a street lined with houses on either side, and marked at the
nearer end by the forms of two frolicsome horses rearing upon their feet
and congratulated by a huge American eagle. The east gable is character-
ized by the forms of two huge lions, with shaggy manes, and tails of prodig-
ious length waving in graceful curves high above their gigantic bodies. The
Forest House, also known as the Lion House, was famous as a resort for those
who desired to partake liberally of intoxicating drinks and trip the light fan-
tastic to enchanting music. Mrs. Simcox is said to have been a model land-
lady, kind, generous and self-sacrificing. Her husband was a natural trader,
and dealt in Yankee clocks, cattle, horses and any other object of ready barter.
After he relinquished control, the house changed hands rapidly, and finally
fell into ‘^innocuous desuetude,’^ and is remembered now as a place of revelry
during the days of militia muster.
EARLY SETTLERS AND BUSINESS INTERESTS.
Among the early settlers within the present limits of Mercer were two
brothers, David and John Garvin, and James Braden, a strong member of the
Seceder Church. These came as early as 1797; John Pew came from Wash-
ington County in 1798, and built his cabin near the present McDonald Spring,
south of East Market street; David Watson, the builder of the first house in
1797 or ’98. William Amberson came from Westmoreland County and built a
cabin on the site of the barber shop, corner of East Market and Pitt Street, in
1802. About the same time or a little later came S. B. Foster, the first resident
attorney of Mercer; Cunningham S. Semple, the first postmaster of Mercer,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
845
and one of the first attorneys; Washington Porter, Jonathan Smith, William
McMillan, James Galey, Jacob Mower and others.
Reference has already been made to the early inn-keepers. Jonathan
Smith established a tannery as early as 1803, and James Galey one about a year
later. In 1808 Bevan Pearson started the third. The first blacksmith shop
was started in 1806 by Jacob Mower and his son Jacob. As early as 1810
there were two stores in the place, one kept by Andrew Patterson, and the
other by Jacob and James Herrington. They built the large stone building
now occupied by the family of Mrs. J. H. Robinson, on North Pitt Street.
About the same year, Robert Stewart, father of Hon. William Stewart, deceased,
opened a blacksmith shop.
In the ranks of the teachers of those early days mention should be made
of Rev. Samuel Tait, Sallie and Kittie De Wolf, Mrs. Annie B. Garrett, St.
John Galbreath, James O’Hara, Mrs. Clark.
Drs. Clark, Epaphroditus and James S. Cossitt, E. W. Glezen (druggist),
James Magofl&n, Beriah Magoffin and others, were early physicians, and prom-
inent, too, in their day.
The first preaching was done in the court-house, which, for, a time, was the
second story of the log jail. In pleasant weather the services were held in
Semple’s Orchard,” in and around the reservoir of the present water- works.
In addition to these religious sanctuaries, the old court-house, the academy
building and the oak forest surrounding ‘ ‘ Tent Spring, ’ ’ south of the borough,
afforded suitable places for the assemblies of those days.
MANUFACTURES.
Mercer has never been a manufacturing point. As early, however, as 1818,
Judge Alexander Brown built a dam on McCollough’s Run, and erected an oil
mill. In the upper story he had carding machinery. Subsequently he removed
the carding machine to the borough and ran it for a number of years.
About two years later, viz., 1820, Jacob Smith, Esq., built a dam on the
same run, just above the point at which it is crossed by the Meadville road.
He constructed, along the brow of the rising ground toward the southeast, a
race which afforded power for a frame grist-mill containing two run of stone.
Some twenty rods from the grist-mill he built a distillery, whose operation, how-
ever, was prevented for a time by the temperance agitation that was then
beginning. Jacob Herrington operated it for a time. [See sketch of Western
Press]. It and the old mill have both long since passed away, as likewise the
mill race.
Isaac P. Rose was born in Mercer, Penn., January 17, 1812. His father,
Isaac P. Rose, was proprietor of a small pottery works at Mercer, where he
located in the closing years of the last century. About 1824 he removed with
his family to New Castle, Penn., and there died.
In 1828 John Wright established, near Mercer, a manufactory of copperas.
He had such facilities as were supposed to enable him to supply the demand
north of the Ohio. Pittsburgh was his principal market. It proved unre-
munerative and he abandoned the enterprise.
In 1853 Hirst & Shipler erected in the the southwest part of town a
grist-mill. It was afterward owned by Wilson & Burns. It was finally pur-
chased by the Woolen Mill Company, who made requisite changes, and did
an extensive business, employing twenty-five hands and sending their products
to Chicago, Pittsburgh and other points. The property was burned in 1873.
In 1867 a large planing mill was put in operation by Zahniser & Bro.
In 1873 the firm was changed to Zahniser & Bell, and in 1875 to the Mercer
346
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Planing Mill Company. The plant was located on the south side of East
Market Street, opposite the Graham House. They employed some ten or
twelve hands, and did a business of about 135,000 annually. Adversity final-
ly overtook it, and the buildings now stand unoccupied.
In 1869 Alexander Thompson & Son began to operate the Mercer Foun-
dry and Machine Shop. S. R. Thompson subsequently became proprietor,
and still later, J. M. Sheriff, the present owner. The institution does a gen-
eral foundry business.
About 1875 a small stave factory was commenced by M. T. Thompson &
Co., near the line of the N. C. & F. R. R. It is still in operation, and
doing an active business.
For a time Henry Beckwith leased from Hiram C. White a small tannery
property, and ran it. Its days are numbered.
A factory for making bedsteads existed for a time on the east side of Ne-
shannock Creek, but it has long ceased to do any work.
Thomas and John Gelvin, in February, 1870, started the Mercer Carriage
Works. Two years later William Howell was admitted as a partner, and the
business was conducted under the firm name of Howell, Gelvin & Co. , for a
period of about eighteen months. Finally Gelvin sold his interest to Howell,
who, having conducted the business about a year, transferred it to Stranahan &
Thompson. The firm employed some twelve or thirteen hands in the manu-
facture of carriages, buggies, sleighs, etc., and did a business of some $15,000
to $20,000 per year. The business is now conducted by John Gelvin with
success.
Messrs. Sykes & Son are engaged in general building and repair business,
giving their attention to wagons, plows, harrows, horse rakes, etc. The sen-
ior member has been engaged in his work in one place for more than half a
century.
In 1869 Houck & Reznor ventured upon a new enterprise, that of a hub
and spoke factory. After a time Reznor was sixcceeded by Weaver, and still
later the firm changed to that of Wilson & Stranahan. In 1874 a fire de-
stroyed the establishment, audit has never been rebuilt.
In the line of recent industries is the Mercer Flouring Mill, erected in 1882
by William Huston andW. R. Packard. It is now owned by William Huston,
Packard having disposed of his interest to his partner. The mill has a capacity
of 125 barrels per day, and, if it is operated continually, would grind about
28,000 bushels during a month. No enterprise of Mercer is of as much value
to the city and surrounding country as this. Mr. Houston employs seven men
regularly, and he and his son give it their personal attention, and deserve much
credit for establishing a business that is of great pecuniary interest to the com-
munity. Other reference is made in a personal sketch of Mr. Houston.
The Mercer Wooden Ware Works were erected a short time after the Hous-
ton Flouring Mills, by Arthur Seaton. From him it passed into the hands of
O. Berean, who sold to D. J. Courtney, the present owner. His cousin, T.
A. Courtney, is the superintendent. It does an extensive business in the mak-
ing of butter packages, firkins, pails, tubs, etc.
The Mercer Creamery was incorporated as a joint stock organization in the
winter of 1887-88, and a brick building at once erected near the railroad
station. It was opened for business on the 16th of April, 1888. Its products
of butter the first six weeks of its existence were as follows: 389; 820; 1,149;
1,593; 2.252, and 3,000 pounds. Its management consists of the following:
A. Newell, manager; J. Morrison, assistant manager, and W. Oyster, con-
ductor of the practical work.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
347
INCOEPOEATION AND BOEOUGH OFFICEES.
Mercer was incorporated as a borougli by Act of Assembly approved 28th
of March, 1814. The first election was held at the court-house on the 2d of
the ensuing May. The officers then elected and those elected in subsequent
years are shown, so far as records could be found:
1814 — Burgess, Joseph Smith; high constable, Samuel Thompson; clerk,
John Stewart, James Clark (tie vote, each having fifteen); council, Henry
Anderson, Jonathan Smith, Thomas Templeton, Samuel B. Foster and Robert
Moore.
1815— Burgess, Cunningham S. Semple; high constable, James Davitt;
clerk, Thomas Scott Cunningham; council, Bevan Pearson, Samuel B. Foster,
Hugh Bingham, Robert Stewart and Nathan Patterson.
1816 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, James Davitt; clerk,
Thomas S. Cunningham; council, John Wright, Aaron Hackney, John Find-
ley, James Miller, and for the fifth member Robert Stewart, John Hamill and
Samuel Scott each had eighteen votes.
1817 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, Thompson Clark; clerk,
Thomas S. Cunningham; council, James Templeton, Aaron Hackney, Henry
Anderson, James Miller and Hugh Bingham.
The first recorded ordinance was passed by the council of the borough of
Mercer March 7, 1817, as follows: “Be it enacted and ordained by the
burgees and inhabitants of the borough of Mercer, in council assembled. That
if any persons residing in the borough shall neglect or refuse to perform the
duties of any office to which he may be regularly appointed, under any of the
ordinances of this borough, he shall forfeit and pay the sum of |20. ”
1818 — Burgess, Jonathan Smith; high constable, Adam Forker; clerk,
Thomas S. Cunningham; council, Henry Anderson, Aaron Hackney, Samuel
Thompson, Joseph Smith and James Miller.
1821 — Burgess, James Clark; high constable, Joseph McDowell; clerk,
Thomas S. Cunningham; council, James K. Caldwell, John Banks, Henry
Anderson, Robert Stewart and Epaphroditus Cossitt.
1823 — Burgess, Joseph Smith; high constable, James Black; clerk,
Thomas S. Cunningham; council, Robert Stewart, James K. Caldwell, Adam
Fisher, Herbert Ramsey and John Banks.
1824 — Burgess, Joseph Smith; high constable, James T. Black; clerk,
Thomas S. Cunningham; council, Henry Anderson, John Banks, Hugh Bing-
ham, Bevan Pearson and Thomas Rodgers.
1825 — Burgess, Joseph Smith; high constable, Hugh Hunter; clerk,
Thomas S. Cunningham; council, Hugh Bingham, Henry Anderson, Thomas
Rodgers, John Banks and Bevan Pearson.
1826 — Burgess, Robert Stewart; high constable, Thomas Graham; clerk,
Hugh Bingham; council, Henry Anderson, Samuel B. Foster, Bevan Pearson,
Joseph Smith and Andrew Patterson.
1827 — ^Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, Hugh R. Hunter; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, John Banks, Henry Anderson, James Thompson,
Joel B. Curtis, Thomas Rodgers and James T. Black.
1828 — Burgess, Joseph Smith; high constable, Samuel Clark; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, Bevan Pearson, Michael Yeager, John Forker,
Thomas Rodgers and James K. Caldwell.
1829 — Burgess, Robert Stewart; high constable, William D. Bell; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, Joseph Smith, Andrew Patterson, James K. Cald-
well, Nesbit Ramsey and Bevan Pearson.
1830 — Burgess, William S. Rankin; high constable, William D. Bell; clerk,
348
HISTOBY OP MEECEE COUNTY.
David T. Porter; council, Eobert Patterson, Abrabam Pew, William Marshall,
John Bowman and Jacob Zahniser.
1831 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, William D. Bell; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, Andrew Patterson, Henry Anderson, Oliver Stevins,
James T. Black and John Porker.
1832— Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, William D. Bell; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, James T. Black, J. K. Caldwell, Andrew Patterson,
James McKean and William S. Rankin.
1833 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, Thomas Richardson; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, William S. Rankin, George Kline, James Thomp-
son, Michael Yeager and James K. Caldwell.
1834 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, Thomas Richardson ; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, John Porker, Jacob Mourer, Jacob Zahniser, Joel
B. Curtis and Joseph Smith.
1835 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, Jacob Porker; clerk,
David T. Porter.
1836 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, Jacob Porker; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, William S. Garvin, John Brownlee, James Thomp-
son, Henry Hosack and John McGill.
1837 — Burgess, Bevan Pearson; high constable, Jacob Porker; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, James D. Moore, James SherifP, William M. Smith,
Jacob Zahniser and James Thompson.
1838 — Burgess, Jacob Zahniser; high constable, Jacob Porker; clerk,
David T. Porter; council, John Porker, David T. Porter, John Moon, William
M. Stephenson and James K. Caldwell.
1840 — Burgess, Joseph Sheriff; high constable, William B. Woods; clerk,
J. R. Hunter; council, MTlliam S. Garvin, William M. Smith, Henry Porker,
John Moore, Joseph Shipler.
1850 — Burgess, J. P. Garrett; clerk, John D. McGill; high constable, John
McKean; council, M. C. Trout, Peter Shipler, Samuel Henderson, D. S. Bas-
tress, Joseph E. Hunter.
1851 — Burgess, William Stewart; clerk, Samuel P. Pearson; high con-
stable, Hiram Swift; council, Thompson Graham, Eobert C. Rankin, Adam
P orker.
1852 — Burgess, George Bell; clerk, John D. McGill; high constable, John
McKean; auditor, Lewis Weaver; council, William Maxwell, Robert Waugh,
Joseph Sykes, Thompson Graham, Robert C. Rankin, Adam Porker.
1853 — Burgess, Joseph Kerr; secretary of council, John D. McGill; high
constable, Joseph D. Woods; auditor, A. J. McKean; council, L. Weaver, A.
S. Burwell, J. C. Stewart, William Maxwell, Robert Waugh, Joseph Sykes.
1854 — Burgess, D. W. Pindley; secretary of council, D. J. Mourer; high
cpnstable, Joseph D. Woods; auditor, William McKnight; council, Thompson
Graham, Lyman Beach, A. H. Snyder.
1855 — Burgess, Samuel R. Mason; high constable, William B. Woods;
council, Hiram McLain, Thomas J. Nickum, John W. Rogers.
1856 — Burgess, Eobert Croskey; secretary of council, J. D. McGill; high
constable, James Morton; council, Joseph Sykes, Samuel Giebner, Wulliam
McElheny.
1857 — Burgess, William Gregory; secretary of council, John Porker; high
constable, William Porker; auditor, Thomas Pearson; council, I. G. Hirst,
John Porker, Wulliam Dight
1858 — Burgess, William Gregory; secretary of council, John Porker; high
constable, Asa Cochran; council, John Bowman, William L. Pleming, Will-
iam Smith.
1
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
351
•
1859 — Burgess, A. S. Burwell; secretary of council, T. J. Nickum; high
constable, R. M. Irwin; council, J. L. McLuillen, William M. Gibson, T. J.
Nickum.
1860 — Burgess, Joseph Shipler; secretary of council, Joseph Forker; high
constable, John McKean; council, A. J. Greer. Hiram McLain, William W.
Sheriff.
1861 — Burgess, Joseph Shipler; secretary of council, Joseph Forker; high
constable, John McKean; council, William W. Sheriff, Hiram McLain and
A. J. Greer.
1862 — Burgess, John Pew; secretary of council, Joseph Forker; council.
Hr. James Magoffin, Robert Jack, Joseph Forker.
1863 — Burgess, O. H. Gould; secretary of council, L. S. Nickum; high
constable, William Cummings; council, Hiram McLain, Thomas Jones, Will-
iam L. Flemming, L. S. Nickum, J. Y. Hirst.
1864 — Burgess, Joseph Shipler; secretary of council, W. J. McKean;
high constable, William Cummings; council, A. S. Burwell, William W.
Sheriff, Thomas Sykes, R. M. J. Zahniser, W. J. McKean.
1865 — Burgess, J. H. Robinson; secretary of council, W. J. McKean;
high constable, Justus Stowe; council, William R. Montgomery, A. J. Mc-
Kean, T. J. Irwin, R. M. J. Zahniser, W. J. McKean.
1866 — Burgess, John C. Glenn; secretary of council, P. E. Shipler;
council, A. S. Burwell, W. J. McKean, P. E. Shipler, William Jack, Will-
iam Smith.
1867 — Burgess, J. R. Williams; secretary of council, O. H. Gould; coun-
cil, D. W. Findley, O. H. Gould, C. W. Kline, William Alexander, Joseph
Sykes.
1868 — Burgess, Alexander Newell; secretary of council, O. H. Gould;
council, J. D. Crawford, O. H. Gould, Joseph Parks, J. Rankin, Alexan-
der Thompson.
1869 — ^Burgess, William Flemming; secretary of council, Joseph L. Parks;
high constable, I. L. C. Miller; council, John R. Hanna, Joseph L. Parks,
Alexander Newell, O. H. Gould.
1870 — Burgess, William L. Flemming; secretary of council, A. J. Mc-
Kean; council, Joseph Shipler, R. M. Irvin, Thomas Sykes, A. J. McKean.
1871 — Burgess, William J. McKean; secretary of council, A. J. McKean;
council, Hiram McLain, Joseph Shipler, A. J. McKean, Carlisle Alexander,
Adam Laughlin.
1872— Burgess, W^illiam Flemming; secretary of council, R. Beilis;
council, A. S. Burwell, V. Zahniser, Philip Leary, J. P. McKinley, R.
Beilis.
1873 — Burgess, John W. McCullough; secretary of council, Reuben
Beilis; council, A. S. Burwell, W. H. Alexander, Oliver Alexander, Thomas
McBurney, H. M. Clawson, Reuben Beilis.
1874 — Burgess, S. H. Miller; clerk, R. Beilis; council, Thomas Sykes,
W. H. Alexander, A. B. Clawson, R. Wright, J. S. McKean, R. Beilis.
1875 — Burgess, S. H. Miller; clerk, R. Beilis; council, A. B. Moon, A. J.
McKean, A. M. Clawson, W. H. Alexander, George T. Sykes, R. Beilis.
1876 — Burgess, S. H. Miller; clerk, R. Beilis; council, A. M. Clawson,
Jones Thompson, John Logan, F. F. Graham, R. Beilis.
1877 — Burgess, S. F. Thompson; secretary of council, Joseph L. Parks;
council, F. F. Graham, A. Mills, H. Frankel, R. A. Stewart, Joseph L.
Parks, J. E. McClure.
1878 — Burgess, S. F. Thompson; secretary of council, A. Newell; coun-
cil, William Logan, A. Mills, F. A. Filson, F. F. Graham, A. Newell.
20
352
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1879 — Burgess, C. W. ’\l^histler; secretary of council, J. J. Alexander;
higli constable, William Hawk; council, W. R. Packard, William Lary, P. E.
Shipler, John B. Mowry, John Gelvin, William M. Gibson.
1880 — Burgess, John C. Logan; secretary of council, J. J. Alexander;
hicfh constable, Frank Redman; council, W. R. Packard, J. B. White, R. K.
Patterson, H. F. King, John M. Findley, A. Mills.
1881 — Burgess, George Tanner; secretary of council, G. E. Patterson;
high constable, E. Shaffer; council, George W. White, J. C. Glenn, Charles
Clawson, A. Newell, J. W. Nickum and George T. Sykes.
1882 — Burgess, John W. Nickum; secretary of council, W. W. Shilling;
high constable, Elias Shaffer; council, D. L. Barton, A. P. Burwell, W. I).
Keck, Charles Clawson, James D. Morrison and James S. Wallace.
1883 — Burgess, John W. Nickum; secretary of council, W. P. Martin; high
constable, Elias Shaffer; council, D. L. Barton, J. D. Morrison, R. K. Pat-
terson, Andrew Logan, A. P. Burwell and Charles Clawson.
1884 — Burgess, George T. Sykes; secretary of council, S. F. Smith; high
constable, E. S. Edwards; council, A. M. Clawson, F. A. Filson, James S.
Martin, George McBride, F. F. Graham and James Patterson.
1885 — Burgess, James Woods; secretary of council, H. H. Zeigler; high
constable, Elias Shaffer; council, James D. Morrison, C. M. Derickson, James
Patterson, G. W. McBride, F. A. Filson and George W. White.
1886 — Burgess, H. B. Bowser; secretary of council, H. H. Zeigler; high
constable, D. M. Cook; council, John M. Magoffin, A. R. Young, James Pat-
terson, F. A. Filson, J. D. Morrison and C. M. Derickson.
1887 — Burgess, William Miller, Jr.; secretary of council, H. H. Zeigler;
high constable, H. K. Maitland; council, F. A. Filson, H. B. Bowser, C. M.
Derickson, J. D. Morrison, John M. Magoffin and A. R. Young.
1888 — Burgess, Robert G. Madge; secretary of council, H. H. Zeigler;
high constable, H. K. Maitland; council, George M. Williams, William Lary,
J. D. Morrison, John M. Magoffin, ,H. B. Bowser and A. R. Young.
FIRE DEPARTMENT.
One of the earliest fires in the place was the burning of the “Union
Church,” which stood north of East Market Street, on the site of the
present Benjamin Ride residence. It occurred in 1824, and the conster-
nation it produced led to the organization of a fire company for pro-
tecting the town in future against the ravages of the fire king. The
first effort toward organizing this company was made June 28, 1824,
when the following petition was presented to “the Burgess and Council of
the Borough of Mercer.” It voices the sentiment at the time, and indicates,
too, who were the enterprising residents of Mercer sixty-five years ago: “ The
memorial of the undersigned inhabitants of said borough respectfully repre-
sents that your petitioners are seriously and alarmingly impressed with the
destruction of the Union Meeting-house in this borough, on this morning, by
lightning. Numerous instances have occurred of houses having taken fire which
must inevitably have been burned to the ground, with probably the loss of
valuable lives, biit for the fortunate time when they were discovered to be on
fire, and extraordinary and dangerous exertions of the citizens of said borough.
Were it not for the torrent of rain that poured down at the most critical
time of the late dreadful and destructive fire, your petitioners believe that all
their efforts would not have been sufficient to stay the progress of that devour-
ing element before probably a number of other buildings would have been
enveloped in flames. Your petitioners have full confidence in the activity
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
353
and exertions of each other on such alarming occasions as the above mentioned
fire, but it is known to your honorable body that this borough is almost entirely
destitute of those means which are considered by all towns to be necessary
in extinguishing fire under difficult circumstances. Your petitioners therefore
request that said burgess and council will pass an ordinance laying a tax on
each taxable inhabitant of said borough, according to the late county assess-
ment, to be appropriated exclusively for the purchasing of a fire engine and
what other implements may be thought necessary for the said purpose, for the
use of said borough. Aaron Hackney, J. S. Cossitt, J. S. Black, John
Forker, Samuel Thompson, William Stephenson, William McMillan, Jonathan
Smith, James Caldwell, John Moore, William H. Forker, William Amberson,
John McGill, Thomas Templeton, Adam Forker, James K. Caldwell, E. C.
Johnson, Jacob Zahniser, Benjamin Hartley, J. Magoffin, Eobert Stewart,
Annanias Kittlinger, Washington Porter, John Bowman, Jr., William Coch-
ran, Patrick McCloskey, Bevan Pearson, Andrew Patterson, T. S. Cunningham,
David Crawford, John Findley, J. B. Curtis, A. Brown, John Simpson,
Nathaniel Welsh, Archibald Boyd, Thomas Bole, Saul Scott, J. Davitt, Hugh
Bingham, Jacob Herrington, Eobert Patterson, Thomas Graham, Michael
Y’’eager, James Thompson, John S. Pearson, Joseph Hunter, John Garvin, E.
Hanna, E. Magoffin, John Hoge, Jr., H. E. Hunter, T. Eogers, Joseph
Woods, Oliver Stephens, Joseph D. Lowry, N. Eamsey, A. Brown, Jr.,
Eobert Bowman, Abraham Pew, William S. Eankin, L. O. V. Eenz, George
Wright, Heniy Hosack, Hiram Hackney, Thomas Banks, James Clark, David
Smith, John Bowman, James Williamson, Samuel B. Foster, Jonathan Allen,
T. D. Brown, James McEean, William Amberson, James Gregory, Joseph
Smith, Eobert Boyd, Thomas Pearson, William Banks, Samuel Bowman, T.
J. Anderson, David T. Porter, James Gillis, James Kilgore, William Mar-
shall, Joseph Junkin, J. Carman, John C. Hanna, James Herrington, Thomas
J. Porter, H. D. La. Cossitt, John Chambers, John Orr, John McAuly, Jacob
Williamson, N. Patterson, James Graham, Henry Anderson, S. S. Shields, A.
A. Sample.”
The ordinance petitioned for by the foregoing was passed on the 28th of April,
1825. The fire engine purchased is said to have been a superior piece of
machinery, the best of the kind ever had in Mercer. It continued to be used with
acceptance and efficiency until the old court-house was burned in 1866, when
some persons under the influence of liquor crowded the machine into the
basement of that building and caused it to be burned up. For about six years
the city was without protection. In the spring of 1873 “ The Alert Hook
and Ladder Co.,” composed of the active young men of the town, was organ-
ized, with F. H. Braggins as captain. By the aid of a hand engine, which is
yet in existence, this organization was enabled to do efficient service against
the ravages of fire.
The Citizens’ Hose Company was organized in March, 1887, its charter
members consisting of George W. Bohn, Charles VV. Bollinger, Mont Kile,
Harry Logan, W. S. Hirst, D. W. Zahniser, John Moore, S. K. Cochran, A.
H. Chew, A. E. Amberson, J. W. McKim, S. F. Bare, Charles T. Pew, C. E.
Patterson, Mack Weimer, C. J. Gregory, H. G. Dean, J. H. McKean, W. J.
Logan, G. G. Lafferty, C. W. Kline, A. E. Lindsey and John Patton. The
first corps of officers was as follows; Foreman, J. H. McKean; first assistant
foreman, S. K. Cochran; second assistant foreman, H. C. Dean; secretary, C.
H. Forest; treasurer, S. K. Cochran. The present corps embraces: Foreman,
J. H. McKean; first assistant foreman, G. W. Bohn; second assistant foreman,
H. C. Dean; secretary, L. C. Bingham; treasurer, S. K. Cochran. The mem-
354
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
bership is forty. Tbe company meets tbe first Monday of every month in
rooms on the second floor of the Logan Block. The constitution and by-laws
of the organization were adopted November 10, 1887.
S. H. Miller Hose Company. — The preliminary meeting for the formation
of this company was held in the court-house February 3, 1887, at which time
the organization was effected by the election of the following officers: H. H.
Harrison, foreman and president; Charles E. Whistler, assistant foreman; G.
K. Downs, vice-president; J. S. Sykes, secretary; George M. Gibson, treasurer;
George P. Zahniser and John Mills, executive committee. In addition to the
above, the following named were constituted members: George B. Stewart,
John Armstrong, Edward Forker, Edward Fike, W. R. Miller, R. C. Kerr,
Marshall Ayres, Coe Livingston, William Ride, Sherman Cousins, William
Cozad, George Elliott, Harry McKnight, Charles Byers, Major Ormsby, Will-
iam Good, S. B. Moon, A. W. Madge, John M. Barnett, John Orr, John
Carter, Milton Hindman, George Nickum and Charles K. Dorons. A consti-
tution, making the name of the organization the “ S. H. Miller Hose Com-
pany,” was adopted February 11, 1887. The property of the company con-
sists of a cart and 450 feet of the best linen hose. There are at present
twenty-two members. Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of each month,
in the company’s new quarters in the Miller & Gordon block. The last
elected officers consisted of John Orr. president; A. W. Madge, vice-president;
Harry McKnight, secretary; Ed. Forker, treasurer; Ralph Kerr, foreman;
Coe Livingston, assistant foreman, and Samuel Albin and George M. Gibson,
executive committee.
CHURCHES.
The First United Presbyterian Church is the successor of one of the
very oldest societies in the county, and was organized in the early part of 1801,
being known as the Cool Spring Church. Its first house of worship, located about
three miles from the present one, was built of round logs, chinked and daubed
with mud, and was 18x20 feet in dimensions. Its windows were of greased
paper, and the door opened at one end of the building into the aisle, which
led up the center of the church between the pews of split logs, laid parallel to
each other at right angles to the sides of the structure, to the pulpit, which,
like its primitive fellows, consisted of a huge stump, delicately festooned with
a rich growth of green moss. The “meetin’ house” of the regular Presby-
terian Church, known by the same name, of which Rev. Samuel Tait was
pastor, was located about a half mile away, and between the two churches
there was a narrow foot-path, the only means of communication. The first
regular pastor of the Cool Spring Seceder flock was Rev. Thomas McClintock,
who began bis labors May 8, 1803. Among its early members were Mr. Mc-
Clintock (no relative of the pastor) and family, Mr. McDonald and family, Mr.
Bradley and family, Mr. Garvin and family and Mr. Braden and wife. Rev.
McClintock continued until July 2, 1805, when his pastoral relations were
terminated. An amusing incident is related of him, which shows how strong
was his desire for the right to prevail. At one of his services two dogs, which
had by stealth made their way into the church, became engaged in a fight, the
noise of which so disturbed the pastor that he was compelled to cease preaching.
As two of his congregation seized the unruly curs and began applying a liberal
chastisement, preparatory to ejecting them from the church, he looked calmly
on, with an appearance of impartial interest, and at length, in a slow, devout
tone, similar to that which characterized his preaching, addressed the two con-
servators of the congregation’s peace, exclaiming: ” Give the yellow dog the
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
355
most, for he began it. ’ ’ It was during his pastorate that the name Cool Spring
was exchanged for that of Mercer, and the old log church deserted. Services
were first held, after the removal, in the open air at a spring situated near the
old tannery, and known as the tent spring. Meetings were held here in the
summer of 1805, and upon the approach of winter a tent was erected, which
served as part shelter from the cold and snow. In this manner services were
maintained until 1807, when the erection of the old court-house furnished
better quarters. Private houses were, of course, utilized in the extreme
winter, and it is related that the old tavern, which stood upon the present site
of the post-office, was also occasionally occupied by the devout congregation.
The second pastor. Rev. John Walker, was installed July 11, 1811. The
ordination services were held in open air under the shade of two large oak
trees that marked the location of the tent spring, and were conducted by a
Rev. Duncan. His pastorate lasted but three years, and came to a close
August 14, 1814, his farewell sermon being preached on the same ground that
beheld his installation. Near the spring was a large pool of water, on the
bank of which had been placed a huge log. Two of the brethren seated them-
selves upon this rustic pew, and while preparing to drink deeply of the fountain of
wisdom that was expected to fall from the preacher’ s eloquent lips, as he bade his
flock a flnal farewell, became somewhat drowsy. The sermon had been protracted
to an unusual length, when the good brother sitting on the end of the log
nearest the water, at last succumbed to the sedative influences, lost his balance,
and in endeavoring to regain it, seized his- companion and fell with him into
the pool below. The water had a cooling effect, however, and the two quickly
clambered out, and during the remainder of the sermon successfully resisted the
wiles of Morpheus. Rev. W alker was followed, after an interval during which
no regular services were held, by Rev. Isaac Beggs, who was installed Sep-
tember 19, 1827, the exercises on that occasion being held in the Rocky Spring
Church. The new pastor was a man of rather irascible temper, and possessed
a Arm will. Upon one occasion the Presbyterians and Seceders, through mis-
take, appointed their respective services in the court-house at the same hoar.
Rev. Tait, the shepherd of the former flock, arrived first, and was about to
ascend to the pulpit, when Beggs entered, strode hastily forward, pushed his
clerical compeer to one side, and began the exercises himself, indulging for
four hours in a disquisition upon the virtues of psalmody, to the delight and
edification, doubtless, of his Calvinistic auditors, who were greatly in the
majority. During his ministry, however, much progress was made, both
spiritually and materially. In 1834 the old brick church, 40x60 feet in
dimensions, situated on a lot just behind the present dwelling of Hon. S.
Griffith, was erected and occupied. This was the first regular house of wor-
ship the Mercer congregation had ever enjoyed, the Cool Spring log house hav-
ing been occupied but a year or two.
Rev. Beggs’ pastorate terminated in 1836. He was succeeded by Rev. D.
H. A. McLean, D. D., who was installed in 1841, and released in 1845. His
successor. Rev. G. C. Vincent, D. D., began his ministry in December, 1847,
having been called the previous August, and continued until December 28,
1852. For four years following a vacancy occurred, which was filled by the
advent of Rev. D. W. French, who was installed October 21, 1856, the ser-
vices being conducted in the present church, which had been erected in the
previous summer, at a cost of $10,000. Preparatory to its completion the
court-house had been occupied, in which Rev. French had begun his labors in
March, 1856. This ministry was the longest the church has yet known. It
continued with gradually increasing success until March 16, 1875, when it
356
HISTOKY OF MERCEK COUNTY.
was terminated by death. Rev. J. M. French, a brother of the preceding,
then began a pastorate that ended in 1880. In 1881 Rev. J. S. McKee was
installed, and released in 1884. Rev. H. W. Crabbe, the last regular pas-
tor, began his labors in 1885, and closed them in 1887.
A list of the ruling elders of the congregation, as complete as possible, fol-
lows: James Braden, John Hamill, John Kerr, John Galey, Samuel White,
Hugh White, Livingston Carmen, Thomas L. Cummings, Joseph Black,
Henry Humphreys, William Cummings, George Grey, William Wallace,
David Barr, Adam Sheriff, John Sheriff, A. T. Black,, William Hamilton, J.
R. Hanna, James Duff, David Wallace, Jaipes Humphreys, William H. McCor-
mick, John Blair, Hugh Jordan, Andrew Robinson, William Vincent, Andrew
Stranahan and A. F. Moore.
Second United Presbyterian Church. — The date of the origin of this congre-
gation is shrouded in mystery. It has been variously estimated from 1802 to
1820. The first evidence of the existence of such a society is found in the
minutes of the Associate Reformed Presbytery: “On April 10, 1805, a peti-
tion came from Mercertown for the dispensation of Gospel ordinances. May
15, 1805, Mercertown put in the statistical table for synod as a vacancy. Mr.
Kerr was appointed to preach in Mercertown the third Sabbath of November,
1805. August 20, 1806, Rev. Mungo Dick was called to the united charge of
Mercertown, Neshannock and Sandy Lake. ” From this it will be seen that
an organization certainly existed prior to 1806. The “Mr. Kerr” referred
to was Rev. Joseph Kerr. The first ruling elders of whom any record is
made were John Findley and Joseph Junkin. The first regularly installed
pastor was Rev. James Galloway, a young man of the age of twenty-five, who
began his labors in 1810, which were closed May 10, 1818, by death. During
the early years of his ministry no house of worship was had, and services
alternated between the groves, the private residences of Messrs. Findley, Jun-
kin and others, and the old court-house. In the latter, it is related that Rev.
Tait secured the pre-emption of the court-room, and the flock that followed
the leadership of Rev. Galloway was f hus forced to resort to the grand jury
room, and when simultaneous services were held, as was often the case, a
competition of voices occurred between the two pastors, from which Rev. Tait
came out victor, his opponent having a slight frame and weak lungs. The
inconveniences of this sort of worship impelled the congregation to begin the
erection of a suitable church building. A lot, now owned by Mr. Benjamin
Ride, was purchased, and a structure, built of plain boards, was placed in
construction. This was not completed, however, until after Rev. Galloway’s
death. In 1820 Rev. James L. Dinwiddle was called to the pastorate. The
two years preceding his coming had been times of sore distress, though, to
the little flock, and his arrival found them burdened with debt and depressed
in spirit. To add to their troubles, just as they had begun to feel relieved,
and to regain their lost cheerfulness, a disastrous storm occurred, on the 24th
of June, 1824, during which their new structure was struck by lightning and
wholly destroyed by the resulting conflagration, which threatened the ruin not
only of their church, but of their private dwellings as well. But through the
untiring efforts of their pastor and a few devout members better times soon
came, the lot on which the present church stands was purchased, and the erec-
tion of a second church begun. Rev. Dinwiddle’s relations with the congre-
gation were terminated in 1834, at which time he left, to accept the charge of
a leading congregation in Pittsburgh. For a period of four years provisional
services were held, which were presided over by various supply and itinerant
ministers. The arrival of Rev. Andrew Bower, the third pastor, in 1838, put
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
357
an end to these, however, and regular services were resumed under his minis-
try. He remained only until 1842, after which, for about five years, supplies
were again resorted to. During this time the heavy debt which had been hang-
ing over the congregation since the building of the new church was grad-
ually reduced, until, in 1847, the organization felt itself able to secure another
regular pastor. Accordingly, Eev. W. T. McAdam was called, for half his time,
at an annual compensation of $250, and, upon his arrival, stated services were
resumed. This pastorate continued with flattering success until 1853, when,
after an interval of a few months. Rev. Robert Me W atty succeeded to the charge
of the Mercer flock. His pastorate, which has been by far the longest and most
prosperous one the church has ever known, continued until 1882. During it
almost phenomenal progress was made; the present elegant structure, much
the largest in town, was erected and furnished at a cost approximating $20,000;
over 1,000 members, including children, were received into active conimunica-
tion and fellowship, and the church placed upon a firm and lasting basis, the
security of which had never been known before. In 1883 Rev. J. A. Grier
began a ministry of three years, which resulted in much advancement to the
church. Since the close of Rev. Grier’s services the church has had no regu-
lar pastor.
The First Presbyterian Church was organized in 1804, with twenty members.
The first elders chosen consisted of Joseph Smith, Judge Alexander Browne
and Adam Forker. For two years the congregation was supplied with occa-
sional services by Rev. Samuel Tait, then in charge of the churches of Cool
Spring and Salem. In 1806, however. Rev. Tait was called for one-half his
time, the remainder being devoted to Cool Spring. For seven years this
arrangement continued, but in 1813 the members of the Cool Spring Church
consented to worship at Mercer, and the pastor was thus enabled to give one-
half his time again to Salem. In 1826 the Presbytery released Mr. Tait from
his connection with the Salem Church, and from that time until his death,
which occurred 2d June, 1841, he labored exclusively for the upbuilding of the
congregation of which we write. His efforts were in a great measure successful.
The earnestness and direct inevitable logic which characterized his presenta-
tion of the truth won many souls.
Following Mr. Tait in the pastorate came Eev. Joseph T. Smith, a son of
one of the first elders. He was ordained and installed 20th April, 1842, and
continued to serve with much success for seven years, at the expiration of
which time he resigned and removed to Baltimore, where he' was chosen pastor
of the Second Presbyterian Church. Dr. Smith was moderator of the General
Centennial Assembly of the Presbyterian Church that met at Philadelphia,
Penn., 1888.
There was then a vacancy for two years. It was terminated by the
coming of Rev. Robert S. Morton, who was installed 10th September, 1851.
He remained but one year, and was succeeded by Rev. Robert F. Sample, in
October, 1853, who remained until May 7, 1856. The fifth pastor, Rev. John
Ross Findley, was installed 29th April, 1857. His pastorate was the longest
in the history of the church, and was marked by the most exciting incidents.
During the stormy period of the Rebellion, and afterward, during reconstruc-
tion, party feeling ran so high as to thrust itself even into church relations.
The partisans on both sides clamored loudly against their opponents, and
much turmoil and bitterness resulted. It was chiefly from this cause that the
Second Presbyterian Church of Mercer was formed by a number who with-
drew from the parent organization. Notwithstanding the seemingly troublous
experiences which the latter underwent, Mr. Findley’s pastorate was charac-
358
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
terized by much progress and success. It is a curious fact that the most
posperous periods in the history of congregations are those immediately
following what appear to be the most discouraging and disheartening trials.
Eev. Keuben H. Van Pelt, the successor of Rev. Findley, who resigned in.
1874, and removed to Rock Island, 111., was called 29th June, 1874, and con-
cluded his labors in 1876. He in turn gave way to Rev. J. Frank Stonecipher,
whose pastorate extended from January 29, 1878, until April, 1882. The
present pastor. Rev. J. V. Stockton, began his services October, 1882, and was
installed on 14th of December, of the same year. He has met with merited
appreciation.
A word may now be said of the houses of worship in which the congrega-
tion has assembled. The first regular meeting-place was a room over the old
jail, which stood on the present site of the Jaw office of Johnson Pearson, Esq.
Occasional services were also held in the court-room of the old court-house. A
brick house was then erected and occupied, but, being considered unsafe, was
abandoned after a short time. The present building was built in 1829. It
has been repaired several times, and now presents the appearance of a new
structure. A beautiful parsonage has recently been completed by the congre-
gation.
Following is a list of the elders of the church since 1836: Samuel Bowman,
1836-56;- Jacob Zahniser, 1840-52; John Young, 18 37; Robert Stewart,
18 37; Elias Alexander, 18 37 and 1849-63; G. Edward Laschell, 1840-
49; John Bowman, 1836-62; Joseph Flemming, 1840-63; Samuel Giebner,
1840-87; Andrew M. Barber, 1849-61; Thomas P. Grubb, 1859-85; Samuel
R. Mason, 1859-65; John D. Nickum, 1859-72; Adam Boston, 1859-86; John
McKim, 1863-67; William L. Flemming, 1863-81. The present officers are —
elders, Alexander McCullough, John B. Mowry, W. J. Calvin, Dr. W. B. Isen-
berg; treasurer, J. J. Alexander; secretary, John W. Bell; trustees, C. M.
Derickson, H. H. Zeigler, John T. Crill, James B. Grubb and J. J. Alex-
ander.
Second Presbyterian Church. — This congregation, a colony from the First
Presbyterian Church, withdi-ew from the fold of the parent flock on the 20th
day of October, 1863, the cause of the schism being the peculiar views which
the pastor of the latter church. Rev. JohnR. Findley, held concerning the war,
which was then waging. The organization of the seceders was effected in the
Congregational Church, there being forty-seven members who united them-
selves into the new congregation. These were: Elias Alexander, Joseph
Fleming, Henry W. Ahrend, Nancy Ahrend, Eva Baskin, Jane Bell, Rachael
B. Bell,D. W. Findley, Mary J. Findley, Samuel Fleming, Joseph Forker, Laura
C. Filson, Sarah F. Filson,D. H. Fleming,Mrs. M. C. Fleming, John J. Graham,
Mrs. Mary E. Hirst, Mrs. Huett,Mary W. Hirst, William McMillan, R. M. Irwin,
Rachael Irwin, Robert F. Irwin,H. Irwin, Susannah Kieth, Mrs. H. Lees, Charles
Lees, Jane Lees, Charlotta Lees, John Lees, R. L. Maxwell, Sophia D. Max-
well, Hannah G. Morrison, Amanda M. Magcffin, Andrew Patterson, M. M.
Patterson, Nancy Templeton, Mary Templeton, Mrs. A. D. Waugh, R. M. J.
Zahniser and Lizzie M. Zahniser. The first election of elders resulted in the
choice of Elias Alexander and Joseph Fleming, who were accordingly installed.
The church was without a regular pastor until March 28, 1864, when a call
was extended to Rev. W. M. Robinson, who accepted and began his pastorate
in the following April, his installation taking place June 14, at which service
Rev. A. C. Junkin delivered the accustomed sermon. Rev. J. W. McCune the
charge to the pastor and Rev. W. P. Moore the charge to the people. For a
year thereafter services were held in the Congregational Church, and also in
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
359
the old court-house. Efforts were, however, being constantly made toward
the erection of a suitable house of worship, a building committee, consisting of
Hon. D. W. Findley, William B. Tate, E. M. J. Zahniser, E. M. Irwin and Will-
iam Miller, having been appointed in February, 1865, and liberal contributions
having been made by Mrs. Amanda Magoffin, Hon. William Stewart, Andrew
Patterson and others. The fruit of these labors was realized in the completion
of the present spacious structure, which was dedicated on the first Sunday in
January, 1807, the sermon on that occasion being delivered by Eev. W. P.
Moore, the resident ministers of the town participating in the service. The
church cost originally f 11, 000, and since its erection has undergone several
expensive repairs. The ministry of Eev. Eobinson terminated in May, 1872.
His successor, Eev. B. M. Kerr, was installed September 6, 1872, and con-
tinued until August, 1877. For a period of five years no regular pastor was
employed, the services being conducted by supplies. In September, 1882,
Eev. I). E. Kerr began his pastorate, and was installed October 13. He
remained in charge until March, 1887, and in October of the same year the
present pastor, Eev. W. E. Slemmons, began his labors, his installation tak-
ing place December 13. The church is at present in good condition, and has
a membership of 285. Connected with it is a Sunday-school enrolling 170
pupils, of which the superintendent is James A. Stranahan. The session of
the church has comprised since the beginning Elias Alexander, Joseph Flem-
ing, E. M. J. Zahniser, Joseph Junkin, John Miller, D. M. Wood, I. N.
Donaldson, S. G. Pew, S. F. Smith, C. S. Burwell and G. T. Sykes.
Methodist Episcopal Church. — This congregation dates its organization
from the year 1820, when, according to Greggs’ History of “Methodism within
the Bounds of the Erie Conference,” “Eev. Alfred Brunson, ordained a
deacon in Cincinnati, Ohio, July, 1819, was employed part of the following
year by Elder Swayze on the Erie Circuit, when he succeeded in forming a
class in Mercer, consisting of William Stephenson and wife, Joseph McDowell
and wife, Eobert Boyd and wife, Sarah Stokely, Elizabeth Stokely, Polly
Stokely and Esther Stokely. Benjamin Hartley, Mrs. John Banks and John
Keck were likewise among the early members. Persecution ran high in Mer-
cer at that time, and it was with much difficulty that a place was obtained in
which to hold meetings. Churches', court-house and school houses were all
refused. The society was organized in a small log house a few rods from the
place where the church now stands.” The first house of worship was a frame
structure — originally about thirty feet square. To it additions were made
until its length reached some sixty feet. It was only one story in height, and
had a gallery which was used for a class room. It stood on the site of the
present parsonage, and cost in the neighborhood of $500. The seats were
plain wooden affairs, and were never contaminated with any such substance as
paint. Eustic as they were, and a sample is yet to be seen in the present
house, they served the purpose of those early days when Methodism boasted of
its simplicity. The illumination was secured by means of six lard lamps.
This house, erected about 1830, was sold by piecemeal to various persons, by
whom it was removed from its sdcred place. It had been struck by lightning
once and the pulpit end of the structure badly shattered. The lot on which
it stood was donated by Mrs. Judge John Banks, now of Beading, Penn. The
second edifice, a two-story brick structure, 45x75, the lower story containing
four class rooms and a lecture room, the upper being a main audience room,
was erected in 1853 at a cost of $7,000, and dedicated in September, 1855, by
Eev. Alfred Cookman, of Pittsburgh, assisted by Eev. F. S. DeHass, D. D.,
who delivered the historical discourse. The erection occurred during the
360
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
pastorates of the Keverends James E. Lock, Dillon Prosser, D. Smith and
Thomas Guy, the first commencing and the last three completing the work.
The contractor was John Boyd, of Mercer, the brick work being done by John
McKean, Esq., John Henderson and James B. White, the last subsequently
becoming an attorney at the bar. The bell was donated by Hon. S. Griffith
and wife. The first intention was to repair the old house. This was then
modified to erect a frame structure, but wiser counsels prevailed, resulting in
the construction of a substantial brick chapel. Three additional lots were
bought of Mrs. Banks, giving the church an entire block of land. The first
parsonage was a frame structure, and is still standing as a dwelling on East
Market street, the property of Mrs. John McKinney. It was sold, and the
funds were used in the erection of the brick church. The second parsonage
was built during the war by William Maskrey at a cost of about |4, 500,
and is a very commodious and comfortable home. In 1871 the church
edifice was refitted by the removal of the gallery to give room for the pipe
organ now in use. The instrument was bought of Hook & Hastings, of
Boston, at a cost of $2,000, and is said to have been the first pipe organ
introduced into Mercer County. At the same time the old style windows gave
place to the present stained glass ones. The following is a list of the pastors
from its origin until the present time: Samuel Adams, 1822; H. Knapp, 1823;.
C. Thorne and Job Wilson, 1824; A. Brunson and E. Stevenson, 1825; H.
Kinsley and J Leech, 1826; J. P. Kent and S. Ayers, 1827; T. Carr and E.
Armstrong, 1828; T. Carr and I. Winans, 1829; J. Summerville and L. D.
Prosser, 1830; J. Hitchcock and W. Butt, 1831; C. Jones and T. Thompson,
1832; E. Clapp, 1833-34; J. S. Barris, 1835; G. W. Clarke, 1836; J. Eobin-
son, 1837; J. E. Chapin, 1838; H. N. Sterns, 1839; E. Parker, 1840; M. H.
Bettes and J. P. Benn, 1841; J. Leslie and E. B. Lane, 1842; I. Merson and
J. Marvin, 1843; I. Merson and J. L. Holmes, 1844; W. F. Wilson, 1845-46;
E. Jones, 1847-48; W. F. Day, 1849; G. B. Hawkins, 1850; J. E. Locke,
1851-52; Dillon Prosser. 1853; D. Smith, 1854; T. Guy, 1855; E. A.
Caruthers, 1856; A. D. Morton, 1857-58; E. S. Gilette, 1859-60; J. Greer,
1861-62; G. W. Chesbro, 1863-64; O. G. Mclntire, 1865-66; W. P. Wil-
son, 1867-68; L. W. Day, 1869-71; E. J. L. Baker, 1872; F. H. Beck,
1873-75; N. H. Holmes, 1876-78; W. P. Bignell, 1879-80; C. M. Morse,
1881-83; O. L. Mead, 1884-86; E. K. Creed, 1887, present incumbent.
The congregation has a membership of 318, and a Sunday-school of 175.
Both are in a flourishing condition.
Grace Ejnscopal Church. — Episcopal preaching has occurred in Mercer for a
period of probably sixty-five years, the date of its first services being involved in
obscurity. In 1827 an organization was established, and Samuel Holstein, a
prominent member of the Mercer bar, was chosen as a delegate to the convention
which elected Bishop Onderdonk as assistant to the venerable Bishop White,
chaplain of the Continental Congress. This organization, it seems, did not
pursue an aggressive policy. Services were held only at intervals until 1839,
when Eev. Dr. Michael, an Englishman, located in Mercer, and conducted
services in the court-house for a number of months. For a period of about
thirty years following this date only occasional services were held at the
mission. In the list of officiating clergymen were Bishop Onderdonk, Eev.
Ayres, of Franklin, Dr. Edward Y. Buchanan, Eevs. James and Hosmer, of
Meadville, Dr. Thomas Crompton, subsequently of Pittsburgh, and Dr. Will-
iam White, of Butler. The last named gentleman visited the mission for a
number of years. In 1808 the late Bishop Kerfoot made an effort to revive
the church by establishing monthly services, and securing preaching from
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
3G1
clergymeu in different parts of the diocese. In 1872 Rev. William Bollard
assumed charge, remaining nearly two years. His first service was held in
Mercer, May 20, 1872, in the Congregational Church, which was occupied until
January, 1873. In 1875 Rev. H. G. Wood, of Sharon, began work, conduct-
ing services at first in private houses. His pastorate continued until August,
1882, when he was succeeded by Rev. D. F. Hutchinson, of the diocese of
Ontario, Canada. The latter gentleman located in Greenville, and supervised
both the Greenville and the Mercer congregations. In October, 1872, a com-
mittee decided to purchase the “ old Pearson property” for |3,000, but the
stringency of money matters in the near future deterred the congregation from
making the venture. Recourse was had a second time to the Congregational
house for several years preceding 1884. During the pastorate of Mr. Hutch •
inson, new life was given to the previously discouraged flock. Miss Bay
Magoffin donated a lot to the congregation, money was raised for the erec-
tion of a neat little chapel of the early English style, 24x51, with a chancel
8x12, and on March 25, 1884, the edifice was consecrated by Bishop Cort-
land Whitehead, of the diocese of Pittsburgh. The structure cost about
$2,000.
Mr. Hutchinson was succeeded by Rev. Alonzo Diller, who remained about
six months. He in turn was followed by Rev. George Rogers, of Paducah,
Ky. , who also remained about six months. The pi’esent rector is Rev. John
London, of Butler, who conducts services every two weeks. The present
membership is about thirty-five.
The New School Presbyterians were organized about 1837 by Rev. Philo
C. Pettibone, from members who left the First Presbyterian Church. Its
membership increased rapidly until it reached 200, but gradually diminished
until it became extinct. Mr. Pettibone was the only pastor, remaining about
two years. After his departure ‘ ‘ supplies ’ ’ were insufficient to keep this
member of the numerous branches of Presbyterianism in existence.
The English Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized about 1840 or
1842, and included among its members Jacob Eberle and wife, David Achre
and wife, Elias Achre and wife, the Nunemakers, Henry Ahrend and others.
The house of worship was a frame one- story structure, which cost about 1 1,000.
It was erected on the corner of Otter and Butler Streets, directly north of the
present Methodist parsonage. The house was sold about 1854 to Albert Pew,
now of Sharon, and has since been occupied by various persons as a private
dwelling. The congregation disbanded about the time of the sale, a portion
of the membership going to a Lutheran congregation worshipping on the
Blacktown road. It, too, has been disbanded, many of the communicants find-
ing a home in the Second Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
The Congregational Church of Mercer was organized on March 27, 1847,
with a membership of nine persons, who had separated from the New School
Presbyterians. This congregation worshipped in the court-house until April
18, 1852, at which time its own house was dedicated. The organization was
effected by Rev. D. R. Barker, who was its first pastor. His death occurred in
1875. He was succeeded by Revs. J. M. Caldwell, Charles P. Mallory, D.
L. Greer, W. C. Sexton, S. Manning and others. The congregation was finally
disbanded and its house of worship was sold to the Reformed Presbyterians,
whose sketch is found in this chapter.
The Free Presbyterian Church, formed from the fragments of the New
School, was organized on June 15, 1850, with nine members, and continued
a doubtful existence until 1866, when it ceased as a member of the church
militant. Rev. George Gordon was the first pastor. He was assisted by his
3G2
HISTOBY OF MERCEB COUNTY.
brother, Eev. Joseph Gordon, who was editor of the Free Presbyterian,
described in the chapter on the Press. Kevs. J. C. Bigham and J. W. Tor-
rence also served as pastors.
The Springfield Reformed Presbyterian Church was organized about five
miles northeast of Mercer, on the Crabtown road, nearly fifty years ago. It
has had comparatively few preachers in the half-century of its existence, the
following pastors having served: Rev. James Blackwood, Rev. J. J. McClurkin
(twenty-two years). Rev. J. R. Wylie, from 1877 to 1888. Between the pas-
torates of Mr. McClurkin and Wylie there was a vacancy for a period of four-
years. The labors of the former began in 1851. Rev. Blackwood’s labors
were less than thirteen years. In November, 1886, a portion of the old
Springfield Reformed Presbyterian Church came to Mercer and purchased the
old Congregational house of worship. Rev. J. R. Wylie, who was the pastor
of the Springfield congregation from 1877 to 1888, became the minister of the
branch that located in Mercer, and worked hard to have the entire congrega-
tion transferred to the town. His labors ceased with the congregation May
1, 1888, he having been called to the pastorate of a church in New Galilee,
Beaver County.
SCHOOLS.
The first school-house in the borough of Mercer was a brick structure,
which stood near the intersection of the two alleys east of the present St.
Cloud Hotel, and not far from the site afterward occupied by the Mercer
Academy. It was a one-story brick, about twenty feet square. In it was a
ten-plate stove, on which refractory pupils were compelled to sit as a punish-
ment. Its seats were ordinary benches, destitute of backs. In front of these
benches stood desks for writing purposes. Into the wall were driven wood-
en pegs on which to suspend bonnets and hats. The first teacher was St. John
Galbreath. He punished Mrs. Margaret H. (Foster) Rogers, at present one
of the oldest residents of Mercer, by compelling her to sit on the stove. Mr.
Galbreath was succeeded by two excellent ladies from New England, sis-
ters. They were Kittie and Sallie DeWolf. They were good, both in their in-
struction and government. After the academy was erected these Yankee sisters
were employed as instructors. They probably preceded Prof. Kelley in the
good work of laying a foundation for educational work in the town.
Mrs. Anna B. Garrett* came from Philadelphia at an early day, probably
about 1816, and opened a sort of an industrial school in her own house,
which was a two-story log structure that stood on the site of the house now
occupied by Mrs. Judge D. W. Findley, of Mercer. The lower part of the
house was occupied by the family, and the upper story was used for school
purposes. Mrs. Garrett taught sewing, embroidery, etc. , in connection with
the ordinary subjects of an English education. She was an excellent reader
herself, and was successful in making good readers of her pupils. She was a
worthy, intelligent woman, and a superior instructor. Dr. David Junkin
paid her a merited compliment when he pronounced her the ‘ ‘ Hannah Moore
of America.”
Mrs. Garrett had school at the time of the severe snow-storm of February
4, 1817. Of the many pupils of Mercer and vicinity who were members of
her classes, but two are known to be living at this date (May, 1888), viz. :
Mrs. Margaret H. Rogers, of Mercer, and Mrs. Mary (Brown) Norton, of
Sharon. The former was snow-bound by the severe storm referred to, and
had to be cax-ried to her home on the back of her older brother. For six
*She was a younger sister of Bevan Pearson, whose sketch is found in this work.
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
363
weeks she was unable to return to school, the deep snow continuing with
such pertinacity Mrs. Garret died in Mercer, and sleeps in the old Pres-
byterian graveyard.
Another early school was kept in the dwelling house of Thompson Clark,
a brother-in-law of S. B. Foster, and the father of William F. Clark, whose
histoi’y is given in the chapter on the Press. The house in qirestion was a
two-story log building, and stood on the site of Dr. Hoon’s office, on the south
side of East Market Street. After Mr. Clark died his wife, Susan, and
daughter, Jane, started a school, and continued it for several years. Some
of the older residents of Mercer still recall their attendance at the Clark
school with great pleasure.
Mercer Academy. — One of the useful and cherished institutions of Mercer,
and one which did much to stamp its youth with proper conceptions and laud-
able ambitions for life’s great duties, was the old Mercer Academy. Around
its name cluster some of the most precious memories. Though the material
structure is entirely gone, there being, as in the case of that grand structure
of the Jewish people — the Temple, not “one stone upon another,” the
fabric of character and intellectual training which it wove in the days of long
ago still remains, an imperishable heritage. Many a youth looks back to his
alma mater with all the pride that ever characterized the loyal sons of the
ancient and highly endowed institutions of more highly favored times and local-
ities. Mercer Academy still lives in the labors of her children. This institu-
tion was established by virtue of an act of the Assembly passed on the 30th of
March, 1811. The act stipulated that the annual income should not exceed
$2,000; that poor children should be taught gratis, and that the name should
be “ Mercer Academy. ” An appropriation of $2,000 was granted by the
State for its erection. The records seem to have been lost or destroyed, and
hence but an imperfect sketch can be presented. The first account of actual
work is shown in a report of the following trustees, viz. : Rev. Samuel Tait,
Joseph Junkin, Frederick Menner, John Hamill, Hugh Bingham, Robert
Patterson, Dr. Epaphroditus Cossitt and T. S. Cunningham, made March 10,
1820, and covering the period from the 30th of March, 1811, to the 31st of De-
cember, 1819. It was published at the time in the Western Press.
Debtor: To State appropriation, $2,000; to interest on same to December
31, 1819, $1,016; to donations from former trustees, $85; total, $3,081.
Credit: By investment in N. W. bank, Meadville, $1,000; by amount paid
Thomas Templeton for building Academy, $1,500; by balance on hand, $581 ;
total, $3,081.
This report reveals the cost of the structure, and the name of the contract-
or, one of Mercer’s honored citizens. At the same time Rev. Tait, Hugh
Bingham and Mr. Cunningham advertised for a person ‘ ‘ capable of teaching
reading, writing, arithmetic, the mathematics and geography.” Who re-
sponded to this call is not known. The academy proper did not open until
some time afterward. The first principal was Prof. John Kelley. He was a
good mathematician, but no linguist. He must have commenced as early as
1824 or 1825, and continued until about 1830, when he was succeeded by
Prof. D. B. Cook, who was assisted by his wife, Mrs. Mary Ann Cook. In
an advertisement found in the Press of the 28th of July, 1832, Mr. Cook gives
some idea of the rates of tuition, and line of studies pursued. The following
ia the tuition per quarter: Reading, $1.50; writing and arithmetic, $2.00;
algebra, surveying, navigation, rhetoric, mensuration and book-keeping, $3.00;
Latin and French, $4.00. Mr. Cook was succeeded in 1834 by William M.
Stephenson and a Mr. Matthews, the former in charge of the English and the
364
HISTOEY or MEECEB COUNTY.
latter of the classical department. John Keck was president of the board
that employed them. In December, 1835, Mr. Stephenson alone was in charge
of the institution. After a vacancy of about a year, Kev. D. H. A. McLean,
then a student in the theological seminary, at Canonsburg, was secured,
his work beginning in May, 1837. During the winter months the academy
was idle, he spending his time at the seminary, but returning in May,
1838, to resume his work. Mr. McLean was succeeded by Rev, Mitchell
and an associate, who seemed to be unable to work together harmoni-
ously, and finally separated. The board likewise was divided. After
they had been in charge a short time McLean taught a third short term
in the summer of 1839. He leaving, they secured the services of John W.
Duff, a recent graduate from Jefferson College. After Duff the princi-
palship devolved upon Rev. D. R. Harper, D. D., then a student in
theology. Rev. G. C. Vincent, D. D., now located at Latrobe, Westmore-
land County, became his successor. He was pastor of what became the First
IJ. P. Church, of Mercer, and remained in charge of the academy for several
years. The following named gentlemen’ were also connected with the academy
as principals or instructors: Hon. Samuel Griffith, J. L. Rogers, William
A. Mehard, G. W. Zahniser, Hiram Leffingwell, J. T. Smith, J. R. Wilson,
William Butler, John Armstrong, William Dickson, Miss Marsh, Miss Green-
field, Mr. McCune and William Scott.
The site of the building was Lots Nos. 249 and 250, lying north of East
Market Street, between Otter Street and the diamond. On the 17th of March,
1849, a meeting was called at the court-house to take steps to erect a new
building. Hugh Bingham was chairman and William F. Clark, Sr., secre-
tary. Messrs. Stephenson, Garvin and Patterson were appointed a committee
to prepare an address to the public on the necessity of such a step being
taken. The address was read at a subsequent meeting. It urged the erection
of a new building, in very decided terms; the scheme met with opposition, and
was finally abandoned. The old structure was from time to time repaired.
Finally, by act of the Assembly approved 13th of May, 1856, the Mercer school
district w'as formed with the view of establishing a union school. Joseph
Kerr, Samuel Giebner and William M. Stephenson were appointed commis-
sioners to sell the academy property. The sale was made, Levi Jones being
the purchaser, July 8, 1857. By him it was sold July 19, 1864, to John W.
Parks. On the 15th of April, 1865, it was repurchased by Jones, by whom it
was deeded on the 13th of January, 1868, to Mrs. Clarissa E. Jones, in con-
sideration of 12,000. The building was burned down in January, 1879; but
in the language of an American statesman, “the soil still remains.”
Time would fail to give a full list of the men who, at various times, acted
as trustees of the academy. It would embrace the names of such men as
Rev. Samuel Tait, Frederick Menner, Joseph Junkin, John Hamill, Hugh
Bingham, Robert Patterson, Dr. E. Cossitt, T. S. Cunningham, Andrew Pat-
terson, Jonathan Smith, John Keck, Samuel Holstein, J. L. Dinwiddie, James
Thompson, William M. Stephenson, Joseph T. Smith, William T. McAdam,
B. F. Baskin, Samuel Giebner, William Stewart, D. W. Findley, A. H. Sny-
der, Samuel Woods, John Forker, John Carnes, Henry Forker, John McGill,
James Sheriff, Andrew Harsha, etc.
In like manner the list of students who have attended the old academy
would be a formidable one, embracing a large portion of the prominent fami-
lies of the town of Mercer and other parts of the county. It would not
detract from the honor of having once been a student within its walls to be
reminded that it had afforded educational facilities to Dr. George Junkin, Rev.
flISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
865
D. X. Junkin, Judge J. J. Pearson, Hon. John A. Bingham, and others of
State or national reputation. The old Mercer Academy is gone, but the young
people of to day are afforded excellent educational facilities in the public
schools of the town and country. If they shall improve their facilities as care-
fully as their ancestors did at the “academy,” the State will not be destitute of
true men and women.
The present Public Schools date their origin properly from the sale of the
old Mercer Academy, as related in the previous portion of this sketch. The
money thus accruing, the commissioners thus appointed were permitted to aug-
ment by borrowing a sum not exceeding |5,000 for the erection of a suitable
school building, the one now used. The board of directors of the school dis-
trict were required to support a school at least ten months in the year, for the
education of all youth from five to twenty-one, “in the branches of a complete
English and classical education; but all students pursuing classical studies
maybe required to pay the prices usual for such branches in academies or pri-
vate schools; also for those branches denominated ornamental, such as painting
and drawing and instrumental music;” and it was further declared that “ for-
eign modern languages may also be taught in said school, but to be considered
extra, and to be paid for by the persons receiving instruction in them.” The
projectors of the common schools of Mercer were liberal in their plans for
securing more than the mere English elements. The principal building was
erected in 1867, at a cost of some 115,000. It is a brick structure, three sto-
ries in height, and situated so as to command the town and surrounding coun-
try. A second structure, a two-story brick with two rooms, was erected in
1875, at a cost of about $4,700. The following have served as principals of
the schools: David Eambo, A. J. Warner, Charles Beemis, J. G. White,
David Blakeley, Robert Murry, John Albin, Robert McFeeter, Rev. G. Kerr,
H. R. Stewart, James C. Graham, Miss Callie G. Forrest and George H.
Lamb.
Soldiers' Orphan School. — This benevolent and valuable school was estab-
lished on the 1st of January, 1868, by J. G. White and George Reznor, on a
tract of land owned by the former. The site and some of the buildings had
been previously used for a water-cure. The location is a favorable one, being
in the valley which lies between the hill on which Mercer is situated and Bald
Hill lying to the northeast. The grounds, embracing seventy acres, are abund-
antly supplied with living water, that gushes from the base of Bald Hill. In
addition, McCollough’s Run, fed by springs, flows near by, affording a copi-
ous supply of the liquid element for all practical purposes. In the distribu-
tion of labor Mr. White became the superintendent of the educational depart-
ment, and Mr. Reznor the general business manager. Mr. Reznor, however,
retired from this position at the expiration of a year, but Mr. White continued
as proprietor and principal until the first of March, 1874, when the proprietor-
ship was transferred to Messrs. G. W. Wright, R. R. Wright, John I. Gordon
and S. F. Thompson, its present owners. When the institution opened the
attendance was necessarily small, and limited to a younger class of pupils. It
is said that of the first hundred admitted nearly all were between the ages of
four and eight years, a few even falling under the lesser number. This was in
consequence of the theory first held, that pupils of about the same age should
be sent to the same school. In a few years, however, this theory was discov-
ered to be a false one, and children of the same family, whatever their ages,
were sent to the same school. Mr. J. G. White, now a leading attorney at the
Mercer bar, was, as has been already stated, the first principal. His duties in
other directions required, however, that he should be relieved from such labors.
366
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
He selected Kev. William T. Dickson, a man of intellectual power and experi-
ence. He occupied the position but a few months when ill health compelled
him to resign. He was succeeded by Miss Sarah Pew, a Mercer lady, who,
during the two years of her incumbency, gave efficiency to that department of
the school. She in turn was succeeded by Prof. William Bogle and G. W.
Mays.
The first matron selected for the responsible place of governing these little
ones was Mrs. Jane Findley, of Erie, widow of a distinguished minister.
She faithfully performed the duties belonging to her position until 1870, when
failing health compelled her to resign. Her memory is lovingly cherished by
those who knew her in any capacity.
The second matron was Mrs. William F. Dickson, wife of Kev. William F.
Dickson, who acted as the second principal. On account of his removal by reason
of ill health, her stay was of short duration. Her successor was Mrs. Mary
C. Galbraith, who held her position with success and general acceptance for
a period of over four years. During her administration order, system and
harmony prevailed. At the termination of Mrs. Galbraith’s term of service
Miss Jennie Martin, formerly connected with the Dayton Soldiers’ Orphan
School, was chosen. She had had quite a varied experience in similar work,
and was, besides, the daughter of a soldier, who was a victim of the horrors of
Andersonville. The wisdom shown in her selection was vindicated in the fact
that she still occupies the position with honor and acknowledged success.
SECRET AND OTHER SOCIETIES.
On the 3d day of June, 1822, a warrant was issued by the Grand Lodge of
Pennsylvania, for the organization of Mercer Lodge No. 182, A. Y. M. The
officers named in the charter were: Epaphroditus Cossitt, W. M. ; Jacob Her-
rington, S. W. ; William Budd, J. W. The charter members present at the
first meeting, which was held on July 4, 1822, were: Epaphroditus Cossitt,
Jacob Herrington, William Budd, William Haywood, James Mitchelsok,
Samuel Hawthorn, Benjamin- Hartley, William Jones, Andrew Titus and
Thomas H. Trump. The meetings were held in the second story of the stone
building now owned and occupied by Mrs. J. H. Eobinson, on Norih Pitt
Street. The sessions were interesting, and the order grew until 1827, when,
owing to the strong anti-Masonic excitement, resulting from the abduction and
melancholy fate of Morgan, it was compelled to yield to popular clamor, and
passed gently into a state of non-existence. The last return of the lodge was
dated 1827, but its warrant was not vacated until the 6th of February, 1837.
A state of inactivity was indulged until the 27th of November, 1850, when
Hebron Lodge No. 251 was constituted by Samuel McKinley, D. D. G. M. ,
on a warrant from the Grand Lodge. The charter members consisted of
Branton H. Henderson, now of Sharon, John Hoge, John McGill, Dawson
Wadsworth and Ashel Tyler. In the warrant John Hoge was designated W.
M. ; J. P. Garrett, S. W., and John McGill, J. W. On the register was
written in lead pencil, “ J. P. Garrett not a member,” from which it is
inferred that he changed his mind as to becoming a member after he signed
the application for a warrant. Difficulties of an internal character finally
interfered with the prosperity of Hebron Lodge, and its meetings became less
largely and enthusiastically attended. Finally, on the 5th of September, 1877,
its warrant was vacated.
In June, 1888, as the result of some agitation, a new charter was secured
for Hebron Lodge No. 575, by the following warrant members: T. K. Adams,
W. M. ; S. B. Griffith, S. W. ; C. M. Derickson, J. W. ; A. B. Filson, Secy. ;
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
369
W. D. Keck, Treas. ; C. W. Whistler, John M. Findley, J. H. Chandler, D.
R. Vaughn, John Carter, J. T. Moore and S. H. Miller. The lodge was ac-
cordingly constituted.
Mercer Lodge No. 323, I. O. O. F., was instituted July 31, 1848, with
Samuel Henderson, N. G. ; Joseph R. Hunter, V. G. ; Robert C. Rankin,
Sec.; Charles Curtis, Asst. Sec.; and Dawson Wadsworth, Treas. The first
meetings of the order were held in the old academy building. From there the
lodge removed to the stone house at present used as a dwelling by Mrs. J. H.
Robinson, in the upper story of which was a room which had been used many
years before by the original Masonic order of Mercer. This was now repaired
and occupied for a time. Becoming dissatisfied with these quarters, the lodge,
in connection with the Sons of Temperance, built a hall on what is now a va-
cant lot, near the First Presbyterian Church. This being rendered untenable,
the Burwell Block was occupied for a time, after which the present quarters,
located in the third story of the Thompson and Miller Block, were secured.
The most prosperous period of the lodge was during and immediately follow-
ing the war. Its membership at this time numbered as high as 158. During
a period of intense political excitement, a disaffection was created among the
more influential members, which resulted very disastrously to the lodge, and
from which it has never recovered. The falling off in membership at this time,
and from the cause which produced it, had such a tendency to weaken the in-
terest in the order which had so long been maintained, that at one time but ten
members constituted the organization, and it was only through the utmost
efforts on the part of these few that the charter, which is one of the oldest in
Mercer County, was retained. During several years past the lodge has been
attended with alternate success and failure, in its efforts to rebuild its mem-
bership, until at last the young men of the town have become interested, and
the prospect of its progress is more favorable than for many years. The pres-
ent membership is thirty, nearly all young men. There was at one time an
encampment in Mercer, known as Shenandoah Encampment No. 25. Its meet-
ings covered a period of nearly twenty years, but it has been defunct for about
ten years.
Mercer Lodge No. 87, A. O. U. W., was organized March 3, 1875, by E.
Harvey, D. D. G. M. W., with the following charter members: A. Hildebrand,
H. A. Gamble, G. H. Smith, F. H. Braggins, J. S. McKean, C. A. White, A.
Newell, J. E. McClure, D. A. Eberly, John H. McKean, J. Borland, S. S. Rob-
inson, J. D. Moore, A. C. Ray, A. McKean, H. R. Stewart, J. W. Mehard, B.
A. Ride, George King and R. McAdoo. The first officers installed comprised
John Borland, P. M. W. ; B. R. Welch, M. W. ; R. McAdoo, F. ; G. H. Smith,
O. ; J. S. McKean, R. ; J. D. Moore, Fin. ; J. E. McClure, Rec. ; H. R. Stew-
art, G. ; George King, Watchman; and F. H. Braggins, A. Newell and B. A.
Ride, Trustees. The lodge is in a prosperous condition. It has at present
thirty 'three members, who meet every Tuesday evening in Masonic Hall.
W. C. T. U. — The local Union was organized in June, 1875, with the fol-
lowing members: Mrs. Rev. McWatty, Mrs. Rev. Kerr, Mrs. Rev. Small, Mrs.
Ellen H. Mowrey, Mrs. Hannah Stevenson, Mrs. Rachael Crawford, Mrs.
Catherine Bell, Mrs. Nancy Pew, Mrs. Amanda Donaldson, Mrs. Mary Stewart,
Mrs. Susanna Moore, Mrs. G. Powell, Mrs. Susan Taylor, Mrs. Sarah Findley,
Mrs. Nancy Logan, Mrs. E. E. Robinson, Miss Sarah Thompson, Miss Tillie
Hays, and Miss Lizzie Forrest. The first officers were: Pres. , Mrs. Margaret
H. Rodgers; Rec. Sec., Miss Sarah Pew. Weekly meetings were held and
public prayer-meetings in the court-house yard during summer time. The
officers since the beginning have been: Presidents — Mrs. Rev. B. M. Kerr,
21
370
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mrs. A. J. Kerr, Mrs. S. H. Braden and Mrs. H. E. Bigham; Eec. Secys. —
Miss Sarah Pew and Mrs. Whitney, Cor. Secys. — Mrs. Mamie Burwell and
Miss Sarah Pew; Treas. — Mrs. Belle Foster. Lectures and temperance
addi’esses have been given under the auspices of the local Union every year
since its organization, and all possible efforts have been made to suppress the
consumption and sale of intoxicating liquors. The result has been, and this
result is due alone to the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and its co-
operators, that there are now no open bars in Mercer, and the sentiment is so
strong against the traffic, that it is improbable that any will be soon re-opened.
This success has not been achieved without severe struggles; and nothing short
of almost invincible courage enabled the members of the local Union to perse-
vere in the face of so many hardships. At present monthly meetings are held,
the place of holding these alternating among the various churches.
Mercer Post No 169, G. A. R., Department of Pennsylvania, was char-
tered May 14, 1880, with the following named members: John I. Gordon, S.
F. Thompson, A. B. Filson, S. H. Miller, R. G. Madge, Johnson Rigby, H.
R. Stewart, J. S. McKean, Silas Hunter, James Patterson, G. W. Riddle,
Robert Stranahan, William Kile, J. L. Cook, H. A. Gamble, J. K. Raven,
A. G. Urey, J. S. Henderson, William Eastlick, H. H. Conway, Charles M.
Derrickson, Robert Stewart, James Murphy, John Forker, P. E. Shipler,
Charles Livingston, Charles Clawson, Patrick Blake, D. L. Burton and J. B.
Nickum. The first officers of the post were: John I. Gordon, commander;
William Kyle, senior vice-commander; H. A. Gamble, junior vice-comman-
der; A. B. Filson, quartermaster; Robert Stranahan, surgeon; H. R. Stew-
art, chaplain; R. G. Madge, adjutant; J. S. McKean, officer of day, and
James L. Cook, officer of guard. The following have been post command-
ers of the post: John I. Gordon, William Kile, H. A. Gambel, Robert Stran-
ahan, J. S. McKean, D. L, Barton, M. C. Zahniser and Charles Clawson.
The post is at present in good condition, having a surplus in the treasury of
over $200, and a membership in good standing of seventy-seven. Since its
organization there have been but three deaths, those of John Forker, J. S.
Penroid and Jason Comstock. Meetings are held in Masonic Hall, on the
north side of the public square.
Mercer Lodge No. 3157, K. ofH., was organized April 8, 1885, with the
following named charter members: J. F. Hindman, F. M. Temple, R. G.
Madge, A. Levino, J. W. Nickum, H. D. French, L. M. Ormsby, M. Difen-
derfer, J. S. McKean, John H. McKean, James Orr, William M. Miller, L.
C. Robinson, S. Redmond, George E. Patterson, S. P. Johnston, P. C. Emery,
Ira C. Zahniser, A. B. Thompson, T. A. Black and J. T. Myers. The first
officers chosen, were: George E. Patterson, D. ; L. M. Ormsby, P. D. ; R. G.
Madge, V. D. ; A. B, Thompson, A. D. ; James McKean, G. , and J. F. Hind-
man, C. Meetings are held in the Masonic Hall every alternate Thursday
evening.
Keystone Circle No. 10, P. H. C., was organized February 28, 1887,
with a long list of charter members, among whom were: T. J. Nickum, J. M.
Albin, John Hughes, A. C. Ray, J. A. Myers, William Kilner, G. M. Will-
iams, Charles Barnes, and Miss M. M. Wilson. The first officers elected
comprised: President, J. M. Albin; vice-president, John Hughes; guardian,
A. C. Ray; accountant, J. A. Myers; treasurer, William Kilner, and secretary,
G. M. Williamson. There are twenty-nine members. Meetings are held on
the first and third Monday evenings of each month in the Masonic Hall.
Solid Comfort Fishing Club was organized in 1878, with James A. Stranahan,
S. B. Griffith, Herman Frankel, John Robinson, S. H. Miller, H. B. Bowser,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
371
R. R. Wriglit, M. B. McKinley, J. M. Ewing, R. A. Stewart, M. P. Martin,
E. L. Garvin, George Pearson, W. C. Alexander, H. H. Zeigler, John I.
Gordon, J. R. W. Baker, W. D. Keck, C. M. Derickson and Hon. S. S.
Mehard, as original members. A charter was granted in 1884, upon which
appears the object of the organization: “ The protection and propagation of
game and game fish, the enforcement of all laws against the unlawful killing
of the same, the advancement of fellowship, unanimity and a higher standard
of action among sportsmen, and the provision of recreation and pleasure for
its members.” At the time of the issue of the charter the officers were:
Samuel B. Griffith, president; B. J. Haywood, vice-president; William Miller,
Jr., secretary; A. B. Filson, treasurer, and James A. Stranahan, Charles
Clawson and N. C. Packard, executive committee. The members not originally
belonging were, in 1884, A. B. Filson, Henry Hall, Thomas Farmer,- William
Kile, Charles Clawson, A. H. McElrath, R. J. Zahniser, B. J. Haywood, J.
McMichael, N. C. Packard and C. Q. Carver. The first encampment, held in
1878, occurred at Sugar Lake, in Crawford County; in 1879, at Burke Lake,
Mich.; in 1880, at Muskoka Lake, near Beaumaris, Ontario; in 1881, again at
Burke Lake; and in 1883 buildings and grounds were purchased at Muskoka
Lake, on what is known as Point Comfort, Tondern Island, since which time
annual summer encampments, lasting one month, have been held at the club’s
grounds. The property of the club, consisting of canoes, guns, dishes, tent-
ing and other equipments, is valued at |1,000. The occasion of the annual
encampment, usually held in July, is looked forward to with great interest by
the members of the club, as it is always one of surpassing enjoyment. The
membership is quite large, 'extending over several adjoining counties. The last
officers elected comprised, president, Herman Frankel; vice-president, Thomas
Tanner; secretary, Q. A. Gordon; treasurer, Charles Clawson; executive com-
mittee, Johnson Zahniser, Charles Clawson and F. P. James.
BANKING INSTITUTIONS.
First National Bank. — The predecessor of the present bank was a private
banking and brokerage concern operating under the firm name of Stevenson,
Van Horn & Hanna, which was organized about the outbreak of the Reb^ellion.
The present institution was chartered in May, 1864, and began business with
a capital stock of 160,000,' which was doubled in May, 1875. The first corps
of officers comprised A. G. Egbert, president, and John R. Hanna, cashier.
By the resignation of Mr. Egbert, which occurred January 13, 1869, Hon.
Samuel Griffith became president. He was succeeded by William Logan. Mr.
Hanna was suceceeded by O. L. Munger, and he by W. C. Alexander; he, in
turn, by C. S. Burwell, who left Mercer in April, 1888. Mr. W. Miller
became his successor, and is the present incumbent. The present officers con-
sist of William Logan, president; William Miller, cashier; C. P. McKean,
teller, and A. J. McKean, Thomas R. Sheriff, John B. Mowry, B. A. Wil-
liams, S. H. Miller and R. R. Wright, directors. A very fair business is
transacted by this institution. It has recently removed into handsome quar-
ters in the Miller & Gordon Block, where it enjoys unsurpassed facilities for
conducting a general banking business.
Farmers’ and Mechanics’ National Bank was chartered May 11, 1875, with
a capital stock of 180,000, and began operations in June of the same year. The
first officers were: President, B. Magoffin; vice-president, C. M. Stewart;
cashier, L. Hefling. Dr. R. V. Beilis acted as president for several years, and
was succeeded by Mr. Magoffin, the present incumbent. Mr. Hefling was
succeeded by John Robinson as cashier. The present officers comprise B.
372
HISTOKY OF MEBCER COUNTY.
Magoffin, president; Levi Morrison, vice-president; John Robinson, cashier;
Henry Robinson, assistant cashier; and C. M. Stewart, P. J. Pierce, John I.
Gordon, S. F. Thompson, John M. Magoffin, S. C. Koonce and John Hutchi-
son, directors. The bank enjoys an extensive patronage, and occupies com-
modious and accessible quarters on the north side of the diamond.
Building and Loan Association. — The advantages which an organization
with a purpose of assisting by loans in the erection of houses and in the pur-
chasing of real estate led to the formation of the Mercer Building and Loan
Association, which was incorporated December 18, 1873, with the following
named gentlemen as charter members: Hon. S. H. Miller, A. J. Greer, Will-
iam Bell, A. B. Filson, O. L. Munger, John G. Kline, A. J. McKean, E. L.
Garvin, J. E. McClure, W. C. Alexander, W. J. McKean, Thomas R. SherifP,
P. J. Pierce and James A. Stranahan. The association continued in existence
with varying fortunes until July, 1883, when a dissolution was agreed upon,
and the effects of the enterprise were closed out. The officers at time of dis-
solution were S. F. Thompson, president; R. R. Wright, secretary and treas-
urer, and A. P. Burwell, James Denniston and Dr. C. M. Stewart, directors.
GAS AND WATEB COMPANIES.
Mercer Heat, Light and Poice.r Company was chartered November 19, 1883,
for the purpose of supplying the borough with natural gas, or rather to
develop a sentiment favorable to the use of the new fuel. The capital stock
was fixed at $2,000, divided into forty shares of the par value of $50 each.
The directors of the company were William Paden, H. H. Lininger, Robert
Orr, Herman Frankel and R. A. Stewart. Nothing further was done by the
company than to secure a charter.
Mercer Gas Company was chartered December 28, 1883, with a capital
stock of $5,000, divided into 100 shares of the par value of $50 each. The
first directors of this company were William Logan, B. Magoffin, P. J. Pierce,
A. J. McKean, George Pearson, R. R. Wright and Levi Morrison. Although
a charter was secured nothing further was accomplished.
Mercer Gas Light and Fuel Company. — The result of previous agitations
relative to the introduction of natural gas into Mercer was the organization of
this company, which was chartered October 6, 1886, with a capital stock of
$12,500, divided into 250 shares of the par value of $50 each. The original
shareholders were John I. Gordon, S. H. Miller, John Robinson, B. Magoffin,
C. W. Mackey, John M. Dickey, William Miller, Jr., Montrose M. Magoffin,
Peter J. Pierce, H. H. Zeigler, G. W. Wright, J. F. Hindman, A. Newell, G.
K. Smith, W. R. Montgomery, A. H. McElrath, C. S. Burwell, J. W. Nickum,
C. E. McWatty, R. S. Madge, Herman Frankel, R. R. Wright, A. J. McKean,
R. A. Stewart, Henry Robinson, S. F. Thompson, J. M. Douds, Mrs. M.
Magoffin, Grace A. Jackson and Jennie M. Jackson. The first board of
directors comprised John I. Gordon, president; S. H. Miller, S. F. Thompson,
A. J. McKean, Herman Frankel and B. Magoffin. The gas, with which the
town is thoroughly supplied through a net-work of pipes, was originally
obtained from the Columbia Gas Company, but that organization being merged
into the Standard Company, the latter furnishes the Mercer supply. The fuel
is used quite extensively in the borough, one or more stoves being supplied
with it in nearly every house.
The Mercer Water Company was incorporated September 7, 1886, with a
capital stock of $24,000, divided into 240 shares of the par value of $100 each.
The first directors consisted of S. H. Miller, president; John I. Gordon, C.
W. Whistler, R. R. Wright, A. J. McKean and B. Magoffin. The water with
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
373
which this company supplies the town is obtained from the Neshannock Creek,
whence it is forced by a steam pump into a large reservoir tank, holding, when
full, 1, 500 barrels, situated on the brow of the hill on which the city is built,
from which, by a system of pipes and mains, the supply is distributed to
patrons. There are 222 consumers in the borough, necessitating 14,500 feet
of main piping. The present officers of the company are S. H. Miller, presi-
dent; John Robinson, secretary and treasurer.
Cemeteries. — Mercer has two burial places. One of these is the burial
ground north and west of the First Presbyterian Church. It was established
afa very early period, and served to be the last resting-place of many of the
old and prominent citizens of Mercer and the vicinity. Of late years it has
been much neglected, weeds and briars growing luxuriantly, and, in many
cases, rendering it almost impossible to reach the monuments and tablets
erected over graves.
The other is the Citizens’ Cemetery, which was established by act of the
General Assembly, approved April 14, 1852. It embraces about four acres in
the south part of the borough, and was incorporated by Lewis Weaver, Henry
Porker, E. L. Maxwell, William Maxwell, R. T. Clark, J. R. Hunter, Joseph
Gordon, Samuel Griffith, R. Hanna, J. Sykes, W. McMillan, J. McBirney,
John Sloss, B. Lindsay, W. S. Rankin, B. H. Henderson, John S. Pearson,
William M. Gibson, E. F. Pearson, William Stewart, J. Pew, George Kline,
W. Gregory, Joseph Sheriff, T. Graham, R. Shipler, J. Phipps, J. Pearson,
J. Hosack, A. Stewart, Joseph Shipler, Joseph Forker, E. W. Carter, W. M.
Stephenson, J. L. McQuillan, Thomas J. Mowry, Joseph Thompson, John
Moore, A. E. Eberhart, T. J. Hirst, J. Baskin, John Forker, George Bell,
Adam Forker and J. D. McGill. By charter the affairs of the organization
are to be directed by a president and six managers, to whom is entrusted the
management of the institution. The grounds are neatly laid out, and shaded,
and contain some neat and handsome monuments.
Population. — The growth of Mercer has never been rapid, its lack of rail-
road and shipping facilities, until quite a recent date, confining its population
to a slow but steady natural increase. In 1850 it contained 1,004 inhabitants;
1860, 1,249; 1870, 1,235, and 1880, 2,344. It has now an estimated popula-
tion of about 3, 000.
CHAPTEK XIX.
Borough of Sharon— I.ocation— Pioneers— First Mill— The Town Laid
Out — Early Business Interests — First Physicians — First Justice of
THE Peace — Manufactures — Additions Made to the Town — Incorpo-
ration AND Borough Officers— Schools— Their Progress and Govern-
ment— Old Baptist Academy — Hall Institute — Churches — Secret and
Other Societies — Fire Department and Fires — Banking Institutions —
Gas and Water Companies— Cemeteries— Growth and Population.
ON the boundary line between the second and third States of the Union,
in point of size, safely nestled between gently sloping hills, along whose
bases flows the historic Shenango, lies the metropolis of Mercer County
— Sharon. Its early settlers came during the second administration of
President Washington, and began to open up homes for themselves and
their families. One of the first of these was Benjamin Bentley, who came
374
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
from Washington County, Penn., in April, 1795, and took up a tract of 400
acres, embracing what is known as the Quinby farm, on the east side of the
Shenango Elver, in the southern part of Sharon. According to James Bentley,
a son still living one and a half miles west of Sharon, in his ninety-first year, Mr.
Bentley brought his family from Washington County in May, 1796, in a canoe,
down the Ohio and up Big Beaver and Shenango Rivers, to the place where,
on his “tomahawk claim,” he had erected his rude cabin the previous year,
to hold possession. His family, at the time, consisted of his wife and these
children: Robert, Adamson, George, Benjamin, Elizabeth and Hannah. After
reaching his new home, were born James, Martin, Sheshbazar, Mary and Aholi-
ab. James and Aholiab are still living. James was the first white child born
in this portion of the Shenango Valley, that important event in his history hav-
ing occurred on the 23d of May, 1798.
Benjamin Bentley built a grist and saw mill on his place in 1802. It was
the first of the kind on the Shenango within the limits of Hickory Township.
The Indians, who were then numerous in this region, came to Mr. Bentley to
get their meal. On one occasion they traded a dog that was half wolf for
three bushels of meal. After the meal- was consumed they returned to get
their dog. Bentley was inclined to grant their request, lest they would de-
stroy the mill. The Bentley boys, however, would not permit the dog to go.
When the Indians were asked why they wanted the animal, they said, with
true Indian duplicity, “ To trade for more meal.” In 1808 Mr. Bentley sold
his farm to Samuel Quinby, and removed across the line into Ohio, locating
in Brookfield Township, about half a mile north of where his son, James, now
lives. He continued to live there until the time of his death, in September,
1818, in his sixty-third year. His wife, Mary (Baldwin) Bentley, died many
years afterward, aged eighty-six years. Both are buried in Oakwood Cemetery.
In the spring of 1796 William Buddcame from Washington County, Penn.,
and took up a tract west of the Shenango, opposite that of Bentley. He
erected a log cabin, and for quite a year or two indulged in keeping “ bach-
elor’ s hall. ’ ’ The year following (1798) he joined his interests in ties of wedlock
with Drusilla Hulse, of Washington County, Penn., whom he brought to share
with him the hardships and privations of pioneer life on the Shenango. From
this union sprang five sons and two daughters: Joseph, William, Edward
Schofield, Henry Hoagland, Daniel Upson, Elizabeth and Sichy. These
children lived to be prominent residents of the community, where many of
their descendants are still to be found.
William Budd laid out and platted Sharon in the year 1815, on the west
side of the river. During his life-time he erected four different dwellings on
his land. He died May 23, 1849, aged seventy six years. His first wife died
June 10, 1815, and he was again married in 1821, and survived his second
wife.
His parents, William and Sichy Budd, brothers Daniel and John, and
sisters Patience, Nancy, Sallie, Elizabeth and Mary, came from Washington
County, Penn., soon after, and located on the land entered by William. The
parents died on the homestead at an early day, and Daniel was the only one
of their children, except William, who remained in Sharon. Daniel married
Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel Quinby. He laid out a portion of the town
east of the river, and died October 7, 1841. His widow survived him till
February 22, 1880, and his two living children, Mrs. Sarah Malin and Lafay-
ette, reside in Sharon.
Charles and Frances Reno came from Allegheny County, and located on a
farm on the east side of the Shenango, in the year 1798. The greater por-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
375
tion of East Sharon is built on this farm. They had twelve children, seven
sons and five daughters, all of whom lived to have families of their own.
Three of the daughters, Mrs. Julia A. Trotter, Mrs. Jane Byers and Mrs.
Amanda Christy, and two sons, C. L. P. Reno and W. N. Reno, are still liv-
ing. Charles Reno died November 4, 1840, and Frances, his wife. May 16,
1820. A grandson of Charles Reno, that is, a son of Lewis T. Reno, became
prominent in military affairs. Reference is had to Maj. -Gen. Jesse Lee
Reno, who was born near Wheeling, W. Va., in 1825; was appointed a cadet
from Franklin, Penn., to West Point in 1842, graduated with honor in 1846;
joined Scott’s army in Mexico, where he did valiant service; was made briga-
dier-general of volunteers in 1861, and did efficient service with Burnside in
North Carolina, and McClellan in the Peninsula campaign in 1862 ; served with
Pope in the second battle of Bull Run, and was finally killed in the battle of
South Mountain, September 14, 1862.
In 1802-03 Isaac Patterson, a native of Adams County, Penn., secured quite
a body of land lying north of State Street and west of the Shenango. It was
part of an extensive tract taken up by Samuel Stokely. In 1814 or 1815
Patterson removed across the line into Ohio. Elias Jones bought 100 acres
from Patterson at this time, lying along State Street from the Shenango to the
State line, and extending north to the lands of Daniel Hull, who owned 200
acres. Jones farmed this land, first clearing off the timber with which it was
covered. He erected a distillery near the site of the present Catholic Church
soon after he came to the locality. After it decayed he tore it down. Jones
had the first distillery, the first dry goods and grocery store, and kept the
first hotel or inn in the place. He was also the first postmaster. The log
building used for tavern, store and post-office stood near the site of Dr. Salem
Heilman’s dwelling, corner of Main and State Streets. His daughter, Mrs.
Jane Dillinger, an octogenarian, is still living in Sharon.
Samuel Quinby, a farmer and miller, became the successor in 1808 of
Benjamin Bentley, owning all the land now occupied by the Stewart Iron
Works, upon which the grist and saw-mill stood. He sold the property to
Conrad G. Carver, who ran the mill for many years. He reared ten children :
Sarah (Reeves), Rebecca (Reno), Nancy (De Forest), Elizabeth (Budd), Julia
(Porter), Terressa (Carver), Ephraim, Charles, Parks and Samuel. Mr.
Quinby served in the Revolution, and was buried with military honors Septem-
ber 10, 1842, the anniversary of Perry’s victory.
Col. Henry Hoagland with his wife, Catherine, and five children, John,
Samuel, Richard, Mary and Matilda, settled on the west side of the Shenango,
about a mile above the town, in 1798. He came from Washington County.
He was an active member of the Baptist Church, and was instrumental in
establishing that denomination in Sharon. He participated in the War of
1812, assisting at Erie in lifting the brig “ Niagara ” over the bar in 1813. His
descendants became prominent citizens in the development of the county, and
many of them reside in the vicinity of Sharon.
Daniel, Bashara and John Hull were among the early settlers near Sharon.
Daniel’s land lay west of the Shenango, and north of what is now State Street.
His brothers located close to him, and all came as early as 1798 or 1799.
Daniel and John died on their respective homesteads, while Bashara removed
to Iowa.
Capt. John Elliott came shortly before the Hulls, and settled in the same
neighborhood. His daughter. Patience, married John Hull. Capt. Elliott
was a veteran of the Revolution.
At a later date than the foregoing came Abraham De Forest, a captain in
376
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
the Eevolutionary War. He lived south of Sharon, and subsequently removed
to Ohio. Emanuel Hoover lived near He Forest. South of He Forest lived
Benjamin Haywood, Sr., on the farm now owned by John J. Spearman. He
committed suicide. George McCleery, father of Joseph McCleery, still a
resident of Sharon, owned 400 acres north of State Street, on the hill. His
tract lay east of the residence of Thomas J. Porter. Opposite the McCleery
farm lay the farm of Samuel Stambaugh, some 350 acres.
In April, 1825, Thomas J. Porter removed from Mercer to Sharon, where
he became prominent in the development of the xdace. He is still a resident
of Sharon, and is in his eighty -eighth year. He erected the third tavern in
the place, the second having been kept by Daniel Budd in his farm house on
the east side of the Shenango. Porter’s building was a two-story frame,
about 20x60, and stood on the site of the present Carver House. It was built
in 1831. It contained a store-room and a x^ost- office, both under the manage-
ment of Mr. Porter. He sold it to Henry Barnhart, who continued to run the
store and tavern for a time. The building was finally burned down and
replaced by the Carver House.
As already stated, Elias Jones kept the first grocery and dry goods store,
the first hotel, and was the first distiller and postmaster. Soon afterward Dr.
Ephraim Quinby and Lewis Reno conducted a store in a log house which
stood on the triangle now occupied by the residence of B. H Henderson and
the railroads, south of State Street.
The first physicians who practiced in Sharon were Drs. Elijah Flower
and John Mitcheltree. Flower lived in Brookfield, and Mitcheltree on a farm
about three miles south of town. The latter was the brother-in-law of Dr.
J. M. Irvine, who subsequently became one of the prominent business men of
Sharon, and whose sketch will be found in the Medical Chapter.
The first resident physician is admitted to have been Dr. Robert McCor-
mick. He came from Carlisle, Cumberland County, about 1839. He was well
read and skillful, and a Christian gentleman. “ Some physicians,” he used
to say, “pride themselves on raising their patients from the bordei’s of the
grave, but my effort is to keep my, patients from getting down there.” He
removed to Illinois, where he died some years ago. Afterward came Drs.
Martin, Reynolds, Christy and Wolf. They all preceded Dr. Irvine, who
appeared in the forties. Dr. W. N. Reno practiced from 1841 to 1850. He is
now engaged in the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church, being a
member of the Erie Conference.
The first justice of the peace was William Budd, Jr., whose history has
been detailed. He was still holding the position in 1825, when Mr. Porter
located in the place and filled the office about thirty years.
MANUFACTURES.
Sharon has been noted as a manufacturing point. Its importance has been
the outgrowth of the enterprise exhibited in that direction. As an account
of the iron and steel industries will be found in the chapter devoted to the
Iron, Steel and Coal Industries of the county, the reader is referred to that
chapter for information on these important interests.
The mill previously mentioned in this chapter as being purchased from
Benjamin Bentley by Samuel Quinby was operated by the latter for many
years, and subsequently by his son-in-law, Conrad G. Carver, until its water
power was destroyed by the construction of the canal.
The next grist-mill was built in 1822 by Giles Clark, on the west bank of
the river, opxjosite the site of the Sharon Iron Works. A few years afterward
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
377
he put in fulling and carding machinery. These mills were operated by Giles
and Lemuel Clark, and subsequently by Conrad G. Carver, a well-remem-
bered citizen of Sharon, and were finally abandoned.
In 1840-41 Giles Clark erected the old Sharon flouring mill, on the canal
near the site of Kline’s planing mills, obtaining his power from the canal.
Samuel and John P. Wright succeeded him, and J. C. Thompson obtained an
interest upon the death of John P. Wright, in October, 1860. It was at a
later date purchased and operated by Benjamin & Sons, who sold it to George
W. Johnson, of New Castle. Upon the abandonment of the canal steam power
was introduced, and the mill was kept in active operation until its destruction
by fire, Mr. Johnson being then proprietor.
The large ruins of the old furniture factory near the Kimberly mills re-
main as an evidence that the manufacture of furniture was once carried on in
Sharon on quite an extensive scale. This business had its inception in Feb-
ruary, 1845, when the firm of Willson, Logan & Partridge commenced the
manufacture of all kinds of furniture. Several changes in the firm occurred
through the passing years, though James M. Willson has always remained in
the business. The firm of Willson & Robinson erected and operated the
factory spoken of many years. Several years ago the local manufacture of
furniture became unprofitable, and the factory was then closed and the busi-
ness abandoned.
The Empire planing mills of Wallis & Carley is the largest institution
of the kind in Mercer County. This firm is the lineal successor of Faas,
Kanengeiser & Co., contractors and builder’s, established many years ago, of
which they were members, and which the present firm succeeded early in
1876. They purchased the old Carver & Trout planing mills in March, 1876,
which were burned the following October. Wallis & Carley, with character-
istic enterprise, at once rebuilt them, and have ever since continued to suc-
cessfully carry on the leading planing mills and lumber yard in this portion
of the valley. The firm are very extensive contractors and builders, and give
steady employment to a large force of men. The members of the firm are
William L. Wallis and John Carley, whose names are the synonym of business
push and enterprise.
The Sharon planing mill is also one of the manufacturing institutions of
Sharon. It was established by Harry Kline, its present proprietor, and is
doing quite a fair business. Mr. Kline carries on a lumber yard in connec-
tion with his mill.
Sharon can also boast of two first-class flouring mills, the older of the
two being owned and operated by Samuel F. Stambaugh. It is a frame
structure, and equipped with the most improved machinery of the gradual
reduction process. Mr. Stambaugh ranks among the oldest and best known
citizens of Sharon.
The City Roller Mill was built by its present proprietor, Thomas Moses,
and is a large brick building of solid and substantial appearance. It, too, is
furnished with a first-class roller process. Both these mills turn out a fine
grade of flour, and are doing a good business.
Many other smaller manufacturers in different lines might be mentioned,
but those given embrace the principal ones outside of the iron and steel in-
dustries. *
ADDITIONS.
The town has had a rapid growth by the accession of territory in various
directions. The records show as follows: Benjamin Reno’s, June 12, 1854;
Strawbridge’ s, August 15, 1868; Reuben Williamson’s, July 24, 1869; Hull’s
378
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
first addition, May 16, 1870; 0. G. Carver’s, October 18, 1873; Dr. J. M.
Irvine’s, October 20, 1873. Several other additions have also been made.
INCOEPORATION AND BOROUGH OFFICERS.
Sharon was regularly incorporated as a borough October 6, 1841. The
first election was held the fourth Monday in November, 1841, resulting in the
choice of M. C. Trout as burgess, and A. Vv . Porter, John Phillips, John
Patterson, W. C. Malin and C. G. Carver as councilmen. At a meeting of
the council, held March 19, 1842, the following officers were appointed: Street
commissioner, Joseph Budd; assessor, J. M. Irvine; clerk, L. W. Mears;
treasurer, Benjamin Reno.
The records of the borough are incomplete. So far as they could be
reached, the borough officers are given:
1842 — Burgess, John Patterson; council, William Budd, Isaac Patterson,
Adam M. White, Robert McFarland, William McMillen; constable, J. F.
Satterfield; assessor, John Patterson; school directors, M. L. Murdock, C. G.
Carver.
1844 — Burgess, Frederick Heiliger; council, Henry Hubler, Charles E.
Moore, C. B. Keefer, William Mounts, Benjamin Stewart; constable, Solo-
mon Dillinger.
The voters at the election held in the borough on April 2, 1844, were:
Joseph Budd, M. L. Mordock. Isaac H. Davis, Benjamin Keefer, Solomon
Dillinger, Jacob Cozad D. C. Terrill, Henry Wadsworth, John Mounts, Ben-
jamin Stewart, William McMillen, Jones Blackstone, John Phillips, Thomas
Bowden, Andrew Reeves, Norton Wheeler, William M. Reno, John H.
McCleery, Isaac Patterson, David W. Totman, Thomas Barrett, Charles
Moore, William Budd, Edward St. Lawrence, Robert McFarland, Erastus
Rice, P. L. Williams, David Clark, Daniel Sager, Henry Boyd, L. W. Mears,
Elias Zigler, James Kennedy, Daniel W. Totman, E. C. Sweetland, Fred-
erick Heiliger.
1845 — Burgess, M. L. Mordock; council, T. J. Porter, Joseph Budd,
Edward Graham, John Phillips, John Mounts.
1840 — Burgess, Edward Graham; council, David Clark, Philip Rees, Nor-
ton Wheeler, A. M. Reeves, L. W. Mears.
1847 — Burgess, Isaac Patterson; council, David T. Porter, Benjamin Reno,
Robert McFarland, B. F. Flower, Charles Curtis.
1848 — Burgess, Charles Curtis; council, John Creen, E. C. Sweetland,
William Logan, Milton Hull, Daniel Upson Budd.
1861 — Burgess, Robert McFarland; council, John Creen, James Thomp-
son, Archibald Titus, Morris Alexander, J. M. Irvine.
1862 — Burgess, Abner Applegate; council, Alfred N. Curtis, John M.
Ward, William Morganthal, C. C. Conover, C, Bowden.
1863 — Burgess, Abner Applegate ; council, Robert McFarland, T. J. Porter,
William Henlan, John Phillips, C. N. Prindle.
1864 — Burgess, Abner Applegate; council, C. M. Rice, Thomas Taylor,
John Phillips, H. J. Evans, Edward McGilvi’ay.
1865 — Burgess, P. W. Keller; council, William Morganthal, John M.
Mordock, Samuel Watson, Henry Crosthwaite, J. R. McCleery.
1866 — Burgess, Thomas Bowden; council, Joseph King, George Tribby,.
N. L. Williams, C. Bowden, James Westerman.
1867 — Burgess, William Henlan; council, P. L. Williams, John Phillips,
John Ashton, Samuel F. Stambaugh, J. R. McCleery.
1868 — Burgess, William Henlan; council, John Gumfory, William Morgan-
thal, Jacob Messersmith, P. L. Williams, E. A. AVheeler.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
370
1869— Burgess, J. A. Irvine; council, John Fisher, H. B. Chandler, J. J.
Wilson, J. W. Hyde, James Westerman.
1870 — Burgess, J. J. Wilson; council, D. C. Strawbridge, Richard E. Bell,
J. W. Hyde, William Wilkes, Simon Perkins.
1871 — Burgess, J. J. Wilson; council, W. O. Leslie, T. J. Gillespie, Ter-
rence Sweeney, Jacob Grim, J. E. Potter.
1872 — Burgess, A. G. Whitcraft; council, George Westerman, F. M. Hull,
J. C. Marshall, Joseph Higgs, John Stewart, Fred Hoelzle.
1873— Burgess, W. C. Bell; council, Robert F. Wolfkill, Robert S. May,
H. B. Linn, Jacob Faas, S. Runser, George W. Thompson.
1874 — Burgess, I. K. Whitcraft; council, S. Runser, R. F. Wolfkill, Robert
S. May, H. B. Linn, Jacob Faas, W. C. McClain.
1875 — Burgess, J. K. Whitcraft; council, J. L. Weaver, H. B. Linn,
Joseph Barber, C. Bowden, S. Runser, and Robert F. Wolfkill, secretary.
1876 — Burgess, E. G. Mixsell; council, John Ambler, Joseph Higgs, F.
M. Hull, P. McManus, James Burnett, and Robert F. Wolfkill, secretary.
1877 — Burgess, T. J. Gillespie; council, Joseph Forker, C. McCleery, J.
W. Higgs, John Wilson, S. C. Yoder, John Ambler, and C. W. Ray,
secretary.
1878 — Burgess, T. J. Gillespie; council, Joseph Forker, S. C. Yoder,
T. B. Taylor, W. M. McCormick, Edward Wilson, Henry Smith, and C. W.
Ray, secretary.
1879 — Burgess, Robert McFarland; council, John Ashton, H. J. Evans,
John P. Walsh, Edward Wilson, Samuel F. Stambaugh, A. E. Graham, and
secretary, A. E. Graham, who resigned December 18, and S. C. Simonton, Jr. ,
was chosen his successor.
1880 — Burgess, John Ashton; council, Thomas B. Beil, C. E. Bundel,
Jacob Dresch, B. Love, Jacob Messersmith, John H. Fisher, and S. C.
Simonton, Jr., secretary.
1881^ — Burgess, Robert McFarland; council, John P. Walsh, Samuel
Lester, John Deveraux, John Phillips, A. S. Service, Frank Davis, and S. C.
Simonton, secretary.
1882 — Burgess, Joseph H. Chandler; council, W. O. Leslie, Fred. Hoelzle,
John Phillips, Richard James, John I. Davis, Joseph Tyler, and Thomas B.
Beil, secretary.
1883 — Burgess, J. H. Chandler; council, John I. Davis, James Tyler,
John Phillips, John Ashton, Edward Wilson, P. L. Williams, and Thomas B.
Beil, secretary.
1884 — Burgess, J. H. Chandler; council, John Ashton, W. H. Mallory,
W. L. Wallis, William C. McClain, C. L. Robinson, John I. Davis, and
Thomas B. Beil, secretary.
1885 — Burgess, W. M. McCormick; council, William C. McClain, W. G.
Morgan, John H. Fisher, W. H. Mallory, John Ashton, W. L. Wallis, and
Thomas B. Beil, secretary.
1886 — Burgess, W. M. McCormick; council, John Ashton, W. L. Wallis,
John H. Fisher, W. G. Morgan, J. W. Higgs (resigned), J. L. Ray (appoint-
ed), A. Alderman, and Thomas B. Beil, secretary.
1887 — Burgess, Harry Orchard; council, W. G. Morgan, A. Alderman,
Harry Taylor, Uriah Spencer, J. H. Fisher, J. L. Ray, and Thomas B. Beil,
secretary.
1888 — Burgess, Harry Orchard; council, Uriah Spencer, A. Alderman,
Harry Taylor, J. H. Fisher, J. L. Ray, Samuel Davis, and Thomas B. Beil,
secretary.
380
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
SCHOOLS.
Mr. James Bentley maintains that a log school-house was built about 1800,
some three-fourths of a mile east of Sharon. In it taught Thomas Eigdon.
In 1803 Daniel Hull, Henry Hoagland and others built a log house on the
Hoagland place. David Hayes, a Eevolutionary soldier, was the first teacher.
The first school edifice in town was built of logs, and stood near the present
Baptist Academy building, known as Hall Institute. Mr. Bentley claims to
have attended school in it in 1803. Some years afterward a round log struc-
ture, about 18x25, one story high, was erected on the site of the present
Exchange Hotel. It was rustic in its make-up, the fire-place occupying one
end of the building. The chimney was made of sticks and mud. It had a
puncheon floor; desks about the wall, facing outward, and small glass-light
windows. Amos Ulp, living- near Sharon, and born there August 24, 1813,
remembers to have attended school in this rustic building in 1820. James
Schofield, from near Warren, was one of the first teachers, and a good one,
too. Joseph Budd, son of William Budd, was one of the early teachers. A
law which obtained on Christmas holidays at that early date was: “If the
teacher reaches the school building before his pupils do, he holds possession
without being compelled to treat them. Otherwise not.” The third building
was a frame, which stood in the rear of the. present Methodist Episcopal
Church. It was built prior to 1840, and stood until a few years ago. About
1850 two frame buildings were erected, one on Ohio Street, near the South
Ward house of to-day, the other corner of Silver and Erie Streets, north of
the old Christian brick church. These three frame houses, one story each,
had a teacher for each one.
About 1859 a brick two-story union house was built near the E. & P.
depot. It accommodated the town. When the E. & P. Eailroad was built,
in 1862-63, it was bought for a round-house. In 1864-65 the Central building,
with eleven rooms, was erected. The Legislature authorized the issuing of
bonds for |8,000 to erect the structure. The house cost more than twice
that amount, everything being then at war prices. It was dedicated Novem-
ber 7, 1865, Prof. J. A. Cooper, of the Edinboro Normal School, delivering
the address on ‘ ‘ Mistakes in Education. ’ ’ The South W ard house was
erected in 1876-77, to accommodate the people in that part of the town.
The East Ward structure was built about two years later, and the West Ward
structure about 1885 .
The union school system under a principal began after the Central build-
ing was completed. The first principal was S. P. Dame, a son-in-law of Dr.
J. M. Irvine. He is a graduate of Bowdoin College, Maine, and subsequently
took a course of study at Edinboro Normal School. He is at present engaged
in business in Pittsburgh. The first term opened in the new building Novem-
ber 20, 1865. The attendance the first day was 353 pupils; the second, 370.
His associates the first year were Misses S. Plant, A. L. DePue, M. G. Mc-
Gowan (still in the schools), M. W. Daggett, C. A. Hamilton, L. Spearman,
S. E. Whiting and E. Carr.
The principals of the schools have been as follows: S. P. Dame, four
years; F. S. Abbott, one year; C. W. Townsend, four years; G. W. Kratz,
four years; J. W. Canon, three years; J. W. Canon, superintendent, six years.
On the 29th of July, 1882, State Superintendent E. E. Higbee authorized a
commission to be given J. W. Canon as borough superintendent. It releases
him from examination and supervision by the county superintendent.
The present enrollment in the public schools of Sharon embraces 1,200
names, with an average attendance of 1,100. If we add to this the 300
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
381
pupils attending St. Midiael’s parochial schools, we find that 1,400 children
are being educated in the schools of Sharon.
Commencing with 1875 the oflicers of the school board have been as fol-
lows:
1875 — President, Joseph McCleery; secretary, D. R. Shiras; treasurer,
John M. Mordock.
1876 — President, Joseph McCleery; secretary, D. R. Shiras; treasurer,
John M. Mordock.
1877 — Charles Grim; secretary, L. Buchholz; treasurer, John M. Mor-
dock.
1878 — President, Charles Grim; secretary, L. Buchholz; treasurer,
James E. McCarter.
1879 — President, Dr. H. M. Bishop; secretary, L. Buchholz; treasurer,
Alex. McDowell.
1880 — President, Dr. H. M. Bishop; secretary, S. C. Yoder; treasurer,
Alex. McDowell.
1881 — President, Dr. H. M. Bishop; secretary, L. Buchholz; ti-easurer,
Alex. McDowell.
1882— 1883 — President, Dr. H. M. Bishop; secretary, L. Buchholz; treas-
urer, Alex. McDowell.
1884 — President, Dr. H. M. Bishop; secretary. Dr. J. H. Reed; treas-
urer, C. W. Ray.
1885 — President, Dr. H. M. Bishop; secretary, D. R. Shiras; treasurer,
C. W. Ray. '
1886— 1888 — President, Thomas Tanner; secretary, D. R. Shiras; treas-
urer, C. W. Ray.
Old Baptist Academy. — At an early day in the forties an academy was
established in Sharon. It continued a number of years, but was never very
prosperous. It stood near the site of the present Hall . Institute. Rev. T.
W. Greer, William Storrs and C. G. Carver were leading spirits in its estab-
lishment. The building was sold at sheriff’s sale in 1854, Mr. Carver buying
the structure and using the brick in erecting his own residence.
Hall Institute. — In 1887 Rev. H. C. Hall, pastor of the Baptist Church,
began agitating the establishing of an institute in Sharon. The project was kept
before the people until a corporation was formed in the spring of 1888, and
steps were undertaken to convert the old Baptist Church edifice into a school
building. This idea was abandoned, and in the spring of 1888 a contract was
let to John Cook for the erection of a new frame structure. The contractor
purchased the old building, and utilized a part of its material in the construc-
tion of the new one. It is located close to the Baptist Church, upon a com-
manding eminence, overlooking the town, and embraces all the modern con-
veniences. The entire cost of the building was about 18,000.
Hall Institute was incorporated as a Christian (but not sectarian) school of
higher grade. May 21, 1888. The management of the school is committed to
a board of twenty-five trustees, chosen by the contributors toward the erection
of the institute, at an annual meeting held each year in June. The charter
confers upon the institution power to institute courses of study, elect a faculty
of instruction, and empowers them to confer degrees and honors upon such
students as faithfully pursue the prescribed courses of study and pass satis-
factory examinations therein. It is proposed to form a school, second to none
of its grade, where the young people of Sharon and the surrounding country
shall be given opportunities for securing that broad and careful culture which
is requisite to the highest success and greatest usefulness in life. The people
382
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
most interested have thus far shown a commendable spirit in the liberal assist-
ance rendered and encouragement given. It only requires a continuance of
the same in order that the highest ideals of its projectors may be fully
realized.
The institute opened its first term September 18, 1888, with the following
faculty in charge: Rev. H. 0. Hall, A. M., president, and professor of
psychology and ethics; Rev. Henry Madtes, A. M., principal, and professor of
languages and sciences; J. B. Scott, principal of normal department, em-
bracing higher mathematics and English branches; F. T. Aschman, Ph. B.,
professor of chemistry and physics; Alice Luse, instructor in history and com-
position; Cora McDaniel, principal of musical department; E. Griswold,
M. D., lecturer on physiology and microscopy; Mrs. A. M. Hope, principal of
art department; J. B. Scott, principal of business department; Rev. Henry
Madtes, secretary of facidty and librarian; Mrs. M. E. Hilton, matron.
CHURCHES.
The Baptist Church of Sharon is one of the pioneer churches of the She-
nango Valley. Its origin may be traced to the efforts of Rev. David Philips,
of Peter’s Creek, who came to this community in 1802, and finding in the
sparsely settled country a few Baptists, concluded to preach to them, and
finally organized a church. On the 29th of April, 1804, the organization for-
mally occurred. Rev. Philips being aided in his work by S. David and B. Smith,
Jr. Nineteen members were enrolled, embracing thirteen who had been iden-
tified with the church elsewhere, and six who had recently been baptized.
The following are their names: John and James Morford and their wives, Henry
and Catherine Hoagland, Isaiah and Sarah Jones, Charles and Fanny Reno,
Thomas and Charles Rigdon, Christopher North, John Gravat, Adamson Bent-
ley, Mary Bentley, Drusilla Budd, Elizabeth and Susannah Bentley. Of these
John Morford and Henry Hoagland were chosen deacons. The 29th of April
was an important day to this congregation, and to the surrounding country for
many miles. It was made memorable by the fact that on every anniversary
occasion special services were held, commencing on Friday and continuing
until the following Monday. These convocations were modern Pentecosts, that
attracted saint and sinner from far and near. They were religiously what a
full grown agricultural fair is to the people of the county to-day, a general turn-
out of the people of all ages, sexes and conditions.
A pastor was at length needed. Negotiations were made to secure the ser-
vices of Rev. Thomas Jones, a resident of New Jersey, from which some of
the members came. Money having been raised to defray his traveling expenses
hither, an ox team was started after him, Adamson Bentley being given the
post of honor of commanding the expedition. The journey, a distance of some
400 miles, was at length made, and the preacher and his family were success-
fully landed at their rustic western home, which was a log cabin on the farm
now owned by Robert Luse. This occurred in 1805.
For a time services were held in houses, barns and groves. At length, in
1807, the necessity of a regular place of worship was felt. William Budd
donated a lot large enough for the church and grave-yard. A log meeting-
house, 20x30, was erected upon it, the site being nearly the same as that occu-
pied by the old frame meeting-house recently removed. Its equipment was
simple, as were the habits and customs of the people of those days. It served
well, however, the wants of those early Christians. It was the first and only
house of worship in what was subsequently called Sharon. The same year
(1807) a branch of the Sharon Church was organized in West Salem Township,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
383
Rev. Jones preaching for it likewise. The relationship between these two con-
gregations continued uninterrupted until 182G. In 1811 Mr. Jones resigned
his pastorate and went to Wooster, Ohio, where he died.
The second pastor was Rev. Joshua Woodworth, who remained through
the trying period of the second war with Great Britain, his labors ceasing in
1816. Following his work is a series of uncertain pastorates, the dates being
lost. The workmen were Samuel McMillen, Sidney Rigdon and G. W. Mc-
Cleery. Sidney Rigdon subsequently became an apostle of Mormonism, and,
in 1846-47, after the death of Joe Smith and the ensuing advancement of
Brigham Young to the presidency of the Mormon Church, enlisted the co-op-
eration of a number of men and women in an effort to establish a Mormon
colony near Greencastle, Franklin Co., Penn. After the expenditure of many
thousands of dollars and some two years of time, the enterprise proved abor-
tive. Mr. McCleery, the father of Joseph McCleery, at present a resident of
Sharon, joined the members who seceded in 1828, and became known subse-
quently as a Disciple. The records show the membership of the church to be
as follows: In 1820, 52; in 1823, 69, and in 1825, 75. In 1825 Rev.
Henry Frasure was called to the pastorate, and remained until 1829. During
his term a new trial came upon the Baptists. Many of its members became
converts to the doctrines of Campbell. This ferment culminated in the going
out of a sufficient number to organize a congregation in the latter part of June,
1828, the particulars of which are found in the sketch of the Christian Church
of Sharon. The church property, however, was kept by the Baptists, they
having retained a majority of the voting members. After Mr. Frasure’s efforts
Revs. Woodworth, of Ohio, and Stoughton, of Muddy Creek, paid the congre-
gation visits. In 1834 Rev. Jacob Morris was employed as pastor, and con-
tinued in that capacity until 1837. He was followed, in the latter year, by
Rev. David Thomas, who continued one year. In June, 1840, Dr. John
Winter began his pastoral work. The church entered upon a new era. Di-
viding his time between Sharon and Warren, Ohio, he infused new life into
the struggling membership. Forty-five were baptized, and former members
were reclaimed, and the first Sunday-school was established. On the 31st of
March, 1843, the congregation was regularly incorporated as “The Regular
Baptist Church of the Borough of Sharon. ’ ’ Its first board of trustees in-
cluded Edward S. Budd, Elam Bentley, John Hazen, Conrad G. Carver and
Thomas Clark.
The old log meeting-house being too small, it was decided to erect a frame
one. The result was the old structure, till recently standing on the hill, 40x
50. While it was in process of erection the congregation worshiped in the
house of the Protestant Methodists. This privilege was cut short, however,
by the fact that the practice of the Baptists on the subject of baptism and
close communion gave offense to the owners of the church, who closed their
doors upon them. In 1844 Dr. Winter resigned, and devoted his whole
time to Warren." Rev. W. B. Barris was pastor from 1844 to 1847. He was
succeeded by Rev. Thomas W. Greer in October, 1847, who continued until
June, 1851, when he resigned. During his pastorate a Ladies Missionary
Society, the first of its kind, was organized. During the same time an academy
was established, and a two-story brick building was erected. Its history is given
under the head of Schools. In 1849 William Budd, who had given the site
of the church, and liberal contributions for the church and the bell, was called
away. His memory has always been revered by the congregation. Changes
now were quite frequent. Rev. William Storrs was pastor, under trying
difficulties, during 1851-52. A vacancy occurred until May, 1853, when
384
HISTOEY OP MEECEB COUNTY.
Rev. S. H. Ruple became pastor, and continued until 1855. During his stay
the church divided, one portion conducting a Sunday-school in a rented room,
and church services in their own houses, while the congregation proper wor-
shiped in the church. In 1856 Rev. A. G. Kirk, the next pastor, drew up an
agreement and secured a partial reconciliation between the two factions, thirty-
six returning to their allegiance. Rev. M. C. Hen dron. preached from Sep-
tember, 1856, to September, 1857. Rev. J. Moses was a supply until Febru-
ary, 1859, when Rev. John Parker began his labors, which continued until
1863. During this period the membership increased from eighty-four to 122.
The intense feeling resulting from the War of the Rebellion divided the con-
gregation. Rev. Dinsmore ministered to one faction in the church, and Revs.
Winter and Parker to another in a rented church. Reorganization fol-
lowed with the close of the war, and Dr. Winter again became pastor in March,
1866. He began to collect funds for refitting the church, and secured $1,066,
with which the house renewed its primitive attractiveness, and was dedicated
a second time at the June meeting, 1866. He resigned in March, 1867. At
the close of his pastorate the membership was eighty-seven. Rev. J. V.
Stratton was pastor from April, 1867, to April, 1869. Rev. David Williams
was pastor the succeeding year. He was followed by Rev. Jesse Williams,
who continued from April, 1870, to the day of his death, in the ensuing
August. Rev. J. T. Griffith was here a few months; Rev. C. H. Harvey from
April, 1871, to 1873; Rev. A. Wilson for about two years; Rev. J. B. Solo-
mon from October, 1875, to 1879. During his period the dead were removed
from the old grave-yard to Oakwood Cemetery In April, 1880, Rev. E.
Wells began his work, and remained two years.
On the 2nd of July, 1882, the present pastor. Rev. H. C. Hall, began his
pastoral labors, and was regularly ordained the 3d of August following. At
the beginning of his pastorate a site was selected and steps were taken to
erect a new church edifice. The building committee was Rev. H. C. Hall, J.
Hunter, Malin Ewing and Robert Luse. In April, 1883, J. L. Weaver took
the contract for erecting the new brick edifice, at a cost of $11,600. Com-
pleted and furnished the expense amounted to about $15,000. The structure
was dedicated June 28, 1884, Rev. H. I. King, of Cleveland, preaching the
morning and Rev. J. W. Gordon, of Buffalo, the evening discourse. The
sum of $2,700 was raised to liquidate the indebtedness on the house. In
1886 a neat parsonage, just west of the church, was erected at a cost of about
$2,000.
Methodist Episcopal Church. — The origin of this congregation is veiled in
some obscurity, and can be reached only inferentially. It is known that the
whole Shenango Valley was, from 180O to 1816, embraced in the Shenango-
Circuit, and that preaching was done in the pioneer settlements by the itiner-
ant preachers of those days. Among these preachers were the following pre-
siding elders of the district: P. B. Davis, Joseph Shane, Asa Shinn, George
Askins, Joseph Hall, R. R. Roberts, James Reed, James Watts, Thomas
Church, James Charles, Jacob McDowell, Eli Towne, Abel Robinson, Will-
iam Knox, Jacob Gurwell, John Elliott, J. Summerville and R. C. Hatton.
It is not at all improbable that some of these pioneer preachers were in this
region at the opening of the century, and proclaimed their doctrine to the
people. Isaac Patterson, one of the organizers of the church, came to this
region from the eastern part of the State in 1802 or 1803, and was an early
convert to Methodism. In an address made in the church on the present site,
in 1855, he announced that he was converted on those grounds among the
hazel bushes fifty years ago. From this statement it is inferred that Meth-
^’V^iyllGEirrwnl:
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
387
odism had some advocates in the vicinity of Sharon as early as 1805 or 1806.
The venerable J ames Bentley informed the winter that the earliest opening in
the dense forest of hazel bushes, which covered the present borough of Sharon,
was on the site of the Methodist Church. It was a small Indian bean patch,
about 30x10, the cultivating being done by the dusky savages with sharpened
sticks. As a mere boy he joined with them in their crude agricultural employ-
ment. As early as 1820 meetings were held in a log school-house which stood
on the site of the present Exchange Hotel. Afterward they were conducted
in Reno’s barn. The first class was organized, it is said, in 1810, though
individual members had lived here prior to that date, but had membership else-
where. Among the original members of the congregation were Isaac Patter-
son and his wife Margaret, Hezekiah Reader, James Reader and his wife
Nancy, Matthias Mounts, John Dunlap and his wife Elizabeth, James Patter-
son, Joseph McDowell and his wife Esther, ITilliam Moore, Septimus Dun-
lap and his wife Esther, William Ulp, Sarah Newcomb and others. At a later
date the membership embraced such people as Margaret Patterson, Samuel
Clark and his wife Susan {nee Patterson), David Clark, William Budd and
wife, Jones Blackstone and wife, David Strawbridge and wife, Abram De
Forest, William Clark and Mary Clark, who subsequently married Rev. Will-
iam Bear.
The first church structure was erected on State Street, above the present
Baptist house, in 1831. Isaac Patterson and Matthew Mounts were trustees.
It was a frame building, and is now used by George Burnett as a livery stable
on Dock Street, in the rear of the American House. The next was likewise a
frame structure, about 36x50, erected in 1842. It stood on the site of the
present building. In 1866 it was repaired and enlarged at a cost of ^3,300,
a basement being put under it for Sunday-school purposes. It was burned
down on New Year’s eve, 1877, during the pastorate of Rev. O. L. Mead.
The present comfortable and commodious frame structure was erected in 1878
at a cost of some $14,000. A parsonage was bought in 1880 for $2,200, and
repaired at an expense of about $400. In 1887 the building of the Lake Shore
Railroad branch in front of the church occurred, resulting in a damage of $3,000
to the property. This sum was invested by the trustees in several lots, together
with the accompanying buildings, near the Central school building. The rents
afford quite a handsome dividend on the investment. Some day the church
hopes to build upon the newly acquired site.
The names of the early preachers have not been secured. It is claimed
that Rev. J. J. Steadman was the first regular preacher. Sharon has belonged
to several districts. From 1836 to 1840, and again from 1847 to 1852, it
belonged to Meadville; from 1840 to 1843, from 1852 to 1856, and from 1860
to 1862, to Warren; from 1843 to 1847, to Franklin; Horn 1856 to 1860, and
from 1862 to the present time, to New Castle. The following is its list of pas-
tors from the day of certainty in its records, 1836: Revs. William Carroll,
H. S. Hitchcock, 1836; C. Brown, 1837; Ahab Keller, John Crum, 1838-39;
J. Vanhorn, J. E. Bassett, 1840; B. O. Plimpton, R. J. Sibbey, 1841; Thomas
Ingi-aham, Thomas Stubbs, 1842; Joseph Uncles, 1843; J. R. Lock, H. Win-
ans, 1844; John McLean, J. W. Klock, J. W^. Ingraham. 1845; J. McLean,
H. Luse, 1846; Bryan S. Hill, William Bear, 1847-48; D. H. Jack, S. Hub-
bard, 1849; J. H. Vance, D. H. Jack, 1850; Josiah Flower, M. Wood, 1851;
D. C. Wright, 1852; William C. Henderson, 1853; C. W. Reeves, 1854; E.
A. Johnson, 1855; N. G. Luke, 1856; J. Uncles, 1857; R. M. Bear, 1858;
W. D. Archibald, 1859-60; T. P. Warner, 1861; P. P. Pinney, 1862-63; A.
Hall, 1864; J. O’Neal, 1865-66; J. S. Albertson, 1867-68; W. H. Mossman,
22
388
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1869-70; J. E. Lyon, 1871; L. W. Day, 1872-73; D. Latshaw, 1874-75;
O. L. Mead, 1876-77; J. W. Blaisdell, 1878-79; D. Latshaw, 1880; W. P.
Bignell, 1881-83; J. A. Kummer, 1884-86; E. S. Borland, 1887, present
incumbent. The membership is 534, and the church is in a flourishing condi-
tion.
Disciples or Christian Church. — This organization in Sharon owes its
origin to the visit of Adamson Bentley and Walter Scott, in the spring of
1828. These gentlemen were advocates of the doctrines then being promul-
gated by Alexander Campbell, and came to Sharon by invitation of the Bap-
tists of the village, for whom they held a series of meetings. Thirteen candidates
were baptized, but a difiiculty arising as to the manner of their reception into
the church they, with twenty from the Baptist organization, thirty-three mem-
bers all told, formed themselves into a new organization on the last Monday of
June, 1828.
Of these charter members the following names have been recovered by
Joseph McCleery, to whom we are indebted for the collection of most of the
facts herein contained. The following is the list: Bashara Hull and wife
Ehoda, Obadiah Hull and wife Mary Ann, Anna Hoagland (still living), John
McOleeiy and wife Margaret, George McCleery, George Bentley and wife,
Mary Bentley, Sr. , Samuel Hull and wife Drusilla, Hugh McCleery and wife
Margaret, James McCleery and wife Polly, Eobert McCleery and wife Eleanor,
Elizabeth Morford, Harriet Morford, Lucretia Hull, Thomas Chew, John
Briggs, Temperance Bentley wife of James Bentley, Eebecca Laird, Benjamin
Eeno and wife, James Morford and wife, Mary Briggs, Catherine Higby, Bet-
sey Truesdale.
Within three years from the date of the organization the following, with
others whose names cannot be recalled, were added: Jesse Hoagland and wife
Elizabeth, Joseph Hoagland and wife Anna, Eichard Hoagland, John McCleery
and wife Sarah, Samuel McCleery, John Dunlap, Daniel Upson Budd, Mar-
tin Dunham and wife Polly, Hannah Morford, Phoebe Morford, Almira Hull,
Lemual Clark and wife, Sarah DeWolf, Eachel Hover, Leah Hover, Mary
McCleery, Sr.
The first preaching was done in the barn of Daniel Budd, who prepared the
building specially for such use. This building answered the purpose well
enough for summer and autumn services. It was occupied because the feeling
engendered by the organization of a new congregation prevented their using
the Baptist house. The second regular place of worship was the cabinet-shop
of Jesse Hoagland, which was so occupied for several years. When he sold it
preaching was done in private houses and school buildings until 1840. At that
time a frame structure, about 30x40, was erected outside of the town limits,
near the present furnace of Spearman, Collord & Co. It was occupied until
1852, when, owing to its ineligibility as a place of worship, it was sold to the
furnace for a store-house. In 1852 a brick edifice, 40x54, was erected on
Bail Eoad Street at a cost of about $2,000. It was dedicated in December of
that year. Elder Isaac Errett, then of Warren, Ohio, but now editor of the
Christian Standard, of Cincinnati, delivering the address. In October, 1881,
the congregation purchased its present house on the corner of Vine and Pitt
Streets for |3, 500. It was erected in 1874 by the Second Presbyterian Church,
and dedicated by them February 14, 1875, the entire expense being $10,500.
It was re-dedicated by the Christian Church, Prof. Burke A. Hinsdale, of
Cleveland, Ohio, delivering the address.
This congregation has had quite an array of preaching talent. At the
organization were present Walter Scott, Adamson Bentley and Thomas Camp-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
389
bell. As an assistant in this preliminary work was George McCleery, father
of Joseph McCleery, who is still a resident of Sharon, and an active worker in
the congregation w'hich his father assisted in establishing. George McCleery
was for many years after the organization of the congregation its cherished
pastor and spiritual adviser. Following George McCleery came, in regular
succession, John T. Smith, John T. Phillips, Harvey Brockett, Calvin Smith,
Thomas Munnell, C. C. Foot and Edwin Wakefield. These men, employed
usually about a year each, nurtured the congregation from the time the pas-
toral labors of George McCleery ceased to the year 1857, when the records
begin to be more definite and authentic. Matthias Christy, H. D. Carlton and
Dr. Goodrich were then employed a portion of their time for a year or so
each. Their labors preserved the flock up to 1862. From this date to
1870 meetings were suspended on account of the agitations of the war, sick-
ness, removals, apathy, etc. From July to October, 1870, John T. Phillips
preached every two weeks. In October of that year William Baxter, of New
Lisbon, Ohio, reorganized the congregation with seventy-two members. Its
sustenance from the close of this meeting until April, 1871, was obtained fi’om
supplies received from various quarters. In April, 1871, Orange Higgins
was employed, and remained as pastor four years. He was succeeded by
Peter Vogel, who continued one year. In September, 1876, T. B. Knowles
was secured, and remained as pastor two years. For a year following the
congregation again depended upon supplies, John T. Phillips and William
Baxter being the chief reliance. In Februaiy, 1880, W. F. Parker was
employed, and continued to labor one year. In April, 1881, E. A. Bosworth
was secured. He staid three years. 0. G. Brelos was in charge of the work
from February, 1885, to September, 1886. Resort was again had to supplies
until the srunmer of 1887. From that time to February, 1888, L. Osborn, of
Youngstown, preached every two weeks. During the month of January, 1888,
a protracted meeting was held by H. B. Sherman, of Lock Haven, Penn. A. A.
McCorkle has been employed to take pastoral charge of the church, commenc-
ing February 1, 1888. There have been many irregular preachers at Sharon,
preachers who have aided in protracted meetings and on special occasions.
Among these may be mentioned Isaac Errett, William Hayden, A. S. Hayden,
John Henry, Jonas Hartzell, B. A. Hinsdale, Dr. W. A. Belding, Wesley
Lanphear, J. Harrison Jones and H. B. Sherman. The membership at pres-
ent is about ninety.
Protestant Methodist Church. — About 1836 or 1837 a number of families
of English descent came to Sharon. They were disposed to join a Protestant
Methodist rather than a Methodist Episcopal congregation. The result was
an organization of a church of that faith about the time just referred to.
Among the original members of the congregation were Moses Troutman and
wife, Benjamin Troutman and wife, John Urmson and wife, Fred Urmson
and wife, and others whose names cannot be recalled. In the ranks of its
primitive preachers were Revs. Inskip and Clark. The house of worship, the
second one erected in the place, was a frame building of spacious dimensions,
and was, for a time, owned jointly by the Protestant Methodists and the Pres-
byterians. The latter finally sold their interest to Judge David T. Porter. It
is still standing, and is owned and used as a dwelling. The congregation was
disorganized many years ago.
First Presbyterian Church. — This congregation was organized by a com-
mittee of the Presbytery of Beaver, consisting of Revs. Samuel A. McLain,
B. C. Critchlow and Elder Marcus Best, on the 16th of August, 1814. The
original membership included twenty-four persons, viz. ; Andrew McBride,
390
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Samuel McBride aud wife, Benjamin Love and wife, Jane Haywood, John
Dennison, Nancy Campbell, Mary Annie Love, Esther Stewart, Margaret
Satterfield, Hannah Budd, Kachel McKay, Elizabeth Riggs, H. Jacobs and
wife, Nancy Jane Rankin, James S. Moore and wife, John Rankin and wife,
Susannah Bell, Sarah Gray and Adelaide Moore. The first eldership con-
sisted of James S. Moore, H. Jacobs and John Rankin. The following persons
have likewise served in that capacity: Alexander Porter, Smith Agnew, Sam-
uel Shilling, John Phillips, David Agnew, N. McGowan, James M. Willson,
James K. Bell, S. C. Yoder, Joseph King, John A. Robinson, John Paisley
and C. M. Rice. The brick church edifice, standing on Main Street, north of
State, was built in 1857, at a cost of about |2,500. The original members
came largely from the old Moorefield Church, and worshiped with the congre-
gation in the old Protestant Methodist house, then known as “the barn.” The
congregation had a half interest in this house, which it finally sold to Judge
David T. Porter. The following pastors have served the congregation : Revs.
H. Webber, W. T. McAdam, Dr. Riggs, J. B. Dickey, W. S. Falconer, R.
J. Graves, J. C. Truesdale, Perry S. Allen, James H. Snowden and W. G.
Nevin, the present incumbent. The congregation has a membership of 250,
and is one of the most substantial religious societies in the borough.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church. — During the building of the Pittsburgh
& Erie Canal a large number of Catholics were employed on that public work,
and missionary priests made periodical trips along the line of the canal to hold
services and minister to the spiritual wants of the members of that faith.
Sharon being one of the principal points on the route, was also one of the
places where mass was occasionally celebrated. It was, however, some years
after this period before the town possessed any Catholic settlers, though several
German families of that faith located east of Sharon, around Hickory Corners,
in the decade between 1845 and 1855, while other Catholic families, both Irish
and German, settled in the vicinity of the blast furnaces erected in the Shenango
Valley during the same decade. For a few years those settlers were compelled
to attend services at the pioneer Catholic mission north of Mercer, then known
as the “Irish Settlement,” or go without the consolations of their religion.
But prior to 1850 Rev. Andrew Skopez, who died in the fall of 1887, began
his visits to the German settlement at Hickory Corners, and held services in
the houses of the members, usually at Martin Scholl’s. He was followed in
succession by Revs. J. Reiser, J. J. Gallagher, Andrew Schweiger and Joseph
Gobbels.
The first Catholic residents of Sharon were Henry and William Cros-
thwaite, natives of Ireland, who came to the village from the vicinity of Pitts-
burgh in 1851; Charles O’Hare and family, who arrived in Sharon in 1854;
Gerhard Wengler, a native of Germany, who emigrated fi'om that country to
New Castle, Penn., in May, 1854, and in the following December took up his
residence in Sharon, where he yet lives; Peter Froelig and John Muck, two
Germans, who arrived in the borough about 1854-55, having come for the
purpose of securing employment from the old Sharon Iron Company; Patrick
Kane and his two sons, John and Patrick, who began working in the steel
mill in 1856, having arrived but a short time previous; Terrence O’ Hare, a
brother of Charles, who, with his family, emigrated from Ireland to the Big
Bend in 1851, and eight years later removed to Sharon, where he yet resides;
John Thornton, a leading dry goods merchant of the borough, who, in Novem-
ber, 1848, arrived in Mercer County, having e’migrated a few months before
from Ireland, and began working in the Clay furnace, in Jefferson Township,
removing to the vicinity of Sharon, where he now resides, in the fall of I860;,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
391
Jacob Haether, a German, who located a short distance east of Sharon about
1858, and opened a shoe-shop, which he subsequently removed to the borough,
and conducted it until his death in 1876; Nicholas Wiesen, a German, whose
residence in Sharon dates back to the fall of 1860; Hon. Norman Hall, the
present member of Congress from this district, who located near the borough
in 1862; Edward M. McGillin, who arrived in Sharon from Philadelphia in
1863, and his brother William, accompanied by their mother and sister, one year
later; and John Sullivan, Patrick Fettigan and wife, Bernard Brennan and Law-
rence ClifFord, the latter of whom, as also Mrs. Fettigan, yet resides in the town.
The first Catholic settlers in Sharon attended services at Mercer, and sub-
sequently at Hickory Corners, and the priests who had charge of the latter
mission held an occasional service in Sharon. Father Gobbels came more
frequent than any of his predecessors, and is therefore best remembered. He
celebrated mass at the houses of Peter Froelig, John Muck, Charles O’ Hare,
Bernard Brennan and other early Catholic families. In 1859 he was succeeded by
Bev. F. J. Hartmann, now pastor of St. Bose Church at Hickory Corners.
Father Hartmann had charge of the Sharon Mission until the coming of Bev.
John J. O’KeefFe, the fii’st resident pastor of Sharon. The latter held services
in the houses of members until he erected the present pastoral residence
south of the church, and a room in that building was then utilized. In 1864
the corner stone of Sacret Heart Church was laid with appropriate ceremonies,
on a lot donated by Dr. J. M. Hvine, on the corner of State Street and Irvine
Avenue, and as soon as the basement was ready for occupancy it was used for
religious services until the main structure was completed. The building was
afterward considerably enlarged, and is a substantial brick edifice with a seat-
ing capacity of about 800. The basement has been used for a school-room
ever since the parochial schools were established. Both the residence and
chui'ch were commenced and finished under Father O’Keeffe’s pastorate, though
a very large debt was hanging over the property when, in 1872, Bev. Kearn
O’Branigan succeeded him as pastor. This debt has been paid off, and a fund
commenced by the late Father O’Branigan toward securing a larger parochial
school property in the near future.
The growth and progress of Sacred Heart congregation is a fair illustration
of the parable of the mustard seed. Forty years ago there was not a single
Catholic family in Sharon, and when the war broke out less than a dozen
families comprised the full strength of that faith inside the borough limits.
Within the last quarter of a century Sacred Heart Church has had a remark-
able growth, and embraces a membership of about 200 families. It supports
a flourishing parochial. school, established by Father O’Keeffe, which is under
the efficient charge of the Sisters of Mary. The usual branches taught in the
public schools comprises the curriculum of the Sacred Heart school, but there
is also imparted daily religious instruction in the fundamental doctrines of the
Christian faith. The old Sacred Heart Cemetery was located on the east hill,
but the growth of the borough necessitated its abandonment. The present
grave-yard lies immediately northwest of Sharon, and is a very suitable resting-
place for those who have ‘ ‘ fallen asleep in the Lord. ’ ’ The ground was pur-
chased by Father O’Keeffe, but paid for by the late pastor. While giving to
Father O’Keeffe full credit for the work he accomplished during his pastorate,
it is nevertheless true that to the earnest labors of Father O’Branigan is
largely due the present prosperity of Sacred Heart Parish, and his death,
which occurred August 7, 1888, was a severe loss to the congregation.
United Presbyterian Church. — The inception of the movement toward
establishing an Associate Beformed Presbyterian congregation at Sharon was
392
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
brought about through a passing visit of Rev. M. M. Brown, now of New
Wilmington, Penn., who at the next meeting of the Lawrence Presbytery
recommended that a committee be sent to look over the held. This was accord-
ingly done, and in June, 1858, Rev. William Findley, D. D., acting under the
direction of that presbytery, organized a congregation in Sharon. The following
comprised the lirst members : David T. Porter, Mrs. Ann Porter, John Titus, Mrs.
Mary Titus, Mias Ann Eliza Titus, Miss Rosanna Titus, Mrs. Mordock, Mrs.
Adams, Mrs. Duncan, Miss Mary McHenry, James Raney, Mrs. Mary Raney,
Miss Margaret Raney, John Raney, Mrs. Tirza Love and Miss Mary McClelland.
The building at present occupied was erected in 1865 at a cost of $11,000. It
is a brick, and is commodious and convenient for the purposes to which it is
devoted. The pastors of the congregation have been Rev. B. K. Ormond, its
first minister, who began preaching in Sharon in April, 1858, before the organ-
ization of the flock into a regular congregation, and who was installed regular
pastor shortly afterward, at first dividing his time between the Sharon and Clarks-
ville charges, and afterward serving the former church exclusively until Decem-
ber 31, 1880; and the present pastor, Rev. John A. Bailey, who entered upon
his ministry in January, 1883. In the opening part of the year 1881 the con-
gregation, through unfortunate occurrences, became disorganized. April 19, the
same year, a reorganization was, however, effected through the instrumentality
of Rev. Robert McWatty, D. D. , acting under the direction of the United Pres-
byterian Presbytery of Mercer. The membership at that time was fifty; now
it is 140. Following is a list of ruling elders: John Titus, David T. Porter,
Robert Strain, William L. Thompson, William J. Hamilton, Robert Temple-
ton, J. H. McElheny, M. D., J. E. McGeehan, E. M. Stapleton, Jesse Huff,
G. A. Hawk, J. W. Paisley, M. K. Hamilton, A. G. McNabb, William A.
Kelley and Thomas Ray.
St. Paul’s German Reformed Church was organized about thirty-three
years ago. The congregation was located two miles east of Sharon, and was
presided over by Rev. L. I. Mayer. He remained with it about eight years,
at the same time preaching for the “Jerusalem” congregation in Hickory
Township, which he also organized. He was succeeded by Rev. J. H. Stepler,
now of Lima, Ohio, who remained nearly nine years. In 1873 Rev. F. B.
Hartzmetz, now of Archibald, Ohio, began his pastorate, which also continued
nearly nine years. During his administration St. Paul’s congregation bought
a lot on Sharpsville Street, in Sharon, and erected the present frame house in
1874, at a cost of about $4,000, including the lot. In March, 1882, the late
pastor. Rev. E. Gruenstein, began his ministry here. In 1883 he concluded
that a parsonage was needed. Obtaining the consent of his congregation he
set to work, and in five weeks had $700 secured for that purpose, and
erected the house which adjoins the rear end of the church. The present
membership is 165 confirmed, and 138 unconfirmed. Jerusalem congregation,
at Hickory, was joined with Sharon until September, 1882, and was ministered
to by the same preachers. Since that time it has been a separate charge.
St. John’ s Protestant Episcopal Church. — On the 10th of December, 1865,
Rev. Thomas Corlett, rector of Grace Church, Kinsman, Ohio, conducted
services in the Baptist Church. These are said to have been the first Episco-
pal services in the place. On the llth of the ensuing February Rev. Dr.
Killikelly held services. A few days later, viz., February 14, 1866, Bishop
Hopkins, on a visit to the place, conducted services at the Presbyterian
Church, assisted at the time by Rev. Corlett. It was during this visit that
Bishop Hopkins baptized Elizabeth Kent, infant daughter of Reuben Will-
iamson, it being the first administration of that rite by an Episcopalian in
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
393
Sharon. On the 17th of June following the first regular services were held in
the old brick building belonging to the Christian Church, by Rev. William L.
Haywood, missionary. On the 20th the parish was organized, the first vestry
consisting of Alexander Adams, Reuben Williamson, H. Jaques, Curtis Mc-
Farland, E. M. Cotton and George Brooks. Messrs. McFarland and Cotton
were appointed wardens, and Mr. Williamson, clerk. On the 23d of August,
1866, the congregation was regularly incorporated. Rev. Haywood held his
position until February, 1869, when he resigned. The erection of a church
edifice was discussed at once, but the matter was deferred owing to financial
depression. In 1868-69 a small, plain frame structure was built at a cost of
11,500. It still meets the demands of the congregation. The pastors suc-
ceeding Mr. Haywood were: Revs. H. E. Tschudy, John E. Doris, W. R.
Mackay, J. B. Calhoun, H. G. Woods and the present pastor. Rev. -George
W. Williams.
The Welsh Congregational Church was organized April 2, 1854, by
Rev. Thomas Evans, of Youngstown, Ohio, with some fifteen members, viz. :
John L. Jones, Thomas Jones, William Rees, Ann Rees, Mary Jones, William
Davis, Mary Phillips, Margaret Phillips and John Morris and wife. Revs.
Thomas Evans, Thomas Davis, John Edwards and others have supplied the
pulpit. The church edifice on Pennsylvania Avenue was erected in 1856. The
membership is largely engaged in the iron works, and hence its condition fluc-
tuates with that business.
Welsh Baptist Church. — This congregation was organized in 1869 with
seven members: John Reynolds, Eliza Reynolds, James Reynolds, Hannah
Reynolds, John Propert, Elizabeth Llewellyn, and one whose name could not
be secured. Rev. David Propert was the first preacher. The house of wor-
ship was erected in July, 1870.
German Lutheran. — This congregation was organized November 1, 1872,
by Rev. H. Schmidt, of Hubbard, Ohio, with twenty members. As early as
1853 preaching was done in the place byRev. T.H. Hengist, of Brookfield, Ohio.
The pulpit was occupied at various times by Revs. L. Krebs, N. Wolf, J. G.
Beetz, T. H. Hengist and H. Schmidt. The last named has been pastor for
fifteen or sixteen years, and still occupies the position. The congregation was
without a place of worship of its own until the year 1888. On the 5th of Feb-
ruary, of said year, its frame house of worship, costing about |700, was dedi-
cated with appropriate ceremonies. For a long time its services were held in
the Christian Church.
SECRET AND OTHER SOCIETIES.
Sharon Lodge No. 347, 1. O. 0. F., was instituted on the 19th of February,
1849, its charter members consisting of Charles E. Curtis, Robert McFarland,
John J. Spearman, James Hazelton, Milton Hull and Hugh Fox. Of this
number only two representatives are still living, Mr. McFarland, retired from
active business, and Mr. Spearman, president of the First National Bank of
Sharon. In the distribution of official honors every member received a position
except Hugh Fox. Curtis was N. G., McFarland was V. G. , Spearman was
Sec., Hazelton was Assist. Sec. and Hull was Treas. The inference is that
Fox was reserved for committee work. The room in which this charitable
order was born is still standing on Main Street, in the lower part of the city.
It is a frame structure, erected in 1838 by Mr. E. C. Sweetland, and is now
owned by Mr. William McClain. At the time it was used as a wagon-shop.
It deserves to be specially remarked that its floor was neatly carpeted with saw-
dust. In the same building, with similar equipments. Masonry had its origin
394
HISTOBY OP MEBCEE COUNTY.
a year or two later. From the wagon-shop the lodge was removed to the brick
academy, which stood near the site of the old Baptist Church edifice. The
Masonic lodge was removed to the same building, and occupied the same
room. In course of time the Odd Fellows bought out the right and title to
the property possessed by the Masons, and, feeling disposed to change qiiar-
ters, secured a hall in the Carver and Porter block, a little east of the present
Sharon National Bank. After the lapse of years the lodge secured quarters in
Hyde & Brown’s Hall, part of the building now used by the Sharon Iron Com-
pany’s store. This room was occupied until the order was able, by wise and
judicious business management, to erect and occupy its own valuable and
handsome structure on the corner of State and Vine Streets.
The site of the present building was bought in 1857, at a cost of $175 in
gold. Shortly after the purchase it was occupied by a little frame shanty,
some twelve feet square, used for a jewelry store. Finally the lodge bought
this property and made some necessary additions to it. About 1864 this per-
ishable property began to be rented at |700 per annum, which paid a hand-
some dividend on the investment. This money, together with funds accumu-
lating from other sources, finally aggregated $5, 000. It was then proposed to
erect a building in partnership with other interests, but the scheme was opposed
by some members of the lodge, and the matter was deferred until 1880. At
that time sufficient money had accumulated to undertake the entei’prise with-
out any entangling alliances with alien parties. The building was erected in
1880, at a cost of some $12,000. To complete the payment $2,000 was bor-
rowed, all of which was repaid within a year, leaving the lodge entirely free
fi’om indebtedness of all kinds. The new hall was dedicated December 23,
1880. The entire property, including ground, building and equipment, is
worth $25,000. After reserving all of the third floor and a room on the sec-
ond, the lodge realizes nearly $1,000 a year from its rentals, and is thus accu-
mulating a handsome fund for any needed improvements or paying invest-
ments as they arise.
Notwithstanding Calvin Lodge No. 777, New Virginia Lodge No. 841,
Adoniram Lodge No. 739, West Middlesex Lodge No. 593 and White Oak
Lodge No. 569 have all been drawn from Sharon Lodge, it still numbers 173
members, and shows all possible signs of inherent health and continued pros-
perity.
The faithful few who liegan their work on the saw-dust floor in the old
wagon-shop, and with kindred spirits persevered through all the discouraging
migrations of subsequent years, have much reason to rejoice at the success that
has finally crowned their efforts.
Calvin Lodge No. 577., I. 0. O. -F., was organized June 8, 1865, by George
Tribby, D. D. G. M. , with the following named charter members; Fredrick
Hoelzle, Louis Buchholz, Christian Boeshar, Jacob Hoelzle, Jacob Reiter,
Jacob Hoffman, John Boeshar, Philip Mliiler, Christian Hoffman, Henry Krall-
man, John IJlrich, James L. Rich, Nicholaus Fenzel, Jacob Sontag, Johannes
Kolb and George Hassel. The membership of the lodge is eleven.
Sharon Lodge No. 250, N. & A. M., was organized under charter dated
September 2, 1850. It was known and recognized as A. Y. M. until about
1872, when the present title was adopted. In the charter Dr. J. M. Irvine
was designated as Worshipful Master, James Campbell as Senior Warden, and
James McMullen as Junior Warden. The organization occurred in a wagon-
shop in the lower end of town, now owned by William McClain. Some of the
other members at the time were James Bentley, Marvin Hyde and J. F. Sat-
terfield. From the wagon-shop the lodge removed, in a short time, to the
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
395
second story of the old Baptist Academy, which was fitted up by the Odd Fel-
lows and Masons conjointly. After a time the Masons sold their rights to the
Odd Fellows, and then remoYed to the third story of the old Carver & Porter
block, the Odd Fellows securing the second story. The building, now stand-
ing near the Sharon National Bank, is the property of T. J. Porter. This hall
was used without interruption until the erection of the present hall building in
1874, by the First National Bank and T. J. Porter. The present commodious
and comfortable hall was fitted up in the third story of the building just
referred to in 1874, and dedicated with the usual Masonic ceremonies in May,
1875. Including the fxirnishing, the expense involved amounted to about
$5,000. The hall is said to be one of the finest of its kind in Western Pennsyl-
vania, not excepting even those in larger cities.
Dr. John M. Irvine was Worshipful Master from the organization to 1857.
His successors, in order, were as follows: Dr. Elisha Griswold, 1857; John
S. King, 1858; William McGilvray, 1859; Dr. John M. Irvine, 1860-62; Will-
iam McGilvray, 1863; E. A. Wheeler, 1864-65; William Henlan, 1866; E. A.
Wheeler, 1867; John M. Mordock, 1868-70; Alfred Williams, 1871 ;W. B.
Marshall, 1872; R. E. Bell, 1873; A. S. Service, 1874; James G. McKnight,
1875; Thomas B. Taylor, 1876, A. S. Service, 1877; John Ambler, 1878; John
Murchie, 1879; Harry Orchard, 1880; S. C. Ycder, 1881; James D. Caldwell,
1882; Michael Zahniser, 1883; George L. Williams, 1884; William M. Mc-
Cormick, 1885; John C. Owsley, 1886-87; E. N. Ohl, 1888. The present
membership is about 120.
Norman Chapter No. 244. JR. A. M., was constituted May 12, 1873. The
charter members were: Matthias H. Henderson, Edward P. Poster, Frank
W. Morrison, Reuben Williamson, Richard E. Bell, Branton H. Henderson,
James G. McKnight, James E. McCarter, Jesse Reeves, Joseph N. McClure,
Thomas B. Taj lor, William Leipheimer, Joseph A. Starkey. M. H. Hender-
son served as M. E. H. P. until 1876, and his successors have been Richard
E. Bell, 1877; M. H. Henderson, 1878; Hari’y Orchard, 1879; John Ambler,
1880; John Murchie, 1881-82; George Tribby, 1883; John C. Owsley, 1884-85;
Michael Zahniser, 1886, and Edwin N. Ohl, 1887-88. The present member-
ship of the chapter is seventy-five. M. H. Henderson, the first High Priest
of this chapter, was elected Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Pennsyl-
vania in December, 1886, installed the 27th of that month, and is the present
G. H. P. of Pennsylvania. The chapter meets in the Masonic hall.
Rebecca Commandery No. 50, K. T. , was authorized by dispensation dated
August 21, 1873, and was regularly constituted June 25, 1874. The charter
members were: Reuben Williamson, B. H. Henderson, Joseph N. McClure,
Matthias H. Henderson, James E. McCarter, Charles W. Whistler, Samuel C.
Simonton, Samuel W. Smith and Thomas Marshall. The Eminent Commanders
from and including the first have been the following: Reuben Williamson,
1873-75; J. N. McClure, 1876; Matthias H. Henderson, 1877-78; John Am-
bler, 1879; Ansley S. Service, 1880-81; Harry Orchard, 1882; John Murchie,
1883; George Tribby, 1884; Michael Zahniser, 1885; Ed. N. Ohl, 1886-87;
George L. Williams, 1888. The commandery meets in the Masonic hall.
The Apollo Maennerchor was organized in 1869. Among its first members
were G. W. Fischer, Frederick Hoelzle, Jacob Hoelzle, Carl Doerr, James L.
Rich, John Rich, Paul Assion, Jacob Dreschand others. At its most prosper-
ous period there were sixty members. Sessions are held monthly.
Sharon Lodge No. 13, A. O. U. W., was organized July 11, 1872. in a
room on State Street, by J. M. McNair and W. S. Black, of New Castle,
Penn. The charter members were: John A. Porter, J. L. Dunlap, William
396
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
C. Manning, A. J. Jewell, D. Starkey, James Clelland, Henry Harwood,
William Henlan, John G. Gay, Charles Alquist, W. D. McMillen, Joseph
McElhaney, Thomas McChesney, John Murchie. The first presiding officer
was John A. Porter, and the first secretary was Charles Alquist. Meetings
are held in the lodge’s own hall over Henlan’s butcher shop, on each Monday
evening of the year. The membership numbers sixty-four.
Sharon Lodge No. 398, K. of P., was instituted June 16, 1873, with the
following charter members: S. P. Ash, J. C. Owsley, S. C Simonton, Jr.,
S. A. Kice, M. C. Williams, Ellis Morrison, E. F. Eodgers, S. W. Isenberg,
A. Van Fossen, E. J. Pease, William Bert, W. C. Bryant, P. Desmond and D.
P. Stewart. Meetings are held every Thursday evening in Thompson’s Hall,
on State Street. The membership is 177. The lodge has two insurance or-
ganizations connected with it, the Pennsylvania Belief Association and the
Endowment Bank.
Court Rose of Sharon No. 5964, A. 0. F. was instituted the 5th of Septem-
ber, 1874, by Joseph Stead, D. C. E., of Cleveland, Ohio, with the following
named charter members: John Stephens, William Parry, E. Powell, George
Powell, Samuel Westwood, Edward Tague, J. Smith, William Jones, Job Dur-
ban, J ames Gardner, H. Gardner, Joseph Chintery, J. Matthews, Benjamin Powell,
James Bosser, Benjamin Jones, E. D. Evans, William Davis, Joseph Wheedle,
Thomas Mould, D. C. Hughes, James Andrews. The presiding officers were
Thomas Davis, C. E. ; John Gething, S. 0. B. ; Jesse Martin, S. W. ; William
L. Morgan, Jr., W. ; John Lloyd, J. B. ; Thomas Ll-oyd, S. B., and Eobert
White and Charles Bowlands, secretaries. Meetings are held in the A. O. F.
hall, on State Street, on alternate Saturdays. There are about 158 members
in good standing at the present time, with a total membership of 170. The
purpose of the order is “Unity, Benevolence and Concord.”
Connected with the above order is a juvenile branch called the Court Rose
Bud No. 25, organized about one year ago (1887) for a similar purpose, with
a membership of about sixty.
Branch No. 6 Catholic Mutual Benefit Association was organized Novem-
ber 6, 1878, by M. I, O’Brien and P. McManus. The original members were
M. I. O’Brien, P. McManus, John Kirk, Albert Mehler. Joseph Mehler, L.
Daubach, Otto Herrmann, James Duffy, N. Bower, Andrew Lattau, Peter
Doney and Michael McGovern. The object of the organization is to improve
the moral, mental and social condition of its members, to educate them in in-
tegrity, sobriety and frugality, and to aid and assist members, or their fami-
lies. in case of death with a beneficiary of $2,000. The presidents have been
M. I O’Brien, P. McManns, John Kirk, Joseph B. Mehler, P. Morairty, H.
F. Dougherty and M. I. O’Brien; the secretaries, Thomas Marshall, M. I.
O’Brien, H. F. Dougherty, and the present official, Thomas Marshall. Meet-
ings are held semi-monthly at the Amalgated Association hall. The member-
ship is forty.
Sharon Coiincil No. 25, R. T. of T., was organized in Hoelzle hall Janu-
ary 14, 1879, by 0. L. Fisher, G. L. , with the following as charter members:
F. J. Dahringer, W. H. Bobison, Joseph Dodds, L. B. Tupper, Charles Eos-
ser, John M. Yahres, Sarah Smith, Mary B. Mendenhall, Ella Kratz, Kate
Dahringer, H. D. Foat, John Kennedy, William Leipheimer, John Ambler,
James Skinner, Alvin Heckman, Nancy McKnight, H. L. Bobison, Margaret
Kennedy, Martha McCune, Lydia Foat, Mary E. Dodds, W. H. Cover, D.
Cartwright, Charles S. Foat, Cyrus Hann, John Fullerton, Hannah McEl-
downey, Elizabeth Bobison, Caroline Bice, Mary Ambler, Mary J, Skinner,
Mrs. A. W. McKnight. The first officers elected were: S. C., J. G. Me
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
397
Knight; V. C., C. IVl. Rice; P. C. , J. A. Robison; Chap., Rev. J. K. Menden-
hall; R. S. , Prof. G. W. Kratz; F. S., Prof. G. W. Kratz; Treasurer, Mrs. E.
V. Cover; H., C. Bowden; D. H. , Mrs. L. W. Garner; Guard, Mrs. E. Robi-
son; Sent., D. S. Foat, and Med. Ex., Dr. J. K. Mendenhall. The purpose
of the council is to promote the cause of temperance, of total abstinence, by
a beneficiary society on the mutual assessment plan. Meetings are held on
the first and third Tuesdays of each month in the G. A. R. hall. The mem-
bership is sixty-eight.
Sharon Union No. 360, E. A. U., was instituted Septembers, 1881, in
the German Odd Fellows’ hall, by D. S. P. , G. W. Brown. The charter
members were T. B. May, Chancellor; J. R. McNabb, Advocate; J. Ambler,
President; F. Lawson, Vice-President; D. P. Stewart, Treasurer; W. L.
Prindle, Secretary; F. B. Test, Accountant; T. B. VanFossen, Warden; Mrs.
J. Craft, Sentinel; John Craft, Watchman. The general purposes of the
Union are for uniting fraternally all people of good health, character and
morals, of both sexes; to assist one another, and to promote benevolence and
charity by establishing a relief fund for the aid of fellow members who may
become afflicted and needy, and also for the paying to the dependents of
deceased members an insurance sum not exceeding 13,000. Meetings are held
on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the G. A. R. hall. The
present membership is ninety, just seventy in excess of the number at
organization.
West Penn No. 546, E. A. U., was organized July 21, 1886, with over
thirty charter members. The first officers were J. D. Test, Chancellor; W.
W. Service, Advocate; W. H. Dickson, President; James F. Hanna, Vice-
President; William Henlan, Treasurer; Amy M. Bussey, Secretary; C. L.
Robison, Accountant; P. F. Davis, Warden; Mrs. J. PI. Nikirk, Sentinel; J.
E. Berry, Watchman; Mrs. M. D. Bussey, Chaplain; Mrs. S. M. Ulp, Aux-
iliary. The present membership is fifty- four, and the lodge meets the second
and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the Forrester’s hall.
Sharon Post No. 254, G. A. R., Department of Pennsylvania, was organ-
ized June 29, 1882, with the following named charier members: James C.
Nolan, Samuel B. Clark, Jacob Miller, Elisha Griswold, James D. Caldwell,
Alexander McDowell, Malin Ewing, John Stewart, William Jackson, William
H. Robison, John M. Yahres, C. E. Bundel, Albert Robison, J. A. Robison,
D. C. Robison, Alfred Robison, John C. Roberts, J. C. Maxhimer, Josiah
Selah, Edward J. Foutz, D. P. Stewart, Cyrus Haun, William H. Dubes,
George B. Miller, Henry Scott, L. S. Winnel, David E. Moses, Sylvester F.
Barker, Samuel Mahanna, John Lockhart, Baldwin Chew, Albert McDowell,
Joseph J. Hunter, T. D. McFarland, William W. Hanna, James M. Mitchell,
Sebastian Steese, J. R. McNabb, Jeremiah Sullivan, L. N. Dodd, J. P. Neiler,
Charles Sever, D. C. Stambaugh. Since then the following Post Commanders
have served: James C. Nolan, one term; Malin Ewing, two terms; L. N.
Dodd, one term; and S. F. Barker one term, and also re-elected in December,
1887. The Adjutants have been Malin Ewing, John Lockhart, S. F. Barker
and Walter Moyer. The meetings of the post are held in the G. A. R. hall, wfflich
is rented by it; but the furniture of the room is the post’s property. Since
1882 but two deaths have occurred. The membership is at present fifty-two.
Pymatuning Tribe No. 259, I. O. R. M., was organized March 28, 1884.
Its charter members were J. G. Lewis, D. E. Thomas, John Deveraux, T. M.
Griffiths, Joseph Prue, L. P. Lewis, AVilliam G. Morgan, R. James, Stephen
Williams, Charles Haybes, J. Thomas, R. Gray, D. R. Jones, T. T. Burn, J.
Breeze, M. Jenkins and others, to the number of 100. The first officers were
398
HISTOBY OF MERCEB COUNTY.
D. E. Thomas, S. ; James Thomas, S. S. ; W. G. Morgan, J. S., and J.
Deveraux, C. of E. The present membership is 154. Meetings are held in
the Forrester’s hall. The tribe has over |2,0U0 in cash investments and is in
a flourishing condition.
Grant Assembly No. 6,748, K. of L., was organized April 26, 1886, in the
hall in which it now assembles, A. A. of I. and S. W. hall, by Homer L.
McGain, of Pittsburgh. Meetings are held every Monday evening. The
membership is about 450. The condition of the order is good both financially
and numerically.
Shenango Council No. 224, National Union,wa,s instituted in Sharon, Penn.,
by Mr. C. S. Snyder, Senate Deputy, June 3, 1886, with sixty charter mem-
bers. Have admitted eight and lost four since organization. None by death.
Present membership sixty-four. First officers were; Ex- President, C. W.
Ray; president, W. W. Service; vice-president, T. J. Gillespie; financial
secretary, W. B. Hull; secretary, George A. Baird; treasurer, M. Zahniser;
speaker, P. McDowell; chaplain, L. A. Burrell; sergeant-at-arms, W. H.
Jackson; ushei-, C. W. Test; doorkeeper, W. A. Gebhardt. It meets in the
G. A. R. hall the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.
The Protected Home Circle. — This organization, now extending its branch
circles into every part of the United States, owes its origin to Rev. H. C.
Hall, P. D. Stratton, A. S. Service, Dr. Salem Heilman, J. V. Rose, W. H.
Horton, Alex. McDowell, A. W. Williams and Michael Zahniser, who estab-
lished it August 7, 1886. The above names include the original members of
the supreme organization, of which there was a local circle organized in
Sharon, called the Sharon Circle No. 1, P. H. C., which includes in its mem-
bership many of the prominent citizens and business men of the place. The
object of the Protected Home Circle, as enunciated in the general constitution,
“ shall be to associate white people of both sexes, of good moral character,
health and physical constitution, between the ages of fifteen and fifty-six
years, in fraternal societies for mutual assistance of a moral, social, intellect-
ual and pecuniary nature. ” It proposes to organize such people into
fraternal societies, in each community, who shall hold regular meetings, as
prescribed by its laws, for culture in social, literary and parliamentary disci-
pline; for the promotion of pure morals among its members; making provision
for clean and helpful society; caring for the sick, promoting the welfare of
the living, and making adequate, safe provision for the pecuniary assistance
of the dependents of members removed by death. The growth of this society^
has been almost phenomenal. At the first annual meeting of the supreme
circle, held August 9, 1887, it was found that an extension and a develop-
ment had been made in one year that surpassed anything before known in the
history of fraternal insurance societies. This growth, one both in numbers
and quality, was made in the face of the fact that the Protected Home Circle
occupied the ground where other societies were strongly entrenched, and, in
some cases, opposed to the advent of the new comer. The first Supreme
President was Rev. H. C. Hall, and the Secretary, P. D. Stratton. The pres-
ent officers of the Supreme Circle, which meets annually in its regular office
in Duffy’s Block, Sharon, Penn., are: S. P. , H. C. Hall; S. Y. P. , J. Y.
Rose; S. S. , P. D. Stratton; S. A., W. S. Palmer; S. T., Alex. McDowell; S.
M. D., Salem Heilman; S. S., A. W. Williams. Board of directors: H. C.
Hall, J. Y. Rose, P. D. Stratton, Salem Heilman, A. S. Service, Alex.
McDowell, M. Zahniser, W. S. Palmer and A. W. Williams. The condition
of the society is flourishing. Over 2,200 certificates have been already issued,
and there are ten local circles in Mercer County. In the State there are about
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
399
900 members, each paying a membership fee of $5, to which is added an
average annual expense of $3, and the monthly assessment ranging according
to age.
Sharon Circle No. 1, P. H. C., was organized August 17, 1886, with
nearly thirty charter members. Its first officers were: President, M. Zahni-
ser; Past President, J. E. Hewitt; Vice-President, A. S. Service; Secretary,
John L. Morrison; Guardian, W. E. Van Orsdel; Accountant, H. W. Horton;
Treasurer, James V. Rose; Porter, Mrs. E. Cope; Watchman, D. Cartwright;
Guide, Samuel Potter; Companion, Mrs. R. Potter. The circle has grown
rapidly, and has now nearly 300 members.
Algonquin Lodge No. 1206, K. & L. of H., was instituted November 22,
1886, by L. B. Lockwood, the Grand Protector of Pennsjdvania, in Hoelzle
Hall, with the following named charter members : J. H. Gilmore, Henry Ohl,
Mrs. DeEtta Ohl, J. E. Lightner, C. J. Bussey, S. A. McKay, Mrs. S. A.
McKay, Charles M. Couch, Dr. Charles W. Hoyt, Mrs. Emeline Hoyt, Dr. J.
H. Reed, Mrs. Kate L. Reed, D. R. Shiras, Mrs. Lydia E. Shiras, John Han-
nah, Mrs. Lulu Hannah, Prof. J. W. Canon, Mrs. M. E. Canon, Mrs. Mary
J. Ray, Mrs. R. J. Southard, Miss Millie F. Rose, Mrs. John Fullerton, Mrs.
L. A. Burrell, J. W. Vandeventer, Mrs. J. W. Vandeventer. The first of-
ficers comprised: P. P. , Mrs. De Etta Ohl; P., Charles M. Couch; V. P. , J.
H. Gilmore; Secretary, J. W. Vandeventer; F. S., S. A. McKay; Treasurer,
C. J. Bussey; Chaplain, J. W. Canon; Guide, Mrs. John Fullerton; Guar-
dian, Mrs. R. J. Southard, and Sentinel, Henry Ohl. Meetings are held on
the first and third Mondays of each month in Hoelzle Hall. The membership
of the lodge is twenty-three.
The Woman's Christian Temperance Union of Sharon owes its origin to
a “league” organized March 17, 1874, in the U. P. Church, when 120 ladies
met and effected a temporary organization. On the following day Mrs. Mary
H. Wolfkill was chosen president; Miss Della Hammond and Mrs. G. W^.
Porter, vice-presidents; Mrs. S. C. Yoder, recording secretary; Mrs. Clara
E. Clark, corresponding secretary, and Mrs. James M. Willson, treasurer.
Committees were appointed to secure names to the pledge, and visit places
where intoxicating liquors were sold. Meetings were held daily, and the
temperance crusade worked up to a white heat. The saloons were invaded,
the proprietors reasoned with, and prayers offered, and so persistent was the
work prosecuted that the people of the town became divided into factions, and
much bitter feeling was engendered. Beside those previously mentioned, the
following ladies served on the committees engaged in the crusade: Mrs. Alfred
Williams, Mrs. John Gay, Mrs. A. P. Hamilton, Mrs. M. Kennedy, Mrs. J.
J. Hunter, Mrs. B. K. Ormond, Mrs. J. McKnight, Miss Jennie Strawbridge,
Mrs. M. Christy, Mrs. Kate Moore, Mrs. Joseph McCleery, Miss Jennie
Dunn, Mrs. Dr. McArthur, Mrs. J. T. W'ilson, Mrs. H. Brown, Mrs. E. Elliott,
Mrs. E. Hyde, Mrs. J. P. Reed, Mrs. J. Hyde, Mrs. J. Wright, Mrs. Corpe,
Mrs. Stewart, JMrs. George Williams, Mrs. Dickey, Mrs. Lockhart and others.
The following ministers took a leading part in the movement: Revs. L. W.
Day, B. K. Ormond, Orange Higgins, A. S. Willson, Latshaw, Truesdale and
Vogel; also Messrs. J. M. Irvine, E. A. Wheeler, J. P. Reed, Joseph Mc-
Cleery, P. L. Williams, Alfred Williams, John Titus, W. C. Bell, S. C.
Yoder, J. B. King, Isaac De Forest and many others. A large number of
dealers were prosecuted and fined for illegal liquor-selling, and hundreds of
dollars were thus secured and turned over to the Sharon school fund. The
crusade of 1874 is still vividly remembered as one of the leading national tem-
perance movements of the century. The local union is still vigorously push-
400
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ing the cause of temperance, and bitterly fighting against the sale of intoxi-
cants.
Sharon Y. W. C. T. U. was organized September 12, 1886, in the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, by Henrietta Moore, with the following members;
Sadie Stambaugh, Met Stambaugh, Etta Stambaugh, Millie Boyer and Mattie
Harper. Millie Boyer was first president, and Sadie Stambaugh, secretary.
The order numbers some sixty members at present, and is in good condition.
FIEE DEPARTMENT AND FIEES.^
Sharon has an efficient fire department, of which its citizens feel justly
proud. The history embraces some interesting items. On the 8th of March,
1856, the town council decided to “procure and furnish six ladders, six fire
hooks and poles, for use of said borough in case of fire; two of said ladders
to be fifteen feet, two twenty, and two twenty-five feet long, and to be made in
a good and substantial manner.” This equipment was the means of protec-
tion until June 16, 1873, when the present department was regularly organized
as follows: President, W. I. Mordock; vice-president, W. O. Leslie; secretary, J.
L. Morrison; treasurer, Thomas S. Alexander ; ex-commissioners, E. T. Higgs
and George F. Shaeffer; foreman, T. K. Perkins; first assistant foreman, James
F. Golden; second assistant foreman, C. E. Bundel; engineer, S. M. Blystone;
assistant engineer, J». E. Beebe; fireman, H. K. Neiler; suction men, J. J.
Hunter, E. N. Ohl, Isaac Wise and W. W. Davidson; axe men, William Rob-
erts, James P. McKnight, George F. Shaeffer and James Burnett; pipe men,
Phil. Leonard, E. T. Higgs, W. D. McMillen, James H. Ash, Perry Byard
and Vulk Brooks; hose directors, John Marshall, Alvin Bronson, James
Wright and Daniel Williams; reel No. 1, Thomas S. Alexander, William Bide-
man, John H. Fisher, Joseph Higgs, G. B. Johnson, W. I. Mordock, John
L. Moi’rison, Thomas J. Montgomery, W. J. Watson and Ben. R. Williams;
reel No. 2, C. A. Ashton, James A. Boyd, W. V. Byard, M. B. Hofius,
George S. Kirk, W. O. Leslie, R. G. Morrison, J. C. Offutt, J.C. Owsley and
J. W. Scott.
Robert S. May was appointed by the council as chief in 1873, and filled the
position about three years, when he was succeeded by Thomas K. Perkins,
who held the office about two years. May was again appointed, and continued
until 1881, when the present efficient chief, C. E. Bundel, succeeded him, and
has since filled the position in a very creditable manner. The organization
since 1873 has been as follows:
1874 — President, John L. Morrison; vice-president, George S. Kirk; sec-
retary, C. E. Bundel; treasurer, Thomas S. Alexander.
1875 — President George S. Kirk; vice-president, William M. Jackson; sec-
retary, C. McTaggart; treasurer, W. O. Leslie.
1876 — President, J. C. Owsley; vice-president, Mark Cohen: secretary, C.
McTaggart; treasurer, J. J. Hunter.
1877 — President, J. C. Owsley; vice-president, Mark Cohen; secretary,
C. McTaggart; treasurer, J. E. Golden.
1878 — President. William M. Williams; vice-president, Thomas D. McFar-
land; secretary, C. E. Bundel; treasurer, J. F. Golden.
1879— 80 — President, Thomas D. McFarland; vice-president, J. J. Hunter;
secretary, C. E. Bundel; treasurer, J. F. Golden.
1881 — President, Harry Oi’chard; vice-president, John W. Mason; secre-
tary, C. E. Bundel; treasurer, J. E. Golden.
1882- 83 — President, John W. Mason; vice-president, W. S. McGowan;
secretary, H. B. Robison; treasurer, J. W. Fisher,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
401
1884 — President, John W. Mason; vice-president, Robert Leipheimer;
secretary, H. B. Robison; treasurer, B. F. Budd.
1885 — President, JobnW. Mason; vice-president, Robert Leipbeimer; sec-
retary, C. E. Gibson; treasurer, B. F. Budd.
1886 — President, S. H. Sisson; vice-president, Fred. McClain; secretary,
Jobn W. Mason; treasurer, B. F. Budd.
1887 — President, S. H. Sisson; vice-president, James N. McClain; secre-
tary, Charles A. Hazen; treasurer, C. E. Bundel.
1888 — President, Robert Leipbeimer; vice-president, H. B. Robison; sec-
retary, Charles A. Hazen; treasurer, C. E. Bundel.
The first meetings of the company were held in a barn on Bridge Street.
The present city building, which serves as headquarters for the department,
stands on Chestnut Street. It was erected in the autumn of 1873, being occu-
pied in November. The lot and building cost about $10,000. In February,
1874, the Shenango Hook and Ladder Company was organized. It was
composed of substantial business men of the place, from whom the romance
of pulling a heavy truck with a forty-five foot ladder soon departed. It
passed through many changes and reorganizations, and ceased as an organiza-
tion in 1887. After the decease of the Shenango Hook and Ladder Company,
the Sharon Engine and Hose Company was reorganized. May 3, 1887, as the
Sharon Fire Department. It now consists of three officers and twenty-seven
men. The first equipment was a third class (size) Silsby engine, two hand
hose reels, and one two-horse carriage and the hook and ladder truck. At
present, under the water-works regime, the steamer is held as a reserve. In-
stead of the hand reels a two-horse hose wagon has been added.
The first fire after the organization was at New Castle June 21, 1873. The
company was present and won lairrels. The first fire in Sharon was a small
frame building on the corner of State and Dock Streets, October 3, 1873. The
most extensive fire occurred on Thursday, October 5, 1876, a planing-mill
owned by Wallis & Carley, on Dock Street, being burned. Some eight build-
ings were consumed, at a loss of $30,000. On the 25th of July, 1878, Fred-
erick Hoelzle’s Block was consumed, the fire starting in Bowden’s carriage
shop on Vine Street. Some fourteen buildings were consumed, with a loss of
more than $30, 000. It was the Chicago fire of the place.
BANKING INSTITUTIONS.
The pioneer bank of Sharon was established by C. B. Wick, S. Q. Porter
and William Coleman, early in 1865, under the firm name of Wick, Porter &
Co. The following November Simon Perkins purchased the interest of Mr.
Coleman and a part of Mr. Wick’s, Mr. Porter buying the remainder, the
name of the firm then becoming Porter & Perkins. This bank carried on a
large business, and had very extensive deposits, as it was then the only banking
institution in Sharon. It continued business until early in 1870, when Porter
& Perkins sold out to the First National Bank, both taking stock in the latter
at the same time.
McDowelV s Bank is the successor of the second banking institution of
Sharon, established by D. C. Strawbridge May 1, 1868. In March, 1870,
James Bleakley, Son & Co. bought the Strawbridge Bank, and began a general
banking and exchange business, with a financial basis of $l0O,OOO. Mr.
Bleakley withdrew from the bank in 1873, and his son-in-law, Alex. Me
Dowell, the previous ‘ ‘ Co. ’ ’ of the firm, took full charge, and has since
conducted its operations. It has a capital of $100,000, and is doing its full
share of the banking and brokerage business of Sharon. Its quarters are in
402
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
the substantial brick block owned by the I. O. O. F., on the corner of State
and Vine Streets, and its financial standing is recognized as substantial as the
block it occupies.
The First National Bank of Sharon was organized on the 31st of August,
1868, and began business operations on the 1st of November same year, with
a capital stock of $100,0(10, which has since been increased to $125,000.
The first officers of the bank were; President, George Prather; vice-president,
James Westerman, and cashier, J. T. Wilson. In the autumn of 1871 Mr.
Prather died, and his place was filled by the election of J. J. Spearman, the
present ijresident. The bank occupies an excellent building on State Street,
erected in 1875, and owned by itself, a model of convenience and comfort,
containing banking office, cashier’s office and directors’ room. The vault is
one of the most complete in Western Pennsylvania, outside of Pittsburgh,
being fire and burglar proof, and fitted up with the latest time and combina-
tion locks. The present officers of the bank are: President, J. J. Spearman;
vice-president, B. H. Henderson; cashier, A. S. Service; assistant cashier, W.
F. Porter; teller, Benjamin Spearman. The institution has a surplus and
undivided profits of $100,000, while the line of deposits averages $500,000.
The Sharon Savings Bank -was chartered September 14, 1869, with a capital
stock of $50,000, and began business in the following May, under the supervi-
sion of; President, John M. Mordock; cashier, J. E. McCarter; book-keeper,
A. E. Graham. It did a good business till August, 1878, when it failed
because of a large amount of bad paper it had taken. It, however, finally
paid uj3 the larger part of its indebtedness to depositors and others, the stock-
holders being the principal losers.
Sharon National Bank. — In 1870 Mr. M. Zahniser and L. Hefling, Esq.,
organized the “Sharon Banking Company,” with a capital of $200,000.
Under this name a general banking business was carried on until May, 1875,
when a reorganization was effected, under the present title of “Sharon
National Bank. ” During the good times preceding the change deposits in the
old institution amounted upon several occasions to upward of $700,000. The
first officers of the bank were: President, Joseph Forker; vice-president,
James Westerman; cashier, M. Zahniser; assistant cashier, T. K. Perkins.
Mr. Westerman became president in 1878, and held the office till his death,
July 20, 1884. He was succeeded by Joseph Forker, who still fills the posi-
tion. M. H. Henderson is vice-president, and John Forker, assistant cashier
and book-keeper. The building occupied by the reorganized bank since 1875
is near the E. & P. Railroad, on State Street. In it the bank has enjoyed fair
prosperity, and is yet conducting an increasing business. The capital stock
is at present $125,000. Mr. Zahniser has been cashier of the bank since its
inception.
The Sharon Building and Loan Association was incorporated December
17, 1872, by J. G. Elliott, A. W. Phillips, Alex. McDowell, C. E. Bundel,
George F. Shaeffer, E. W. Morrison, William Henlan, John L. Morrison,
Thomas S. Alexander, I. K. Whitcraft, A. B. Llewelyn and Robert Boyce.
The purpose of the association, as expressed in its constitution, was that of
accumulating a fund by the contributions of members, and to loan the same to
them to enable them to purchase real estate, erect buildings or engage in any
legitimate business. This association lasted seven years, its affairs being
wound up early in 1880. During its existence it fully accomplished its object,
and was a great assistance to its members. On May 21, 1887, a similar asso-
ciation was chartered by Alex. McDowell, A. W. Williams, JohnL. Morrison,
C. W. Ray, R. Hanlon, C. M. Rice, George Tribby and Thomas B. Beil, with
i'G.Kerno
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
405
a capital stock of 1500,000, divided into 2,500 shares of the par value of $200
each, but nothing further was done, and the project has from all appear-
ances been abandoned.
GAS AND WATER COMPANIES.
The Sharon Gaslight and Water Company, was chartered in 1863, and in
the spring of 1871 began the erection of works on the corner of Silver and
Railroad Streets. The plant was built and mains laid under the supervision
of D. R. Shiras, and in September, 1871, the town was lighted for the first
time with gas. The first corps of officers were C. G. Carver, president; D. R.
Shiras, secretary and general manager; S. P. Dame, treasurer. Mr. Dame was
succeeded in a short time by M. Zahniser. The present officers consist of
Simon Perkins, president, and J. L. Carver, secretary and manager. The
company’s plant embraces five miles and a half of mains, and it furnishes the
borough with fifty-one street lamps.
The Columbia Gaslight and Fuel Company, organized at Franklin in 1886,
opened a main to Sharon in May, 1887, and supplies the town with natural gas
at a distance of fifty-four miles. The supply comes from the Speechly District.
About sixteen miles of pipe are laid in town. D. R. Shiras manages the
Sharon plant. This fuel has proven a great boon to the people of Sharon, as
well as to its manufacturing interests, and few would care to return to the use
of wood and coal.
The Sharon Water-works were incorporated November 20, 1883, with a
capital stock of $20,000,. divided into 200 shares of the par value of $100 each.
The first board of directors consisted of John C. Owsley, J. S. Fruit, Ellis
Morrison, Charles S. Wallace and W. D. Wallace. The present officers are:
President, Samuel R. Bullock; vice-president, John C. Owsley; directors, Will-
iam S. Mercer, Alex. McDowell and Ellis Morrison; secretary, Ellis Mor-
rison; treasurer, E. Waltman; superintendent, E. J. Robinson. The borough
is supplied from a reservoir elevated 319 feet, located northwest of Sharon, in
Ohio, into which water is forced from the Shenango River. There are eighty
fire plugs and ten miles of mains inside the corporation.
CEMETERIES.
In 1807 William Budd donated to the Baptist Church a lot for church and
grave-yard, the latter, however, to be for the general use of the community at
large. This ground was the first one used in Sharon, and extended up the hill
west from the Catholic Church. At a later day Mr. Budd gave an adjoining
lot to the Methodists, and the two lots were thrown into one cemetery for the
use of the town. This was used as a burying-ground until Oakwood was
opened, when Dr. J. M. Irvine got a bill passed by the Legislature prohibiting
interment within the borough limits. In 1876 the dead were removed to Oak-
wood, and the old site is now principally occupied by dwelling-houses.
Oakwood Cemetry Association was chartered April 11, 1866, by Dr. J. M.
Irvine, T. J. Porter, C. Q. Carver, E. A. Wheeler, James Westerman, Samuel
Kimberly, Thomas Bowden and E. J. Fish. The first officers chosen were:
President, T. J. Porter; secretary and treasurer. Dr. J. M. Irvine. The grounds
include thirty -two acres, which were purchased of James McCleery, in 1867,
at $100 per acre. The surveying and platting was done by P. Butz, of New
Castle, Penn. The superintendent, John Randall, was instrumental in orna-
menting the grounds. This city of the dead lies northeast of the borough, and re-
flects much credit upon the enterprise of its originators, as well as upon the affec-
tionate regard exhibited by the people of Sharon toward their deceased friends.
23
406
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
GROWTH AND POPULATION.
The growth of Sharon throughout its earliest history was, indeed, very
slow, and at the close of its first half century had embraced only 900 inhab-
itants. In 1840 we find a scattered village of about 400 people, and on this
population it was incorporated the following year. In 1850 the town had only
541 inhabitants, an increase of but 141 in ten years. The next decade it
almost doubled, having in 1860 a population of 900. During the war a boom
struck the town, and the census of 1870 gives Sharon 4,221 inhabitants. It
has kept on growing ever since. In 1880 it had 5,684, while its present
estimated population, based on the school enumeration, is about 7,000. The
growth of Sharon is of course principally due to her large manufacturing
interests, and to the enterprise and public spirit of her citizens.
CHAPTER XX.
Borough of Greenville— Location and Original Land Claims— West
Greenville Laid Out, and Origin of Name— Shank’s Ford— The Toivn
Re-surveyed and Lots Sold— Pioneers — Keck’s Addition to West Green-
ville— First Lot Owners in that Addition— Early" Business Interests
—West Greenville in 1833 — Residents of that Period — Additions to the
Town— Incorporation and Borough Officials— Schools— First Schools
and Teachers— Greenville Academy— Union Schools— Thiel College-
Churches — Cemeteries— Secret and other Societies— Manufactures—
Banks— Building and Loan Association, and Board of Trade— Gas and
Water Companies— Local Insurance Companies — Fire Department and
Most Destructive Fires— Bridges— Railroads— Kame Changed to
Greenville— Effort toObtaintheCountySeat— Groavth and Appear-
ance.
f'T^HIS borough, the most beautiful one in the county, is gracefully and pleas-
-L antly situated at the confluence of the Little Shenango and Shenango
Rivers, on ‘ ‘ warrants lands ’ ’ represented in the early times as belonging toW ill-
iam Hall on the west side and J. Stenger on the east. To know how the settle-
ment of Greenville was brought about, it may be well to be informed that the
Fifth Donation District, embracing 100 tracts of 400 acres each, for which no
soldiers’ warrants were issued, the roll of soldiers being exhausted before the
land on the west end was taken up, lay in this region. Judge Wilson, of
Philadelphia, obtained from the State, warrants bearing fictitious names, at a
mere nominal price, being bound to have each tract settled within five years
or forfeit his claim. Wilson failed, and John Nicholson became the purchaser
at sheriff’s sale. Probst, Lodge & Walker, agents for Nicholson, proceeded
to bargain with settlers and have their boundaries defined. Wilson, during
his ownership, engaged to give half of each tract to the settler, but the agents
of Nicholson were willing to allow only 100 acres. The result was a great deal
of litigation before the question was settled, with varying fortunes on each side.
Probst, Lodge & Walker, about 1798 or 1799, laid out, on a tract of fifty
acres which they obtained from Jacob Loutzenhiser, in exchange for 100
acres up the Little Shenango, the village of West Greenville, Walker doing
the surveying. It was so called because of two circumstances. 1. The west
bank of the Shenango was covered with hemlocks, whose green foliage sug-
gested the idea of a green villa. 2. Its location on the west side suggested
the prefix.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
407
Tobias Shank bought the first one of these lots, and at once erected a log
tavern near the west end of the bridge, thus becoming the first innkeeper of
the place. His house stood on the northwest corner of Main and First
Streets, the site now occupied by the two-story frame house dwelt in by Ai’t.
Weir. He also kept a canoe for the convenience of foot travelers, aiming, it
seems, to cater to the wants of the public. A little below was a ford at which
horsemen and wagons could cross. The place was familiarly called “Shank’s
Ford” for several years.
Greenville is thus the oldest town in the county, its origin dating back to
the close of the last century. Other lots than the one sold to Shank were
disposed of, but none seem to have been built upon; nor was this first town
plat recorded. At least no record has been made to guide posterity. The en-
tire property, after passing through the hands of Jacob Loutzenhiser, Sr.,
and John Walker, fell into possession of William Scott, who had it resur-
veyed, retaining the old name. This occurred in 1815, and Scott sold off the
lots quite rapidly, and furnished good titles to purchasers.
PIONEERS.
The first settlements in this vicinity were commenced in the autumn of 1796
by a hardy band of land prospectors from Westmoreland County, Penn., com-
prising the Klingensmiths, Kecks, Loutzenhisers and Christys. They selected
sites for future homes, upon which they settled permanently in the spring of
1797. Daniel Klingensmith, Sr., located on the site of the rolling mills.
His sons, Peter and John,, also took up lands in what is now West Salem
Township. Peter, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph and Daniel Keck settled in the
same vicinity, their locations extending down the Shenango for several miles.
Joseph and Abraham were sons-in-law of Daniel Klingensmith, Sr.
Jacob Loutzenhiser settled first on the site of Orangeville, where he built
a grist-mill in 1798. He, too, was a son-in-law of Daniel Klingensmith, and
with the latter purchased a large tract of land where Greenville now stands.
He sold his property on the Ohio line to Adam Haun in 1802, and settled
near his father-in-law. In 1798 he sold 100 acres northeast of Greenville to
John Williamson, who built thereon a saw and grist-mill. This came back into
the possession of Loutzenhiser in January, 1806, who retained it up to his death
in 1821. In 1815 Loutzenhiser constructed a dam across the Shenango and
erected a log grist-mill on the site of the Mathers mill. This he owned and
operated up to his death, when it was sold by his executors to Joseph Keck,
who ran it for many years. Loutzenhiser’ s son, Jacob, was afterward sheriff
of Mercer County.
Col. Andrew Christy settled two miles east of Greenville, in what is now
Hempfield Township. He was quite a prominent man in the early develop-
ment of the county, and served as lieutenant- colonel in the War of 1812, his
regiment being composed principally of Mercer County pioneers. He was
elected sheriff in 1827, and served one term. His father, John, a native of
Ireland, and brothers John and Samuel, also two sisters, accompanied him from
Westmoreland County in the spring of 1797. They settled on what is known
as the Callen farm, south of Greenville. John Christy, Sr., is said to have
been the first justice of the peace in the county. His son John afterward
filled the same office for many years. Col. Christy went to Erie several times
to prevent the capture of that place by the British. He subsequently held
the position of brigade inspector. His son James W. is a resident of
Greenville.
John W’illiamson came the following year (1798), and bought 100 acres of
408
HISTOBY OF MEECEK COUNTY.
land from Jacob Loutzenhiser, lying on the Little Shenango, northeast of
Greenville. He came from near Carlisle, Cumberland Coimty. On this tract
Williamson and James King, the latter a mill-wright, erected a saw-mill with a
grist-mill attachment the next year. Two years later (1800), their families
having meanwhile arrived, these two men built the first grist-mill on the Little
Shenango. At the time of Williamson’s arrival his family consisted of wife
and five children: Anne, James, Agnes, Susan and Eliza. Two more were
finally born in Mercer County, John and Melinda. Of these, the former is
still living at Jamestown. Mr. Williamson is said to have been a man who
could not do too much for a neighbor that needed assistance, and was much re-
spected. The mill erected by Williamson, together with the one at Orange-
ville, Bentley’s at Sharon, and Peter Wilson’s on Yellow Creek, in Jackson
Township, were the pioneers of their kind in the county. Williamson died
July 21, 1840, aged eighty-one years
Another family, quite numerous at the time, was that of the Beans. They
located on the east side of the river, in what is nowHempfield Township, about
1798. The names were: Robert, James, Thomas, Hugh, William, Alexander
and Andrew. These were all brothers. They had one sister, married to Rob-
ert Bole, one of the first board of county commissioners. Of this number
Thomas became a tavern-keeper, beginning in the house which Tobias Shank
kept. Near it he subsequently erected a much superior structure, which is still
standing. He was somewhat of a military character, and attained the position
of colonel and brigade inspector, a position much sought in those days. Rob-
ert, a half brother of Thomas, went out in the War of 1812 an enlisted sol-
dier, but returned with a lieutenant’s commission in the regular army, as a
reward for meritorious service in the battle of Lundy’s Lane. He subsequently
became postmaster and justice of the peace at Greenville.
Hugh Brown, a native of County Down, Ireland, and a weaver by trade,
came from Fayette County via Beaver, along an Indian path, in 1799, to New
Castle, then just laid out; and thence continued his journey up the Shenango
to his settlement in the forks of the two Shenangos, a mile above town. At
the time of his settlement he had four children: John W., MaryK., James W.
and Jane. His grandson, J. C. Brown, is at present editor of the Advance-
Argus. ‘
John Ferguson, William McClimans, Robert McKean, the McCulloughs,
Hugh Donaldson, James Stinson, Robert Bole, Alexander Dumars, William
McMillen and James Dumars all settled east of the Shenango, in the vicinity
of Greenville, in 1798, 1799 and 1800. Besides the Klingensmiths and Kecks,
the nearest settlers to Greenville, on the west side of the river, were Joseph
Loutzenhiser, Sr. (father of Jacob) and sons, John and Peter, who came in
1800; Joseph and William McClurg, Richard Tunison and James Nelson, all
of whom settled along the west bank of the Shenango before the commence-
ment of the present century.
William Scott, concerning whom some mention has already been made,
came from Fayette County, in 1799 or 1800, and settled in the east part of
what is now West Salem. He afterward became possessor of the fifty acres
laid out by Probst, Lodge & Walker, and some of the lands surrounding.
He was the first justice of the peace in Greenville, where he continued to
reside until his death, April 9, 1849.
Maj. John Sims, a brother-in-law of Col. Andrew Christy, was the first
tanner in the northwest part of the county. He lived in what is now Hemp-
field Township, not far from Greenville, where he opened a tannery in 1803.
Nathan Patterson, an uncle of the sheriff of the same name brought the
HISTOEY OF MEECER COUNTY.
409
first store into this quarter of the county, about the year 1806. The store
was a small one, but the assortment was judicious and was a great convenience
to the neighbors. It stood about one mile east of Greenville.
Arthur G. Long was the next merchant that located in the vicinity, after-
ward going to New Castle. He was the father of the Hon. Alex. D. Long, who
represented the Cincinnati district in Congress during the dark days of the
Rebellion, and whose speech, defending the constitutional right of secession,
in the midst of the war, created such a profound sensation.
KECk’s addition to west GREENVILLE.
On the 24th of February, 1826, Joseph Keck placed on record his addition
to West Greenville, on lands lying east of the Shenango River, which he had
purchased of Jacob Loutzenhiser’s executors. The names of the streets in
this addition, running east and west, commencing on the north, are:. Eagle,
Shenango, Mill (now called Main) and Clinton. The alleys in the same
direction are Cherry, Talisman, Swamp and Clinton. The streets commen-
cing on the west and running north and south are Race (now Water) and
Mercer. The alleys in the same direction are Race (now Race Street) and
Canal (now called Canal Street); while the streets east of Mercer are not
named on the plat.
The first sale of lots occurred in the spring of 1826, and as far as the
names could be deciphered from the original time-eaten plat, now in the
possession of L. L. Keck, Esq. , the principal lots sold at that time, with their
purchasers, are as follows:
1.
Thomas Bole.
56.
Andrew White.
2.
J. Stevenson.
57.
J. McClimans.
3.
John Nelson.
58.
S. Walker.
4.
G. W. Coleman.
59.
Jacob Loutzenhiser.
5.
J. McLaughlin.
60.
J. W. Brown.
6.
Peter Williams.
61.
J. McWilliams.
7.
C. Riley.
62.
William Keck.
8.
J. Keck.
63-
64. E. Jones.
9.
J. P. Keck.
83.
John Nelson.
10.
Joseph Morford.
84.
William Keck.
11.
Samuel Speir.
85.
J. and J. P. Keck.
12.
J. Rusher.
86.
J. Keck.
13.
John Keck.
87.
Thomas Dumars.
14.
P. Jones.
88.
J. McClimans.
15.
G. Calvin.
89.
John Calvin.
16.
J. Potter.
91.
Robert G. Mossman.
17.
)
92.
A. Chestnut.
18.
> Diamond.
94-
■95. D. White.
19.
i
96.
J. Woods.
20.
John Donnell.
97.
Thomas Bole.
33.
S. Rice.
98-
99. John Nelson.
49.
C. Love.
100.
Daniel Keck.
50.
Silas Coulson.
101.
John Nelson.
51.
O. W. Brown.
102.
William Pollock.
52.
J. Mattox.
103.
S. Clyde.
53.
D. Jones.
104.
G. Calvin.
54.
G. Keck.
105.
Daniel Keck.
55.
J. W. Brown.
106-
107-108. D. Williams.
410
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
109. Patrick McLaughlin.
110. Daniel Keck.
111. E. Jones.
112. William Keck.
114-115. E. Jones.
127-129. E. Jones.
134-135-136. Donated to Methodist
Episcopal Church by Joseph
Keck.
EARLY BUSINESS INTERESTS.
The first mills were the saw and grist-mills, erected by John Williamson
at the close of the last century, an account of which has already been given,
and the one built by Jacob Loutzenhiser on the site of Mathers mill in
1815.
George and Samuel Lodge established the first tannery; Robert G. Moss-
man the first cabinet factory, and Paul Everhart the first pottery, all being on
the west side, though Mossman afterward established quite a large factory on
the east side of the river.
The first hotel man, as previously mentioned in this chapter, was Tobias
Shank.
The first distillery in this vicinity, and probably the first in the county,
was built in 1801 by Joseph Keck on the site of Shenango, who was there-
fore the pioneer distiller.
The first justice of the peace in this locality was John Christy, and the
second was William Scott, the latter being the first in Greenville.
In 1824 J. & A. P. Waugh opened a general store on the west side,
and the latter located in the village. He conducted the business alone until
1828, when his brother joined him, bringing his family at the same time.
They were for many years the principal merchants of the town. James was
the father of Judge William Waugh, late president of the First National
Bank, who came here with his father, and is yet a resident of Greenville.
The first post-office was established January 9, 1828, with A. P. Waugh
as postmaster. *
The earliest physicians will be remembered, Drs. Hardscrabble, Lane,
Obadiah Hall, H. D. La. Cossitt, Samuel Wylie, Beriah Magoffin and R. E.
Breiner.
The first newspaper man was Richard Hill, concerning whom information
is given in the Press chapter. In it also will be found the sketch of all Green-
ville papers. Mrs. Simeon Betts, a daughter of Mr. Hill, is living northeast
of the borough.
The first canal boat from Greenville was built by Robert G. Mossman, and
was called the “ Milnor Roberts,” in honor of the chief engineer of the canal.
The builder was the father of Rev. W. H. Mossman, of West Middlesex, and
of Dr. B. E. Mossman, of Greenville. On the night of her first trip there was
a jollification in' Greenville, and the town was filled with enthusiasm over the
completion of this, then, great public improvement.
The first canal boat of coal was taken through to Erie in December, 1844,
and was under the charge of Capt. Gregory, of Mercer.
In 1850 James R. Wick began a brokerage business; but the first regular
banking firm was established in 1856, by William Achre, A. L. Wick and
George A. Bittenbanner.
The first burgess was James R. Wick, and the first clerk of the council
was John Keck.
WEST GREENVILLE IN 1833.
In the spring of 1888 the late W. P. Hanna, of Greenville, prepared an out-
* See complete list of postmasters in Chapter V.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
411
line map representing West Greenville in 1833, the time of his first a’ppear-
ance in the village. This map has been carefully scrutinized by old residents
of the borough, and is pronounced very accurate, showing who lived in the
place at the time, what occupations they followed, and what buildings were in
existence. It is a remarkable production from memory. From it we are per-
mitted to make some extracts. These residents and buildings are divided into
two groups, viz.. West Side and East Side.
WEST SIDE.
No. 1. William Porter, cooper. Diamond Street, near Main.
No. 2. Artillery house, containing cannon, public square.
No. 3. William Gillespie’s log house, southwest corner of Wood and Main
Streets.
No. 4. Olive Hewitt’s residence, northwest corner of Wood Street and
Virgin Alley.
No. 5. Public school-house, southeast corner of Wood Street and Virgin
Alley.
No. 6. Paul Everhart’s log house. Wood Street, near school-house.
No. 7. Paul Everhart’s residence, pottery and kiln, Clarksville road.
No. 8. Robert G. Mossman’s log residence. South Third Street.
No. 9. Rev. John Gamble, teacher, log residence, south side of Main
Street, near Wood.
No. 10-11. Dr. H. D. La. Cossitt’s residence and ofiice, southwest corner
of Third and Main Streets. *
No. 12. Abraham Stoner, surveyor, residence north side of Main, opposite
Rev. Gamble’s.
No. 13. Martin Johnston, shoemaker, brick residence northwest corner of
Main and Third Streets.
No. 14. William Anderson, chair-maker, northwest corner of Third Street
and Second Alley.
No. 15. Reed Porter, plasterer, residence north end of Diamond Street.
No. 16. William Anderson, constable, residence northeast corner of Third
Street and Second Alley.
No. 17. Mrs. McCrum, north side of Main, near Third Street.
No. 18. Robert Hanna, chair -maker, southeast corner of Main and Third
Streets.
No. 19. Timothy Dumars, cabinet-maker, south side of Main, east of
Hanna’s.
No. 20. William Scott’s store, southwest corner of Main and High
Streets.
No. 21. Seceder Church, northwest corner of Main and High Streets,
Rev. Daniel McLean, pastor.
No. 22. Isaac Color’s residence. High Street, north of Main.
No. 23. James Walker’s blacksmith shop. High Street, north of Main.
No. 24. James Walker’s residence, southwest corner of High Street and
Second Alley.
No. 25. William and Samuel McCrum’ s hotel, brick, northeast corner of
Main and High Streets.
No. 27. John Moyer, tailor, southwest corner of Main Street and Second
Street Alley.
No. 28. Thomas Bole, carpenter and teacher, log house. High Street,
near Virgin Alley.
No. 29. Samuel Webster, teacher. High Street, south of Virgin Alley.
412
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
No. 30. Arthur G. Long, pioneer merchant, log house, corner of Third
Street and Clarksville road.
No. 31. Robert G. Mossman’s tan-yard, southeast corner of Third Street
and Virgin Alley.
No. 32. Jane Nelson’s residence. South Second Street.
No. 33. John Martin, carpenter, southwest corner of Second Street and
Virgin Alley.
No. 34. Samuel Melvin, carpenter, northwest corner of Second Street and
Virgin Alley.
No. 35. William Cowan, carpenter. Second Street, north of Melvin’s.
No. 36. Mrs. Catharine Shannon’s hotel, southeast corner of Main Street
and Second Street Alley.
No. 37. James R. Wick’s residence and store, northwest corner of Main
and Second Streets.
No. 38. Solomon Clyde’s residence. Second Street, north of Main.
No. 39. William and Samuel McCrum’s still-house, between Second Street
and Second Street Alley, north of Second Alley.
No. 40. J. & A. P. Waugh’s brick residence, northeast corner of Main
and Second Streets.
No. 41. J. & A. P. Waugh’s store, northwest corner of Main and Front
Street Alley.
No. 42. Josiah McPherrin’s hat shop. Second Street, south of Main.
No. 43. Harvey Walker’s blacksmith shop, southeast corner of Main and
Front Street Alley. *
No. 44. Harvey Walker’s brick residence, southwest corner of Main and
Front Streets.
No. 45. John P. McDowell’s residence. Front Street, south of Main.
No. 46. Adam Miller, miller in Campbell’s mill, log house. Front Street,
south of Main, near the river.
No. 47. John Service, saddler, southeast corner of Front and Main
Streets.
No. 49. Thomas N. Bean’s hotel, northeast corner of Main Street and
Front Street Alley.
No. 50. Shank House, then the residence of Jacob Loutzenhiser, now of
West Salem, hewed log building, in which Robert Bean kept the post-office,
northwest corner of Main and Front Streets.
No. 51. Used as a school-house, Thomas Bole teacher, northwest corner
of Front Street and Second Alley.
No. 52. Richard Hill’s residence and printing office, southwest corner of
Front Street and Second Alley.
No. 53. William Scott’s farm residence, west of High Street and north of
town limits.
No. 56. Jacob Hommer's farm house, Clarksville road.
No. 57. McClure Cowan, carpenter. Front Street, between Main Street
and Second Alley.
No. 58. Charles Ninemeyer, gunsmith. High Street, north of Second
Alley.
No. 59. Robert Bean, postmaster, northwest corner of Main and Front
Streets.
No. 60. George Moore, tailor. South Front Street, near the river.
No. 61. Dr. Samuel Wylie’s residence, northeast corner of Main and
Second Street Alley.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
413
EAST SIDE.
No. 1. Samuel Wortman, carpenter, south side of Main Street, between
the mill race and the river.
No. 2. Conrad Bittenbanner, Exchange Hotel, southwest corner of Main
and Water Streets.
No. 3. Andrew Campbell’s flouring mill, northwest corner of Main and
Water Streets.
No. 4. Joseph Keck’s log house. Water Street, south of Main.
No. 5. Andrew Campbell’s brick residence, north side of Main Street,
east of Water.
No. 6. William Pollock’s residence, south side of Main Street.
No. 7. Bryan McNally’s tailor shop and residence, log house, near south-
west corner of Main and Race Streets.
No. 8. John Keck’s frame residence, north side of Main, between Water
and Race Streets.
No. 9. Samuel Goodwin, merchant, northeast corner of Main and Race
Streets.
No. 10. Isaac R. Bearce’s blacksmith shop, southeast corner of Main and
Race Streets.
No. 11. John Nelson, butcher, residence south side of Main Street.
No. 12. John McMillan, cabinet-maker, residence south side of Main
Street.
No. 13. Charles Love, chair-maker, southeast corner of Race and She-
nango Streets.
No. 14. William Wood, cabinet-maker, north side of Main Street.
No. 15. Presbyterian Church, Rev. James Alexander, pastor, north side
of Shenango Street.
No. 16. Ormsby’s wool-carding factory. Talisman Alley.
No. 17. Ormsby’s residence, north side of Main Street, south of factory.
No. 18. John Nelson’s slaughter-house, near the corner of Canal and
Clinton Streets.
No. 19. Isaac R. Bearce’s residence, south side of Clinton near Canal
Street.
No. 20. Methodist Episcopal log church, south side of Clinton, between
Canal and Mercer Streets.
No. 21. Charles Townsend, shoemaker, south side of Main, between
Canal and Mercer Streets.
No. 22. Simon Snyder, carpenter, near northwest corner of Main and
Mercer Streets.
No. 23. Mrs. L. Holland’s hewed log house, north side of Main Street.
No. 24. William G. Fell, carpenter, north side of East Main Street.
No. 25. James Scott, teacher, south side of East Main Street.
No. 26. Lambert Haun, carpenter, north side of East Main Street.
No. 27. John Loutzenhiser, residence northwest corner of Main Street and
Meadville road.
No. 28. School-house, near northeast corner of Main Street and Meadville
road.
No. 29. Mrs. Betsy Keck, residence south of Main Street on Meadville
road.
No. 31. David Gaiser, carpenter, residence south of Main Street on Mead-
ville road.
No. 32. John Scott’s farm house, south of Main Street on Meadville road.
No. 33. Robert Mann’s farm house, south of Main Street on Meadville
road.
414
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
No. 34. Robert Mann’s brick kiln, South Mercer Street.
No. 35. Solomon Klingensmith’s residence, called “Solomon’s Temple,”
Clinton Street, east of Penn.
No. 36. David Loutzenhiser’ s grist-mill, Meadville road, north of the
Little Shenango.
No. 37. David Loutzenhiser’ s farm house, north of grist-mill.
No. 38. Owen N. Rice’s wool- carding factory and grist-mill, north bank
of Little Shenango.
No. 39. David Loutzenhiser’ s oil mill, Meadville road, south bank of
Little Shenango.
No. 40. “Indian Mound,” in the forks of the two Shenangos, about
twenty feet high and seventy-live in diameter.
No. 41. Isaac R. Bearce’s Island, south of Main Street, between the mill
race and the Shenango.
No. 42. Rev. Boggs, Millerite preacher, residence south side of Main
Street.
Many of these lots were sold by Mr Keck at public auction, the first sale
occurring in the spring of 1826. Joseph Loutzenhiser bought one opposite
the Mathers mill for $50.
Additions to the borough have been made at different times by Robert Bean,
on the west, and bj' Joseph Keck, Power & Sankey, John A. Waugh, R. M.
Waugh, Wick & Goodwin, J. R. Wick, Robert McMasters, R. G. Mossman,
J. B. Plumer and J. W. & J. C. Brown, on the east.
INCORPORATION AND BOROUGH OFFICIALS.
Greenville was incorporated into a borough May 29, 1837, in compliance
with a petition signed by sixty-eight citizens of the village, and presented
to the court in December, 1836. The town had then, according to the peti-
tion, 495 inhabitants. The first election was held at the house of Col. Bean,
on the third Monday of June, 1837. The following is the list of officials
controlling the destiny of Greenville for the past fifty-one years. It is taken
from the records, and is complete except for the year 1844, which is missing
from the minute book, where strong evidence exists to prove that if there was
a council no minutes were kept of its meetings.
1837 — Burgess, James R. Wick; council, Moses Varney, Andrew Camp-
bell, William J. Woods, McClure Cowan, Josiah McPherrin; treasurer, Sam-
uel Goodwin; clerk, John Keck.
1838 — Burgess, John Keck; council, Harvey Walker, John Nelson, John
M. Graham, Paul Everhart, William G. Fell; treasurer, Samuel Goodwin;
clerk, George A. Bittenbanner.
1839 — Burgess, Robert McMaster; council, McClure Cowan, Adam Seiple,
John Keck, Josiah McPherrin, John Service; treasurer, Samuel Goodwin;
clerk, George A. Bittenbanner.
1840 — Burgess, William McCrum; council, John Service, Adam Seiple,
I. R. Bearce, Isaac Hildebrand, R. G. Mossman; clerk, J. M. Waugh;
Waugh’s salary was fixed at $5 per annum, payable quarterly.
1841 — Burgess, Samuel Goodwin; council, Samuel Wortman, Samuel
Reznor, Samuel Melvin, Gardner Bond, Samuel Wilson; clerk, W. C. Lawson.
1842 — Burgess, Samuel Wortman; council, Harvey Walker, David Loutz-
enhiser, AVilliam G. Fell, Samuel Reznor; clerk, W. C. Lawson.
1843 — Burgess, Adam Seiple; council, William G. Fell, Gardner Bond,
Paul Everhart, Thomas McDonald, John M. Graham; clerk, George W. Hun-
stable.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
415
1845 — Burgess, McClure Cowan; council, David Loutzenhiser, Joseph
Woodworth, Jonathan Long, A. A. Heath, John Moore; clerk, J. K. Hamblin.
1846 — Burgess, Samuel Goodwin; council, Josiah McPherrin, John A.
Waugh, Samuel Melvin, William Achre, Matthias McDowell; clerk, J. K
Hamblin.
1847 — Burgess, David Garber; council, Thomas Bole, T. A. Packard, F.
H. Judd, R. Root, William Cowan; clerk, J. K. Hamblin.
1848 — Burgess, James R. Wick; council, A. P. Waugh, William L.
Christy, John Moyer, Hugh Livingston, Charles Townsend; clerk, J. K.
Hamblin.
1849 — Burgess, S. P. Johnston; council, Gardner Bond, R. Gardner, R.
Root, R. S. Hiding, A. Law; clerk, J. K. Hamblin.
1850 — Burgess, Josiah McPherrin; council, Matthias McDowell, Thomas
Callen, F. H. Judd, William Cowan, John McMillen; clerk, A. D. Gillespie.
1851 — Burgess, William Achre; council, Robert Dickey, A. D. Gillespie,
Adam Huber, John Eckels, William Sutton; clerk, A. D. Gillespie.
1852 — Burgess, Joseph B. Campbell; council, A. P. Waugh, S. M. Davis,
D. B. Packard, R. Root, A. J. Christy; clerk, D. B. Packard.
1853 — Burgess, John M. Graham; council, A. P. Waugh, S. P. Johnston,
Matthias McDowell, A. D. Gillespie, Samuel Melvin; clerk, A. D. Gillespie.
1854 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, William Keck, Charles Stahr, C.
Townsend, Ichabod Goodwin, John Brackin; clerk, A. D. Gillespie.
1855 — Burgess, R. Root; council, J. K. Hamblin, R. S. Hiding, John
Eckels, Henry Austin, James Ellinger; clerk, W. W. W. Wood.
1856 — Burgess, A. D. Gdlespie; council, S. P. Johnston, James Carson,
James Law, A. M. Campbell, Charles Hoge; clerk, Charles Hoge.
1857 — Burgess, William Achre; council, Robert Dickey, Sr. ; J. K. Ham-
blin, William McDowell, Samuel Melvin, John Brackin; clerk, W. W. W.
Wood.
1858 — Burgess, Robert Dickey, Sr. ; council, Samuel Melvin, S. M. Hanna,
John Keck, A. J. McDowell, Samuel M. Davis; clerk, W. W. W. Wood.
1859 — Burgess, Henry Austin; council, John Keck, Samuel Melvin, A. J.
McDowell, James Mills, D. B. Packard; clerk, D. B. IPackard.
1860 — Burgess, John Eckels; council. R. S. Huling, A. L. Wick, James
Mills, Samuel Melvin, John Keck, D. B. Packard; clerk, D. B. Packard.
1861 — Burgess, S. P. Johnston; council, Charles McMichael, George AV.
Carskadden, R. S. Huling, A. L. AVick, D. B. Packard, James Mills; clerk,
D. B. Packard.
1862 — Burgess, Samuel Goodwin ; council, Joseph Vickers, D. B. Packard,
George W. Carskadden, R. S. Huling, Charles McMichael, A. L. Wick; clerk,
D. B. Packard.
1863 — Burgess, James Ellinger; council, H. N. Shrom, S. C. Dickey, D.
B. Packard, Joseph Vickers, Charles McMichael, George W. Carskadden;
clerk, D. B. Packard.
1864 — Burgess, Charles Hoge; council, Joseph Partridge, W. C. E.
Martin, H. N. Shrom, S. C. Dickey, D. B. Packard, Joseph Vickers; clerk, D.
B. Packard.
1865 — Burgess, A. L. Wick; council, Ichabod Goodwin, D. C. Moyer,
W. C. E. Martin, Joseph Partridge, H. N. Shrom, S. C. Dickey; clerk, S. C.
Dickey.
1866 — Burgess, Marvin Loomis; council, W. P. Leech, J. K. Hamblin,
Joseph Partridge, D. C. Moyer, W. C. E. Martin, Ichabod Goodwin; clerk,
J. K. Hamblin.
416
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1867 — Burgess, D. B. Packard; council, John Ramsey, Joseph Vickers,
IV. P. Leech, D. C. Moyer, J. K. Hamblin, Ichabod Goodwin; clerk, J. K.
Hamblin.
1868 — Burgess, Henry Austin; council, G. D. Kughler, Robert Clark, W.
P. Leech, John Ramsey, Joseph Vickers, J. K. Hamblin; clerk, J. K.
Hamblin.
1869 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, S. P. Johnston, W. R. Fessler,
A. G. Boies, G. D. Kughler, John Ramsey, Joseph Vickers; clei'k, A. G.
Boies.
1870 — Burgess, W. P. Leech; council, J. R. Bean, D. B. Packard, S. P.
Johnston, W. R. Fessler, A. G. Boies, G. D. Kughler; clerk, J. R. Bean.
1871 — Burgess, James Mills; council, H. C. Hendrickson, D. C. Moyer,
W. R. Fessler, A. G. Boies, D. B. Packard, J. R. Bean; clerk, J. R. Bean.
1872 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, C. Seigfried, D. C. Moyer,
James Sheakley, J. R. Bean, H. C. Hendrickson, D. B. Packard; secretary,
A. G. Boies.
1873 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, B. Henlein, L. B. Speir, D. C.
Moyer, C. Seigfried, H. C. Hendrickson, James Sheakley; secretary, Eugene
Gillespie.
1874 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, John J. Hutcheson, Frank Ben-
nett, D. C. Moyer, C. Seigfried, B. Henlein, L. B. Speir; secretary, Eugene
Gillespie.
1875 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, S. P. Johnston, W. A. Vaughn,
L. B. Speir, B. Henlein, J. J. Hutcheson, Frank Bennett; secretary, A. F.
Henlein.
1876 — Burgess, John Ramsey; council, D. C. Moyer, S. C. Dickey;
George O. Keck, W. A. Vaughn, Frank Bennett, J. J. Hutcheson; secretary,
A. F. Henlein.
1877 — Burgess, W. P. Leech; council, Amos Loutzenhiser, William
Paden, George O. Keck, S. C. Dickey, W. A. Vaughn, D. C. Moyer; secre-
tary, A. F. Henlein.
1878 — Burgess, Allen Turner; council, Uriah Homer, Charles R. Wray,
Joseph Vickers, William Paden, Amos Loutzenhiser, S. C. Dickey; secretary,
A. F. Henlein.
1879 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, John Neel, James H. Taylor,
William Paden, Charles R. Wray, Uriah Homer, Amos Loutzenhiser; secre-
tary, A. F. Henlein.
1880 — Burgess, John Keck; council, F. Herrick, Jacob Loutzenhiser,
Uriah Homer, Charles R. Wray, John Neel; secretary, A. F. Henlein.
1881 — Burgess, John Keck; council, R. S. Johnston, W. A. Vaughn,
Jeremiah Benninghoff, John Neel, Jacob Loutzenhiser, F. Herrick; secretary,
A. F. Henlein.
1882 — Burgess, William Achre; council, Thomas M. Reznor, I. D. Stin-
son, F. Herrick, W. A. Vaughn, R. S. Johnston, Jeremiah Benninghoff;
secretary, A. F. Henlein.
1883 — Burgess, Plimpton Leech; council, C. R. Beatty, S. C. Dickey, W.
A. Vaughn, Thomas M. Reznor, R. S. Johnston, Jeremiah Benninghoff
(resigned in May and J. G. McKnight appointed); secretary, E. S. Temple-
ton.
1884 — Burgess, A. D. Gillespie; council, H. K. Reiss, James A. Heilman,
E. H. Hawks, C. R. Beatty, S. C. Dickey, Thomas M. Reznor; secretary, E.
S. Templeton.
1885 — Burgess, John Neel; council, James Loutzenhiser, William T.
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
417
Sample, S. C. Dickey, Thomas M. Reznor, C. R. Beatty, E. H. Hawks; secre-
tary, E. S. Templeton.
1886 — Burgess, John Neel; council, Jacob Snyder, S. R. Keelen, H. K.
Reiss, William T. Sample, James Loutzenhiser, James A. Heilman; secretary,
E. S. Templeton.
1887 — Burgess, Joseph Benninghoff; council, H. N. Shrom, William
Paden, James Loutzenhiser, Jacob Snyder, W. T. Sample, S. R. Keelen;
secretary, E. S. Templeton.
1888 — Burgess, S. C. Dickey; council, E. T. Beatty, Edwin Ash, H. N.
Shrom, Jacob Snyder, William Paden, S. R. Keelen; secretary, E. S. Tem-
pleton.
SCHOOLS.
In 1802 a small log school-house was built on the farm of John Speir, about
one mile west of Greenville, in which Mr. Speir opened a school. The' vener-
able Jacob Loutzenhiser, ninety-two years old, now lives on the place. This
is believed to have been the first school-house erected and opened in this part
of the county. William Scott taught in it about 1826. The history of the
schools of Greenville proper is traceable to the efforts of James Rodgers,
who taught a small grammar school in 1824. Dr. H. D. La. Cossitt and Will-
iam Scott contributed toward the building of a small frame school building,
which answered for school purposes for several years. Samuel Webster, of
New Hampshire, came in 1825, and became a prominent teacher in Green-
ville, continuing in that capacity for a number of years. Rev. John Gamble,
concerning whom something is said in the sketch of Jamestown borough, was
an early teacher in the place. He left a strong impression upon the people.
Among his pupils were two sons-in-law of the eloquent Mercer attorney, Sam-
uel B. Foster, viz. : William M. Stephenson and Samuel Griffith, both promi-
nent educators and attorneys. They were both teachers in Greenville in the
early days. The former, as will be seen by reference to the sketch of Mercer,
was principal of the Mercer Academy, and the principal agent in founding the
Mercer public school system. The latter, still living, has been both an edu-
cator and an attorney. Besides, he represented his district in Congress. Hon.
John A. Bingham, late Minister to Japan, likewise taught at Greenville.
Greenville Academy, established largely through the agency of James R.
Wick, became for a time a popular institution, and served its purpose in fos-
tering an educational spirit in the comm'unity. The school was incorporated
July 1, 1848. It erected a two-story frame structure of two rooms, which
stood on Shenango Street. It was converted into two dwelling houses, now
the property of William McDowell, of Greenville, and Harlan Book, of Butler
County, Penn.
Before the erection of the present Union school building, on east Main
Street, the schools of Greenville consisted of two rooms on the east side and
two on the west side, presided over by four lady teachers. Early in 1865 "^the
fine Union school building on east Main Street was commenced, and pushed
toward completion through that and the following year; but it was not until
1867-68 that it was entirely finished, its total cost being about $25,000. It
is a brick structure, 60x74, three stories in height, and contains eleven rooms.
In 1878 the west side building was erected, likewise made of brick, containing
eight rooms, at a cost of some $10,000. It is pleasantly located, and is used
at present as the High- school building.
The Union school system was established in Greenville in 1867, by the se-
lection of Prof. E. C. McClintock as principal, July 20 of that year. He re-
organized the schools, and served until March, 1868. His successors, with
418
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
dates of appointment, are as follows: Profs. C. C. Donnells, March, 1868;
J. W. Walker, 1870; D. McKee, 1872; Thomas B. Roth, 1875; Jerome
Leech, 1876; F. M. Bullock, 1880, and John E. Morris, the present incum-
bent, 1887.
The officers of the school board since 1865 have been as follows:
1865 — Samuel Goodwin, president; T. M. Eeznor, secretary; A. L. Wick,
treasurer.
1866- 67 and 1868 — William Achre, president; T. M. Reznor, secretary;
A. L. Wick, treasurer.
1869-70 — Philip Clover, president; T. M. Reznor, secretary; A. L. Wick,
treasurer.
1871 — William Achre, president; T. M. Reznor, secretary; A. L. Wick,
treasurer.
1872 — William Achre, president; J. A. Leech, secretary; A. L. Wick,
treasurer.
1873 — T. M. Reznor, president; J. A. Leech, secretary; A. L. Wick,
treasurer.
1874 — J. 0. Brown, president; J. A. Leech, secretary; W. H. Beil,
treasurer.
1875— 76-77-78 — J. C. Brown, president; D. McKee, secretary; W. H.
Beil, treasurer.
1879 — J. C. Brown, president; D. Hum, secretary; W. H. Beil, treasurer.
1880- 81 — J. T. Blair, president; D. Hum, secretary; W. H. Beil,
treasurer.
1882 — E. S. Templeton, president; D. Hum, secretary; W. H. Beil,
treasurer.
1883 — H. M. Hamblin, president; D. Hum, secretary; W. H. Beil,
treasurer.
1884 — J. E. Brockway, president; D. Hum, secretary; W. H. Beil,
treasurer.
1885— 86 — A. F. Henlein, president; D. Hum, secretary; W. H. Beil,
treasurer. ^
1887 — Rev. C. S. Tinker, president; Anson T. Clark, secretary; W. H.
Beil, treasurer.
1888 — J. C. Brown, president; Anson T. Clark, secretary; W. H. Beil,
treasurer.
The general progress of the Greenville schools during the past thirty years
has been highly satisfactory, and it is very doubtful if any other town of its
size in Pennsylvania furnishes superior facilities to its youth for a thorough
common school education. The present enrollment is about 950, and the
average attendance 100 less.
Thiel College owes its existence remotely to a bequest for benevolent pur-
poses made in 1865 by Mr. A. L. Thiel, of Pittsburgh, Penn. The sum,
?p5, 500, was placed in the hands of Rev. W. A. Passavant, to be used for
some benevolent purpose connected with the cause of Christianity. It was
accepted, and the following year was invested in some lands and buildings
which had been devoted to a water cure at Phillipsburg, Beaver Co. , Penn. An
institution of learning, known as “Thiel Hall,” was in operation at Phillips-
burg for several years under the direction of Revs. E. T. Giese, H. E. Jacobs,
W. Kopps and others. In October, 1869, Mr. Thiel offered to the Pittsburgh
Synod of the Lutheran Church, held at Greensburg, Westmoreland County,
the entire property known as ‘ ‘ Thiel Hall ’ ’ on two very liberal conditions,
which were intended to secure for the denomination an institution of learning
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
419
of a high order. The gift was accepted, and accordingly put under church
control.
In the early part of 1870 the people of Greenville made to the board of
trustees a very tiattering offer as an inducement to have the enlarged institution
located in their midst. The proposition included the gift of seven acres of
land as a site, and a bonus of $20,000. The offer was accepted, and the institu-
tion was transferred from Phillipsburg to Greenville, the opening exercises at
the latter place occurring in the academy building on the 1st of September,
1871. Mr. Thiel, prior to his death, which occurred on February 16, 1870,
had made some additional bequests to the institution. The college grounds
were afterward increased by seven acres, donated by Dr. D. B. Packard; one
acre by Samuel Ridgeway, and the balance by purchase from Mr. Ridgeway.
The first of the college buildings, known as ‘ ‘ Greenville Hall, ’ ’ out of
compliment to the liberality of the citizens of Greenville, was erected in
1872-74. The corner-stone of the structure was laid August 15, 1872, with
suitable ceremonies, appropriate addresses being made by A. D. Gillespie,
Esq., Hon. James Sheakley, Rev. G. A. Wenzel, Hon. M. C. Trout and Hon.
Samuel Griffith. The regular address was made by Rev. W. A. Passavant,
of Pittsbrrrgh, who gave the history of the instituition. The structure, made of
brick, three stories in height, 53x76, and containing thirty-three rooms, was
erected by T. E. Heilman, of Greenville, for $22, 649. 79, of which amount the
citizens of Greenville paid $14,307. The architects were Griese & Weile, of
Cleveland, Ohio. The building committee consisted of Revs. H. W. Roth and
J. B. Fox, and Dr. G. D. Kughler, A. D. Gillespie and Dr. D. B. Packard. The
dedicatory services were held on June 25, 1874, addresses being delivered by
Rev. J. G. Pfuhl and Prof. H. E. Jacobs. The services were under the di-
rection of Prof. H. W. Roth, Prof. H. E. Jacobs and Rev. W. A. Passavant.
Until the completion of “ Greenville Hall, ” in June, 1874, the old academy
building, and afterward three rooms in the union school building, were used.
Memorial Hall 'was commenced in 1885, the laying of the corner-stone
taking place on June 25, of that year, Rev. J. A. Kunkleman, D. D. , per-
forming the ceremony. It was completed and dedicated with appropriate
ceremonies November 10, 1886. It is a substantial three- story brick structure,
and was erected at a total cost of about $8,000. This building contains the
chapel and the recitation and society halls, and is quite a convenient addition
to the original college building.
Thiel College has a good equipment and a fine library, and affords the reg-
ular college course. The usual attendance is over 100 students. Rev. H. W.
Roth, at first connected with the institution in the capacity of an instructor,
was chosen president in August, 1875, and filled that position with commenda-
ble credit until the close of 1887, when he resigned, and removed to Chicago,
111. The board has recently chosen Rev. William A. Beates as .his successor.
The other members of the faculty are Rev. David McKee, professor of mathe-
matics; Rev. Josiah R. Titsel, professor of Greek, and Rev. Herman Gilbert,
professor ameritus of German. Prof. McKee has been connected with the
college since its inception. Prof. Gilbert since 1872, and Prof. Titsel since
June, 1874. The following instructors are also connected with the college;
Rev, H. K. Shanor, A. M., principal of the academic department; S. H. Mill-
er, A. M. , instructor in natural sciences; Rev. William Rehrig, instructor in
the German language, and Miss Julia Ackerman, musical instructor. The
duties of the Latin chair are distributed among the members of the faculty.
Thiel College is a great advantage to Mercer County, but more especially to
Greenville, as it furnishes her ambitious youth an opportunity of obtaining a
420
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
lirst-class collegiate course witliout leaving home. Its most enterprising citi-
zens fully appreciate this blessing, and while proud of its past history, are also
sanguine of the future prosperity of this local home of learning.
CHURCHES.
United Presbyterian Church. — The origin of this congregation, the oldest
in the town, dates back to the first of the present century. In the year 1800
the Chartiers Presbytery, under whose charge were placed all congregations
and vacancies west of the Alleghenies, was formed by a division of the Associate
Synod of North America. In the year following it began its work of caring
for the scattered flocks of its faith by sending Rev. Daniel McLean into the
Shenango Valley to minister unto them. In this work he visited Mercer and
Crawford Counties, and succeeded in effecting an organization of the Presbyte-
rian and Associate families that were settled to some numbers in a region of
country lying near the Shenango River, on Sandy Creek, known as the ‘ ‘ Big
Vacancy.” The union of the two briefs was brought about by the followers
of the former, who were in the majority, agreeing that the first suitable candi-
date for pastor, be he of either denomination, should be chosen. This choice
fell upon Rev. McLean, who began his labors on the 1st of January, 1802, and
who was paid therefor the annual sum of £135 of Pennsylvania currency. Of
the members of this congregation, the following were afterward added to the
Greenville Church : David Beatty, Hugh Brown, Francis Mossman and Robert
Bean. These members organized themselves into a separate congregation
sometime in 1802, and, three years later, by petition to the Presbytery, received
one-half of Rev. McLean’s time, the remainder being devoted to the Shenango
flock. His first preaching in what is now Greenville was held in a private
house, known familiarly as Shank’s Tavern, located on the west bank of the
Shenango, on Main Street. It is said a tent was afterward put up, and occu-
pied until the first regular building, a log hut, situated on the present site of
the old United Presbyterian Cemetery, was erected. The latter was followed
by a more commodious frame, which stood on the site of the present church, on
ground donated by William Scott. It was, however, so poorly constructed and
devoid of beauty that it was torn down in 1844. Rev. McLean severed his
connection with the Greenville congregation in May, 1840, after having minis-
tered to their spiritual wants for thirty -eight years. His labors had been richly
successful, for at his departure he left a flourishing flock of 179 members. He
was succeeded by his son. Rev. D. H. A. McLean, who, in May, 1841, received
and accepted a call from the congregations of Greenville and Mercer. Four
years later the presbytery relieved him of the Mercer charge, and he there-
after devoted his time entirely to Greenville, holding occasional services in
some of the outlying villages. His relations terminated in 1852, having built
up the church membership to 235. During his pastorate, also, the old frame
church gave place to a new brick, erected in 1844, at a cost of $3,000. Rev.
W. C. Jackson, the third pastor of the congregation, was installed in Febru-
ary, 1854, and remained in charge until June, 1861. Nothing of special inci-
dent occurred during the time of his stay beyond the union of the Associate
and Associate Reformed Churches of the United States, which was effected at
Pittsburgh May 26, 1858, and the excitement and consequent fervor of relig-
ious endeavor growing out of the anti-slavery agitation, in which Rev. Jackson
was not silent. The fourth regular minister was Rev. James H. Tedford, who
remained a little over three years. He was released in the fall of 1865, the
membership having decreased during his stay to 140 by the formation of new
congregations in neighboring villages. On the 1st of July, 1866, the congre-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
423
gation was placed in charge of Rev. J. R. Brittain, who was installed by Rev.
Joseph H. Pressly, D. D., in the following September. His ministry, which
lasted until February 26, 1888, was the culmination of the church’s growth
and development. During it the present building, a convenient brick, was
erected, at a cost of $18,000, and dedicated in April, 1868. During it the
membership has been increased to 300, the Sunday-school has grown to enroll
a membership equal to that of the church, and prosperity has marked the
progress of the congregation. Rev. J. C. Scouller succeeded to the pastorate
in September, 1888.
Following is the roll of session as far as it could be obtained: David
McKnight, David White, Alexander Hunter, James McConnell, James Cal-
vin, Samuel Latta, J. W. Brown, David Brackin, William Melvin, Hugh
Nelson, Thompson Wier, Adam Thompson, William Dickey, Robert Dickey,
McClure Cowan, James W. Linn, Alexander P. Waugh, Robert Calvin, John
Donaldson, John S. White, James Say, Benjamin Wiley, John Davidson, J.
M. Bean, James C. Brown, J. G. McFate, M. J. McElhaney, Andi’ew Davis,
John M. Linn and Abner Bean. The present elders are Robert Dickey, Sr.,
Benjamin Wiley, James Say, J. M. Bean, James C. Brown, J. G. McFate,
John Davidson, M. J. McElhaney, Andrew Davis, John M. Linn and Abner
Bean. The board of trustees are A. R. Davis, S. R. Cochran, John Phillips,
J. M. Linn and Abner Bean. Connected with the church is a prosperous
Sunday-school of about 300 pupils, under the superintendency of Hon. James
C. Brown, whose grandfather, Hugh Brown, was one of 4he organizers of
the Seceder Church.
The Presbyterian Church was organized in 1825, with a membership of
thirty-one. Robert Mann and Samuel Webster were elected ruling elders.
For a few years it was connected with the old Salem Church, on the Mercer
road, the two forming a pastoral charge. From the existing records of the
church it appears that the following named members were the pioneers of this
organization: Robert Mann, Mary Mann, Samuel Webster, Susannah
Webster, Polly Christy, Annie Robinson, Polly Robinson, Martha Lyon,
Margaret Williamson, Eliza Latimer, Lydia Cossitt, Elizabeth Haver, Cath-
erine Haver, Jane Heastings, Adam Wier, Mary Ann Wier, Mary Woods,
Rebecca Woods, William Woods, Polly Potter, Susannah Potter, Elizabeth
Bean, Lettie Bean, William Stinson, Martha Stinson, Jane Brown, Rachael
Porter, Rebecca Alexander, John McLaughlin, Lavina McLaughlin and
Hannah Robinson. The first services of the new congregation were held in
private houses, then in a log structure, which was erected in 1830, and used
by the Methodists of the community. In 1833 a brick building somewhat
smaller than the present one, was erected on the present site, and served for over
sixteen years, when it became unsafe, and was torn down, after which the pres-
ent edifice was begun. The latter has been remodeled once (in 1870), and has
also undergone several repairs. Following is a list of the pastors of the con-
gregation since its inception: Revs. James Alexander, 1828-34; James G.
Wilson, 1836-42; Hemy Webber, 1843-44; L. W. Williams (supply), 1845-
47; James H. Callen, 1848-52; David Grier, 1854-59; A. C. Junkin, 1862-
67; J. E. Wright, 1869-74; B. C. Critchlow, 1875-81; O. V. Stewart, 1881-
87, and the present pastor. Rev. C. B. Wakefield, installed in 1887. Several
other ministers filled the xjulpit as supplies during the periods when there
was no regular pastor. The following persons filled the office of ruling elder
since the organization of the church: Robert Mann, 1825-53; Samuel Webster,
1825-32; George Lodge, 1831-54; James Waugh, 1837-46; John B.
Plumer, 1837-54; Robei't Bean, 1837-46; William Sutton, 1849-53; G. E:
24
424
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Lashell, 1849-61; John Wiley, 1855-74; G. A. Bittenbanner, 1855-88; B. F.
Baskin, 1855-59; Samuel Wilson, 1843-44; Joseph Pearce, 1843-59; Thomas
M. Reznor, 1860-88; Henry Moore, 1860-63; John W. Stinson, 1864-66;
William Fruit, 1865-66; Jacob Miller, 1865-74; S. M. Ross, 1868-75;
Chambers Templeton, 1871-88; John Love, 1871-88; James Williamson,
1876-88; M. Dawson Moore, 1876-82; John A. Beatty, January, 1876-July,
1876; J. E. Brockway, 1885-88, and W. T. Alan, 1885-88. The present
elders are: George A. Bittenbanner (not acting), Thomas M. Reznor, Cham-
bers Templeton, John Love, James Williamson, J. E. Brockway and W. T.
Alan. It is estimated that 1,100 names have been enrolled on the list of mem-
bership since the organization. The present membership is 325. A flourish-
ing Sunday-school is connected with the church, with about 265 pupils and
teachers. J. E. Brockway is superintendent, and E. S. Templeton and A. T.
Alan, assistants.
Methodist Episcopal Church. — The first class of this denomination in Green-
ville was organized in 1828, in a frame building on the west side, where the
“ red front” now stands. There were just seven members in this class: John
Nelson, Lilly Nelson, Jane Nelson^ John Keek, Mary Ann Keck, Father
Fisher and Catherine Nelson, who afterward married John McMillen. The
class was supplied by numerous itinerants from the Mercer and Salem Circuits
until 1837, when Rev. J. R. Locke was appointed by the Erie Conference to
take charge of Greenville, and served through 1837-38. From 1839 to 1841
Greenville and Clarksville were united as one charge, and served successively
by Revs. Keller, Crum, Vanhorn, Bassett, Plimpton and Sibley. In 1842-43
Rev. Thomas Stubbs was pastor of the Greenville “flock, which appears as a
separate charge; but in 1844 it seems to have been again united with Clarks-
ville, with Revs. J. R. Lock and H. Winans as preachers. In 1845 they were
succeeded by Revs. J. McLean and J.W.Klock; 1846, Revs. McLean and H.
Luce; 1847-48, Revs. B. S. Hill andW.M.Bear. In 1849 the Greenville charge
was once more permitted to stand alone, with Rev. G. L. Little as pastor.
From that time forward the congregation has remained independent of any
other, and has been under the ministry of the following pastors, in the order
named: Rev. J. R. Locke, 1850; Rev. A. Hall, 1851; Rev. E. Jones, 1852;
Rev. J. D. Norton, 1853-54; Rev. G. W. Chesbro, 1855; Rev. John Gra-
ham, 1856-57; Rev. J. H. Tagg, 1858-59; Rev. J. Whiteley, 1860; Rev. D.
M. Rodgers, 1861; Rev. A. J. Merchant, 1862-64; Rev. W. P. Bignell, 1865
-67; Rev. John O’Neal, 1868-70; Rev. J. Lytle, 1871; Rev. O. G. Mclntire,
1872-74; Rev. J. C. Schofield, 1875-77; Rev. F. H. Beck, 1878; Rev. R. M.
Warren, 1879-81; Rev. J. N. Fradenburg, 1882; Rev. JohnPeate, 1883; Rev.
J. W. Blaisdell, 1884-87 ; and the present pastor. Rev. H. E. Johnson, who
began his ministry in the latter half of 1887.
In 1830 the society removed from their temporary place of worship on the
west side to a log church, 35x45, which they built on the site of the present
striicture. Worship was conducted in this building until 1840, when a frame
edifice, yet standing, was placed in its stead. This latter building was used
until 1863, when it was enlarged and repaired, in which improved condition it
served as a place of worship until February 9, 1885, when the new structure
was dedicated by Rev. I. C. Pershing, of Pittsburgh, Penn, Ground was
broken for this building March 25, 1884, and the corner-stone laid May 30,
following. It is a substantial brick, and cost $22,500. A fine pipe organ has
recently been put in, and many other improvements made since the main
structure was completed. The present membership of the congregation is
over 600, and connected therewith is the largest Sunday-school in Mercer
HISTOEY OP MEECEE COUNTY.
4‘26
County, with an enrollment of about 500 pupils and teachers. G. B. Chase is
superintendent, and Philip Clover, assistant superintendent. The school has
a library of 432 volumes. This congregation is in a highly prosperous condi-
tion, and under the vigorous pastorship of Dr. Johnson has had a very rapid
growth.
The Congregational Church was organized in 1840. On the 5th of Octo-
ber, 1841, a meeting was held “in the school-house near Mr.. Townsend’s,
and, after prayer by Rev. William Bliss, voted and chose George W. Hunsta-
ble clerk pro tern. After due deliberation, on account of their former clerk
having left this section of country, and not being able to find any records of
the church, the members were reorganized. ’ ’ So reads the old minute book
of a congregation that was once vigorous with active Christian endeavor. The
dust of years has almost blotted its quill-traced characters. Of the original
congregation organized by Rev. Barras the following is a list, comprising those
who afterward joined the organized body: Timothy Dumars, William Dumars,
Isaac R. Bearce, Owen N. Rice, John Keck and John Babbit. The first dea-
cons were G. W. Hunstable and Timothy Dumars. The first regular pastor
was Rev. J. J. Bliss, who continued until July 1, 1843. In the early records
mention is made of a meeting held in the Presbyterian Church January 20, 1842,
at which time a building committee, consisting of William Waugh, G. W.
Hunstable, J ames Kendall, Owen N. Rice and A. A. Heath, was appointed to
take measures toward the erection of a house of worship. No report is re-
corded, but notice is made of regular church meetings having been held in the
public school- house, in the Presbyterian and in the Methodist Episcopal
Churches. But the committee, it seems, was not idle, as it is chronicled
in the minute book that “on the 16th of February, 1843, the new frame
church on Clinton Street (now used by the Protestant Episcopal congrega-
tion) was dedicated by Rev. Keep, of Hartford, Ohio. James M. Power
was one of the principal contributors toward its erection. The records
are now quite fragmentary. In April, 1843, the congregation was removed
from connection with the Ashtabula Association, and attached to the West-
ern Pennsylvania Association. On the 8th of July, the same year. Rev.
L. B. Beach was chosen pastor of the congregation, but was evidently
unsatisfactory, as he remained no longer than October 7, 1843. He was
succeeded by Rev. D. C. Sterry, who continued in charge one year. An
intermission then occurred for nearly three years, during which none but
occasional services, usually presided over by Rev. Penfield, were held. On
May 23 Rev. L. L. Radcliffe was placed in charge, and was succeeded by
Rev. D. B. Barker, who began his ministry September 30, 1848. For thirteen
years thereafter no minutes were kept. The last record of the Greenville
Congregational Church states that a “meeting was held May 21, 1863, at
the house of J. K. Hamblin, at which time it was determined to dispose of the
property of the congregation,’’ which was done May 30, 1863, to Rev. H. F.
Hartman, who purchased the building in behalf of the Reformed Church.
St. Michael’s Catholic Church. — This congregation had its inception in
1838, when amissionary priest, sent out by the bishop of Philadelphia, mad,e
a tour of Northwestern Pennsylvania, and, among other places, celebrated
mass at the house of Bryan McNally, in Greenville. Mr. McNally was a
native of Ireland, and for a time served in the British army, but immigrated
to the United States, located in Meadville, Penn., where he was married, and
in March, 1830, removed to Greenville, where he took up his residence near
the southwest corner of Main and Race Streets. He was a tailor by trade, and
was the pioneer of that occupation in the village. In 1837 he erected the
426
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
frame residence on Race Street in which he died, and where two of his chil-
dren yet reside. II. was in this structure that the first Catholic service in
this portion of the county was held. Besides Mr. McNally there were i^res-
ent at this service John and Ferdinand Schmidt, Martin Lindeman, John
O’Hara, John McCoy and John G. Hoffman, all of whom had previously set-
tled in the county. Of these the Schmidt brothers were of German parentage,
and were attracted to Greenville by employment offered on the canal; Mr. Hoff-
man, also a native of Germany, immigrated in 1837, and came to this place to
do blacksmith work for the canal constructors, while O’ Hara and McCoy were
Irishmen, the latter being a contractor upon the canal. The Catholic families
scattered over the northeastern portion of the State afterward received occa-
sional visits from missionaries sent out by the bishop to minister to their spir-
itual wants. In the summer of 1842 Rev. Hugh Gallagher, of Loretta, Cam-
bria Co. , Penn. , followed the path of the canal on one of these visits, and cel-
ebrated mass in Mr. McNally’s home. Besides some of those previously men-
tioned there were present at this service Mark and Bridget Doyle, Patrick and
Ann Doyle, and James Doyle, all of whom lived in Trumbull County, Ohio,
but afterward settled in West Salem Township, Mercer County ; Richard, John
and Patrick Marly, of Greene Township; John Savage and Mrs. Schoonmaker,
all of whom were natives of Ireland except the last one mentioned. Father
Gallagher, wdio died in California a few years ago, returned to Greenville at
intervals for over a year, and was succeeded by Rev. John Reed, of Pittsburgh,
who ministered to the little fiock for a number of years following. The ser-
vices conducted by both were frequently held in the houses of Ferdinand
Schmidt and Mrs. Schoonmaker. During the ministrations of Father Reed
several families were added to the congregation, among the number being
Michael Mitchell, a native of Ireland, and family, Michael and Matthias
Schumacher and wives, Bernard George and father, Nicholas Rommelfangen
and family, Leonard Sauers, Christopher Frum and Theodore Kirk, all except
the first being of German origin.
The necessity of a church now became apparent. Upon Father Reed
devolved the task of selecting the site. He encountered considerable opposi-
tion from property owners, who were averse to selling land for the purpose of
locating a Catholic structure, but he overcame this by a clever stratagem.
Two parishioners, John and Ferdinand Schmidt, who were then laboring in the
blast furnaces, purchased the desired land for the ostensible purpose of erect-
ing private residences thereon, and when it was secured they promptly turned
it over to the congregation. The building, a part of the present edifice, was
erected in 1848. The committee that superintended its erection consisted of
John McCoy, John Savage, John O’Hara, Ferdinand Schmidt and Matthias
and Michael Schumacher, the last mentioned subsequently giving place to
John Schmidt. In the same year the structure was sufficiently enclosed to
hold services therein, and in the following year was dedicated by Father
Reed as “St. Michael’s Church.” Following Rev. Reed in the ministry
came Revs. M. J. Mitchell, August, 1850-51; T. A. Smith, October, 1851-53;
C. M. Sheehan, March, 1854, to May, 1854; Peter M. Garvey, May, 1854, to
August, 1854; Arthur McConnell (the first resident priest), September, 1854,
to September, 1856; J. Reiser, September, 1856, to December, 1856; J. J.
Gallagher, July, 1857, to March, 1858; Andrew Schweiger, March, 1858-59;
Joseph Gobbels, 1859-61; F. J. Hartman, 1861-64; John J. O’Keeffe, 1864
to February, 1866; Kiearn O’Branigan, March, 1866, to September, 1868;
Thomas Tracy, October, 1868, to July, 1876, and the present pastor, Ber-
nard Donohue, who began his labors in July, 1876. The lots on which the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
427
pastor’s residence stands were purchased by Father O’Branigan, and a story-
and-a-half frame building built thereon. The ground north of the church
had been in use for burial purposes since 1848, and during Father O’Brani-
gan’s pastorate the present cemetery, in rear of the church, was secured from
Eugene Booney, Esq. The latter had purchased the land from the mother
superior of a Cleveland, Ohio, convent, to which institution it had been willed
by William C. Daly, of the Mercer congregation. The addition to the ch\irch,
including the belfry and bell, was made during Father Tracy’ s pastorate, the
choir gallery having been also built at that time. Under the present pastor
many additions and improvements have been made to the church property,
and the congregation has enjoyed both spiritual and material prosperity. The
cemetery has been enlarged, the membership has grown until it now numbers
over 500 souls, and a flourishing Sunday-school of 100 pupils has been main-
tained.
First Baptist Church. — In the winter of 1847-48 Rev. Jeremiah Hazen,
of Sheakleyville, began preaching in the old academy building in Greenville
to a few adherents of the Baptist faith residing in Greenville and immediate
vicinity, among whom were Ransallear Heath and wife, George Hubbard, wife
and mother, Mrs. Turner, Miss Porter and the Leet family. During the sum-
mer of 1848 Rev. Hazen took preliminary steps toward the ex’ection of a house
of worship, and succeeded so far as to secure a subscription of several hundred
dollars and considerable building material. The building committee were
Rev. Hazen, George Hubbard and Ransallear Heath, who let the contract for
the erection of the frame work to a Mr. Dumars. Before the erection of the
frame Mr. Heath returned to Sheakleyville, and the work was abandoned. No
further effort was made toward erecting the building till the winter of 1851,
when, at the urgent solicitation of contributors. Rev. Nimrod Burwell, of
West Salem Township, took an active interest in the project, organized a con-
ference in Greenville, and invited Rev. Hazen to return. That gentleman
consented, and in the summer of 1852 work on the structure was resumed, and
the frame put up. The following autumn Mr. Hazen found it necessary to
confine his efforts to the Sheakleyville charge, and suggested to the conference
the desirability of their obtaining Elder Burwell’ s services. The conference,
acting on this advice, extended a call to Mr. Burwell, which he accepted. In
December, 1852, Rev. Burwell took up his residence in Greenville, and began
the prosecution of his labors. In the three years that he had charge of this
church Mr. Burwell completed the building, except plastering the interior, and
by vigorous and judicious management he paid for the work as it progressed,
leaving no debt for his successor to pay, but considerable material to finish
the interior. During the erection of the church, outside of the members of
the conference, the following persons assisted Mr. Burwell by contributing
labor and material: Col. Andrew Christy, David Loutzenhiser, John Speir,
Dr. D. B. Packard, Samuel Goodwin and others. In November, 1855, Mr.
Burwell resigned the pastorate, and for some time there was no resident min-
ister till the coming of Rev. Demas L. Clouse in 1857.
The church was reorganized June 24, 1857. The first members of the new
society were: Joseph Partridge, Bethany Partridge, Friend Cook, Emeline
Cook, F. H. Leet (M. D.), Mary Leet, Susannah Leet, Elizabeth Pyatt, Mir-
anda Hardy, Catherine Tunison, A. R. Heath, Marilla Heath, Robert Everett,
Mary Ann Everett, William Emery, Lyda Emery, Samuel Godshall, Sidney
Godshall, Mary Ann Godshall, Esther Ann Godshall. The first officers were :
Trustees, Joseph Partridge, Friend Cook and Robert Everett; treasurer,
Joseph Patridge; church clerk, Sidney Godshall; deacons, Friend Cook and
428
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
William Emery. Tlie dedication of the church edifice occurred February 17,
1858, the program consisting, so the records say, of the following exercises:
Elder H. Steedman preached the sermon; Elder Godshall read the Scriptures,
and Eldei-s M. C. Hendrew and Jacob Morris offered prayer. The building is
a neat frame structure, and, with the lot on which it stands, cost over $3,000.
On January 12, 1878, a schism occurred which threatened, for a time, the
integrity of the church. A portion of the congregation withdrew, crossed the
Shenango, and organized the Tabernacle Baptist Church. This society was
kept up until July 9, 1881, when it decided to abandon the idea of maintaining
a separate organization, and returned to the parent church in a body. Follow-
ing is a complete list of its pastors, with time of service: Revs. Demas L.
Clouse, January, 1858, to March, 1803; Winham Kidder, December, 1863, to
November, 1865; R. L. Fuller, April, 1806, to December, 1866; J. M. Perry,
May, 1867, to December, 1870; John Owens, November, 1871, to March, 1873;
J. T. Griffith, June, 1876, to September, 1877; W. W. Wilgus, September,
1878, to May, 1879; E. F. Crane, January, 1880, to August, 1880, and C. S.
Tinker, the present pastor, who began his labors in October, 1880. The total
number of members who have joined since the church’s reorganization is 465;
present membership, 233. Connected with the church is a Sunday-school, of
which the pastor is superintendent, with an enrollment of 225 pupils and
teachers.
Zion Reformed Church was organized January 27, 1861. The organiza-
tion was perfected through the efforts of Rev. Henry F. Hartman, who con-
tinued with the new congregation until the winter of 1864-65, by the election
of Daniel Saul, Sr., as elder, and Aaron Saul and John Kern as deacons.
The first building used by the newly organized flock is still standing, a frame
one, now owned and occupied by the Episcopalians. It was originally a Con-
gregational church, but was purchased by the Reformed congregation in May,
1863, and repaired, and used until February, 1886. The first members of
the church were John Kern, John Kyle, Mrs. Kyle, Mr. Enterline, Mrs.
Enterline, William Saul, Miss Sallie Saul, John H. Beachler, Miss Mary Sny-
der, Henry Snyder, Mrs. George Snyder, Marietta Ash, Julia Loch, William
Miller, Josiah Garber, Mariah Hottel, Stephen Hecker, Mrs. Hecker, Miss
Hecker, Mrs. Elizabeth Hartman, Rose Miller, Aaron Saul, Daniel Saul, Mrs.
Beachler, J. W. Snyder, George Snyder, Edwin Ash, Jeremiah Loch, Eliza-
beth Gaiser, Susanna Miller, Catherine Garber, Mrs. Everett. At the close of
1864 nearly all of these had removed or fallen from membership. In the
spring of 1865 the classis of St. Paul’s detached the Greenville congregation
from the Shenango charge, and established it as a separate mission. Since that
period the succession of pastors has been: Revs. C. R. Dieffenbacher, April,
1865, to April, 1878; F. B. Hahn, June, 1878, to September, 1884, and the
present pastor, S. H. Eisenberg, who took charge December 1, 1884. Janu-
ary 1, 1885, the contract for a new building was let, and February 14, 1886,
the present imposing edifice of brick was first occupied by the Sunday-school
classes. The building was completed and consecrated with imposing ceremo-
nies September 4, 1887. The property of the congregation is valued at
$20,000. As an instance of the church’s growth, it might be mentioned that on
the 1st of April, 1865, there were sixteen communicant members; on the 1st of
December, 1884, there were 198 members in good standing, while the present
membership numbers over 300. There has always been a Sunday-school con-
nected with the congregation, which April 1, 1865, numbered five pupils. It
now enrolls about 200. Its superintendent is Rev. Eisenberg, and the assist-
ant is Charles T. Meacham.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
429
Church of the Holy Trinity. — This congregation, although dating its his-
tory as an organization no further back than 1865, had really one anterior to
that period. For a number of years previous, as a settlement of Germans
gradually clustered about Greenville and spread out into the surrounding
country, there came to the believers of Lutheran faith a longing for collective
worship. In 1826 Rev. Michael Kuchler, one of the pioneer Lutheran minis-
ters of Shenango Valley, began holding regular services in Mercer County,
though for several years prior to that date he had been engaged in giving relig-
ious instruction. From that time until the permanent organization of the Green-
ville congregation, he conducted worship in various portions of the valley with
untiring zeal. His preaching was always done in the German language. The
first step toward the establishment of a permanent congregation was taken
by Rev. William F. Ullery, a traveling missionary of the Pittsburgh synod,
who made a visit to Greenville in October, 1863, for the purpose of reporting
the spiritual condition of the members of the Lutheran faith in the village to
the general synod. On his recommendation a mission was established in
1864. The first service occurred on Christmas day, and was held in the old
academy building. Exercises were maintained at intervals during the follow-
ing winter; and on the 14th of March, 1865, a meeting was held to take
measures for the erection of a church. The mission had been composed of
Germans alone. Accordingly, on the 15th of April, 1865, the English
Lutherans of the vicinity met and formed themselves into a regular organ-
ization. A union was shortly afterward effected upon condition that occa-
sional services should be held in the German language. On the 25th of April,
1865, a building committee, comprising Chas. Bortz, George Voltz and Rev.
M. Kuchler, was appointed to secure funds for erecting the new house of wor-
ship, and Dr. G. D. Kughler was chosen treasurer of the building fund,
and Rev. W. F. IJllery, collector. Meantime, the old academy building
served the congregation as a place of worship until May, when the Baptist
Church was secured and occupied during the succeeding winter. On the 23d
of September, 1865, the corner-stone of the present commodious brick struc-
ture was laid with imposing ceremonies, English and German sermons being
preached by Revs. G. A. Wentzel and W. A. Passavant. The church, how-
ever, was not ready for occupancy until January, 1867, and was not dedicated
until October 13, same year, when the edifice was consecrated by Rev. S.
Laird of Pittsburgh, Penn. The first elders of the congregation were Conrad
Bittenbanner and Joseph Weber, while the first deacons were Daniel Phillips
and Charles Bortz. Rev. Ullery remained with the church until 1875. He was
succeeded by Rev. H. W. Roth, who served till the coming of Rev. J. Fish-
burn, February 23, 1879. The latter was released March 25, 1883. Rev. H.
W. Roth served as provisional pastor until September, 1883, when the pres-
ent minister. Rev. Dr. J. A. Kunkleman, was installed by Rev. E. Belfour,
D. D. Connected with the congregation is a Sunday-school enrolling 160
pupils, of which Prof. S. H. Miller is superintendent, and T. E. Heilman, assist-
ant. The congregation embraces a membership of over 200 communicants,
and as a whole is in a flourishing condition.
St. Clements Protestant Episcopal Church was organized by Bishop John
B. Kerfoot, of Pittsburgh, Penn., in November, 1866. He was assisted by the
Rev. M. Bilbsby, who held occasional services for the new congregation. The
first regular minister was Rev. Henry Fitch, at one time residing in New
Haven, Conn. , who removed to Meadville, Penn. , and was placed in charge
of the congregations of Townville and Greenville. During his ministry wor-
ship was held in Packard’s Hall, but during the pastorate of his successor.
430
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Rev. Samuel B. Moore, in 1866 and 1867, one of the rooms of the new
public school building was fitted up and used. Subsequent to Rev.
Moore’s departure a lapse of several years occurred, during which no services
were held. The next pastor in charge was Rev. D. R. Hutchinson, of Can-
ada, who conducted services in Bond’s Hall, on Canal street, in the room now
occupied by the Shenango Valley Neivs. By him the name of the church was
changed to “St. Paul’ s Protestant Episcopal Church,” an alteration which was
never legalized, however. Succeeding him came Rev. Alonzo Diller, who
remained but a few months, and the Rev. Rogers, who continued for a few
Sundays only. Under these two services were held in the old Reformed
Church building on Clinton Street, which had been secured by the congrega-
tion in February, 1883. Since that time only occasional services have been
held, by Rev. Charles A. Bragdon, of Pittsburgh, Penn. The first vestry of
the church was composed of John R. Packard, James R. Burchfield, George
G. Stage, S. L. Hendrickson, Dr. D. B. Packard and W. R. Fessler.
CEMETERIES.
The pioneer burial ground of the borough was the old grave-yard, on the
west side, attached to the Seceder Church, and familiarly known as the U. P.
Cemetery. This old ground contains the dust of many of the prominent
early settlers of Mercer County, and was started before the organization of
the Seceder Church, in 1802, whose first place of worship, a log building, stood
upon a part of these grounds. Here lie the remains of the following: John
Richardson, died March 18, 1805, in his fifty-third year, and wife Nancy,
who died in 1848 in her ninety-sixth year; John Moreland, died in 1823, aged
eighty-four, and wife Letitia, in 1838, aged ninety-six; Mrs. Jane Dumars,
died March 7, 1811, aged thirty-nine, and Alex. Dumars, May 25, 1854, aged
eighty-four; John Ferguson, Sr., died in 1842, in his eighty-eighth year, and
wife Jane, in 1853, aged seventy-nine; David White, died in 1848, in his
seventy-ninth year, and wife Margaret, in 1853, aged seventy- seven; Hugh
Brown, died November 25, 1845, aged eighty-three, and wife Sarah, June 15,
1838, aged sixty-eight; Adam Thompson, died in 1849, aged seventy-four,
and wife Elizabeth, in 1872, in her eighty-third year; William McClimans,
died in 1825, aged sixty-one, and wife Mary, in 1854, aged eighty-four; Will-
iam Scott, died April 9, 1849; Hugh McGill, a Revolutionary soldier, died in
1850, aged ninety-seven; William Moreland, died in 1850, aged seventy-five,
and wife Jane, in 1857, aged seventy-eight; James Campbell, died in 1850,
aged ninety-seven, and wife Margaret, in 1851, aged ninety-one; Isaac More-
land, died in 1851, in his eightieth year, and wife Lillias in 1845, aged eighty;
John Stephenson, died in 1851, aged seventy -three; Adam Hill, died in 1852,
aged sixty-eight; Squire John Ferguson, died in 1857, in his seventy-first year,
and wife Rachel, the same year, aged sixty-five; Thomas Bole, died in 1858,
in his seventy- eighth year, and wife Margaret, in 1859, aged seventy-two;
William McClurg, died in 1858 in his eighty-second year, and wife Margaret,
in 1849, aged sixty-three; Joseph McClurg, died in 1864, aged 90, and wife
Mary in 1852, aged seventy-four; John Snodgrass, died in 1863 in his seventy-
first year, and wife Ann, in 1874, aged sixty-six; Samuel Long, died in 1863
in his eighty-fourth year, and wife Catherine, in 1846, aged sixty-two; Joseph
Long, died in 1863, aged eighty-six, and wife Mary in 1868, in her eighty-
first year, Andrew Chestnut, died in 1867, aged ninety, and wife Mary, in
1854, in her fifty-seventh year; also Thomas Listen, John and Mary Latta,
and many others over whose graves no stones remain to furnish even the brief
record of their names. In looking over this list one is forcibly struck by the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
431
ripe old age attained by most of these pioneer fathers and mothers, and can-
not but conclude that their simple, industrious lives, and their pure surround-
ings, were conducive to longevity.
The Presbyterians and Methodists of the village had separate burial
grounds. The former opened a grave -yard about the time their church was
organized (1825) north of the present building, and extending to the Little
Shenango. The Methodist ground was where the present church stands, and
was established about one year after the society was organized, perhaps as early
as 1830. Both of these grounds were used until Shenango Valley Cemetery was
opened, when they were gradually abandoned, and the dead finally removed
to the new cemetery.
In 1848 the Catholics opened a cemetery near their church, erected that
year. Before that time they had taken their dead to the ‘ ‘ Mercer Settlement, ’ ’
but since 1848 the Catholics of this portion of the county have used St.
Michael’s Cemetery. Considerable land has been added to the original pur-
chase by Fathers O’Bi'anigan and Donohoe, and St. Michael’s is indeed a
very suitable resting place for those who have “fallen asleep in the Lord. ”
The Shenango Valley Cemetery, of Greenville, is the most beautiful home
of the dead in Mercer County. Its inception is attributed largely to the
enterprise and liberality of two of Greenville’s prominent citizens, James K.
Wick, deceased, and William Achre, now a resident of California. The
incorporation occurred July 22, 1864, under the name of the “Shenango Val-
ley Cemetery Association.’’ The incorporators were James R. Wick, Samuel
P. Johnston, John Keck, James C. Brown, William Achre, Jacob Loutzen-
hiser, William Waugh, W. P. Leech, Charles Hoge, Samuel Goodwin and
Dr. D. B. Packard. The first corps of officers consisted of Samuel P.
Johnston, president; George A. Bittenbanner, secretary, and John Keck,
treasurer. James A. Leech, late of New Lebanon, surveyed and platted the
grounds, which were bought at a cost of some $2,000 of Samuel Goodwin and
Robert Dicky. The tract embraces about twenty-two acres of undulating
land, pleasantly situated so as to command a good view of the surrounding
country. It is finely laid out and scrupulously kept. Much of the success of
the association in beautifying its grounds and putting the business upon a
sound financial basis is attributable to Marvin Loomis, who held for a long
time the position of superintendent of grounds, and also to the present effi-
cient superintendent, H. N. Shrom.
SECRET AND OTHER SOCIETIES.
Alhambra Lodge No. 293, I. 0. O. F., was instituted January 31, 1848,
at which time the following officers were installed : Charles R. Bell, N. G. ;
William Buck, V. G. ; John T. Ray, Sec. ; David Garber, Asst. Sec. ; T. P.
Boyd, Treas. The early records of the lodge have been lost, and no list
of its charter members is known to be in existence. The present member-
ship of the lodge is 104. It meets every Thursday evening in the I. O. O.
F. hall, in Bortz Block, on Main Street. The lodge is in a prosperous condi-
tion, having, in addition to paying sick and funeral benefits and other expenses,
furnished a hall at an expense of $1,500. It has also a permanent invest-
ment of over $3,000.
Eureka Lodge No. 290, F. & A. M., the second oldest and, perhaps, the
most infiuential secret order in the city, was organized on the afternoon of the
1 2th of September, 1854, in the upper room of the building now owned by
John R. Packard. The first officers were Dr. John T. Ray, W. M. ; B. F.
Baskin, S. W. ; J. Ross Mills, J. W. , and James Mills, Treas. In addition to
432
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
the above there were among the charter members R. E. Breiner, David Gar-
ber and R. P. Crawford. In the evening of the day of institution another
meeting was held, and Isaac R. Bearce, Henry Austin and A. McLean White
were admitted and passed all degi’ees by dispensation. Of the charter mem-
bers all are dead except Mr. White, who resides in Meadville. The lodge has
had a varied history. Its first meetings were held in the Packard building,
but shortly afterward were removed to Henlein’s Block, which was entirely
destroyed by fire on the 28th of August, 1874, together with all the records
and papers of the lodge. Then the Odd Fellows’ Hall was used, after which
meetings were held in Goodwin’s Block, and. lastly, in the present richly fin-
ished and furnished quai’ters in Masonic Hall, corner of Main and Mercer
Streets, on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Mound Chapter No. 212, R. A. M. , was instituted November 28, 1866. Its
charter members were Henry Austin, James R. Burchfield, Beriah E. Moss-
man, George D. Kughler, H. N. Shrom, Thomas B. Hoover, Henry M. Ham-
blin, H. C. Hendrickson and J. R. Hubbard. Its first officers comprised Henry
Austin, M. E. H. P. ; H. C. Hendrickson, K.; B. E. Mossman, Scribe; H. N.
Shrom, Treas. , and H. M. Hamblin, Sec. Its membership is fifty-nine. Meet-
ings are held in the Masonic Hall, corner of Main and Mercer Streets, on the
fourth Monday of each month.
Greenville Lodge No. 64, A. O. U. W., was instituted November 25, 1873,
with the following named charter members: W. J. Cummings, A. J. Zahniser,
R. Emerick, I. Leech, W. C. Ferguson, J. L. Smoyer, J. J. Donahue, J,
Welk, M. Hamill, J.T. Evans, W. H. Dunn, John Bloodhart, Jr., J. S. Chapman,
F. Hammor, B. E. Mossman, W. G. Taylor, W. T. Sample, T. McClimans, John
E. Sankey, George R. Scott, W. H .Clift, W. C. Flemming, A. Pifley. The
present membership is ninety-six. Only four deaths have occurred in its ranks
since organization, three of which were original members, and the fourth a
member who had joined by card. Averaging the annual membership for fif-
teen years at fifty, would make $11,000, the total amount paid in. Meetings
are held every Tuesday evening in Masonic Block, corner of Main and Mercer
Streets.
Excelsior Legion No. 11, Select Knights, A. O. U. W., was organized
January 2, 1884, with the following as charter members: William McMillen,
H. V. Powell, H. Book, W. H. Clift, A. Hildebrand, J. B. Richards, John
Bloodhart, Jr., W. C. Ferguson, A. D. Walker, W. H. Miller and W. H.
Miles. The present membership is thirty. Meetings are held on the first
and third Monday evenings of each month in the A. O. U. W. Hall, Masonic
Block, corner of Main and Mercer Streets.
Apollo Lodge No. 966, K. of iJ. ,was instituted March 20, 1878, by S. A. Hughes
and Mr. McCarnes, with the following named charter members: A. E. Achre,
J. T. Blair, Alexander Bright, George H. Brown, C. Davidson, J. AV. Fruit,
Aaron Fell, S. L. Hendilckson, W. P. Leech, L. D. Leech, R. J. McDonald,
F. H. Oliphant, Jr., J. S. Price, AV. J.Lohr, D. P. Packard, W. J. Sutton,
John H. Waugh, N. Beck, J. R. Artherholt, W. Beatty, E. T. Beatty, J. F.
Carmichael, AV. AV. Davis, AV. H. Findley, AV. B. Henry, H. C. Hoomer,
James Loutzenhiser, AATlliam McMillen, B. E. Mossman, John B. Osgood,
I. D. Stinson, J. N. Whiteman, AVilliam Paden, R. Turan, H. E. Camp,
H. N. Shrom, J. P. Beatty. Its first officers were J. N. AA^hiteman, Dictator;
AVilliam McMillen, V. D. ; J. S. Price, A. D. ; William Paden, Chaplain; D. P.
Packard, Guide; E. T. Beatty, Treasurer; AV. J. Lohr, F. R. ; John B. Osgood,
R. ; J. P. Beatty, Guardian; Robert J. McDonald, Sentinel; J. T. Blair, Alex-
ander Bright and A. E. Achre, Board of Trustees. The lodge meets every
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
433
second and fourth Friday of each month in Apollo Hall. It has a member-
ship of forty-two.
Blair Council No. 21, R. T. of T., was instituted December 27, 1878,
with the following charter members: B. C. Thompson, Daniel Whiteman, L.
B. Speir, Robert J. McDonald, John E. Hull, David Crowell, George H.
Hotham, J. T. Carmichael, J. T. Blair, W. C. E. Martin, Charles R. Wray,
G. W. Carskadden, Mrs. M. E. Peate, Mrs. M. J. Hull, Mrs. Hannah Thomp-
son. The first officers were Charles R. Wray, S. C. ; R. J. McDonald, V. C. ;
E. C. Thompson, P. C. ; G. W. Carskadden, Sec. ; L. B. Speir, Treas. ;
Daniel Whiteman, Chap. ; David Crowell, Herald; Mrs. Hannah Thompson,
Guard; George H. Hotham, Sent.; W. C. E. Martin, Med. Ex.; Trustees, J.
T. Blair, W. C. E. Martin and, J. T. Carmichael. The present membership
of the council in good standing is sixty-five. Since the institution of the
order only eight have died, their families receiving over $14,000 in benefits.
Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month in
Alhambra Hall, Main Street.
Branch No. 7, Catholic Mutual Benefit Association, was instituted in
December, 1878, by C. B. Freedman, of Titusville, Penn., who was induced
to come by Michael Hamill, a member of the first branch instituted in the
State. The fii’st officers were M. Hamill, Pres. ; P. Jones, Treas. ; P. M.
Ryan, Rec. Sec.; James Kerr, Fin. Sec.; M. O’Day, Jr., First V. P. ; John
O’Brien, Second V. P. ; Thomas Aherau, Chancellor; M. O’Day, Sr., Guard,
and M. Hawkins, Marshal. The branch now contains over thirty members.
The insurance is $2,000. Meetings are held on the first and third Thursday
of each month in Johnston’s Block.
Equitable Aid Union, No. 356, was instituted the 20th of August, 1881,
with the following named charter members: D. P. Packard, William A.
Taft, Mrs. J. H. McCafferty, Henry Austin, Edward McMannus, Burton Adsit,
John Likens, Dr. G. D. Kughler, J. T. Blair, D. H. Ford, Mrs. William
Beatty, I. W. Jones, Mrs. D. P. Packard, Mrs. L. A. Carmichael, John E.
Sankey, J. E. Millhouse, J. R. Bean, J. P. Dickey, J. W^. Ivoonce, Mrs. J.
W. Koonce, I. D. Stinson, Mrs. William A. Taft, William McMillen, John
Beatty, William Beatty, Mrs. John Beatty, Mrs. William McMillen, Dr. B.
E. Mossman, Charles R. Wray, William McDowell, Mrs. William McDowell,
Mrs. B. E. Mossman, T. P. Garber, N. R. Beck, Mrs. N. R. Beck, Albert
Fiske, Mrs. Albert Fiske, L. B. Speir, Mrs. L. B. Speir, Peter Durst, G. G.
Stage, C. R. Beatty, Mrs. C. R. Beatty, Mrs. G. G. Stage, H. N. Shrom,
Mrs. H. N. Shrom, Abbie Gangaware, Charles L. Dilley, J. T. Harney,
Joseph Partridge, Mrs. Joseph Partridge, Jacob Burghart, Adam Miller. Mrs.
N. Block, Ella C. Beatty, W. H. H. Dumars, Mrs. W. H. H. Dumars, T. H.
Linnell, Mrs. T. H. Linnell, F. W’. Looser, Mrs. William McDowell, A. R.
Davis, W. W. Sankey, Mrs. W. W. Sankey, Mrs. I. D. Stinson, J. H.
McCafferty, Mrs. L. D. Brown, Peter Saal, I. D. Keck, Mrs. Priscilla F. Peck,
Frank Keck, A. Hildebrand, Mrs. A. Hildebrand, Mrs. Dr. G. D. Kughler,
Mrs. Charles Wray, Mrs. John Likens, Mrs. D. H. Ford, Stanley W^. Brown,
Mrs. Stanley W. Brown, B. A. Higley, Mrs. B. A. Higley, James L.
McCray, Mrs. James L. McCray, Jack McCray, A. T. Kreps, Mrs. A.
T. Kreps, Mrs. Florilla Kreps, H. V. Powell, Mrs. H. V. Powell. The
first officers were: D. P. Packard, Chancellor; I. D. Stinson, Advocate;
William A; Taft, President; Mrs. William A. Taft, Vice-President; Mrs.
J. H. McCafferty, Auxiliary; William McMillen, Secretary; Henry Aus-
tin, Treasurer and John Beatty, Acct. The first meetings of the union
were held in the Knights of Honor hall. After a time the I. O. O. F. hall
434
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
was occupied. The meetings are now held in the A. O. W. W. hall in the
Masonic Block, corner of Main and Mercer Streets. The present membership
is forty-two, and only four deaths have occurred since the organization of the
society.
Shenango Council No. 670, Royal Arcanum, was instituted April 11, 1882,
with the following charter members: T. P. Garber, C. A. McNally, B. F.
Nunemaker, L. D. Bumpus, S. A. Crill, F. W. Brown, F. E. Maish, C. W.
Pettit, Dr. B. E. Mossman, William Taft, G. W. Miller, Samuel Marks, E. T.
Beatty, Nathan Block, Nicholas R. Beck, R. S. Henderson, J. H. Phillips,
S. H. Ross, Penrose Miller, A. A. Reichards. The present membership of the
council is thirty. It meets in the Knights of Honor Hall in Merchants’ Block,
corner of Main and Mercer Streets, on the second and fourth Monday evenings
of each month.
The Woman's Christian Temperance Union was organized on the 18th of
December, 1883, with Mrs. Charles E. Wray, president; Miss Mary Dumars,
secretary, and Mrs. Mercy Finley, treasurer. The work of the new organiza-
tion, imperfect and crude at first, has been systematized until at the last county
convention of the unions, the Greenville union was credited with having accom-
plished one-third of the total evangelistic and temperance work of the county.
A room has been recently rented over Wagner & Kamerer’s store, and in this
a library, containing standard temperance and miscellaneous periodical liter-
ature, is already placed. It is intended to make this a leading feature of the
work hereafter. The present membership is 140.
Sergt. J. C. Dickey Post, No. 433, Department of Pennsylvania, G. A. R. ,
was organized April 23, 1884. It was named in honor of Sergt. J. C. Dickey,
who was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., January 2, 1839. His parents were
Robert and Matilda Dickey, the former still a resident of Greenville. Several
years prior to entering the service he attended Wilmington College, but the
breaking out of the Rebellion brought him to the field, and on August 29, 1862,
he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Regiment Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers. While on duty he participated in the battles of Antietam,
Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Culpeper Court House, Mine
Run, Wilderness, Spottsylvania Court House, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Deep
Bottom (two engagements), Weldon R. R. , besides numerous skirmishes. In
the encounter at Weldon R. R., August 22, 1864, he was captured by the
enemy and confined in Salsbury prison, where he died Februray 2, 1865, from
starvation and exposure. The charter members of the post were: E. C. Thomp-
son, Plimpton Leech, W. H. H. Dumars, Isaac Keck, D. D. Kreps, W. A.
Keck, J. E. Brown, Curtis Arnold, John Love, G. O. Keck, W. A. Kreps,
John Bacher, A. L. Koser, H. Reagle, John W. Woods, J. T. Loutzenhiser,
E. F. Bennett, J. E. Brockway, J. C. Campbell, J. H. Morford, W. F.
Harpst, A. T. Clark, M. D., S. H. Larmer, W. F. Braden, U. Forrest, O. A.
Carlin, W. C. E. Martin, D. H. Weikel, J. R. Bean, J. B. McClimans, Abra-
ham Sahn, D. H. Ford, Henry Roadhouse, W. H. Beil, Valentine Beaver,
Harmon Miller, E. Hawks, James R. Snyder, H. H. Boies, A. Hildebrand,
S. C. Dickey, William W. Washburn, Theodore Betts, J. G. Nunemaker,
William Amon. The first officers were : W. H. Beil, P. C. ; J. C. Campbell,
S. V. C. ; E. C. Thompson, J. V. C. ; W. A. Kreps, O. D. ; E. F. Bennett,
O. G. ; J. E. Brockway, Chap. ; A. L. Koser, Q. M. ; Dr. W. C. E. Martin,
Surg. ; O. A. Carlin, Adjt. ; J. R. Bean, Sergt. Maj. ; H. H. Boies, Q. M.
Sergt. ; Trustees, A. T. Clark, W. A. Keck and A. Hildebrand. The first
meetings of the post were held in the A. O. II. W. Hall, but subsequently, in
the I. O. O. F. Hall. A room was then secured in the Merchants Block, corner
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
435
of Main and Mercer Streets, and a Gr. A. li. hall fitted up, in which the meet-
ings were held till recently, when they sold out and rented a furnished hall in
the Masonic Block.
Ctister Lodge No. 469, K. of P. , was organized September 24, 1884, with
the following named charter members : G. W. Rector, Jerry Haskins, W. A.
Kremm, W. J. Christman, J. M. Saul, H. J. Bishop, J. T. Harvey, H. V.
Powell, H. Rudkin, E. Beil, C. E. Greenawalt, S. Gravatt, George Alden-
derfer, August Deifenderfer, L. F. Deifenderfer, Marcus Deifenderfer,
J. B. McClimans, G. F. Shaeffer, J. A. Donaldson, F. H. Gaiser, A. T.
Clark, C. Rice, J. B. Heilman, William Miller, C. J. Strachen, J. B.
Kyle, Augustus Sieger, W. A. Clift, M. G. Van Wagner, M. B. France,
M. G. Fritz, R. C. McClure, Andrew Blair, W. A. Steckel, B. F. Huber,
C. V. Huber, E. Bellows, William McKinley, Joseph McGrath, Louis
Grim, J. A. Heilman, V. Beaver, A. Huber, W. S. Steel. The first offi-
cers of the lodge were: A. Huber, P. C. ; C. J. Strachen, C. C. ; G. W.
Rector, V. C. ; M. Deifenderfer, Prel. ; A. Blair, K. of R. and S. ; B. F. Hu-
ber, M. of E. ; R. C. McClure, M. of F. ; J. Haskins, M. of A. ; H. J. Bishop,
I. G. ; V. Beaver, O. G. The first meetings were held in the Haurigauri
Hall, but are now held in the Opera Block, corner of Race and Main Streets.
The membership of the lodge is at present seventy-five.
General Vincent Camp No. 179, S. of V., U. S. A., was organized March
17, 1887. Its charter members were: F. H. Keller, J. W. Leonard, A. W.
Woodward, W. F. Heilman, G. R. Reagle, T. C. Roberts, A. P. McClure,
F. D. Brown, C. F. Kidd, R. F. Campbell, John J. Kreps, A. G. Beaver,
J. A. Boord, A. M. Woodward, J. C. Kemp, R. W. Brown, Miles Reagle,
W. D. Christy, Frank Wright, A. W. Roberts, Charles Ort, Till Reiss, W. J.
Rodgers. The following were chosen officers at the first election: F. H.
Keller, captain; J. W. Leonard, first lieutenant; T. C. Roberts, second lieu-
tenant; J. A. Bond, chaplain; R. W. Brown, first sergeant; John J. Kreps,
quartermaster sergeant; J. C. Kemp, sergeant of the guard; C. F. Kidd,
color sergeant; Frank Wright, chief musician; R. F. Campbell, corporal of
the guard; A. P. McClure, camp guard; W. F. Heilman, ticket guard; camp
council, J. A. Boord, Till Reiss and A. W. Woodward. Meetings are held
on the first and third Friday evenings of each month in the S. of V. Hall,
Commercial Block, corner of Main and Mercer Streets.
Greenville Circle No. 18, P. H. C., was organized August 14, 1887,
with the following officers: James Heilman, past president; Rev. R. H.
Eisenberg, president; James Madge, vice-president; Henry Garrett, guardian;
Rev. George Brown, chaplain; C. Van Tine, recorder; Mrs. N. M. Dumars,
accountant; John H. Martin, treasurer; F. M. McCoy, guide; Miss Nelson,
commander; Mrs. James Madge, porter. The membership is ninety-four.
Meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month in the
A. O. U. W. Hall.
Midnight Ruling No. 36, F. M. C. , was instituted in 1887. The charter
members are: George Aldenderfer, J. R. Baxter, J. A. Clark, George Draves,
M. H. Fetzer, W. A. Kremm, J. B. McClimans, B. E. Mossman, I. D. Morse,
Ed. McMannus, J. B. Richards, D. A. Smith, Lyman B. Speir, W. A. Wash-
burn, J. H. Baker, F. M. Bullock, John P. Derr, W.’S. Davis, T. P. Garber,
J. D. Madge, C. L. Meacham, G. W. Miller, Thomas McMillen, M. L. Oster-
hout, J. M. Roland, R. E. Thorn, J. O. Wasser, M. L. Hengist.
MANUFACTURES.
The first mill erected in the vicinity of Greenville, the saw and grist-mills
436
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
of John Williamson, constructed in 1799 and 1800, was a log structure. In
1825 a frame 30x40 feet in dimensions was built in its place. This stood
until 1840, when it was torn down by the digging of the canal. Grists were
brought from fifteen to twenty miles on wagons and sleds, a dozen families
often joining and sending their grain by some neighbor. It is related that the
business of the mill was so brisk that farmers were frequently compelled to
wait two whole days for their turn. The price charged was one bushel for
every ten ground. The original mill of Williamson remained in his possession
until January 7, 1806, when it was purchased by Jacob Loutzenhiser, by whom
its business was directed until his death in 1821. The sons of the latter,
especially David, continued its operation until the building of the canal neces-
sitated its removal. In 1851 they rebuilt near the site of the demolished
structiire, and continued the milling business until 1864, when they were
bought out by Stinson & Reznor. The latter firm met with the misfortune
of having their building destroyed by a fire that occurred in 1867. Immedi-
ately afterward the present structure, known as the “ Old White Mill,” was built
and fitted out with five run of stone, and with machinery capable of producing
100 barrels of flour daily. On the death of Mr. Stinson in 1867, and the
admission of William Achre, the firm became Stinson, Reznor & Co. Since
1884 the mill has been idle, its dam having been broken down, and the newer
process of manufacturing flour having rendered its machinery obsolete.
The City Flouring Mills, owned and operated by Mathers Bros., stand on
the site of the original log grist-mill erected in 1815 by Jacob Loutzenhiser.
The latter conducted it till his death, in 1821, when his executors disposed of
the property, together with the tract of land upon which the main business
portion of Greenville stands, to Joseph Keck. The mill was kept in active
operation by Mr. Keck till 1828 or 1829 when he failed in business, and the
property was sold at sheriff’s sale, and bid in by Jacob Loutzenhiser, Jr. In
the fall of 1829 it was purchased by Andrew Campbell, who replaced the old
log mill by a frame structure in 1832 or 1833. He ran the new mill some four
or five years, when he got into difficulty with the canal authorities about the
water-power, and sold out to Ezekiel Sankey. After about one year’s expe-
rience the latter disposed of it to Matthias McDowell and F. R. Sill. This
firm operated it till 1841, when the late James Mathers obtained an interest,
but did not remain long in the business. It afterward passed through numer-
ous changes, Messrs. Irvin, James C. Brown and James Mathers, George A.
Bittenbanner and Achre & Co. , all having been connected with it. In 1870 it
again came into possession of Mr. Mathers, who controlled the business up to
his death, in February, 1888, since which event his sons James F. and Mead
P. have carried it on. The frame mill was burned down in August, 1880, and
in the fall of the same year the present brick building was erected. It was
fui’nished with the old grinding process, but in 1882 the Odell roller process
was put in. In 1885 the building was enlarged and remodeled, and the capac-
ity of the mill largely increased, its daily output being now 150 barrels of
first-class flour.
The Pacific Flouring Mills, familiarly known as the “Evans Mill,” were
erected by Samuel Goodwin in 1865. Mr. Goodwin was a native of Maine,
and came to Greenville in 1831. In 1843 he purchased the machinery and
land belonging to John Christy and Owen N. Rice, who had dammed the
Little Shenango about 1832, and erec’ted on the north bank a carding, fulling
and grist-mill shortly afterward. His son-in-law, Clark Evans, succeeded Mr.
Goodwin in operating the mill, and after the death of Mr. Evans it was carried
on by his widow till January, 1888, when she sold it to Davis & Wiley, who
now conduct it.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
437
Robei’t G. Mossman was one of the earliest manufacturers of the town.
Prior to 1820 he established a chair and cabinet factory on the west side,
which he carried on several years. He was also engaged for a time in operat-
ing a tan-yard. In 1834-35 he erected a grist-mill and furniture factory at the
east end of the bridgre, on the north side of Main Street, and constructed a
O’ ^ ’
dam aci'oss the Shenango just above the bridge. It was known as the ‘ ‘ little
grist-mill, ’ ’ to distinguish it from the larger one then operated by Andrew
Campbell. William Laird purchased an interest in the business in 1835.
They soon after established a woolen mill on the opposite side of the street,
and, taking John M. Graham into partnership, placed him in charge of that
factory. In 1836 Mr. Mossman was elected sheriff of Mercer County, and
soon afterward sold out to Mr. Laird, who added thereto a saw-mill. In 1838
Laird disposed of the property, and it was operated as a furniture factory un-
til the business ran out as unprofitable. The building was afterward- used for
various purposes, and finally burned, which fate also overtook the woolen
factory on the opposite side of the street.
Vaughn's Carriage Works. — The establishment of W. A. Vaughn & Son,
the oldest carriage works in the city, was opened by the senior member of the
firm, W. A. Vaughn, in June, 1847, across the street from its present site.
The business, as may be supposed, was small at starting, and the buildings
cheap and simple. In the spring of 1850 he put up a shop where he now carries
on business. The present works were erected in 1873, and consist of a brick
warehouse, two stories in height, 60x28 feet; a blacksmith shop, two stories,
65x32 feet; a painting and finishing shop, two stories, 60x32 feet, and a wood-
working department, two stories, 24x18 feet. The specialties of the firm are
carriages, track-sulkies, road-wagons, track-wagons and break-carts, while a gen-
eral repairing business is also carried on. The productions of this company,
notably the Vaughn road-wagon, are used in various parts of the United States,
thus giving the firm an ample market. The firm at present consists of W. A.
Vaughn and his son, J. W. Vaughn.
Excelsior Carriage Works. — The first proprietor of the works from which
the present establishment sprang was William McDowell, who opened in a
small way a wheel-wright’s business in 1844. He afterward took in Mr.
Cook, and McDowell & Cook were succeeded in 1873 by the firm of Cook &
Ford, who conducted a general carriage manufacturing and repairing business
up to October, 1884. Mr. Ford then ran it alone until J anuary, 1886, when the
present firm, consisting of D. H. Ford and R. E. Thorn, took charge as Ford
& Thorn. A two-story frame building, 60x120 feet, conveniently divided
into suitable apartments, is now occupied. A large local trade is supplied with
the products of the Excelsior W orks, and the ‘ ‘ Milburn wagon, ’ ’ for which
the firm are agents.
West Side Carriage Works. — This establishinent, owned by John Smoyer
and Charles Frey, was first opened by a gentleman named Charles Stahr, in
1862. In 1864 his business was bought out by Moyer & Smoyer, under which
name the works were run until 1880, at which time the title of the firm became
Smoyer & Son. The present firm of Smoyer & Frey was formed in 1884. The
products of the concern are wagons and carriages of all grades, sleighs and
sulkies.
Pearce Woolen Mills. — The company that operates these mills, the Pearce
Woolen Mill Co., Limited, was organized in Harmony, Penn., in 1865. The
mills were conducted in that city until February, 1885, when the superior advan-
tages offered by Greenville secured their removal to the latter place. Their
products are flannels, yarns and blankets of all grades, and in the manufacture
438
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
of them twenty- five workmen are employed. The motive power is supplied by
an 80 horse-power boiler and a 50 horse-power engine. The building is a brick,
50x120 feet, and three stories high, erected in 1885. The secretary, treas-
urer and general manager of the company is Mr. John Pearce.
Greenville Planing Mill. — This establishment was opened in 1865 by
McPherrin & Son, who were succeeded by the present owners, J. A. k J. P.
Heilman, in May, 1879. T. E. Heilman also had an interest, which he sold to
his partners in 1880. The premises now comprise an acre of ground, upon
which are located the mill, the dry-kiln, the warehouse and the office. In the
mill is found the latest improved machinery, which is operated by a 40 horse-
power engine. The products of the firm are doors, sash, mouldings, blinds,
brackets and general planed lumber, which receive a ready sale in local
markets.
Hamblin, Sons & Co., manufacturers of automatic balance slide valve
steam engines, circular saw-mills, head blocks, saws, brass goods, pipe and
fittings, are the successors of a business enterprise that was established in
March, 1838, by J. K. Hamblin and Gardner Bond, in a small frame building
directly opposite the present site. It is claimed for the firm of Hamblin &
Bond that they were the first foundry operators in Greenville, and one of the
first in Mercer County. Their products were mainly plows and lock castings
for the Erie Canal, which was then in course of construction. In 1850 the
name of the firm was changed to Bond, Heath & Co. , and three years later to
Hamblin & Heath, under which title the enterprise was continued with vary-
ing success until 1866, when the works were destroyed by fire, with a total loss
of all machinery and products. Shortly afterward, however, the business was
resumed by J. K. Hamblin, who built and occupied the present quarters.
March 15, 1870, by the association of Hon. Jacob E. Kreps, of Westmoreland
County, Penn. , and Samuel Hamblin, a member of the present firm, the title
of the business became Hamblin, Kreps & Co. On the 28th of August, 1871,
a reorganization took place, and the present firm, consisting of J. K. Hamblin,
Samuel Hamblin, H. M. Hamblin and A. T. Kreps was formed. Since then
the business of the foundry has been considerably increased, and the market
now extends into several States, as far south as South Carolina, and west
through Ohio. Connected with the enterprise is a general jobbing depart-
ment, in which all sorts of castings are made and miscellaneous repairing
done.
Hodge Manufacturing Company. — The nucleus around which the present
establishment bearing this name gathered was a small shop 11x17 feet in
dimensions, oj^ened in 1876-77 by Mr. E. W. Hodge, a native of England.
He began a small brass foundry, which became the Hodge Brass and Iron
Foundry and Machine Shops; the business increasing, a company was formed
in April, 1883, with a capital stock of $10,000, divided into 100 shares of the
par value of $100 each, and composed of W. R. Field, president; P. E.
McCray, secretary, and E. W. Hodge, treasurer and general manager. The works
consist of a machine shop 25x40 feet, a blacksmith and engine room 20x40
feet, and a foundry 40x60 feet, in which is placed the best improved machinery,
the motive power of which is furnished by a 100 horse-power boiler and a 25
horse-power engine. The products of the company, which find a ready
sale in a market embracing the entire State, are railroad, rolling-mill, coal
bank and saw-mill castings, sash weights, sled soles, school and farm bells and
heating stoves, in addition to which repairing work is also done.
Tanneries were at one time paying institutions in Greenville, though none
are now in existence. Early in the twenties George and Samuel Lodge
1.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
441
started a tan-yard on South Third Street, west side, which they carried on sev-
eral years. It was then purchased by Robert G. Mossman, and after a few
years’ operation turned over to James W. Christy and Joseph Walker, who
took charge of it. About 1844 R. S. Huling got possession, and conducted a
very successful business for many years. During the most prosperous times
he turned out 1,000 hides annually.
In 1866 Hiibbard & Co. started a steam tannery on the west side, near the
dam, but it did not prove successful under their management. William
Achre and John Allison purchased the property in 1867, and afterward leased
it to John A. Dufer. It was finally burned down, and never rebuilt.
Marshall Bond ran a third tannery for some time on the east side, but it,
too, was finally abandoned as an unprofitable enterprise.*
BANKS.
The first banking institution in Greenville was ' opened about the year
1850, by James R. Wick, who conducted a private brokerage business. In
1856 he was succeeded in this by Achre, Wick & Co., the first firm to begin
a regular banking business in the county. Its members were William Achre,
A. L. Wick and George A. Bittenbanner. The business was located in the sec-
ond story of a building situated on the spot where the First National Bank
now stands. In the year 1859 the present building of the Greenville National
Bank was erected by this firm, and used by them until April, 1875, when Will-
iam H. Beil and George O. Keck were admitted. William Achre purchased the
interests of Mr. Bittenbanner and Mr. Wick, and the institution was chartered
under the name of the “Greenville National Bank.” The capital stock of the
old bank had been $25,000, which was amply sufficient at the time, although
a large and profitable business was carried on; but under the new name this
was increased to $110,000. The first officers were William Achre, president;
William H. Beil, cashier, and George O. Keck, assistant cashier. The bank
at present is in good condition, having a capital stock of $90,000, a surplus of
$8,000 and deposits amounting to upward of $80,000. Its business, while
local, is good, and the institution is credited with the confidence of its patrons.
The present officers are A. F. Henlein, president; William H. Beil, cashier,
and Harry Watson, assistant cashier.
The First National Bank was chartered in 1864, under the corporate
name of the First National Bank of West Greenville, and began operations
with a capital stock of $60,000. One year later this was increased to $100,000,
and five years thereafter to the present amount, $125,000. The prefix ‘ ‘ West ’ ’
was dropped at the same time the name of the borough was changed. The
building in which the bank first commenced business was a brick structure on
Main Street, the dwelling of its first president, Samuel P. Johnston. Subse-
quently the room occupied by Brittain & Johnston was secured, and the busi-
ness of the bank was conducted therein until 1876, when the building was
destroyed by fire, and the present quarters, costing $14,000, erected. The
present officers of the institution are: President, Marvin Loomis, elected in
1888 to succeed Hon. William Waugh, who served from 1875; vice president,
Robert S. Johnston; cashier, Calvin R. Beatty. The general history of the
bank’s operations has been one of gradual enlargement and growth. There
have been no serious reverses, and the condition of the establishment to-day
is best evidenced by the fact that it has a reserve fund of $35,000, and that its
deposits amount to over $150,000. Under the name of First National Bank
of Greenville it was re-chartered in 1884 for a period of twenty years.
*Koi- iron interests see Chapter VI.
as
442
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, AND BOAED OF TEADE.
The Greenville Building and Loan Association -was incorporated October
13, 1873, with a capital stock of $400,000, and with a purpose, as expressed
in the charter, ‘ ‘for the accumulation of a fund by the saving of its members,
to assist them individually to purchase real estate, erect houses, satisfy mort-
gages, or invest in such other manner as shall be most advantageous. ’ ’ The
members of the new association were C. R. Beatty, D. C. Moyer, E. F. Ben-
nett, Thomas C. Gibson, W. P. Leech, J. J. Hutcheson, F. Herrick, William
Achre, David Hum, A. Burnett, L. L. Keck, William Waugh, H. K. Reiss, W.
L. Fleming, W. A. Vaughn and William Paden. The first officers of the asso-
ciation were: J. J. Hutcheson, president; T. O. Gibson, vice-president; C. R.
Beatty, treasurer; W. L. Fleming, secretary; directors: A. Burnett, William
Achre, William Paden, D. C. Moyer, L. L. Keck, William Waugh, W. A.
Vaughn, F. Herrick and David Hum. Mr. Hum became secretary in 1874, and
filled that office until the association wound up its business in July, 1882.
The Board of Trade was incorporated May 31, 1887, with a purpose, as
expressed in the charter, of “assisting in building up the business of the
borough of Greenville in all legitimate ways, by leasing lands, drilling for
gas, oil and other minerals, assisting those who may desire to locate in said
borough, inviting manufacturers to locate their works in or near it,” and, in
general, watching over the city’s commercial interests. The capital stock of
the board was $4,050, divided into 162 shares of the par value of $25 each.
The managers elected for the first year were: A. F. Henlein, president; R.
S. Johnston, secretary and treasurer; G. G. Stage, William Paden, T. C. Gib-
son, James F. Mathers and E. P. Gillespie.
GAS AND WATEE COMPANIES.
The Greenville Gas Company was organized in 1877, and works were built
in the same year. Among the originators of the enterprise were: J. H.
Miller, Frederick Girebell, Judge William Maxwell, A. L. Wick, William
Achre, C. R. Beatty and others. The capital stock was $25,000. Eleven re-
torts were secured, and the company now has a capacity of 20,000 feet per
day. Over five miles of pipe are laid, supplying nearly 300 consumers, and
fifty-nine lamps furnish light to the borough. The product is coal gas, which,
by the introduction of an exhauster and condenser into the establishment, has
been greatly improved in quality. The present officers of the company are:
C. R. Wray, president; E. S. Templeton, secretary; H. N. Shrom, treasurer
and general manager; directors: C. R. Wray, M. H. Hamlin, A. F. Henlein,
Marvin Loomis, John R. Packard, H. C. Hoomer and E. S. Templeton.
The Greenville Natural Gas Co. was incorporated the 6th of November,
1886, with a capital stock of $50,000, divided into 1,000 shares of the par
value of $50 each. The shareholders were Peter L. Kimberly, Mary L.
Packard, Edwin S. Templeton, W. P. Leech, G. B. Chase, Robert S. Hender-
son, John R. Packard, James W. Vaughn, Tillotson Bros., Carl Buck and
John J. Hutcheson. The directors were John R. Packard, James W.
Vaughn, Robert S. Henderson, Peter L. Kimberly and J. J. Hutcheson. The
purpose of the company was to rent a gas privilege from the Columbia Gas
Co. , and thereby supply the borough with natural gas. In execution of this
project the city was underlaid with pipes, and arrangements perfected for the
introduction of the new fuel into Greenville homes. When the time came for
the Columbia Company to fulfill its part of the contract, it was found that that
company would not fulfill its contract. It was afterward absorbed by the
Standard Company, which also refused to assume the obligation. Suit waS
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
443
brought by the Greenville Company, and this has recently been settled, but
natural gas has not been obtained for the borough.
The Greenville Water Co. was incorporated the 17th of November, 1883,
with a capital stock of $84,000, divided into 1,680 shares of $50 each. The
stockholders were James Sheakley, J. T. Blair, A. J. Haws, A. R. Davis,
Forbes Holton, Chambers Templeton and D. H. Wallace. The first directors
were; J. T. Blair, A. J. Haws, Forbes Holton, James Sheakley and Cham-
bers Templeton. The purpose of the company is to supply the borough with
water. The reservoir is conveniently located about a mile east of the city, and
will hold about 8,000,000 gallons of water. The water is secured from springs,
and the company has four and one-half miles of mains inside the town limits
and thirty-three lire plugs. S. R. Cochran is superintendent, and Thomas
Stone, assistant.'
LOCAL INSURANCE COMPANIES.
The Pymatuning Mutual Fire Insurance Co. was chartered February 27,
1860, with the following charter members: Nathan Morford, Jesse Fell,
David Kamerer, S. M. Loveland, S. Wortman, Peter Reichard, Joseph Hause,
John Adams, Charles Bortz, Peter Rickert, Jr., Daniel Bortz, Andrew Busch,
W. H. Clark, Aaron Blank, F. J. Bean, Jacob Klingensmith, Abraham Lud-
wig, Cephas Comstock, Peter Pauly, John Durst, Robert McKean and H.
George. The first president was Peter Rickert, Jr., A. Ludwig, treasurer, and
David Kamerer, secretary. The latter held the secretaryship until January
21, 1887, when he was succeeded by his son, D. L. Kamerer. This company
carries over $3, 500, 000 of insurance.
The Keystone Mutual Storm Insurance Company was chartered August 6,
1888, by D. L. Kamerer, J. A. Kunkleman, D. D., C. J. Achre, John P.
Derr, S. H. North, James C. Brown, John Perkins, P. H. Doyle, Samuel
Busch and Reuben Baker. The officers are: John Perkins, president; D. L.
Kamerer, secretary; John P. Derr, treasurer; John Perkins, D. L. Kamerer,
S. H. North, P. H. Doyle and Samuel Busch, directors. It commenced busi-
ness with 262 members, and an insurance of $220,000.
FIRE DEPARTMENT AND MOST DESTRUCTIVE FIRES.
The first effort made by the borough toward organizing a fire department was
in 1840, when a small engine was purchased and paid for by general subscrip-
tion. An engine house was afterward built, and a few fire ladders added to the
apparatus. This engine was used ten or twelve years, and finally sold in 1854.
It was often manned by the leading citizens of the borough, and was no doubt
a wonder to the youth of the town. Another hand engine was subsequently
purchased in the fall of 1866, and up to 1880 the apparatus of the depart-
ment consisted of this engine and general apparatus of hose, hooks, ladders,
etc. The company, a volunteer one, numbered ninety members, who, upon
the alarm of fire, would valiantly rush to the rescue of life and property,
fighting the lurid element with what means they had, but, owing to the lack of
hose and other apparatus, the results were very unsatisfactory. In 1880,
however, the borough procured a new outfit, and the present department was
accordingly organized. It, too, is a volunteer service, the chief being elected
by the members of the company. The appliances of the new company consist
of one Silsby steamer, 2,000 feet of improved hose and three hose carts.
The fire plugs of the water works, thirty-three in number, furnish abundant
water. The department is made up as follows: Chief, Plimpton Leech; first
assistant chief, W. F. Braden; second assistant chief, D. F. Hum, Jr.; secre-
tary, William A. Pearce; treasurer, J. L. Caldwell. The divisions consist of
444
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
three companies, each comprising thirty men, named, respectively, D. P. Pack-
ard Hose Co., No. 1, Citizens’ Hose Co., No. 2, and T. C. Gibson Hose Co.,
No. 3.
Destructive Fires — On Tuesday night, January 21, 1871, commencing at
12 o’clock, occiuTed the heaviest fire Greenville had ever encountered to that
time. It began in a three-story wooden structure, Laird’s Block, on Main
and Race Streets. It spread along the street consuming property to the value
of 844,000. The heavy losers were William Laird, $5,000; R. & A. Man-
heimer, $4,500; Harlan Book, $5,500; Eli Wasser, $300; S. P. Johnston,
$6,000; Kasper Reichard, $1,500; Dr. David Edgar, $2,500; E. Miller, $100;
William Keck, $600; John B. Smith, $300; Samuel West, $150; Benjamin
Henlein, $6,000; S. W. Manheimer, $4,000; Mrs. Gilkison, $1,000; Dr. R.
N. Hayes, $100; Mound Chapter A. Y. M., $800; Eureka Lodge A. Y. M. ,
$500; Seth Hull, $2,500; A. D. Gillespie, $100; J. E. Hull & Sons, $2,000;
E. Rooney, $500; W. T. Phelan. $400; E. Kyle, $100.
The fire of 1873 was the Chicago conflagration of the town. It broke out
on the night of January 15, in a building the first floor of which was occu-
pied by T. J. Brundage, and the second by the Misses Durst. It is con-
jectured by some that an incendiary was the cause, but the question still
hangs in doubt. The burned district embraced about 300x120 feet on the
south side of Main Street, and the same extent north side of Main. Everything
on Main, between Canal and Mercer, except Achre, Wick & Co’s, banking
house, Achre & Bright’s wholesale grocery and the Merchants’ Block, owned
by William Achre, was consumed. The total loss was thirty- five buildings,
including twenty-two stores and shops, six dwellings, one hotel, one office
and five barns. In addition there were some six dwellings on the second
floor of business rooms. The aggregate loss was $83,000; insurance, $50,000,
leaving a net loss of $33,000. The losses were distributed as follows; Will-
iam Achre, wholesale grocery and Merchants’ Block, $3,500; J. E. Hamlin’s
drug store, occupied by M. C. Roberts, $3,000; M. C. Roberts, drug stock,
$1,700; W. B. Pearson, photographer’, $1,700; B. Grim & Son, building
and stock, $2,500; Simon Donner, building, $2,500; T. J. Brundage,
stock, $4,500: Misses Durst, $800; J. & A. Stinson’s building and stock,
$2,000; O. A. Carlin, express agent, $700; J. H. Becker, building, $2,000;
George Becker, stock, $1,000; Tillotson Bros., building and stock, $6,000;
Mrs. E. Connolly, building, $2,000; Jonathan Hottle, St. Charles Hotel,
$2,500: Hugh Montgomery, fui’niture, $2,000; Thomas Callen, building,
$2,000; A. L. Wick, building, $1,000; Miss Breckenridge, building, $2,000;
John Ramsey, dwelling, $100; Henry Grauel, shop, $300; Vance Stewart,
$300; Breiner heirs, $1,225; Aaron Saul, stock, $208; J. C. Brown,
assessor, $100; Mrs. Hoge, furniture, $800; William Weimer, building,
$1,500; J. E. Millhouse, building, $2,132; Hamlin’s estate, three buildings,
$5,000; John Keck, building, $2,000; Philip Frederick, household goods,
$300; Dr. S. M. Ross, office, $100; Henry Keck, goods, $4,000; C. Seig-
fried, building, $2,500; C. W. Rolls, stock, $100; Dickey & Boies, shop,
$3,000; S. C. Dickey, dwelling, $2,400; S. L. Hendrickson, house, $600; J.
E. Hull, $3,000; Presbyterian Church, $195; Mrs. E. Boies, house, $1,000;
William McMillen, barn, $500; Dr. D. B. Packard, stable, $300; Achre, Wick
& Co., banking house, $100. Besides there were other losses aggregating
several thousand dollars.
Another destructive fire occurred on the 28th of August, 1 874, consuming
the Henlein Block, and entailing a loss of $30,000. On the 2d of April, 1875,
the devouring flames consumed Batteiger’s brewery and the Exchange Hotel.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
445
The last named structure was one of the time honored and popular institutions
of the place. The fire fiend seemed to be unsatisfied until he had, on the 2d
of March, 1876, swept away the Greenville Woolen Mills, owned by the Til-
lotson Brothers, C. E. Brown and W. J. McCray. The property was wholly
destroyed. It likewise swept away the flouring-mill of James Mathers & Sons,
N. C. Packard’s hotel, and a dwelling belonging to William Keck’s heirs.
BEIDGES.
The town is furnished with four iron bridges. The one over the She-
nango, uniting East and West Greenville, was built in the fall of 1876 by
the Massillon Bridge Company. It supplanted a lighter iron structure pre-
viously erected, which was found unable to bear the heavy travel, and was
removed to the crossing over the Little Shenango, on the Jamestown road, near
the cemetery. It is 108 feet long, with double roadways and sidewalks, and
is one of the finest bridges in the county. The first bridge that spanned the
Shenango at the same place was a plain country bridge, and was built early in
the present century. In 1832 it was torn down, and a more substantial cov-
ered bridge commenced. Joseph Leech was the contraqtor, and Simon Snyder
the carpenter, on the second bridge. It was one of the best wooden bridges
in Mercer County, and did splendid service for thirty-two years. In 1864 it
was supplanted by another wooden structure, built by Breckinridge & Co. ;
James C. Brown and the late James Mathers built the abutments. The old
bridge was purchased and removed by Mr. Brown. Besides the iron bridge
on the Jamestown road there is also one at the north end of Race Street, and
another near Stinson’s mill on the Meadville road, both spanning the Little
Shenango.
EAILEOADS.
Greenville has been for years one of the railroad centers of the county.
Its main line is the Erie road, a first-class east and west trunk line. It was
first a broad gauge and known as the Atlantic & Great Western. It was sub-
sequently changed to the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio (Nypano), then to
the New York, Lake Erie & Western, and finally to its present title.
The Erie & Pittsburgh, under the control of the Pennsylvania Company,
is an efficient north and' south line. The Pittsburgh, Shenango & Lake Erie,
formerly the Shenango & Allegheny, is also a north and south line. Until
recently Greenville was its northern terminus. Under the reorganization the
road has been extended from Greenville to Amasa Crossing, a station on the
Jamestown & Franklin branch of the Lake Shore Road. The first passenger
train from the new station on Main Street was drawn out on Monday, July 24,
1888. The extension of the road adds much to its efficiency and greatly to the
convenience and satisfaction of the people, reflecting great credit upon the
officials concerned in the enterprise. It is the intention of the managers to
extend the road to the lake in the near future.
NAME CHANGED TO GEEENVILLE.
From the time the town was first laid out by Lodge, Probst & Walker up
to November 22, 1865, it bore the name of West Greenville, and during
this period of more than half a centui'y no effort was made to do away with
the useless prefix. The following communication from one of Greenville’s
prominent citizens tells when and how the change was finally effected;
Lakewood, N. Y., September 5, 1888,
R. C. Beown, Esq. — Dear Sir: Yours of Saturday received. When I begun business
in West Greenville in 1854, having moved there from Ohio, I, in common with all the
446
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
citizens spolsen to on the subject, were of the belief that another place in our State bad
the name of “Greenville P. O.,” and hence the prefix to the name of our borough and
post-olflce remained unaltered. Having carried this burdensome prefix along in the large
and growing business of our town, I began to investigate, and, if possible, adopt means
to cut it off. This was in the fall of I860. In consultation with William Keck, then
postmaster, we discovered that “Greenville P. O.” had never been adopted by any of the
several cross-roads and hamlets of that name in Indiana, Clarion, Montgomery and other
counties in Eastern Pennsjdvania. I carried a petition among our citizens asking the
department to change the name of the post-office from “West Greenville” to “Greenville,”
The petition met with a unanimous and hearty endorsement, and without any red tape or
delay the change was made. The time tables of the railroad at once .gladly adopted the
change. Thus have we saved several barrels of ink and much nerve power in doing
away with an exasperating and useless prefix, and only wonder now that we were so
slow in consummating this really important event in our local history. Yours truly,
John R. Packard.
The name of the borough was, on petition, soon afterward changed, by
order of the court at Mercer, from “West Greenville” to “Greenville,” to
harmonize with the name of the post-office.
EFFORT TO OBTAIN THE COUNTY SEAT.
No other event in the local history of the town excited a deeper or more
wide-spread interest than the determined effort made by its citizens to remove
the county seat from Mercer to Greenville. In fact, it aroused the people in
every part of the county for and against the measure. John R. Packard,
Esq. , of Greenville, has kindly furnished us with the following pithy account
of this important event:
“During the autumn of 1865 a number of enterprising citizens of Green-
ville conceived the idea of making an effort to change the county seat from
Mercer to their own town. Greenville was then, as now, a railroad center of
considerable importance, while Mercer, at that time, was an inland borough,
without railroad or even canal communications. The Erie & Pittsburgh Rail-
road, passing through Greenville, traverses the entire length of the county,
north and south, through the prosperous valley of Shenango, teeming with
manufactures representing large wealth and a preponderance of the commerce
of the county. The old Atlantic & Great Western Railroad (now the Erie),
had also been completed, and the northern and eastern portion of Mercer
County was then, as now, traversed by the Jamestown & Franklin Railroad,
a feeder to the Erie & Pittsburgh road at Jamestown, and running only two
and one-quarter miles distant from Greenville.
‘ ‘ With these facilities it was believed that a larger number of the citizens
of the county would be accommodated doing business at the county seat, there-
by justifying the proposed removal. The location of Greenville, in one corner
of the county, argued against the scheme, while on the other hand its friends
contended that steam quite annihilated space, and were therefore earnest and
determined in forcing the conflict. Enthusiastic meetings were held at Green-
ville and elsewhere in the interest of the proposed change, and a considerable
sum of money pledged to carry on the fight. A vigorous petition to the Leg-
islature was prepared by a committee, of which Hon. William Waugh was
chairman, reciting the advantages to the public at large by having the county
seat at Greenville. Printed copies were circulated and numerously signed
throughout the towns and villages friendly to the enterprise, exciting alarm
and organized resistance at Mercer. John R. Packard was sent to the capital
at Harrisburgh, at the opening of the Legislature, to begin the preliminary
skirmish on behalf of Greenville. He met there, by appointment, the late
Hon. David Derrickson, of Meadville, then a property owner at Greenville,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
447
who prepared a bill, asking the Legislature to authorize the citizens of Mer-
cer County to vote on the proposed change of county seat.
‘■Discussions over the project filled the local press for several months.
A new court-house was an imperative necessity, and this seemed an opportune
time to secure another site, if ever. Mercer in due time waked up and began
their defense with surprising emphasis. The late Hon. Arcus McDermitt and
other residents of Mercer were dispatched to the capital determined to leave
no stone unturned to defeat their rival. The senator from Lawrence County
was appointed chairman of the committee on county seats, and after some
weeks of deliberation and delay reported the bill adversely, followed swiftly by
the destruction of the old court-house by fire, the smoke yet ascending from
the ruins when the present fine structiire was contracted for. The citizens of
“ the Athens of Western Pennsylvania” made an honorable defense, won the
fight, and have the seat of justice permanently anchored there.
“ F. H. Braggins, editor of the Grreenville Argus, dramatized the incidents
attending the conflagration, and the play, entitled “ Biirning of the Court
House,” introducing leading characters of Mercer in their grotesque and du-
bious efforts to save the building, was given on the stage in Packard Hall with
great eclat.’’'
GROWTH AND APPEARANCE.
According to the petition j^resented to the court in December, 1836, ask-
ing that the town be incorporated, Greenville had then a population of
495. It doubled its population in the next decade, the census of 1850 giving
it 1,030 inhabitants. It only gained sixty-five in the next ten years,
having 1,101 in 1860. In 1870 it had 1,848, and in 1880, 3007, while its
present estimated population is between 4,000 and 5,000. Thus it will be
seen that although its growth has never been rapid the increase in population
has always been substantial.
The general appearance of the borough is very prepossessing. Its streets
are wide, well built and finely shaded, and it can boast of many very handsome
residences. The several destructive fires that swept oyer the town from 1871 to
1875 have proved a blessing to it, as the clean, solid and substantial appear-
ance of Main Street fully attests. Few towns of its size have so many modern,
well-built business blocks, and such substantial church and school buildings,
and its citizens have just reason to be proud of their beautiful and prosperous
little borough.
CHAPTER XXI.
Borough of Sharpsville— Location and Population— Name— Original
Settlers— Early Mills— Growth and Prosperity— Manufactures-
Railroads— Incorporation and Borough Officers— Schools— Early
Schools— Their Progress and Development — Churches — Societies and
Associations— Riverside Cemetery— Iron Banking Company.
This substantial borough is pleasantly located on the Shenango River, on
the boundary between Hickory and Pymatuning Townships. Picturesque
in scenery, healthful in location, thrifty in the composition of its people, the
place is recognized as one of the most enterprising in the valley. Many of
its dwellings would well become a city of 50,000 people, and though the cen-
4.48
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
sus of 1880 gives the borough a population of 1,824, it has to-day about 3,000
inhabitants.
It was named in honor of James Sharp. Originally it was called Sharps-
burg, but there being a village of the same name in Allegheny County, the
more euphonious suffix ville supplanted the hurg.
In 1798 Jonathan Dunham purchased from the commonwealth tract No.
857. He was married, in 1801, to Mary, daughter of Henry Clark, who the
year previous had settled on the farm subsequently belonging to Gen. J ames
Pierce. He had thirteen children, six sons and seven daughters, viz. : Justus,
George, Clark, Azariah, Phineas and James, Margaret, Jane, Experience,
Agnes, Mary Ann, Rachel and Mary. Mr. Dunham first located on what is
now the Andrew Byerly place, building there a shanty of poles. He remained
but a short time, when he concluded to go to the hill, where he erected a log
house about twenty rods west of the residence of his son Phineas. He was
a great hunter, and lived largely upon the game which was found in great
abundance all about him, and which his trusty rifle was successful in bringing
down at every shot.
A few years after his settlement Mr. Dunham found it necessary to erect
a barn to secure his crop's and animals. The structure was intended to be a
double log barn. In order to put it up a ‘ ‘raising’ ’ was necessary, which
taxed the sparsely settled neighborhood to its utmost capacity. Samuel
Clark, the pioneer of Clarksville, prompted by the natural impulse that ‘ ‘a
fellow feeling makes us wondrous kind,” came to Dunham’s relief. Hearing
of his difficulty, he circulated among his own neighbors and secured the serv-
ices of ten willing neighbors, who aided Mr. Clark to assist in raising the barn.
They even went to the pains of carrying their own cooking utensils and pro-
visions to the raising. Some of Mr. Dunham’s early neighbors were Mr.
Nelson, at Prichard’s Corners, and Godfrey Carnes, an old Revolutionary
soldier, who dwelt near the State line, distant two and one-half miles north-
west. A little later, in 1832, Joseph Byerly, from Westmoreland County,
settled at Prichard’s Corners, where he lived until his death, in 1864. Mr.
Dunham lived upon his farm until the day of his death, March 6, 1856. He
held several township offices with acceptance, and was a worthy citizen in the
new community.
The Dunham land was purchased by Thomas Means, who in turn sold to
his son-in-law, James Sharp. The last named gentleman owned, all told,
about 150 acres, lying on both sides of the river. On this land he laid out a
few lots along the river and canal in the lower part of town, which became the
nucleus of the future borough.
About 1820 he built a dam and log grist-mill, which he operated for several
years. It was finally destroyed by floods in the river, which compelled him
to make a new dam and a long race, and to erect a new grist-mill and a saw-
mill where the iron bridge now stands. This occurred about 1836. Becom-
ing financially involved, his dam, water power and mills were sold at sheriff’s
sale in 1847, when he left the place. Thomas A. Scott (afterward the rail-
road magnate), and Paul Hamilton, of Philadelphia, purchased the property,
and operated it for a number of years. It was subsequently owned by Vance
and Josiah Stewart, brothers; Morris & Guild, Lewis Lightner, Chambers
Templeton and J. H. Miller. The last mentioned has remodeled the mill
and put in a full roller process.
The substantial growth of the place dates from the advent of Gen. James
Pierce, who became the presiding genius and inspiration of the community.
This occurred about 1856. Antecedent to that time there were only a dozen
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
449
houses that grew up around the mills. The General employed his time and
means and energies in building up the place in its various industries, making
it one of the most active business centers in the entire valley. Operating ex-
tensive coal mines, building and managing furnaces, projecting and complet-
ing railroads, aiding struggling industries, he gave an impetus to the pro-
ductive energies of the region which have continued unabated to the present
time. His work soon attracted men of means and enterprise, who pushed for-
ward the work so ably and auspiciously begun.
Sharpsville has maintained a conspicuous position as a manufacturing
center, as will be made more manifest by knowing that its shipments of freight
are larger than those of any inland town in the valley. These establishments
are described more particularly in Chapter VI, to which reference is made.
Eailroad communication is of the best kind. The Erie & Pittsburgh, the
N. Y. P. &. O. (Erie), the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern, and the Balti-
more & Ohio lines are all represented by branches through the place. The
facilities for transportation are of the best possible kind, being greatly cheap-
ened by the necessary competition lietween rival lines.
INCOEPOEATION AND BOEOUGH OFFICEES.
Sharpsville was incorporated as a borough May 21, 1874. The first
election thereafter was held June 9, 1874, resulting as follows:
1874 — Burgess, J. J. Hofius; high constable, M. R. Zahniser; constable,
T. O. Hazen; secretary and treasurer, C. E. Agnew; council, C. F. Eldredge,
three years; G. C. Carnes, three years; S. W. Johnston, two years; Fred
Patterson, two years; F. B. Pauley, one year; Dr. T. M. Brown, one year;
judge of elections, J. M. Kimball; inspectors, L. D. Bnmpus, Isaac Lynch;
assessor, G. T. Robinson; auditors, J. T. Carmichael, W. S. Bebout and John
P. Derr; school directors, Samuel Dunbam, treasurer, three years; J. R.
Lytle, secretary, three years; John D. Milliken, president, two years; M. A.
Johnston, John W. Stanton, D. M. McMillen.
1875 — Burgess, Isaac Lynch; constable, M. R. Zahniser; secretary and
treasurer, C. E. Agnew; council, Henry Mertz, John W. Wick, C. F. Eldredge,
G. C. Carnes, S. W. Johnston and Fred Patterson; school directors, John D.
Milliken, president; J. R. Lytle, secretary; Samuel Dunham, treasurer; J. J.
Pierce, Frank Allen and M. A. Johnston.
1876 — Burgess, J. J. Pierce; secretary and treasurer, C. E. Agnew; coun-
cil, James Milliken, Fred Patterson, Henry Mertz, C. F. Eldredge, G. C.
Carnes and S. W. Johnston; school directors, J. J. Pierce, president; J. R.
Lytle, secretary; Frank Pierce, treasurer; J. D. Hadley, P. J. Bartleson,
Frank Allen and Samuel Dunham.
1877 — Burgess, J. J. Pierce; secretary and treasurer, C. E. Agnew; coun-
cil, E. W. Hawk, J. R. Willard, J. R. Milliken, L. A. Ormsby, G. D. Gib-
son and Isaac Lynch; school directors, J. J. Pierce, president; P. J. Bartle-
son, secretary; Frank Pierce, treasurer; Samuel Dunham, Frank Allen, J. D.
Hadley and Dr. J. H. Twitmyer.
1878 — Burgess, James R. Milliken; secretary and treasurer, C. E. Agnew;
council, Ivans Rambo, Eli Hawk, F. B. Pauley, J. D. Hadley, Dr. J. H.
Twitmyer and George D. Kelly; school directors, J. D. Hadley, president;
P. J. Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; C. F. Eldredge, James
Mell, Samuel Dunham and Dr. J. H. Twitmyer.
1879 — Burgess, Walter Pierce; secretary and treasurer, C. E. Agnew;
council, S. A. Koonce, James C. Mell, A. C. Andrews, George D. Kelly,
R. M. Seaton and M. A. Johnston; school directors. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer,
450
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
president; P. J. Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; Jonas J.
Pierce, James Mell, C. F. Eldredge and Samnel Dunham.
1880 — Burgess, George D. Kelly; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter;
council. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, R. M. Seaton, G. A. Miller, C. B. Allen, Seth
Holius and Pat Cahill; school directors. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, president; P. J.
Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; Seth Holius, Jonas J. Pierce,
C. F. Eldredge and James Mell.
1881 — Burgess, George D. Kelly; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter;
council. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, Robert Russell, Seth Holius, Pat Cahill, Benja-
min Reichard and Thomas Eagan; school directors. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, presi-
dent; P. J. Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; Jonas J. Pierce,
Seth Holius, J. M. McMurray and G. C. Carnes.
1882 — Burgess, Dr. J. H. Twitmyer; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter;
council, George D. Kelly, James B. Pierce, W. A. Lynch, J. R. Gemmill,
Benjamin Reichard and A. M. Smith; school directors. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer,
president; P. J. Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; Jonas J.
Pierce, G. C. Carnes, J. N. McMurray and Seth Holius.
1883 — Burgess, B. D. Palmer; secretary and treasurer, T. O. Hazen;
council, J. G. Maxwell, George Miller, J. J. Holius, Lewis Reddick, A. Rob-
erts and E. W. Hawk; school directors. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, president; P. J.
Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; C. F. Eldredge, Jonas J. Pierce,
G. C. Carnes and J. N. McMurray.
1884 — Burgess, Ivans Rambo; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter; coun-
cil, Isaac Lynch, F. C. Ramig, A. D. Palmer, Andrew Clark, William Reich-
ard and A. M. Smith; school directors. Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, president; P. J.
Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; Albert Roberts, G. C. Carnes,
C. F. Eldredge and Jonas J. Pierce.
1885 — Burgess, De Walt Wiles; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter;
council, A. M. Smith, Lewis Barlett, Isaac Lynch, F. C. Fannig, A. D.
Palmer and Andrew Clark; school directors, Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, president;
P. J. Bartleson, secretary; C. E. Agnew, treasurer; J. J. Pierce, G. D. Devitt,
C. F. Eldredge and Albert Roberts.
1886 — Burgess, James C. McDowell; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter;
council, Daniel Carbaugh, James Harris, A. M. Smith, Lewis Barlett, Isaac
Lynch and F. C. Ramig; school directors, J. J. Pierce, president; P. J. Bar-
tleson, secretary ;C. E. Agnew, treasurer; J. D. Hadley, J. H. Perry, Dr. J. H.
Twitmyer and George A. Miller.
1887 — Burgess, J. C. McDonald; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter;
council, H. P. Hoover, Michael Minnehan, Daniel Carbaugh, James Davis,
A. M. Smith and Lewis Barlett.
1888 — Burgess, James Blaney; secretary and treasurer, J. L. Deeter ;
council, Frank Miller, Edward A. Rogan, H. P. Hoover, Michael Minnehan,
Daniel Carbaugh and James Harons; school directors, Walter Pierce, James R.
Gemmill, J. D. Hadley, J. H. Perry, Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, George A. Miller.
SCHOOLS.
It is claimed that the first school building in the vicinity of Sharpsville
was erected as early as 1820, on land belonging to Mr. Byerly. It was a log
structure. At least ten years prior to that date school had been conducted by
John Dunlap, an early settler, and noted Indian hunter, in a private dwelling
belonging to a Mr. Hill, between Sharpsville and Sharon.
The first building for school purposes within the present borough limits
was erected in 1847, by Messrs. Vincent, Himrod & McClures, then engaged
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
451
in the furnace business. Its purpose at the time was to accommodate the
attaches of the furnace. About 1870, Gen. Pierce bought the old building
from the school district, to which it had been transferred by the proprietors,
paying therefor f l,000,and donating lots on which was erected the first school
building. Some difficulty existed in 1874 in securing from Hickory Town-
ship the quota of money belonging to the Sharpsville District. At the sug-
gestion of legal counsel, the board was directed to petition the court to
appoint auditors to ascertain how much money, if any, belonging to Hickory
Township funds properly and justly belonged to Sharpsville. This course
resulted in securing the proper division, and obtaining what was equitably
due. The land on which the Sharpsville school building is located was donat-
ed to the Hickory Township school board. The building, of four rooms, was
erected by the township board. Frank Allen gave the board a donation, as
did also Gen. Pierce, the latter supplying the bell. All these matters were
taken into account in the adjudication.
In 1870 an addition to the building was made, at a cost of |2,875, the
contractor being Josiah McDowell. In 1883 a second addition was made by
J. J. Hofius, at a cost of $4,385. Heating apparatus was put in the same
season by Kelley & Jones, of Pittsburgh, at an expense of $1,814. The build-
ing now consists of nine school rooms, one recitation and one library room.
It presents a commanding appearance. The first corps of teachers, 1874-75,
embraced the following: James F. Burwell, of Linesville, at $75 per month;
his assistants, John P. Derr, Anna Groves, Florence Albin, Alma Kelly
and Eva Stranahan. The report of L. T. McCartney, principal, for the month
ending April 6, 1888, shows an aggregate enrollment of 454, with an average
attendance of 399.
CHURCHES.
The Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest religious society in
Sharpsville. The first preaching by Methodist ministers in this region was on
the farm of William Fruit, whose tenant, William Hays, was a follower of the
Methodist faith. This occurred about the year 1835. The place of meeting
was changed shortly afterward to the house of Andrew Byerly, where services
were conducted for several years. A class had been formed soon after the
first preaching was heard, and this was organized into a regular society in
1836, under the supervision of Andrew Rice, the first class- leader. Mr. Rice
was succeeded by Andrew Byerly and Phineas Dunham. The class when first
organized belonged to the Pittsburgh Conference. The next year, the Erie Con-
ference being formed, the class was transferred to that.
The first preachers were Ensign B. Hill and R. Peck. The circuit was
known as the “ Salem Circuit,” and belonged to the Meadville District. In
1837 the society became one of the constituents of the ‘‘Old Clarksville
Circuit,” among the other preaching places of which were then Greenville,
Sharon. Clarksville, Orangeville, Charlestown, Big Bend and Keel Ridge.
Sharpsville remained in this circuit from 1837 to 1869, when it became a sepa-
rate charge, under the pastorate of Rev. L. M'ick. The first church edifice was
erected in 1858, under the pastorate of Rev. R. A. Caruthers. It was a frame
structure 30x40 feet in dimensions, and stood on Mercer Avenue. During the
pastorate of Rev. John Perry, 1874-75, it was remodeled and enlarged. For
over ten years prior to the erection of this church building the society wor-
shiped in a school-house belonging to the first furnace established in Sharps-
ville. The membership of the church is 201 at present. Their condition is
good. Following is a list of pastors since the establishment of the Sharps-
452
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ville congregation as a separate charge, with term of the service of each: Rev.
L. Wick, 1869-70; Rev. J. E. Johnson, 1870-71; Rev. J. H. Merchant,
1871-73; Rev. John Perry, 1874-75; Rev. W. H. Mossman, 1876; Rev. E.
Fair, 1877-78; Rev. C. W. Darrow, 1879-81; Rev. J. A. Ward, 1882-84; Rev.
S. M. Clark, 1885-86, and Rev. A. O. Stone, the present pastor, who began his
ministry in 1887.
The United Brethren Church was organized in September, 1866, by Rev.
H. F. Day, its hrst pastor, who remained in charge two years. There were
thirty members at the beginning, among the number being George Tait and
wife, George Fry and wife, Andrew Byerly and wife, James Barnett and wife,
Johnson Patton and wife. The organization was effected in the Methodist
Episcopal Church, in which exercises of worship were conducted for over two
years. During the seven years that followed, the store-house of the old Erie
Canal was utilized as a house of worship, occasional services being also held in
private houses. The present structure, erected in 1884 at a cost of
|l,500, the contract being taken by William Reichard, is a one-story frame,
28x42 feet in dimensions, and was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies
June 2, 1885. In it the society has since worshiped. In addition to
this there belongs to the organization a parsonage, purchased of Isaac Byerly
in 1880, and since repaired, valued at $300. The congregation is in good
condition, having a membership of fifty earnest workers. The first class -
leader was George Tait. Following Rev. Day in the ministry came Rev.
Traver, who remained two years; Rev. John Smith, one year; Rev. Casteline,
one year; Rev. William Excel, one year; Rev. O. D. Cone, two years. Rev.
John Williams, one year; Rev. H. F. Day, again, one year; Rev. Rufus
Smith, two years; Rev. D. D. Landaw, one year; Rev. O. J. Gage, three
years; Revs. J. W. Clark, J. C. Andrews, H. Bedow, William Robinson and
Z. Z. Dilley, each one year, and Rev. N. C. Foulk, the present pastor. The
present class-leader and steward is A. J. Nickle; the trustees are James Mills,
James Fisher, Philip Nickle, Harmon Jennings and A. J. Nickle.
The First Presbyterian Church of Sharpsville was organized on May 12,
1870, with twenty-eight members, by a committee of the Beaver Presbytery,
consisting of William M. Taylor, J. M. Mealey and Elder James Wilson.
The original members embraced Albert Lightner, Mrs. Susan Lightner, R. T.
Hadley, Mrs. Louisa J. Hadley, Matthew Gemmill, Mrs. Margaret Gemmill,
Mrs. Julia Kirkland, Mrs. Sarah Drumm, David Agnew, Mrs. Eliza C.
Agnew, Miss Mary Agnew, David M. McMillan, Mrs. Nancy McMillan, Mrs.
Martha Hobaugh, Thomas Carmichael, Mrs. Rebecca Carmichael, Mrs. Eliza
Moore, William Fruit, Mrs. Sarah Fruit, Miss Callie Fruit, James E.
McMillan, Mrs. Mary McMillan, Michael Keith, Mrs. Susannah Keith, Mrs.
Melissa P. McMurray, John R. Forest, Mrs. Martha Forest and Miss Eva Keith.
Services had occasionally been held at Sharpsville for a year or two previous
to the organization of the congregation. Rev. Falconer, then pastor of the
Sharon Church, doing the preaching. The early preaching of the congrega-
tion was done as a supply by the pastors of the churches at Sharon and
Clarksville. The first regular pastors were Revs. A. B. Wilson and S. H.
Wallace, both of whom served the congregation two years each. They were
succeeded by the present pastor. Rev. S. L. Boston, who began his labors in
1887, and is working efficiently for the development of his people. The first
eldership of the congregation consisted of David Agnew and David M.
McMillan. Subsequently L. M. Ormsby, C. F. Eldredge and I. D. Hadley
were chosen as additional ruling elders. The present neat and commodious
frame house of worship was erected in 1882, at a cost of $4,000. The con-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
453
gregation enrolls at present some 115 members, and is in a fair condition. Its
pastor is a young man, and believes firmly in earnest work, both on his own
part and that of his people. The aggregate annual expenses are about
$1,900.
The First Baptist Church was organized on June 11, 1871, in a school-
house opposite the old Methodist Church, where meetings were then held by
Eev. J. T. Griffith. The members who were thus formed into a separate
congregation were Robert Dunham, Isaac Lynch, James H. Garrison,
Joseph Byerly, John J. Hofius, John A. Porterfield, A. G. Dunham, Sarah
Lynch, Elizabeth Hofius, Augusta Lightner, Mar}" Hofius, Alice Garrison,
George Hofius. At the time of organization Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Hazen,
Sophia Byerly and Mary Lynch were added by baptism. In 1872 the church
building was erected on lots donated by Gen. James Pierce, at a cost of $3,000.
The successive pastors of the congregation have been Revs. J. T. Griffith,
April 30, 1871, to April 20, 1873; Jacob Morris, May 25, 1873, to November
1, 1874; W. P. Hile, Jiine, 1875, to April, 1879; J. T. Bristow, May,
1879, to April, 1881; F. W. Cramer, September, 1881, to April, 1883; W. E.
Feeman, June, 1883, to April, 1885, and Henry Madtes, who began his
ministry June 28, 1885, and who yet serves.
St. Bartholomexv Catholic Church was founded in 1872 by Rev. Thomas J.
McManiTs, with a membership of sixty-five, nearly all of whom lived in Sharps-
ville and the immediate vicinity. Father McManus was a very zealous priest,
and labored for a period of three years, when, through exposure in the dis-
charge of his duties, he contracted a sickness which ended in death. Eev.
William Coonan, of Wheatland, then took charge of Sharpsville, in connection
with his own congregation, and he was succeeded by Rev. Bernard Lynch, also
of Wheatland. It was next placed under the late Rev. K. O’Branigan, of
Sharon, who assisted materially to reduce the debt during the few months he
had control. Rev. Patrick Cosgrove, of Wheatland, succeeded Father O’Bran-
igan, and labored faithfully to build up the spiritual and material interests of
the congregation. In 1881 Rev. J. C. McEntee was appointed resident pastor
of St. Bartholomew, and remained as such five years, during which time he
did a great deal for his flock. He was succeeded by Rev. Thomas J. Clark,
the present pastor, who began his labors October 1, 1885.
The first house of worship, a frame building of modest pretensions, was
erected during the pastorate of Father McManus. This church, with its com-
mon board pews and temporary altar, was occupied until the beginning of
Father Clark’s pastorate. It was burned August 16, 1886, just after he had
conceived the plan of frescoing and otherwise ornamenting it. An immediate
attempt at rebuilding was begun, amid discoui'aging difficulties. The result
of this was the erection of the present brick structure, 45x90 feet in dimensions,
with a tower 120 feet in hight, and nicely finished and furnished throughout
the whole interior. Its seating capacity is 300, and it was fully tested at the
dedication, which occurred August 12, 1887. The cost of the entire structure,
with its furnishings, was $7,000. The ground on which it stands was donated
by John Milliken. In addition to this the congregation owns a parsonage,
built during the pastorate of Father McManus, and enlarged during Father
Clark’ s ministry. It now presents a pleasant and comfortable appearance. St.
Bartholomew’s is one of the flourishing Catholic congregations of the county,
and now embraces about sixty-five families. A growing Sunday-school is con-
nected with the church, in which the children of the parish are taught the
divine precepts of Christian faith.
The First Universalist Church. — The first preachers of the doctrine of Uni-
454
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
versalism in Sharpsville were Rev. B. F. Hitchcock, of Conneautville, Penn. ,
who preached two or three times in the winter of 1870-71, and Rev. C. L.
Shipman, of Girard, Penn., who preached more or less regularly until 1875,
without any particular organization, but mainly through the influence and by
the efforts of Gen. James Pierce, who died in 1874. In January, 1875, a
parish organization was formed in the old Pierce hall, with twenty-eight mem-
bers, properly officered to carry on systematic work, and still ministered to by
Rev. Shipman. These members were Nathan Morford, Mrs. Mary A. Mor-
ford, Mrs. Chloe Pierce, Mahlon Fell, Jonas J. Pierce, Walter Pierce, Frank
Pierce, T. M. Ford, Mrs. Kate Pierce, Mrs. Julia A. Fell, Aaron Fell, Andrew
Fell. Jesse Fell, H. Phelps, Seth Hofius, J. W. Fuller, Charles Wilson, A.
C. Andrews, S. W. Johnston, A. Lamont, T. O. Hazen, Mrs. Emeline Fell,
Mrs. Ursula J. Fuller, R. J. McDowell, J. L. Weaver, J. V. Lynch, Mrs.
Susan Phelps, Mrs. Sarah Meacham. In February, 1876, a church organiza-
tion was formed, with Rev. C. L. Shipman as pastor, and the following thirty
members taken into fellowship: Jonas J. Pierce, T. O. Hazen, S. O. Morford,
J. T. Oliphant, T. M. Ford, Mrs. Eva Hazen, Mrs. Mariah Lynch, Miss S.
Meacham, Miss Fannie F. Ford, Mrs. Mary Wiles, Aaron Fell, S. W. John-
ston, Mahlon Fell, Dewalt Wiles, Mrs. Chloe Pierce, Mrs. Ursula J. Fuller,
Mrs. Emeline Fell, Miss Allie M. Fuller, Miss Emma Laux, Mrs. Mary A.
Morford, A. C. Andrews, J. W. Fuller, R. J. McDowell, Nathan Morford,
Mrs. Kate Pierce, Mrs. Sarah A. Johnston, Mrs. Sarah M. Oliphant, Miss
Minnie Andrews, Mrs. Carrie Fuller, Mrs. Emeline J. Morford. The first
church officers elected were Jonas J. Pierce, moderator; Nathan Morford and
A. C. Andrews, deacons, and T. M. Ford, clerk and treasurer. In September,
1882, ground was broken and work commenced for a church building. The
corner-stone was laid October 10, 1882, and the building completed and dedi-
cated with appropriate ceremonies February 10, 1884. It fronts on Mercer
Avenue, is constructed of pressed brick with stone trimmings and slate roof,
forming a handsome structure, probably second to none in the county, and cost
when completed $16,000, the larger part of it being donated 'by Mrs. Chloe
Pierce, widow of the late Gen. James Pierce. She also placed in the church
a fine pipe organ, the only one in Sharpsville, as a memoir to her sister, Mrs.
Abida H. Boles. In 1887-88 the sons of Mrs. Chloe Pierce built a beautiful
and substantial parsonage, costing about $4,000, and donated it to the church as
,a memorial to their mother, making the present church property one of the
most complete and desirable in the county. The present official members are;
Moderator, T. O. Hazen; trustees, J. J. Pierce, Aaron Fell and Frank Pierce;
deacons, T. M. Ford, Dewalt Wiles and W. W. Kitch; T. M. Ford, clerk and
treasurer, which office he has held since 1871. The following is a list of the
successive pastors of the church, with date of their “calls” : Rev. C. L.
Shipman, 1876; Rev. Samuel Hough, 1877; Rev. C. L. Shipman. 1880; Rev.
William A. Pratt, 1884; Rev. DeWitt Lamphear, 1885; Rev. W. S. Williams,
1887, and is the present pastor. The present church membership is forty-
nine. A successful Sunday-school was organized in 1874, and is still in a
flourishing condition.
Free Methodist Church. — This congregation was organized in 1885, by Rev.
J. H. Bentley, although a farmer named Davis, from Prospect, Mercer County,
was the fi.^st one to begin active agitation of the subject. The present struct-
ure was built in 1887, at a cost of $1,200, and is a frame, neat and convenient.
The church is weak in membership, numbering only twenty-two, but the out-
look is promising. Following Rev. Bentley in the pastorate came the present
pastor. Rev. W. B. Roupe.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
455
The Reformed Church was organized in July, 1887, by Rev. Sumpe, with
some sixteen members, among whom were Fred Castbohm, Lewis Castbohm,
Henry Castbohm, John Coffler, Charles Molston, 'William Reichard, Benja-
min Reichard, William Swartzbeck, Dr. J. H. Twitmyer and William Graber.
Meetings are held in the United Brethren Church.
SOCIETIES AND ASSOCIATIONS.
Adoniram Lodge No. 739, I. O. O. F., was instituted November 10, 1870,
in the second story of Bebout’s drug store, on Mercer Avenue, by D. D. G. M.
J. E. Millhouse, from Greenville. The charter members were H. Buchanan,
W. I. Bebout, W. S. Bebout, Thomas B. Beil, A. T. Clark, James Crawford,
James A. Curry, J. T. Carmichael, Robert Dunham, Henry Jaxtheimer,
George W. Deeter, Eli W. Hawk, Seth Hull, Robert Hunter, G. C. Hofius,
Daniel Groscost, Martin Achre, Fred Patterson, John W. Wick, Hiram P.
Ramsey and R. H. Law. The first officers were; N. G. , W. S. Bebout ;V. G. ,
W. I. Bebout; secretary, Daniel Groscost; treasurer, J. W. Wick. The fol-
lowing have been Noble Grands: W. I. Bebout, Eli W. Hawk, Daniel Gros-
cost, Fred Patterson, John W. Wick, George D. Hofius, Samuel Dunham,
Thomas Downing, T. O. Hazen, George Moyer, A. C. Hewitt, J. H. Groscost,
F. B. Pauly, W. F. Hazen, Charles H. Peters, Joshua Buck, John Williard,
C. W. Rapp, A. L. Metzger, George W. Deeter, D. A. McKnight, B. A.
Jones, L. M. Jaxtheimer, C. E. Stamm, Jacob Snyder, J. M. Kohn, G. M.
Dull, F. C. Raning, U. S. Alderman, B. F. Sherman, C. C. Jones, J. W.
Bell, Andrew J. Nickle and J. A. Sturgis. The secretaries have been Fred
Patterson, J. W. Wick, George D. Hofius, Samuel Dunham, T. O. Hazen, J.
H. Groscost, F. B. Cauly and Samuel Dunham, who has held the position for
the past ten years. The lodge at one time owned a hall of its own in McMil-
lan’s Block, but this was destroyed by fire in 1874, since which time meetings
have been held in the A. O. U. W. hall in Fisher’s Block. The membership
of the lodge is sixty.
Sharpsville Lodge No. 517, F. c& A. M., was granted a charter September
'4, 1872, and its first regular meeting was held October 21, same year. Its
charter members were J. R. Lytle, George Fuller, T. M. Ford, Joseph Roys,
J. J. Hofius, H. C. Harshaw, William McIntyre, Ivans Rambo, A. D. Palmer,
J. J. Richards, John Gilchrist, James Gilchrist. The first officers were: W.
M. , James R. Lytle; S. W., Jonathan J. Hofius; J. W., Alfred D. Palmer;
treasurer, George Fuller; secretary, H. C. Harshaw; S. D., James J. Rich-
ards; J. D. , Theodore M. Ford; purser, William McIntyre; S. M. C. , John
Gilchrist; J. M. C., Joseph Roys; guide, Ivans Rambo; tyler, James Gilchrist.
The succeeding presiding officers have been Ivans Rambo, J. J. Hofius, T. M.
Ford, H. C. Harshaw, Thomas Downing, J. J. Richards, W. S. Bebout, J. R.
Gemmill and W. W. Kitch, while the secretaries have been J. R. Lytle,
George D. Hofius, W. S. Bebout and T. M. Ford. Meetings are held on the
first Monday evenings of each month, in Masonic Hall, on Mercer Avenue.
The membership at present numbers twenty-seven.
Sharpsville Lodge No. 71, A. O. U. W., was organized April 3, 1874, by
D. D. G. M. W., E. Harvey. The first officers of the lodge were: P. M. W.,
B. R. Welch; M. W., Harvey Logan; Foreman, S. B. Jones; O. , J. W. Wick;
Rec., J. L. Deeter; Fin., T. O. Hazen; Rec. , Seth Hofius. Following are the
presiding officers in succession: T. O. Hazen, J. E. Swapp, J. D. Hadley,
G. C. Carnes, Dr. J. H. Twitmyer, C. H. Peters, S. W. Johnston, J. R.
Trout, O. Byers, T. G. Robinson, Joseph Byerly. L. H. Redrick, Edward
Hecker, C. R. Frasier, H. Sandhagan, James Milne, Henry Mertz, J. R.
456
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Gemmill, C. W. Hazen, E. W. Hawk, J. R. Eockwifct, R. D. Gill, Charles
Dettman. The recorders have been J. L. Deeter, J. W. Fuller, S. W. John-
ston, C. H. Peters and T. O. Hazen, who has served since 1877. Meetings
are held every Tuesday evening in the A. O. U. W. Hall, in Fisher’s Block.
The memberbership of the lodge is sixty-three. There is over ^200 in the
treasury, and the affairs of the lodge are in a very prosperous condition.
Sharpsville Council No. 27, R. T. of T., was instituted January 22,
1879, by C. L. Fisher, Grand Lecturer of the order. The charter members
were J. H. Logan, James Titus, George M. Dull, Thomas Eagan, A. C.
Patton, James Hunter, Worth E. Kelly, P. J. Bartleson, S. M. Vance, L. W.
Woodruff, O. H. Jessup, Leah E. Palmer, Maggie E. Hough, Mary S. Logan,
Fannie E. Hopkins, Ada M. Gowdy, Lizzie Hewitt, Mary McClure, Maggie
M. Bartleson, Alice M. Pierce, Phoebe Ford, Hannah Dull, Sarah A. Carnes,
Sadie E. Stephenson, Eva Bolton, Lydia Young, Melinda Showers, Aggie H.
Logan, Hattie M. Woodruff, Anna L. Jessup, Florence A. Albin and Lucy M.
Albin. The first officers of the council were: S. C. , A. D. Palmer; Y. C., N.
Showers; P. C. , Walter Pierce; chaplain. Rev. S. Hough; R. S., L. B. McCord;
F. S., T. M. Ford; treasurer, C. M. Hojikins; herald, Mrs. Sarah M. Oliphant;
deputy herald, Mrs. Leah E. Palmer; guard, Mrs. U. Fuller; sentinel, Mel-
ville Oliphant; medical examiner. Dr. T. M Brown. Since then there have
been installed the following presiding officers: P. J. Bartleson, N. Showers,
Samuel Hough, George M. Dull, L. W. Woodruff', T. M. Ford, O. H. Jessup,
James Titus, J. W. Jackson, C. L. Truesdale, W. W. Saylor, Isaac A. Beggs
and Maria Truesdale, while the secretaries have been P. J. Bartleson, record-
ing, and Thomas Eagan, T. M. Ford and Isaac A. Beggs, financial. Meet-
ings are held on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month in Masonic
Hall. The membership at present numbers fifty, the expenses of each of
which amount to about |4. 00 per annum.
Sharpsville Post No. 234, G. A. R., Dejoartment of Pennsylvania, was
instituted October 10, 1881, in the A. O. U. W. Hall, by J. FI. Payne, of
Butler County. The charter members were B. J. Gutsier, C. E. Stamm,
Henry Duvall, Herbert Duvall, S. C. Foster, James Buchanan, Fred Patter-
son, Andrew J. Sturgis, Dan Barnacle, Isaac Byerly, David A. McKnight, S.
W. Johnston, G. W. Hildebranfl, James Bentley, M. R. Zahniser, S. M.
Vance, L. W. Woodruff, W. T. McMullen, Jonas J. Pierce, Robert Dunham,
Thomas Levitt, Wesley E. Moyer, G. M. Dull, Samuel Dunham and J. J.
Maisenberger. The first officers were: P. C., Samuel Dunham; S. V. C.,
G. M. Dull; J. V. C., Herbert Duvall; adjutant. Charles Stamm; Q. M. , Fred
Patterson; chaplain, Robert Dunham; O. D., M. R. Zahniser; O. G. , W. E.
Moyer; surgeon. Dr. S. W. Johnson. Meetings are held every Wednesday
evening in Park Hall. There are at present thirty-nine members in good
standing. The annual expenses of the post are about $75 per annum.
The Protected Home Circle was organized in September, 1886, by Rev. H. C.
Hall, of Sharon, the supreme president. The charter members were Rev. H.
Madtes, Mrs. J. D. Hadley, Gilman Miller, F. A. Jewell, Dr. J. M. Scoville,
Mrs. S. W. Johnston, W. C. Hadley, J. D. Hadley, J. L. Fillman, I. A.
Beggs, A. W. Smith, S. W. Johnston, D. T. Watson. The first officers
wmre: President, J. D. Hadley; vice-president, J. L. Fillman; accountant,
J. W. Smith; treasurer, Mrs. J. D. Hadley; guardian, F. A. Jewell; chap-
lain, Rev. H. Madtes; medical director. Dr. J. M. Scoville. Since then the
presiding officer has been J. L. Fillman, and the accountant J. W. Smith.
Meetings are held in the A. O. U. W. Hall, on the first and third Thursdays of
each month. The members number thirty, and the circle is in good condition.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
459
Tempo Lodge No. 163, K. of P. , was organized May 4, 1887, by D. D.
G. C. Thomas Perry. Its charter members were Samuel Dunham, J. E.
Cole, J. H. Groscost, Calvin Hadley, Andrew Nickle, G. B. Troutman, Will-
iam Hawk, H. W. Downing, Thomas Orr, J. K. Barlett, J. A. Sturgis, C. E.
Stamm, John Shell, E. M. Peters, C. M. Smith, C. R. Frazier, J. J. Bennie,
V. H. Dunham, W. S. McFarland, John Orr, William Peate. The presid-
ing olScers of the lodge have been C. E. Stamm, Andrew Nickle and J. E.
Cole; the secretaries, C. M. Smith and J. H. Groscost. The first corps of
officers in full was: P. C., Samuel Dunham; C. C., C. E. Stamm; V. C.,
Andrew Nickle; M. of F., F. C. Hadley; M. of Ex., H. W. Downing; K. of
E. & S., C. M. Smith. Meetings are held each Wednesday evening in the
A. O. U. W. Hall. The membership of the Lodge is forty, and the number
is steadily increasing.
Riverside Cemetery Association was organized April 5, 1872, through the *
instrumentality of Gen. James Pierce, for the purpose of selecting and maintain-
ing a suitable and decent burial place for Sharpsville and vicinity. The first
members of it were James Pierce, David Agnew, Jonas J. Pierce, James H.
Stokes, Isaac Lynch, J. McDowell, W. S. Bebout, R. Templeton, J. W. Wick
and George D. Kelly. The grounds chosen are situated east of the borough,
bordered on the north by Shenango River, on the west by the borough itself,
on the south and also on the east by Hickory Township. The cemetery is a
wooded hillside, and is laid out with walks and drives, forming an exceed-
ingly attractive spot for the burial of the dead. Since the organization of the
association it has been presided over by James Pierce and Jonas J. Pierce,
while the secretaries have been David Agnew, T. M. Ford and Scott Pierce.
Its membership is 146, and the condition of both the association and the
cemetery is good.
The Iron Banking Company was established in 1873 by Gen. James
Pierce & Sons, L. Helling and J. W. Ormsby, with a capital stock of $50,000.
Its fii'st officers consisted of: President, James Pierce; cashier, L. Helling. In
1883 it was reorganized with Frank Pierce as president, and C. E. Agnew as
cashier. Nine years prior to the reorganization Gen. Pierce had died. The
new firm consisted of Walter Pierce, Wallace Pierce, Frank Pierce, James B.
Pierce and C. E. Agnew, its present stockholders; Frank Pierce is president,
and C. E. Agnew cashier. It is a bank of deposit, and the stockholders are
personally liable for the business generally, to the extent of $200,000.
23
460
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
CHAPTER XXII.
Boroughs of Sandy Lake and Stoneboko— Brownsville Laid Out— The
Village Incorporated— is ame Changed to Sandy Lake — Derivation of
Name— Description of the Lake— First Settler on the Town Site-
First Things— Schools— Churches— Societies— Banks— Manufactures—
Population.
Stoneboro— Negro Colony— Sale of Site— Town Laid Out— Chapter ofFirst
Things— Schools— Incorporation and Borough Officers- Churches—
Secret Societies — Manufactures — Po pitl ation.
IN 1849 Thomas J. Brown laid out, in Sandy Lake Township, a village
which, in honor of its founder, was called Brownsville. A rapid growth
occurring, the village was incorporated as a borough on August 20, 1859. The
petitioners for the right of incorporation were Alexander Brown, A. Voor-
hies, A. G-. Brown, E. C. Voorhies; J. McElwain, E. Thompson, James Brown,
John Snow, John M. Kitch, A. Wilson, Robert Dunn, Adam Kerr, Hugh
Beard, A. F. Brown, T. H. Fulton, C. H. Brown, J. F. Noble, M. W.
Humason, James McKinney, John T. Cox, Anthony Runkle, E. X. Giebner,
Benjamin Card, T. J. Bealse, Jonas Blatt, J. P. Cummings, C. W. Humason
and J. M. Hinkson.
A difficulty soon arose. It was discovered that there was another Browns-
ville within the State, which fact caused confusion in the distribution of mails.
In consequence of this difficulty the name of the borough was changed to that
of Sandy Lake on November 16, 1868.
The borough takes its present name fi’om the beautiful sheet of water near
which it is located. This lake is about a mile in length, and has an average
width of probably 250 or 300 yards. The water is clear and deep. Its myriad
specimens of the finny tribe were once eagerly sought by the sportsman, but
the drainage into it of the water Horn the coal mines, impregnated with
sulphur, has quite exterminated those creatures. When the lake was first
discovered by the white man is not known. It was visited by whites as early
as 1753, when Washington made his tour of inspection through that portion
of the country.
Sandy Lake was laid out on land which belonged to Alexander Brown, the
first settler in that region. He located in the year 1800. His wife died three
years later — the first death that occui-red in the township. His son, Alexander,
born September 1st, 1802, is said to have been the first native white child in
the township. From this original settler sprang a numerous progeny, who have
remained prominent factors in the subsequent development of the place. In
this number were Alexander, Thomas J. and James E., all of whom participated
in the growth of the community.
Robert Dunn, son of Allen Dunn, a north suburban resident, built the first
blacksmith shop. This occiUTed in 1825. He continued at the business for
more than a quarter of a century. Martin Davis had, two years earlier, viz. ,
1823, established a shop a mile and a half north of the settlement.
At that early date shoemakers had not found the village. Three miles
south, however, in Sandy Lake Township, William Egbert had a shop, at which
he did such work as the surrounding country demanded. A grandson of his
ultimately became a prominent physician, and now resides in Franklin, Penn.
HISTOKY OF MEECER COUNTY.
461
Alexander Brown built the first grist-mill about 1820, just north of town,
near the bridge. Some ten years later a second was erected by his sons. These
structures, together with the consequent buildings they necessitated, and the gen-
eral thrift they produced, may be regarded as the origin of this beautiful
borough. But this was not sufficient. Half a dozen years later witnessed the
existence of a saw mill, a fulling mill, an oil mill and a woolen mill. These
have all served their purpose and disappeared. -
Thomas J . Brown began the hotel business by erecting a structui’e in 1835,
for simple boarding purposes. It was subsequently converted into a regular
hotel. John Brownlee is said to have been the first hotel-keeper in the place.
A complete list of licensed houses will be found in the chapter on Internal
Affairs.
The first wagon- shop was run by William Dickey, prior to 1840. Alexander
Hays was a grocer as early as 1837, his building then being the one" also oc-
cupied by Thomas J. Brown. The Brown brothers were next to engage in mer-
cantile business.
In the list of early physicians were the names of Drs. Brainard and John
Yath. Concerning them not much can be said. Dr. Yath is said to have been
somewhat eclectic in his practice, and was quite successful. Some reference is
made to him in the Medical chapter.
Schools. — The first teacher in what is now Sandy Lake was Allen Dunn,
who conducted a school in a log cabin owned by Alexander Brown, Sr. , more
than sixty years ago. The first school-house was erected shortly before the
public school system was established. It was made oiit of pine lumber four
inches in thickness, and was located near where Austin Potter’ s green-house is
standing. It was built by subscription. Among the donors to this worthy
enterprise were the Brown family, Eli Butler, Robert Dunn and Homer Bailey.
Anson D. Williams and Desire and Loraine Bailey were among the earliest
teachers in this house. A second building was erected some time after 1850
on the same hill but a few rods north. This served the purpose until 1868,
when the present substantial building was put up. A part of the old building
forms a section of Austin Potter’s barn.
The present site was purchased of the Browns at a cost of §400. The
original structure cost $2,500, and the wing which was subsequently added
cost $1, 300 more. The first teachers in this building were ]NLss Anna M. Car-
ver as principal, and INL's. S. D. Owen as primary instructor. Since the erec-
tion of this building the school has taken on new life, and under the princq^al-
ship of M. E. Hess, 1887-88, a catalogue giving the course of instructions
was issued. It was during the management of A. J. Devereaux that the
school was graded, and it is now divided into five departments. The follow-
ing persons have been principals: Prof. McClelland, G. W. Mayes, Robert
Glenn, J. M. Dight, George E. Patterson, C. I. Mullen, W. H. McMullen, L.
D. Brown, A. J. Devereaux, W. J. McClintock and M. E. Hess.
Churches. — The Presbyterian Church, the oldest in the borough, was organ-
ized October 3, 1835. Its first members were Theodore Bailey, Loraine Bai-
ley, Homer Bailey, Minerva Bailey, Myron Bailey, Charity Bailev", Freelove
Barker, Sallie Bierce, Eli Butler, Desire Bailey, Alexander Brown, Elizabeth
Brown and William C. Bogart. The first elders consisted of Alexander Brown,
Homer Bailey and Eli Butler. The building now occupied by the chiu’ch was
not erected until 1841. It is a substantial frame, 46x50 feet in size. The
first pastor was Rev. Robert Glenn, who labored in the chru’ch as stated sup-
ply for eleven years. Following him came Rev. J. W. McCune, two years;
Rev. John G. Condit, two years; Rev. John Rice, five years; Rev. James Laf-
462
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ferty, two years; Rev. Joseph M. Duff, two years; Rev. Samuel Glenn, two
years; Rev. J. Logan Sample, three years, and the present pastor, Rev. E. A.
Nelson. The congregation is now in a flourishing condition, free from debt,
and with a membership of 140. Its present officers are: Elders, T. S. Bailey,
Thomas Clingan, E. M. McGinnis, John Gilmore, S. A. McClure and James
DeFrance; trustees, A. G. Hoovler, James Yanney, Joseph Bowers and Will-
iam DeFrance. There is a Sunday-school enrolling 100 pupils connected with
the congregation. There are also two missionary societies' maintained by the
ladies of the church, the Ladies and the Young Ladies. Of the former Mrs.
Phoebe Snider is president; Mrs. Mary Clingan, vice-president, and Mrs. A.
G. Hoovler, treasurer; while the president of the latter is Miss Anna McDon-
ald, and its secretary. Miss Maggie Clingan.
The Methodist Episcopal congregation owes its origin to Rev. Sullivan,
who assembled the Methodist families in the neighborhood together in 1864,
and began holding religious devotions with them. Among the number of
these early members are found the names of Thomas H. Burns, Mrs. T. H.
Burns, E. W. Latham, Mrs. Nancy Latham, Samuel Newkirk, Mrs. Sarah
Newkirk and Mr. and Mrs. Voorhies. The first exercises were held in the
Presbyterian Church. This was occupied for a period, and then the Cove-
nanters’ Church was secured and used for meeting purposes for about two
years. The congregation having by this time become stronger in numbers and
wealth, it was determined to erect a house of its own. Accordingly a frame
building 30x40 feet in dimensions, now occiipied by Carver & Bower as a
wagon-shop, was built, and the regular services held therein. In 1878, how-
ever, work on the present handsome structure was begun, and in the same year
was completed the church now occupied. This is an elegant brick edifice, with
an audience room 40x70 feet, chapel and class rooms 30x45, and slated roof.
The ground on which it stands was donated by Milton Egbert. The total
value of the church property is estimated at $10,000. The following have
been pastors of the congregation: Rev. W. Schofield, Rev. — Brown, Rev. S.
K. Paden, Rev. John Abbott, Rev. H. Beatty, Rev. John Eckels, Rev. W.
Moore, Rev. John Graham, Rev. A. R. Rich, Rev. E. K. Creed, and the
present pastor, Rev. O. L. Mead, who began his ministry at the close of
1887. The congregation is in a flourishing condition, having a membership of
240. Its class-leaders at present are Edward H. Stekel, E. X. Giebner,
George Fowler and Hugh Bradberry.
The Disciples’ Church was organized April 15, 1874, by B. E. Baker. The
original members were John Kirk, Ann S. B. Kirk, John Cook, Jacob Davis,
J. L. Cross, B. H. Harmon, W. R. Harmon, A. K. Turner, Mary A. Turner,
Mrs. J. F. Eberman, Mrs. K. Thompson, Miss C. E. Thompson, Miss E. L.
Thompson, Mrs. M. L. Bowers, Mahan Patton, Helen Patton, Matthew
Park, Mrs. E. Park, Mrs. Amelia Potter and Mrs. S. F. Harriott. The first
elder was John Kirk, while the first deacons selected were John Cook and J.
L. Cross. The church structure is a frame building, erected in July, 1881, at
a cost of $2, 500. The congregation also owns a parsonage, estimated to be
worth $1,800. The first pastor of this church was Elder B. E. Baker. Fol-
lowino- him in order came Elder W. B. Young, Elder Frederick HofPman,
Elder N. L. Atwood, and the present pastor, Elder G. J. Massey. The
present officers are A. Turner and John Vogan, elders, and J. L. Cross and
S. L. A. Smith, deacons. The congregation numbers sixty members. It is
free from debt, has money in the treasury, and is in good condition both spir-
itually and temporally.
The Cumberland Presbyterian congregation was organized in April, 1875,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
463
by Rev. J. M. Gallagher, of Jackson Centre, Penn. The first members
of the church were C. H. Walker, N. A. Watson, 0. C. Armstrong, M.
L. Zahniser, Margaret E. Walker, Allie Balliett, S. S. Balliett, Alexander
Brown, Elizabeth Brown, Jesse Edmund, Flora Edmund, Lilia McCormick,
T. S. Sanford, I. H, Robb, Adam Niece, Ellen Niece, C. Carver, Mrs. C.
Carver, Martha Porter, R. A. Long, D. J. Brown, George Kilch, Frank B.
Eberman, Frank Niece, Henry Flickinger, Lydia Kilch, Robert Adams, M. A.
Balliett, Joseph Infield, S. E. McMichael, Mary Infield, M. C. S. Washa-
baugh, Andrew George, Mary R. C. George, Mary A. Adams, S. E. Barnes,
Laura Barnes, Jane Amon, T. S. Powell, T. E. Porter, W. H. Milford, C. E.
l^obb, W. R. Martzall, E. D. Martzall, N. Amon, H. S. Blatt, H. M. Blatt,
T. H. Fulton, Eva. Fulton, C. B. Fulton, L. B. Fulton and John B.
McMichel. The first officers of the congregation comprised H. S. Blatt, S. S.
Balliett, A. George and M. L. Zahniser, elders, and C. Carver, T. E. Porter
and N. Amon, trustees. The handsome brick structure at present occupied by
the congregation was erected in 1876. It is a very commodious building,
40x75 feet in dimensions, and cost |8,000. Since the organization of the
church there have been three pastors in charge. The first. Rev. J. M Norris,
died in 1878, and was succeeded by Rev. P. R. Hanley, who resigned in 1883,
and who was followed by the present pastor. Rev. J. A. Bowman, called in 1884.
Under his pastorate the congregation has been increased both in faith and
numbers, its membership now being 125. The present officers of the congre-
gation are H. S. Blatt, R. D. Pringle, A. George and M. L. Zahniser, elders,
and I. H. Robb, George W. Worrell and H. Rogers, trustees. Connected with
the church is a flourishing Sunday-school, which is superintended by Mr. A.
George, assisted by Mr. AV. J. Lyons, and which has an average attendance
of eighty pupils, necessitating the maintenance of eight classes. The secretary
and treasurer of the school is Mr. G. AV. AVorrell.
Societies. — Sandy Lake Lodge No. 573, 1. 0.0. F., was chartered November
17, 1863. Its officers were E. X. Giebner, N. G. ; Martin McMillen, V. G. ; A.
N. Heard, Sec. ; Samuel Newkirk, Asst. Sec. ; Jason AA^. Barker, Treas. The first
meetings were held in the upper story of Jonas Blatt’ s wagon- shop, which was
occupied for a period of six years. The room above Devore & Stevenson’s
store, corner of Main and Mercer Steets, was then secured and services held in
it. The old Grange Hall, at the north end of Main Street, was then occupied
for a season, from which quarters the lodge removed to its present location
in the I. O. O. F. Hall, in the Ride Block, which has been fm-nished and fitted
up at an expense of $2,700. In the new room meetings are held every
Friday evening. The lodge has a membership of 100.
Big Sandy Lodge No. 514, K. & L. of H., was instituted March, 23,
1882, by Grand Protector L. B. Lockwood, of Franklin, Penn. , with the follow-
ing charter members: C. Carver, Mrs. C. Carver, J. A. McCormick, Mrs. J. A.
McCormick, D. J. Brown, Mrs. D. J. Brown, James Infield, Mrs. James
Infield, J. E. Johnston, Mrs. J. F. Johnston, J. L. Cross, Mrs. J. L. Cross,
George E. Patton, J. H. McClure, Catharine J. McClure, G. W. AVorrell,
Mrs.- G. W. Worrell, Mary Lyons, H. S. Blatt, Mrs. H. S. Blatt, Richard
Lyons, S. A. McClure, Mrs. S. A. McClure, Hiram Flickner, I. J. Harrison,
Mrs. I. J. Harrison, W. J. Lyons, E. C. AVaid, Mrs. E. C. AA'aid, M. L.
Zahniser, Mrs. T. M. Cooley, J. F. Rayen, Mrs. J. F. Rayen, N. A. AVatson,
Mrs. N. A. Watson, H. T. King, A. George, Mrs. A. George, W. H. Harrison
and Mrs. W. H. Harrison. The first elected officers consisted of P. P., H. S.
Blatt; P., J. A. McCormick; V. P., AV. H. Harrison; Sec., S. A. McClure;
F. S., W. J. Lyons; Treas., J. L. Cross; Chap., G. W.Worrell; Guide. N. A.
464
HISTOEY OF MEECER COUNTY.
Watson; guardian, George E. Patton; Sent., H. T. King; trustees, M. L.
Zaliniser, E. C. Waid and A. George, and Med. Ex., Dr. T. M. Cooley.
The purpose of the lodge is to provide for creating a fund for the relief
of sick and distressed members. There have been two deaths in the ranks of
the society since its organization, those of Mrs. James Infield and Mrs. N. A.
Watson. Since the beginning the following gentlemen have been elected
Eepresentatives to the Grand Lodge; H. S. Blatt, S. A. AIcClure and George
W. Worrell. The lodge numbers thirty-eight members at present. Its con-
dition is good, and the outlook for the future is hopeful. Meetings are held
on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the Odd Fellows Hall.
The local lodge of the Ancient Order of United Workmen was insti-
tuted March 4, 1873, by Elliot Harvey. The charter members of it were’:
M. C. Burns, G. W. Clark, J. F. Williams, L. A. Cleary, S. C. Niece, John
Cain, L. P. Foster, H. S. Blatt, W. H. Davis, H. H. Henderson, J. A.
McCormick, I. J. Harrison, J. D. Powell. T. E. Porter, Samuel Newkirk, W.
J. Barnes, E. C. Waid, D. J. Brown, Robert Adams, T. S. Sandford, M.
Smith and Henry Niece. The first corps of officers embraced H. S. Blatt, M.
W. ; J. A. McCormick, F. ; Thomas Porter, O. ; J. D. Powell, recorder; M.
Smith, Fin.; S. C. Niece, Rec. ; J. F. Williams, guide; Robert Adams, I. W. ,
and I. J. Harrison, O. W. The purposes of the order are : “1. To embrace
and give equal protection to all classes and kinds of labor, mental and physi-
cal; to strive earnestly to imj^rove the moral, intellectual and social condition
of its members; to endeavor, by wholesome precepts, fraternal admonitions
and substantial aid, to inspire a due appreciation of the stern realities and
responsibilities of life. 2. To create a fund for the benefit of its members
during sickness or other disability, and in case of death to pay a stipulated
sum to such person or persons, as may be designated by each member, thus
enabling him to guarantee bis family against want. 3. The adoption of such
secret work and means of recognition as will insure the protection of its mem-
bers wherever the order may exist. 4. To hold lectures, read essays, discuss
new inventions and improvements, encourage research in art, science and liter-
ature, and, when practicable, maintain a library for the improvement of mem-
bers.” Since the establishment of the lodge there have been four deaths
within its ranks. There has been paid for charitable purposes, $354; for ben-
eficiary purposes, $10,000; and there has been received for beneficiary pur-
poses, -18,000. The present membership is forty- five.
Star Lodge No. 1467, K. of H. , was organized March 14, 1879, in Grange
Hall, by John N. Whiteman, D. G. D., of Greenville, Penn., with the follow-
ing named charter members: William M. Dunn, N. A. Watson, D. C. Reed,
W. H. Lostetter, W. A. Eckels, Henry Patton, J. F. Johnston, J. L. Cross,
Warren Irwin, Andrew George, E. X. Giebner, S. A. McClure, S. A. Wilson,
J. T. Cook, J. H. Robb, James Lindsey, J. A. McCormick, C. B. Fulton, T.
S. Bailey, S. P. Turner, W. S. Watson, L. P. Foster, W. F. Maxwell, C.
Carver, William M. Knapp, E. G. Eberman, Albert Glenn, J. R. Eberman,
C. F. Jewell, W. E. MacDonald, E. F. Walker, Frank Brown, A. B. McCor-
mick, J. J. Grace, O. P. Clarke, T. M. Cooley, A. A. Walker, W. J. Lyons,
W. T. Stevenson and Charles G. Lamed. The first officers were: Dictator,
E. X. Giebner; A. D., O. P. Clarke; F. R., C. F. Jewell; chaplain, S. A.
Wilson; guardian, J. F. Johnston; P. D., W. T. Stevenson; V. D., C. Car-
ver; representative, S. A. McClure; treasurer, J. L. Cross; guide, A. B.
McCormick; sentinel, S. P. Turner, and trustees, L. P. Foster and J. J.
Grace. The expressed purpose of the order is to unite fraternally all accept-
able white men, and to promote benevolence and charity by establishing a
HISTOEY OP MEKCER COUNTY.
465
widows’ and orphans’ benefit fund, paying a sum not exceeding $2,000 on the
death of a member. The following members have represented the lodge as
Representatives to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania: W. T. Stevenson,
E. X. Giebner, M. D., C. Carver, S. A. McClure and A. George. Of these
Mr. S. A. McClure has been chosen an officer of the Grand Lodge, and has
served as Grand Guardian, Grand Guide and Grand Assistant Dictator, the
latter of which offices he at present fills. Since the institution there have
been but two deaths, W. E. MacDonald and W. T. Stevenson. The present
membership is thirty-two. Meetings are held in the Odd Fellows’ Hall on
the first and third Thursday evenings of each month.
Mountain Council No. 30, R. T. of T. , was instituted September 8, 1879.
Its charter members were D. J. Brown, T. H. Fulton, H. H. Henderson, W.
E. MacDonald, S. T. Robins, Albert Glenn, John Gilmore, A. E. Long, E.
M. McGinnis, L. A. Cleary, G. W. Turner, E. G. Eberman, Philip Rupert,
J. A. Cleary, W. S. Eberman, Eugene McElwain, James McElwarn, J. P.
Vath, J. F. Johnston, Martha A. Porter, Catharine Reed and Jane G. Cum-
mins. The first officers of the council were: D. J. Brown, S. C. ; L. A.
Cleary, V. C. ; E. E. Evermann, P. C. ; E. M. McGinnis, chaplain; Albert
Glenn, recording secretary; S. G. Robins, financial secretary; G. W. Tur-
ner, treasurer; A. E. Long, herald; Philip Rupert, guard; H. H. Hender-
son, sentinel, and T. H. Fulton, medical examiner. The present member-
ship is forty-nine. Meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of each
month, in the Odd Fellows’ Hall. The latter quarters have been used since
1884, previous to which time the exercises of the council were conducted in
the Grange Hall.
Col. Dawson Post, No. 224, G. A. R., Department of Pennsylvania, was
chartered September 28, 1881, with the following charter members: Joseph
Cleary, J. L. Benn, A. H. Burnett, Archibald Barnes, J. Ij. Cross, L. A. Cleary,
T. M. Cooley, William Bailey, Henry B. Bailey, James G. Bailey, J. A. Bond,
I. C. Feather, J. F. Johnston, William H. Patton, Nathan Patton, Isaac St.
Clair, S. P. Turner, E. C. Voorhies, Solomon Zedaker. The first officers of
the post were: Joseph Cleary, commander; L. A. Cleary, officer of the day;
J. A. Bond, quartermaster; I. C. Feather, surgeon; A. H. Burnett, senior
vice-commander; J. L. Benn, junior vice-commander; George J. Patton,
adjutant. The organization was effected in the old Grange Hall, where for
years the meetings of the post were held. The quarters now occupied is the
I. O. O. F. Hall, in the Ride Block, where meetings are held on the second
Thursdays of each month. The present membership of the post is forty-seven.
Economical Mutual Benefit Association, of Sandy Lake, was chartered June
2,1880. Its expressed object was “to create and maintain a fund, by the col-
lection of admission fees, annual dues and assessments, upon surviving mem-
bers, to defray expenses of carrying on the bxisiness of the company, and to
provide a sum to be paid upon the death of a member to the beneficiary or
beneficiaries named in his certificate of membership, or to the insured at the
end of a certain period of time.” The original members were James Lindsey,
T. S. Bailey, William H. Clawson, William J. Patton, Charles Powers, Jay. Con.
Wilson, D. Perrine, E. G. Eberman, T. M. Cooley and Cassius B. Fulton.
The first officers were: President, T. S. Bailey: vice-president, W. H. Claw-
son; secretary, E. G. Eberman; treasurer, D. Perrine; directors (in addition
to officers), James Lindsey, W. J. Patton, Charles Powers, Jay. Con. Wilson,
T. M. Cooley and C. B. Fulton. The officers for 1888 are: President, T. S.
Bailey; vice-president, H. C. Zeigler; secretary, Cassius B. Fulton; treasurer,
D. Perrine; general agent, Charles Powers; medical examiner. Dr. T. M.
466
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Cooley; directors, H. C. Zeigler, C. W. Smith, W. J. Patton, E. Q. Eberman
and J. L. Jewell. This organization is said to be in a flourishing condition,
pays benefits in full, and ranks high among the institutions of the kind in the
United States.
The W. C. T. U., of Sandy Lake, was organized in the Methodist Episco-
pal Church on the 22d of November, 1881, by Miss Narcissa E. White, then
of Pine Grove (now Grove City), with forty- three ladies. Ten honorary mem-
bers from among the lords of creation were also in the organization. The
presidents, during the two years of its existence, were Mrs. Rev. A. R.
Rich and Mrs. C. H. Walker; the treasurers, Mrs. Hettie Johnson and Mrs.
Joseph Clary; and the secretaries, Mrs. Rev. I. L. Crawford and Miss Emma
J. George. Weekly meetings were held at the various churches, at which
plans were devised for furthering the cause of temperance. The society did
much efficient work during its brief existence, and aided materially in
developing the healthful temperance sentiment existing in the community.
The Y. W. C. T. U., of Sandy Lake, was organized on the 31st of March,
1885, at the residence of Rev. I. L. Crawford, by Misses Nettie Niece, Mary
S. Gilmore, Emma J. George and M. Luella Crawford. At first meeting there
were but three members, but a week later seven additions were made to the
ranks. Misses Effie J. Powell, Nettie Niece and Mary S. Gilmore have been
the successive presidents; Misses Mary S. Gilmore, Maggie Perrine and M.
Luella Crawford the recording secretaries; and the last named young lady has
acted all the time as the corresponding secretary. The membership has fluc-
tuated between ten and sixty. The society has had a number of valuable
lectures and entertainments, and for a year published a monthly paper called
the White Jtiibbon. It maintains likewise, for the benefit of children, a Loyal
Temperance Legion, with a membership of 110.
Banks. — Sandy Lake Bank was organized in 1873 for the convenience of the
community, who previously possessed no safe means of transmission of money,
and which, being chiefly of an agricultural class, were unable to transact such
business in the larger villages of the county on account of their distance. The
quarters it now occupies arc in a handsome brick structure, 40x70 feet in
dimensions. The banking rooms are supplied with all necessary equipments
for conducting the usual business of such establishments. The capital stock
is ^50,000, while the average deposits reach $100,000. The present officers of
the bank are D. Perrine, president; T. S. Bailey, vice-president; M. L. Zahn-
inser, cashier; Q. B. Gilmore, assistant cashier; and T. S. Bailey, H. C.
Zeigler, Daniel Perrine, William S. Devore, John Zahniser, M. L. Zahniser,
D. Zahniser and Cassius B. Fulton, directors.
In 1876, a private banking institution was opened in Sandy Lake by the
firm of Brown & Foster, in a building which is yet standing on the corner of
Main and Mercer Streets. A general loan business and private brokerage
was carried on for a period of about seven years. The death of Mr. Brown
occurring in November, 1876, threw the enterprise under the management of
L. P. Foster. The latter gentleman conducted the business in a satisfactory
manner, but finally discontinued it after having paid off all deposits.
Manufactures. — Sandy Lake has never been a manufacturing center. In
1866, however, the Sandy Lake Foundry and Machine-shop was under the
title of the Brownsville Manufacturing Company. After doing business on a
small scale for several years, the property became the possession of W. W.
West. He continued the business until 1872, a period of two years, when the
plant passed into the hands of W. S. Eberman & Sons. They enlarged its
sphere, but were pained to see the property destroyed by fire in May of the
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
467
uext year. New baildings, however, were erected in the coming autumn, thus
preserving to the borough one of its early and important industries.
The population of Sandy Lake in 1870 was 428, and in 1880, 730. The
next census will give it over 1,000 at least.
STONEBOEO.
This enterprising place, situated on the beautiful sheet of water known as
Sandy Lake, was first settled as early as 1825 by a colony of colored people.
After the lapse of time this republic of Liberia gradually disintegrated, so
that by the middle of the present century but one lone specimen of the sons
of Ham remained. His tastes were commercial in character, and consequently
from his hut on the lakeside he retailed cigars and whisky to those disposed
to patronize him. The land on which this negro colony lived was ultimately
sold to Messrs. John F. Hogue and William Shields, who, in turn, sold it in
1862 to Jeremiah Bonner and the Mercer Iron and Coal Company, Bonner
purchasing Hogue’s interest, and the company that of Shields. J. M. Good-
win, now a resident of Sharpsville, surveyed these lands and laid out the
village of Stoneboro in 1865, on territory belonging to both Lake and Sandy
Lake Townships. ^
W. H. Bonner was the first merchant. He had a frame building on the
corner of Lake and Walnut Streets. The building has since been destroyed.
Mr. Bonner is deceased. His father, Jeremiah Bonner, was one of the pioneers
of the place.
The first blacksmith shop was the property of James Lisle, and the first
wagon shop, that of William Beatty.
The first physician was Dr. D. A. Philips. He is now in Sheakleyville.
He was succeeded by Dr. J. H. Christler, at present a resident of Texas, and
he in turn by Dr. B. D. Hanna, who still resides in the borough.
The first postmaster was Robert P. Cann, now secretary and general man-
ager of the Mercer Iron and Coal Company. He held the office a second time,
the latter being sandwitched between the terms of S. A. Wilson and J. P.
Hines, the latter being the present incumbent. For dates see chapter on
Internal Affairs.
The first school building, a two-story, two room structure, was erected in
1868. It soon proved to be too small. It was enlarged in 1885 at a cost of
|2, 500, until the present spacious structure of six rooms was secured. The
school enrollment is 346, with an average attendance of 275.
Incorporation and Borough Officers. — Stoneboro was incorporated on the
25th of August, 1866. The first election was held on the third Friday of
March, 1867, Frank W. Hubley acting as judge, and Samuel Hines and Evan
Evans as inspectors. The following is a list of the principal borough officers;
1867 — Burgess, H. B. Blood; council, F. M. Finney, J. C. Cornwell, J.
C. Nolan, A. S. Troop, Samuel Custer; clerk, J. A. B. Atwater.
1868 — Burgess, H. B. Blood; council, J. C. Cornwell, A. S. Troop, S. T.
Kennedy, Samuel Hines, J. E. Smith; clerk, Robert P. Cann.
1869 — Burgess, A. S. Troop; council, J. C. Cornwell, H. B. Blood, Samuel
Hines, S. T. Kennedy and Samuel Custer; clerk, Robert P. Cann.
1870 — Burgess, A. S. Troop; council, H. B. Blood, Samuel Custer, J. C.
Cornwell and S. Hines; clerk, Robert P. Cann.
1871 — Burgess, A. S. Troop; council, J. C. Cornwell, H. B. Blood and
Samuel Hines; clerk, Robert P. Cann.
1872 — Burgess, A. S. Troop; council, H. B. Blood, J. C. Cornwell, John
Gumfoi’y, W. H. Bonner, Jacob Swiers and Samuel Hines; clerk, Robert P.
Cann.
468
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1873 — Burgess, C. G. Lamed; council, Samuel Custer, Alvin Jenkins,
Jeremiak Bonner, George H. Mclntire and Samuel Hines; clerk, R. P. Cann.
1874 — Burgess, Jeremiak Bonner; council, S. A. Wilson, G. H. Mclntire,
A. S. Troop, B. D. Ray, Robert Hodgson and L. Kearns; clerk, R. P. Cann.
1875 — Burgess, A. S. Troop; council, J. H. Cristler, Robert Hodgson,
Joseph Brennan, G. H. Mclntire, Henry Hall and J. P. Hines; clerk, R. P.
Cann.
1876 — Burgess, Jokn Parry; council, G. H. Mclntire, Joseph Brennan,
L. Kearns, Isaac Varnes, Jokn Hughes and Jeremiak Bonner; clerk, R. P.
Cann.
1877 — Burgess, G. H. Mclntire; council, Joseph Brennan, Henry Hall,
Benjamin Esgar, Henry Leslie, L. Kearns and R. P. Cann; clerk, D. R.
Cann.
1878 — Burgess, David Sloss; council, F. A. Bliss, L. Kearns, A. S.
Troop, J. C. Cornwell, D. R. Cann and R. P. Cann; clerk, D. O’Connor.
1879 — Burgess, J. C. Cornwell; council, D. R. Cann, F. A. Bliss, David
Sloss, Duncan McClaren, N. Houser and R. P. Cann; clerk, S. A. Wilson.
1880 — Burgess, N. Houser; council. Vet. Porter, Wk J. Broadbent, S. B.
Troop, W. C. Miller, Benjamin Esgar and R. P. Cann; clerk, S. A. Wilson.
1881 — Burgess, J. C. Cornwell; council, D. R. Cann, Alexander Bonner,
D. Sloss, Parker Walbridge, Jokn Hall and Levi Marsh; clerk, S. A. Wilson.
1882 — Burgess, Rickard Stullard; council, J. C. Cornwell, H. E. Horn,
Vet. Porter, J. S. Greer, R. P. Cann and F. T. Mears; clerk, F. T. Mears.
1883 — Burgess, D. Sloss; council. Rickard Jones, William Spence, J. L.
Greer, C. G. Lamed, W. H. Mclntire and B. F. Esgar; clerk, F. T. Mears.
1884 — Burgess, D. Sloss ; council, J. C. Cornwell, B. F. Esgar, William
Spence, John Kelley, W. H. Mclntire and H. Edwards; clerk, W. H. Davis.
1885 — Burgess, J. C. Cornwell; council, W^. H. Mclntire, W. C. Miller,
Robert Hodgson, Jokn Kelley, B. F. Esgar and William Spence; clerk, W^.
H. Davis.
1886 — Burgess, A. S. Troop; council, F. T. Mears, B. F. Esgar, James
Lyle, Jokn Kelley, Wk H. Mclntire and W. C. Miller; clerk, W. H. Davis.
1887 — Burgess, A. S. Troop (paralyzed June 3, 1887; J. C. Cornwell
appointed by court); council, B. F. Esgar, W. C. Miller, F. T. Mears, James
Lyle, R. P. Cann and G. W. Porter; clerk, W. H. Davis.
Churches. — The Methodist Episcopal congregation was organized in the win-
ter of 1869, through the agency of Rev. John Eckels. • In the first organization
there were forty-one members. The first regular services were held in the school -
house, then a two-story, two-roomed building. The first class-leader was Edwin
Egbert, of Sandy Lake. Adam Davis was the first steward. The building at
present used by the congregation was erected in the year 1875. It is a frame
and is quite commodious. The succession of pastors has been, as nearly as
can be ascertained. Rev. John Eckels, Rev. A. S. Goodrich, Rev. Robert
Beatty, Rev. J. Kinney, Rev. John Graham, Rev. A. R. Rich, Rev. Gilfillan,
Rev. Charles Reeves, under whose ministry the congregation became a sepa-
rate charge. Rev. W. S. Shepard and Rev. John Eckels, the present pastor,
who began his labors in the fall of 1886. The congregation is at present in a
prosperoiis condition, numbering ninety-five members. There is a Sunday-
school connected with it, of which the superintendent is Mr. F. T. Mears.
The enrollment of the school is 132.
The First Baptist Church of Stoneboro was organized October 9, 1870, by
Revs. J. M. Perry, Ross W^ard, E. T. Crane and R. H. Austin. The first
members of the new society were: David Grffith, Miriam Griffith, Nancy Gom-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
469
forey, T. H. Price, D. A. Phillips, Parmelia M. Phillips, Sarah A. Vernon,
Susan McCormick, D. T. Davis, Eliza Davis, Sarah B. Haskell, Sarah Olds,
Elisha Flickinger, Mrs. Flickinger, Sarah Corbin, Deliah, Hannah and Rebecca
Woolford. The congregation was incorporated September 24, 1883, upon jjyeti-
tion of Thomas H. Price, James Stubbs, James Lyle, D. A. Phillips, D. M. Grif-
fith, Herbert Davis, William Davis, Edward Rowe, J. R. Cummings and T. B.
Martin. The building occupied by the congregation is a frame structure erected
in 1873, at a cost of !$2, 500. The first pastor of the church was Rev. J. T. Grif-
fith, who remained three years. Succeeding him came Rev. W. H. Leet, one
year; Rev. E. H. Hovey, two years; Rev. J. T. Bradford, two and a half years;
Rev. G. M. Evans, two years, and the present pastor. Rev. J. T. Davis, who was
placed in charge in 1886. A list of the secretaries of the congregation is as
follows: D. A. Phillips, J. T. Davis, David Wilson, J. C. Wilson, William
Phillips, D. C. Bachelor, T. H. Rowe, Herbert Edwards, John Crook and Ed.
Rowe. The church at present numbers 138 members, and is in good condi-
tion. In connection with it is maintained a Sunday-school which enrolls 125
pupils.
The Catholic Church in Stoneboro celebrated its first mass about twenty-four
years ago, the service being performed in private houses. Shortly afterward,
however, a house once used as a dwelling, but then recently vacated, was pur-
chased, and for a period of four years prior to the erection of the present
edifice was occupied as a place of worship by the congregation. The early
Catholic families in the vicinity were not deterred by the smallness of their
number from attempting to secure for themselves and children larger and
more convenient quarters, in which to conduct their religious services, and by
the year 1876 enough money had been raised to begin the erection of the pres-
ent handsome structure. This, a frame building, 30x50 feet in dimensions,
with a sanctuary 12x30 feet, was completed in the same year, at a cost of
$3,000, and was occupied and dedicated shortly afterward. It is a very con-
venient church edifice, and sitting upon the top of a graceful elevation, pre-
sents a pleasing spectacle to the eye of the' beholder. Among the first mem-
bers of the congregation were Lawrence Kearns, John Kennedy, Peter Hughes,
and Daniel Conley, with their families. The first regular priest that minis-
tered to the little flock was Rev. K. O’Branigan. He was succeeded by Rev.
Thomas Tracey, Rev. William Pugh, Rev. P. Brady, Rev. John Smith, Rev. J.
H. McAdam, of the Mercer Church, who also has charge of the Stoneboro con-
gregation. The membership numbers forty-two families, earnest in spirit and
determined in faith.
The Presbyterian Church congregation was organized November 10,
1878, through the instrumentality of Rev. David Waggoner, Rev. J. Frank
Stonecipher and Elder J. H. Carr. Its first regular members were John
Parry, Thomas English, Mrs. C. E. English, Miss E. L. English, Mrs. L.
Bowen, Mrs. Eliza Bonner, Mrs. J. A. Allen, Miss Mary Pringle, O. V. Porter,
Mrs. Margaret E. Porter, Mrs. Mary L. McClurg, V. B. Coulson, Mrs Mary
Coulson, Miss S. R. Downs, R. L. Coulson, S. E. Coulson, J. F. Coulson
and Mrs. Margaret Cornwell. The church was incorporated September 17,
1883, at which time the board of trustees consisted of E. Houser, James
Hewitt and Charles Runningbrew. The building used by the congregation is
a frame, erected in 1883, at a cost of $2,500. The first pastor was Rev.
Samuel Glenn. He was followed by Rev. B. C. Critchlow, who in turn was
succeeded by Rev. J. C. Chapman. The present pastor. Rev. E. A. Nelson,
has been in charge for about three years, and is the first regular pastor the
congregation has had, the others having been provisional ministers merely.
470
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
The membership of the church is 145. Connected with it is a Sunday-school,
of which Robert P. Cann is the superintendent; and also a Ladies’ Missionary
Society, of which the president is Mrs. Robert P. Cann, and the vice-presi-
dent, Miss Mary Pringle.
St. Paul’s Primitive Methodist Church was organized in the public school-
house January 19, 1879, by Rev. Ralph Fothergill, with the following named
members: Charles Nichols, Enoch Show, John Arkless, John Jackson, Mary
A. Bromley, Mattie Bromley, John W. Roberts, Thomas Brown, John Squires,
Susannah Proud, Duncan C. McLaren, Jane Shaw, Henry Swyres, Maggie
Swyres, William Proud, Esther Arkless, Mary Jackson, David Watts, Archie
Greenfield, James McWilliams, John Weston, Jacob Swyres, Susannah McLaren
Jennie Swyres, John Swyres, John Proud, Gowan Arkless, Peter Henderson,
William Swyres, Annie Roberts, Thomas Armstrong, Robert Morris, Samuel
Morris, Tillie Mclntire, W’illiam Brown, Melissa Swyres, John P. Blanchard,
George Proud, Lizzie Emon, Lizzie Jenkins, Minnie Pearson, Lizzie Smith,
Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Esgar, Carrie Leslie, Robert Finkel, Sarah Hen-
derson, Charles Frye, Lizzie Roberts, William Frye, W^illiam Cartwright,
Robert Gordon and James Watley. The present church structure was built
in October, 1881, at an expense of $1,000. Following is the succession of
pastors of the congregation: Rev. Ralph Fothergill, Rev. R. G. Roscamp,
Rev. John A. James, Rev. John Atkinson and Rev. Lewis Norman Leith, the
present efficient pastor. The secretaries of the congregation have been John
Arkless, Duncan C. McLaren, Herbert Timmons, D. C. McLaren, James
McKay and D. C. McLaren, who at present officiates in that position. The
membership of the church is twenty. The condition of the congregation is
very fair.
Secret Societies. — Lake Lodge No. 434, F. & A. M. , was instituted Febru-
ary 24, 1869. The first officers elected were; Seth T. Kennedy, W. M. ; James
B. Nary,S.W. ; James Clyde, J. W. ; E. X. Giebner, secretary, and Hugh Baird,
treasurer. Meetings are held in Masonic Hall, in Ride Block, on the fourth
Thursday of each month. The present membership of the lodge is fifty-five.
Stoneboro Lodge No. 458, K. of P. , was instituted August 15, 1878, with
the following named charter members: Samuel Esgar, Henry Leslie, W. W.
Price, Edward Hughs, Benjamin Esgar, Vete Porter, Lewis D. Lewis, Alfred
Sanders, Robert Carrick and John Dickson. Meetings are held in the K. of
P. Hall, Bonner Block.
Lake Lodge No. 1363, I. O. G. T. , was organized and chartered November
1, 1879, with the following as charter members: Duncan McLaren, Ed. Rowe,
John Price, William Cartwright, E. H. Hovey, George P. Cornwall, Cyrus
Cartwright, Henry Shaw, W. W. Fry, Charles Nichols, Thomas H. Rowe,
John Brown, George Lavers, Edward Hixghes, William Proud, William
Swyres, E. S. Nichols, Ida Blancher, Mattie Rowe, Hettie Price, Rachael Price
and Annie Morris. The first officers were: Duncan McLaren, W. C. T. ; E.
S. Nichols, W. V. T. ; E. H. Hovey, W. C. & O. P. ; George P. Cornwall, W.
secretary; Edward Rowe, W^. F. S. : W. W. Fry, W. treasurer; William Cart-
wright, W. M. ; Thomas H. Rowe, W. D. M. ; Ida Blancher, W. I. G. ; Charles
Nichols, W. O. G. ; Cyrus Cartwright, W. R. H. S. ; Henry Shaw, W. L.
N. S., and John Price, P. W. C. T. Meetings are held in the K. of P. hall,
Bonner Block.
Keystone Mutixal Relief Association was chartered April 17, 1880, with
the following members: Austin Niles, John P. Hines, F. A. Bliss, F. Wil-
kins, Dr. J. H. Christler and L. Bonesteel. The first officers were; Presi-
dent, John P. Hines; vice-president and treasurer, F. A. Bliss; secretary.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
471
L. Bonesteel; medical adviser, Dr. J. H. Christler; trustees, Austin Niles,
JohnP. Hines, F. A. Bliss, F. Wilkins and L. Bonesteel. The purpose of
the association, as enunciated in its charter, is “to render aid to sick and disa-
bled members of the association by a mutual assessment plan. ’ ’
Stoneboro Union No. 376, E. A. U., was organized December 1, 1881, with
forty-one charter members. The first roster of officers comprised Samuel Esgar,
chancellor; J. H. Christler, advocate; Lewis D. Lewis, president; A. Jas-
theimer, vice-president; S. B. Throop, auxiliary; C. G. Lamed, treasurer;
S. A. Wilson, secretary; V. Porter, accoirntant; James Lyle, chaplain; W.
J. Cartwright, warden; M. W. Custer, sentinel; B. F. Esgar, watchman;
Joseph Brennan, conductor; Mrs. V. Porter, assistant conductor; J. H.
Christler, examining physician, and S. B. Throop, V. Porter, Joseph Bren-
nan, M. W. Custer and James Lyle, director’s. Meetings are held in the
K. of P. hall, Bonner Block.
Stoneboro Lodge No. 501, I. O. O. F., was instituted in the hall it occu-
pies at present, the K. of P. hall, Bonner Block, December 18, 1882. The
first officers of the lodge were Lewis D. Lewis, noble grand ; Michael Cook,
vice-grand; H. Vert, secretary; George Summerson, assistant secretary,
and Norbert Houser, treasurer. This lodge is in a flourishing condition.
Lake Lodge No. 1193, K. & L. of H. , was instituted October 20, 1886,
with the following named charter members: William H. Mclntire, George W.
Lyons, R. P. Cann, John L. Rossiter, Samuel A. Wilson, B. S. Cleary, David
Cartwright, Virginia M. Wilson, William C. Miller, Julia B. Cann, John
Kelly, John P. Hines, William C. Esgar, Kate E. Throop, J. W. Wilson, C.
S. Niece, Martha E. Wilson, Roderick E. Hamm, Mary McCleary, Maria
Clark, Milton Clark, Lizzie E. Hines, Emma Hall, Bertha M. Bonner, Blanche
V. White, Callie Davis, Ida M. Gumfory, Walter H. Davis, C. G. Lamed,
Ellen A. Lamed, Henry Hall, Mrs. M. A. Mclntire and Mrs. M. R. Mclntire.
Meetings are held in the K. of P. hall, Bonner Block.
Sandy Lake Circle No. 16, P. H. C., was instituted August 1, 1887, with
the following named charter members: W. T. McBnrney, Mrs. W. T. Mc-
Burney, G. W. Turner, John Lowe, Mrs. John Lowe, S. B. Forker, J. O.
Jackson, W. H. Clawson, Lucy Clawson, W. A. Clarke, Mrs. W. A. Clarke,
Mary Lyons, F. B. Craig, M. B. Hays, W. H. Rogers, Edward Rogers, Harry
Rogers, J. F. Rayen, Mrs. J. F. Rayen and A. G. McElwain. The first
officers installed were: W. T. McBurney, P. P. ; G. W. Turner, president;
John Lowe, vice-president; W. H. Rogers, guardian; S. B. Forker, secretary;
W. A. Clark, Acct. ; W. H. Clawson, treasurer; Mary Lyons, porter; F. B.
Craig, watchman; M. B. Hayes, guide; Lucy Clawson, companion; Mrs. J. F.
Rayen, L. D. ; A. G. McElwain, chaplain, and J. O. Jackson, medical exam-
iner. Meetings are held in the Odd Fellows’ hall on the first Monday of
each month. The circle is in good condition.
Manufactures. — The Stoneboro Milling Co. was incorporated into a partner-
ship association February 8, 1887. The shareholders in the new enterprise
w’ere Hugh H. Horn, Aaron M. Vaness, George W. Porter, John P. Hines,
Alexander Bonner, Alexander S. Throopi John S. Crook, Thomas H. Price,
Edward Houser, Jennie F. Houser, John Kelly, Fred T. Mears, James F.
Baskin, David B. Hanna, C. G. Lamed, R. P. Cann, William H. Mclntire, J.
Lem Smith, John Parry, Joseph E. Fox and Milton Logan. The company
has extensive mills fitted up with the latest and best machinery, and is acquir-
ing for its products a wide and appreciative market. The managers of the
enterprise are Hugh E. Horn, Milton Logan, George W. Porter, John Parry,
Alexander S. Throop, John P. Hines and William H. Mclntire.
472
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
The Sandy Lake Ice Company, though in existence a number of years
previous, was not formed into a partnership association until the 6th of Sep-
tember, 1882. It has a capital stock of $12,000, divided into 120 shares of
the par value of |100 each. The original shareholders were Beriah Magoffin,
Richard R. Wright, Robert A. Stewart, Peter J. Pierce, Samuel A. Wilson,
Lorenzo P. Foster, Cassius B. Fulton, William T. McBurney and Henry S.
Blatt. The first officers elected under the new charter were: Richard R.
Wright, chairman; Henry S. Blatt, secretary; Lorenzo P. Foster, treasurer,
and Samuel A. Wilson, superintendent. The houses of the company are
situated on the margin of the lake, and in winter time an abundant supply
of pure, crystal ice, is packed away sufficient to meet all demands in summer.
The market of this company extends for miles about, as the superior facilities
they have for storing and transporting their products render competition with
them almost impossible.
In the winter of 1 887-88 a commodious building was erected by Horn,
Tan Ness & Mears, for storage and creamery purposes, which doubtless will
prove of great convenience and usefulness to this part of the county. *
The census of 1870 gave Stoneboro a population of 471. The town grew
rapidly in the next ten years, having in 1880, 1,186 inhabitants. The coal
mining interest was the leading factor in the growth of the borough, and
will continue to be one of its principal supports as long as the Stoneboro coal
fields can be worked profitably.
CHAPTER XXIII.
BOROU'GIIS OF SlIE.VKLEYVILLE AND NeW LEBANON — lIlSTORY OF THE NAME OF
SlIEAKLEYVILLE TRACED— ITS FIRST ELECTION — ORIGINAL SETTLERS — FiRST
Houses Built— Early Piiy^sicians— Schools— Pioneer Teachers— Pro-
gress OF the Schools— Churches— Societies— Population.
New Lebanon — Location — First Settlers — Village Laid Out — First
Buildings and Business Interests— Physicians— Schools— Progress of
Education in the Borough — McElwain Institute — Early Settlers of
THAT Vicinity — Incorporation — A Political Event — Societies —
Population.
WHAT is now Sheakleyville was originally called “Georgetown,” in
honor of George Sheakley. The town was christened with consider-
able ceremony July 4, 1822. When old Sandy Creek was to be sub-divided,
and Georgetown was to be erected into a borough, some dissatisfaction existed
with the name “Georgetown.” It was proposed that it should be dropped
and the name “ Exchangeville ” substituted. Mr. Sheakley, jealous of the
honor attached to the name “Georgetown,” arranged with Hon. David
Sankey, State Senator from the district, to have the passage of the act by the
Legislature, authorizing the change, deferred to the next session. Another
friend of Mr. Sheakley in the Legislature conceived the idea of having the first
two syllables of “Exchangeville” erased, and the name Sheakley substituted.
With this modification the bill was passed on the 11th of March, 1851, and a
permanent name was fixed upon. When the news of this stratagem reached
the village, considerable excitement ensued. Business men had painted their
*For Mercer Coal and Iron Company, and Agricultural Society, see Chapters VI and VII, respectively.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
473
signs Exchangeville. Finally the advice of Mr. Sheakley prevailed, and his
neighbors and friends made no further resistance to the new name.
The first election of the new borough of Sheakley ville was held in March,
1851, John Condit acting as judge, and William Dunn and D. M. Beatty as
inspectors. The officers elected were as follows: Burgess, G. W. Moyer;
council, G. G. Brush, Jacob Vaughn and Cyrus Parks; constable, E. R.
Hosack; treasurer, John M. Kitch; collector, James Brush; street commis-
sioners, Thomas Davis and G. W. Moyer.
The site of Sheakleyville was originally part of a tract of 400 acres located
by William Byers in 1797. Having been appointed the first sheriff of Mercer
County, in 1803, Mr. Byers removed to Mercer, and therefore sold his land
to John Sheakley, of Franklin County, Penn., who with his family took
possession in 1804. Mr. Byers’ earliest neighbor was Martin Carringer, a
Revolutionary soldier, who had located about four miles south of the site of
Sheakleyville as early as 1797. It is claimed that he was the first settler in
this region. In the spring of 1798 a company from Washington and Alle-
gheny Counties came and settled on the belt north of Carringer’ s, and mostly
east of Sheakleyville. It included such men as Thomas Philips, John A.
Larimer, David Chess, John Chess, Hugh Minnis and others. They were
known as “Ten Milers,” and settled on land belonging to the Nathan Axtell
tract. They erected cabins, cleared a potato patch, raised a crop, and hid
them in a cave on the bank of a stream, and covered them to prevent their
being seen by the Indians. They then returned to get their families. These
“ ten milers ” were Jerseymen, while their neighbors were Scotch-Irish and
Welsh.
The first house on the present site of Sheakleyville was built by William
Byers in 1798. It was a log structure. He also built a small saw mill on the
stream known as town run, but it was soon carried away. The next building
occurred in 1818. It was done by George Sheakley, the structure being a
frame, which stood where W entz’ s house now stands. He also built a large
frame tavern, which he used until the town was started, when he sold it to
William Dunn. He and his wife were familiarly known as “Billy Dunn” and
‘ ‘ Queen Anne. ’ ’
After this houses began to multiply. John Limber, Thomas Wallace,
Philip Mann, Robert Jones (blacksmith), Joseph Culbertson and others came
to the place and erected buildings prior to 1825.
The first physician in the place was George Linn. He came from the re-
gion of Hartstown, and remained about a year. This was in 1820. The next
was Dr. Samuel Axtell, who bought out Dr. Linn, and practiced many years.
Concerning him more is said in the Medical chapter. Dr. Barton came and
practiced a number of years. He never bought property. His brother was a
practitioner at Cochranton.
Schools. — John Holloway taught the first regular school in the place.
That was in 1832. He boarded with Isaac Philips. Other early teachers were
Elias Wick, HughDavenny, John Sheakley, Irene Churchhill (first lady), George
W. Baker and F. B. Carrington.
Prior to 1854 schools were taught by subscription. On the 9th of April,
1856, a special school district was formed. On the 14th of October, ensuing,
an election was held, which resulted in the choice of the following directors:
John W. Stinson and Thomas W. Sheakley, three years; Thomas Cochran and
D. F. McDowell, two years, and William Thomas and F. B. Carrington, one
year. Two schools were established, and have been maintained ever since.
The present house, a two- story frame building with three rooms, was built in
474
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1877-78 at a cost of about 13,000. ' At the time of its erection the directors
were: T. C. Cochran, president; John White, Samuel Sisley, Levi Morrison,
Robert Sheakley and E. W. Graham. The building was completed in 1878,
Sylvester Logan and John Axtell being the contractors. Among the teachers
who have occupied the position of principal were A. J. Umholtz, J. M. Ealy,
E. D. Emory, S. H. McCleery, A. J. Palm, W. T. Cozens, M. B. Griffith and
M. R. Smith.
Churches. — The Upper Sandy or Georgetown Presbyterian congregation was
organized in 1799 by Elisha McCurdy and. Joseph Stockton. The first elder-
ship consisted of Alexander McCracken and William Byers. Rev. William
Wylie acted as the first pastor, his service extending from April 13, 1802, to De-
cember 5, 1804. The next year Rev. Stockton, then located at Meadville, sup-
plied the congregation one-third of his time. The following year Mr. John-
ston performed similar service. The eldership removing from the place the
congregation became extinct for a time. In 1814 the reorganization of the
congregation, under the name of Georgetown, occurred. Rev. Ira Condit
becoming their pastor. This relation he sustained until the date of his death,
October 24, 1836. Rev. David Waggoner was installed next, July 11, 1838,
and continued until May 4, 1853. Rev. James M. Shields succeeded August
9, 1855, and continued until February 28, 1804. In May, 1864, Mr. Wag-
goner returned and was employed two-thirds of his time, the remainder being
devoted to Greenfield. He continued until February, 1872. Rev. J. M.
Robinson became pastor in May, 1873. The first meeting-house, built on the
farm of Joseph Brush, was made of rough logs. Its floor consisted of mother
earth, and its windows of oiled paper. The second was erected about 1818.
It was hewed logs, , had a floor and glass windows, and was a decided im-
provement in point of architecture. The highest subscription for its erection
was made by Martin Carringer, 1 1 0. The present structure was dedicated
January 4, 1835. The session of the chirrch has borne such names as William
Byers, Samuel Axtell, Andrew McCracken, Robert Tiffany, John Condit, John
Stinson, Orison Eels, John Kerr, David Hadley, David Thompson, John W.
McCracken, Hugh Lackey, Jacob Vaughn, Andrew De Arment, W. P. Mc-
Donald and others.
The United Presbyterian congregation dates its origin in the year 1818,
when about half a dozen families, consisting of those of David Gardner, James
Brush, Ross Byers, John Caldwell and John Thompson, withdrew from the
Upper Sandy Presbyterian congregation and formed an Associate Reformed
Church. The separation grew out of the controversy relative to the use of
Rouse’s version of the Psalms. Subsequently Martin Carringer, John Sheak-
ley and Samuel Cochran joined the new organization. The additional mem-
bers not already mentioned were; Mrs. Ross Byers, Mrs. John Thompson,
Baptist Brush and wife, Ebenezer Miller, Agnes Long, Peter Hazen and wife,
A. McCandless, Mr. Elliott and wife, Jonathan Byers and wife, Mrs. Culbert-
son, Charles Montgomery, Robert Findley and wife and Mrs. Samuel Cochran.
The first elders in the new congregation were Baptist Brush, Ross Byers,
James Brush and Charles Montgomery. During its existence it relied largely
upon supplies, being served by A. Bowers, H. H. Thompson and others.
When the union occurred. Rev. James Burrows was installed pastor, and con-
tinued in that position from 1858 to 1860. In 1863, union having been formed
with the congregation at Mineral Spring, a new organization, to be located in
Sheakleyville, was the result. Rev. J. A. Bailey became the pastor of the new
congregation June 23, 1863, and continued in that relation until 1869. In
June, 1871, Rev. G. C. Brown was chosen, and continued until ill health
HISTOBY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
477
demanded his release in 1873. On September 6, 1875, Rev. R. Bruce, the
last pastor, was chosen. The first edifice in the borough was erected in
1850-52. It was a wooden structure, 44x50, and stood on a site deeded for
religious purposes by David Carlyle. This house was supplanted in 1886-87
by a large and commodious brick structure of modern style and advantages.
The congregation is said to be in a prosperous condition.
The Georgetown Baptist Church dates back as far as 1807, at which time serv-
ices were held in this community as often as once a month by a prominent Bap-
tist from Philadelphia, who had been recently stationed at Sharon, Elder Thomas
G. Jones. The little flock, to which he preached for the modest sum of 11.50
per month, consisted of James and Isaac Hazen and wives. Joseph Mattox and
wife, Thomas Philips and wife and Joseph Nelson and wife. In 1820 these
were constituted a branch of the Sharon charge, under the ministry of Elder
Adamson Bentley. Rev. Jesse Brown, of Carmel, preached for the new branch
for a period of two years. During the years 1826 and 1827 Rev.- Henry
Frazier conducted monthly services, the sermons being frequently two hours in
length. In 1830 the meetings of the branch were held for the first time in the
village school-house, the services previous to that time having been conducted
either in private houses or in the woods. The regular church organization was
effected in August, 1831, by Rev. Samuel Churchill, of Erie County, assisted by
Rev. Isaac Davis, of Crawford County. The original members were Joseph
Nelson and wife, Thomas Philips and wife, Mrs. Mary Limber, Mrs. Turner,
Mrs. Freeland, Isaac Hazen and wife, Asher Williams, William and Mary
Lackey, James Wood and wife, Mrs. Jesse Hofford and Stephen Rowland and
wife. Rev. Churchill was the first pastor of the new congregation . During his
ministry, in January, 1833, the congregation decided to erect a suitable house
of worship. This was accomplished, and a new structure dedicated foirr years
later, at a cost of $800. In September, 1841, Rev. Franklin Kidder was em-
ployed as pastor, but resigned two years later. Provisional services were then
held for a period, until Rev. J. Hicks became pastor in 1845. He was suc-
ceeded by Rev. J . H. Hazen in 1848, under whose ministry, which closed in
1853, the membership of the congregation was built up to 177. During his
stay a parsonage and eight acres of land were purchased by the church. In
July, 1856, Rev. H. Steelman accepted a call. He was succeeded seven years
later by Rev. D. L. Clouse, who remained but a few months, and gave
place in September, 1863, to Rev. Ephraim Mills. The latter remained a year
only. He was followed in the ministry by Rev. J. Winter and Elder John
Moses, each of whom remained but a short time. Rev. Ross Ward was called
to the charge of the congregation December, 1866, remaining five years.
Since then the following have been pastors: Rev. Norman Thomas, 1872-77;
Rev. John T. Griffith, 1878-80; Rev. J. T. Bradford, 1881-82; Rev. O. M.
Herrick, 1882-84; Rev. G. M. Evans, 1884-86, and the present pastor. Rev.
J. T. Davis, whose labors began in 1886.
The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in August, 1830, its members
then consisting of George W. Lee, Griffith Burnett and wife, Cyrus Church,
James Dunn and wife and Letitia Hazen. At first preaching was done in the
village school -house by Rev. John Somerville, a jolly Irishman, an eloquent
preacher and valuable pastor. No rapid growth occurred until 1846, when,
under the labors of J. Crum and A. Calender, many additions were made to
the hitherto feeble ranks. The first class-leader was Cyrus ChiU’ch, who held
his membership as one of the charter members, and continued in such relation
nearly sixty years. He was born October 16, 1803, and died in Sheakleyville
February 15, 1888, in his eighty-fifth year. The building was erected in 1842,
S7
478
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
upon a lot deeded by Justus Holcomb. Jacob Vaughn and James Dunn
were the contractors, they receiving for their services something more than |100.
The first church bell in the village was put into this structure soon after its
completion. It is said to be a sweet-toned instrument for calling worshipers to
the place of assembling. We are unable to present a complete list of those
who have preached for this congregation. From 1860 to 1888 the pastors
have been Revs. J. B. Orwig, S. S. Stuntz, F. Brown, M. Smith, R. C. Smith,
J. F. Perry, C. W. Foulke, J. W. Crawford, A. J. Lindsey, J. Boyd Espy, J.
H. Vance, J. M. Foster and C. C. Hunt.
Societies. — W. G. Brown Lodge, No. 592, I. O. O. F. , was chartered No-
vember 20, 1866, with W. G. Brown, Lafayette Larimer, James M. Dunn,
Norbert Housen, M. M. Jenkins, S. C. Long and H. M. Hamblin as charter
members. The first meetings of the lodge were held in Dunn’s Hall, which
was occupied until destroyed by fire. Subsequently a hall was secured of T.
K. Cochran, but this was abandoned after a time. The order was at one time
very strong, but upon its removal to Hadley, October 29, 1884, it gradually
weakened until it now has but twenty-six members. The first officers elected
by it were; IV. G. Brown, N. G. ; Lafayette N. Larimer, V. G. ; H. M. Hamb-
lin, secretary; Norbert Houser, assistant secretary, andM. M. Jenkins, treasurer.
Elijah Thompson Post, No. 417, G. A. R., Department of Pennsylvania,
was organized in the fall of 1883 by Abijah Burnett, of New Lebanon, with
the following members: S. A. Fell, Jackson Breakman, John A. McCracken,
F. S. McCracken, John Clark, S. T. Bell, Anderson Crawford and S. A. Minnis.
The organization was effected in the old Odd Fellows’ Hall, in which meet-
ings have since been held until the present. The post commanders have been
S. A. Fell, Dr. D. A. Philips and William Brooks. The present officers are;
William Brooks, commander; John Clark, senior vice-commander; Jackson
Breakman, junior vice-commander; Levi Morrison, adjutant; Erastus Smith,
quartermaster; J. A. McCracken, officer of day; John Brooks, officer of
guard; F. S. McCracken, chaplain; J. A. Murphy, quartermaster sergeant;
S. H. Minnis, surgeon; James Kilgore, sergeant major, and Dr. D. A. Phil-
ips, S. H. Minnis and J. A. Murphy, trustees. The membership is about
fifty at present.
Elijah Thompson, the comrade after whom the post was called, was one of
the prospective charter members. His death occurring before the charter ar-
rived, the post was accordingly named in his honor. He entered the TYar as a
private in Company I, Fifty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and
served with the Army of the Potomac, receiving while in the line of duty a
wound from which he never fully recovered.
The local union of the W. C. T. U. was organized March 22, 1881, at the
Methodist Episcojral Church, by Miss Narcissa E. White. The original mem-
bers were; Mrs. S. Sisley, Mrs. Levi Morrison, Mi's. W. McDowell, Mrs.
William McCoy, Mrs. Joseph Strait, Mrs. L. W. Lee, Mrs. Maggie Morrison,
Mrs. S. Carrington, Mrs. L. Larimer, Mrs. Anna Feather. The first officers
consisted of: President, Mrs. Rev. N. P. Crouse; vice-president, Mrs. J. B.
Espy; secretary, Mrs. Levi Morrison, and treasurer, Mrs. Johnson Mc-
Cartney. The presidents since organization have been Mrs. Crouse, Mrs.
Espy, Mrs. Rev. O. M. Merrick, Mrs. Rev. Foster and Mrs. Anna Feather,
while the secretaries for the corresponding years have been Mrs. MorrisoU
and Mrs. W. McDowell. Meetings are held monthly in the houses of mem-
bers.
The local lodge of the Knights of Honor was instituted in June, 1883,
by N. A. Beatty, of Jefferson, Ohio, with the following as among the
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
479
charter members: A. J. DeArment, T. D. Beatty, S. S. Byers, D. P. Morri-
son, Frank Beatty, F. L. Beatty, Seth Mook, Hugh Bradbury, A. D. Free
and others. The organization was effected in the Odd Fellows’ Hall, in which
meetings are still held on the first and third Friday evenings of each month.
The first dictator elected was A. J. DeArment, while D. P. Morrison was
chosen as the first reporter. The present officers comprise William McClure,
dictator; Dr. J. C. Bachop, financial reporter; C. J. Bell, reporter; A. K.
Steel, treasurer, and A. Davenny, chaplain. The membership is about
twenty-five.
Sheakleyville has been comparatively losing ground for many years, and
has degenerated from one of the most bustling little towns in the county to
one of its quietest hamlets. The census of 1860 gives the borough a popula-
tion of 218. In 1870 it had 273, which decreased over fifty during the suc-
ceeding ten years, as the census of 1880 gives it only 222 inhabitants.
NEW LEBANON.
New Lebanon borough, geographically one of the large ones of Mercer
County, is located in the northwestern part of Mill Creek Township, about
five miles north of Sandy Lake, and seven miles southeast of Sheakleyville.
Its removal from serious competition would, but for the absence of modern
railroad facilities, make it a sprightly inland town.
The first settler within its limits was Bynheer Van Voorhies, a German
immigrant from Washington County, in 1803. He erected a log cabin and
made quite an extensive clearing preparatory to removing his family to the
new country. In the course of a few years his cabin was found to be too
small. An addition of hewed logs made his home more commodious, and
sufficed until a more modern style of architecture supplied the place of the old
mixed structure, no part of which remains at the present day. Van Voor-
hies had no neighbors within the borough limits for some time, but had Coun-
try neighbors to share in his pioneer loneliness — the Morgans, the Carnahans,
the Reeds and others.
The northern part of the village was laid out first. This occurred in 1838,
when Ephraim Van Voorhies, of New Vernon, then owning the inherited estate,
laid out and began the sale of lots. This plat was increased in 1846 by proper
additions, and then the first plank house was erected by Josiah Cratly, on
land subsequently owned by Rev. Isaac Bruaman. This accession to the vil-
lage was on the south. .
J acob Carbon erected the first blacksmith shop, that great necessity of a
growing village. This industry was followed by others of like character and
necessity.
The first tavern was the east part of what is now the Commercial House,
owned by J. L. Peters. It was built in 1851 by John Duff, who ran it until
1854, when he sold it to James Muse. The latter gentleman built the west
addition to it about 1858 or 1859, and kept control for a time, and then dis-
posed of it to Peters. By the latter it was continued until April, 1876, when
Dr. J. P. Bassett concluded to conduct both the hotel and his medical practice.
For a time this plan succeeded, but he finally rehnquished the hotel, and it
came back into the hands of its present proprietor.
The first store was owned in 1848 by James Muse and John Conduit. It
stood in the north part of town. It was a hewed log house, weather
boarded. A new building was erected north of it, and the firm changed to
Muse & Gordon. The name was subsequently changed to Gordon & Muse.
About the time this change occurred (the autumn of 1855,) a steam grist and
480
HI8TOBY OF MEBCER COUNTY.
saw- mill was erected by Gordon & Muse, the contractors being James and
Edward Powers. When the structure was approaching completion, Gor-
don accidentally fell from one of the beams and was killed. The mill was
operated a short time, when it was sold to John Sheffler. He continued to
run it until the structure was destroyed by fire in 1867.
In 1875 Robert Bell erected a cheese factory in the eastern part of the
borough. It flourished from the first, consuming from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds
of milk per day.
The woolen mill of Daniel Bruner & Son was begun in the third week of
April, 1862, and in six weeks (viz., June 14) was in running order, the timber
for the structure having been cut, meantime, from the woods, and put into
form for service. A dwelling house was also erected within the same brief
period. The mill is still in operation. The following are prices of wool at
different periods: 1863, $1 per pound; 1864, 60 cents; 1865, 50 cents, and in
1888, 45 cents.
In the list of physicians at New Lebanon mention is made of the follow-
ing: John Orwig was the first. He was in the place as early as 1854, and
remained several years. He removed to Butler County, where he died. He
was succeeded by A. C. Axtell, about 1856 or 1857, who remained six or
eight years, and then removed to Youngsville, Warren County, where he still
resides.
During the early part of the war R. A. McCormick located, and remained
about five years. He now resides in Clarion County. James Chase began to
practice about 1868, and continued about six months, when he returned to
Meadville, whence he came. J. P. Bassett, an educated man, came from
Covington, Ky., about 1870, and remained about five years. He then re-
moved, in succession, to Clark’s Mills, Sheakleyville, Girard, Erie and Cleve-
land, where (last place) he finally died. He was successful in practice, but
not in business management. C. F. Daubenspeck, the present physician of
the place, came from Clarion County about 1880, and has built up an exten-
sive and profitable practice.
Schools. — Prior to the erection of the borough of New Lebanon the terri-
tory was a part of sub-district No. 7, of Mill Creek Township. The first
house was a two-story frame, about 24x30, and was erected by David Randall
in 1855. On the 11th of March, 1858, it was determined to subdivide the
lower room, affording advantages in the two rooms for smaller grades of pub-
lic school pupils, and using the upper room for the purpose of a select school.
The enterprise did not prove very successful. In the summer of 1863 the
building was unroofed by a severe storm, which carried the belfry about eighty
rods to the property of the widow Farver. In 1882 or 1883 it was burned down,
and a two-story frame was built in its stead, at a cost of some $1,300.
Among the early teachers in the old building were Clark Farver, H. J. Muse,
Allen Smith, and others. Select schools were taught by J. R. Donley, L.
Kuder (now attorney at law at Greenville), Rev. Swingle, A. J. Palm, of the
Western Press, Mr. McConaughey and probably others.
In the spring of 1880 an institution of learning, known as the New
Lebanon Institute, was established. W. T. Solomon was a prominent fac-
tor in agitating the subject, but did not see his project thoroughly mate-
rialized. The people of the place, recognizing the necessity of greater edu-
cational facilities than they had previously enjoyed, subscribed $2,500 for
the purchase of land and the erection of a suitable building for academic
purposes. Four acres of land were secured, and the erection of a suita-
ble building was begun in the summer of 1880, but not completed until Jan-
HISTORY or MERCER COUNTY.
481
uary, 1881. The two-story brick edifice, with four class rooms and two
smaller ones for library and office respectively, on first floor, and a hall with
capacity for 400, besides two class rooms on second floor, was dedicated Feb-
ruary 22, 1881, Prof. G. W. Williams, of Allegheny College, delivering the
address. The cost was |7,000. The sum of |4,650 was subscribed at the
time of dedication. By vote of the board of directors, the institution was
dedicated under the name of the McElwain Institute, in honor of John
McElwain, Esq., of New Vernon Township, whose generous benefactions and
sympathy gave the enterprise its proper impetus. On the 16th of May, 1883,
the institution was incorporated as the McElwain Institute, with the avowed
purpose “to establish and maintain an institution for the instruction and
education of persons of both sexes in science, literature and art.” The
directors at that time consisted of John L. McCormick, James Lindsey,
James W. McConnell, A. D. McCracken, R. C. Farver, James C. Brown, A.
J. Palm and W. P. McElwain. In the list of principals are to be found the
names of E. L. Richardson, W. H. Dodds (at present principal of the Pitts-
burgh High-school), S. H. Sheakley, George H. Lamb and M. B. Griffith.
Among the early settlers around New Lebanon were Adam and A. J. Car-
nahan, brothers; Jacob Reed, William, George, John and James Montgomery,
Ryhneer Van Voorhies, Archibald McCormick, Andrew Borland, Thomas Robb,
Ira Conduit and Ezekiel Conduit. Mrs. John Montgomery, one of the pio-
neers, attained the age of ninety-one, having lived seventy years on one farm
in French Creek Township.
New Lebanon was regularly incorporated, by decree of the court dated
August 22, 1866. The first election was held September 25, 1866, Abner
Dean and William Dean acting as inspectors. John McElheny was chosen
justice of the peace, and C. N. Smith, burgess.
In the campaign of 1880 Mr. S. C. Koonce, of Clarksville, offered to the
precinct in Mercer County giving the largest Republican gain over the pre-
vious State election, a flag worth at least $50. It was obtained by New
Lebanon. It cost $75, and bears this inscription: “Presented by S. C.
Koonce to the New Lebanon Republicans for the largest gain in the county,
November 2, 1880, 56, 3, 6, 329.” Explanation; 56 Republicans, 3 Demo-
crats, 6 Greenbacks; 329, the alleged dividend on Credit Mobilier stock.
Societies. — Lincoln Lodge No. 54, A. O. IJ. W., was instituted June 26, 1873,
with the following charter members : Abram Blatt, A. C. Grove, R. C. Farver, S.
S. Overmyer, E. C. Voorhies, J. M. Grove, J. B. Grove, C. C. Dickey, T. M.
Cooley, S. Weider, Wilson Bowles, George Bowles, T. M. Wilson, E. Rupert.
The first officers consisted of P. M. W. , T. M. Cooley; M. W., A. C. Grove;
G. F., J. B. Grove; overseer, C. M. Voorhies; Rec.. S. S. Overmyer; receiver,
R. C. Farver; financier, Abram Blatt; guide, C. C. Dickey; I. W. , J. M.
Grove; O. W., Wilson Bowles. The lodge meets every Tuesday in Voorhies
Hall. It has twenty-eight members.
Norval Muse Post No. 251, G. A. R. , was organized May 27, 1882, with
the following charter members; A. C. Grove, Emanuel Rupert, Abram Blatt,
J. W. Reed, J. M. Gibson, A. F. Klingensmith, D. W. Dilley, Abner Dean,
Jr., Joseph Mook, J. L. McCormick, Moses Spencer, John Vorous, Wilson
Dean, Isaac Adams, J. S. Moore, M. G. Dilley, Solomon Firster, J. B. Hogue
and J. M. Hill. The first officers were: A. C. Grove, P. C. : Abram Blatt,
S. V. C. ; J. M. Hill, J. V. C. ; Wilson Dean, adjutant; John Vorous, Q. M. ;
J. S. Moore, chaplain; W. G. Dilley; O. D. ; J. M. Gibson, Q. M. S. Its
maximum membership was sixty. It meets in the same hall as the A. O. IJ. W.
Churches. — Mount Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized in
482
HISTOKY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
1844 by Rev. Henry Zigler, D. D., with these members: Abraham Grove,
Elizabeth Grove, Henry and Elizabeth Schreckengast, Henry and Mary Fet-
terwolf, Peter and Rachael Blatt and George Mook. The church edifice, a
wooden structure, was erected in 1855, the dedication occurring January 27,
1856. The cost was $2,000. The following pastors have served the congre-
gation: Henry Zeigler, D. D., Hewn Weicksel, J. Rathburn, John A. Nuner,
J. Delo, Isaac Breiniman, D. M. Kamerer, J. M. Long, G. H. Swingle, D.
McKee and J. H. G. Bartholomew. The present membership is about forty.
The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized February 10, 1851, by
Rev. John Abbott, with the following members: James Muse, Hannah Muse,
A. Voorhies and wife, H. C. Jewel, Eli Cole and wife, E. C. Voorhies, Ema-
line Voorhies, John Smith and wife, A. Smith, Mrs. E. Moore, and Pelina
Cole. At first the charge was the Cooperstown Charge, and then changed to
that of New Leljanon. The first btiilding was a frame structure, 40x45 feet.
It was erected in the fall of 1851 and winter of 1852, and dedicated May 21,
1852. The aggregate cost was $809.87. The first trustees were A. Voorhies,
Eli Cole, H. C. Jewell, James Muse and John Martin. To the number have
since been added Abel Thompson, J. Smith and E. C. Voorhies. The list
of preachers has embraced Revs. John Abbott, George Stocking, Robert
Beatty, I. T. C. McClelland, A. L. Miller, J. C. Sullivan, N. C. Brown, M.
Smith, Sherwood, R. C. Smith, Robert Gray, J. Schofield, John Eckels,
A. S. Goodrich, Robert Beatty, J. B. Wright, C. W. Foulk, J. A. Ward, J. F.
Mendenhall, R. A. Buzza and W. A. Marriman. The building was removed
from the old to the present site in 1875, and repaired at a cost of $1,000.
The congregation is in a flourishing condition.
The United Brethren Church was organized in 1862 by Rev. Rufus Smith,
now presiding elder at Uniontown, Penn. , with these members : Daniel Bruner,
and wife, David Mook and wife, Jonathan Peters, Charles Smith, Perry
Kitchen, O. Kitchen. The house of worship, a frame 35x40, was erected in
1865 at a cost of over $2,000. The building committee consisted of David
Christie, William Lawson, Elijah Moore, William Moore and Daniel Bruner.
The architect was Joseph Jackson, usually called Stonewall Jackson, of Mer-
cer. The finishing was done by G. W. Kline. At that time there were eighty
members. In the autumn of 1887 a half interest was given to the Presby-
terians for the repairing of the house, which cost about $1,000. In the list
of pastors (incomplete) are found the names of Charles Wheeler, Silas Cas-
teline, Rev. Reynolds, Edward Everett, Rev. Franklin, William Ish, Samuel
Evans, Rufus Smith, Henry Hotchkiss, D. Meeker, C. Robinson, E. Belden,
Rev. Vaughn, and others. The present membership is about fourteen.
Deaths and opposition to secret societies have depleted the ranks.
The Presbyterian Church was organized in the McElwain Institute Chapel
on October 5, 1885, by a committee consisting of Revs. C. B. Wakefield, A.
W. Verner and C. W. Heydrick, an elder from Cochranton. Among the
charter members were Dr. C. F. Daubenspeck and wife, Samuel S. Overmyer
and wife, A. C. Grove, Mrs. A. C. Grove, Nettie C. Grove, L. V. Grove, A.
McCaughtry and wife, Kate and Mattie McCaughtry, C. S. Carnahan, Jennie
Carnahan, C. C. Christy, Kate Fetterwolf, Allie Grove, Mrs. C. C. Christy,
A. T. McElwain and wife. Miss Tressie McElwain and others. The place of
worship is described under the sketch of the United Brethren Church. The
membership is fifty- three, and is in flourishing condition.
The population of New Lebanon by the census of 1870 was 273, which
was increased during the next ten years to 279, a growth of only six inhabit-
ants.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
483
CHAPTER XXIV.
Boroughs of West Middlesex, Wheatland and Bethel — Location and
Eakly^ History of West Middlesex — The Town Laid Out— Hame Given
—Business Interests — Manufactures — Incorporation — Bridges —
Schools — Churches— Societies— Population.
Wheatland — Borough Laid Out, Named and Incorporated — First Officers
—Early Settlers— Schools— Manufactures— Churches.
Bethel— Early History— Incorporation— First Settlers and Business
INTEREST!?— Churches and Schools— First Election and Officials—
First Postmaster.
WEST MIDDLESEX is located in Shenango Township, in the southwest
part of the county, on both sides of Shenango River. It has the E. & P.
and a branch of the N. Y. , P. & O. R. Rs. as means of transportation. The
region round about West Middlesex was settled as early as any other in the
county. It was on the line along which the tide of migration pushed up the She-
nango toward Sharon, Clarksville, Greenville, and other northern regions. Sam-
uel Byers and Andrew Wylie, it is asserted, came from the region of Morgantown,
Va. , as early as 1790, and entered land in what is now Shenango Township.
Thomas Campbell, the same year, and the following year Moses Canon, the
progenitor of a large family of that name in the county, opened settlements in
Hickory Township. In 1798 William Bell began a clearing west of the site of
the present borough. On it Samuel Bell subsequently lived.
Richard Vanfleet came from New Jersey in 1798, and settled on a farm near
the southwest corner of the county. The warrant was known as the “ John
Wight Tract” of 400 acres. It was under the Bedford warrant. Vanfleet
was ejected about 1804, but subsequently compromised and got half. His
early neighbors were William Anderson, John Anderson, William Bell,
Granny Black, Joseph Everhart and others. These all lived in what is now
Shenango Township, Mercer County.
James McConnell was the first to locate within the limits of the present bor-
ough. This occurred in 1821. Another portion of the borough was embraced
in a 700-acre tract, which is said to have been patented in 1787 to James Gib-
son for services in the United States army. It subsequently became the prop-
erty of Jacob Edeburn, from whom it descended to his son William. The lat-
ter had made some improvements prior to 1812 upon that portion of the tract
lying west of the Shenango, outside of the present town limits. Six years
later (1818) he built on the same side of the Shenango a log grist-mill, which
was the first structure of the kind in the vicinity. It was but an ordinary
institution, using a pair of native stones. Some three years subsequent to
its completion James McConnell bought it and the tract of land upon which it
stood for 11,250. A short time afterward he also purchased a small hewed
log house, built by James Allen, half a mile west of Middlesex, and removed
it to the vicinity of the mill. It with a small addition made a passable resi-
dence for himself and family. This was the first residence in West Middlesex,
and the beginning of the town.
The town was laid out in the autumn of 1836 by James McConnell, son of
Hugh McConnell, a settler of Meadville as early as 1794. The surveying was
done by James Gilkey, noted as the first man to raise the celebrated Neshan-
nock potatoes, also called “Mercers” and “Gilkies.” He was assisted in his
484
HISTOEY OP MERCER COUNTY.
work by David McCleery, subsequently a justice of the peace in the borough.
The lots, of which more than a hundred were laid out, were sold at auction,
Thomas Mitcheltree being the auctioneer. The first one purchased was that
upon which the Millers’ and Miners’ Bank was subsequently erected.
The place took its name from the fact that it is located about midway
between New Castle and Clarksville, then two important places on the river
and canal. There being another Middlesex in Eastern Pennsylvania Mr.
McConnell prefixed the word West. Hence the full name, West Middlesex.
Business Interests. — Before the town was laid out several industries had
developed. A number of settlers having arrived, lumber was also a prime
necessity. Accordingly, William Edeburn had erected a saw mill in 1830, and
with it did a flourishing business. A year or two later James McConnell built
a fiouring-mill on the west side of the Shenango just below its predecessor and
competitor, the old log mill. After the new mill, which used burrs instead of
native stone, began operations, the old one was removed and occupied as a
stable until it had fallen into decay. Demands and supplies are mutual, and
constitute the real activity of business. A general store was needed, and one
was supplied. D. Foreman kept it.
A tavern was also required; accordingly, W. M. Morrison began the erec-
tion of one in the year 1836, and pushed it vigorously until it was completed.
May training day was chosen as the time for the grand opening. The attend-
ance was large, as was usual on such occasions, and many inhaled the rich
odors of the spiritus frumenti; or using the classic phrase of that time, “all
got drunk together.” The new town was thoroughly launched upon the sea
of municipal existence. Among these early settlers mention should be made
of Thomas Miles, J. W. Veach and ’Squire McCreary. The first justice of the
peace was Robert Young. He was also the first postmaster, the office having
been established in 1840.
The history of the old West Middlesex furnace, erected in 1845, is given
in Chapter VI, to which the reader is referred for information on that subject.
The Ella and Fannie furnaces, leased bjr the Wheeler Furnace Company, of
Sharon, is located here. They have two stacks. The Ella furnace, 70x15,
built in 1882, occupies the site of the two Shenango furnaces, which were
built by G. W. Tift in 1859, and after passing through various mutations,
were torn down in 1882. Fannie furnace, 60x12^ , was first put in blast Octo-
ber 13, 1873, and remodeled in 1885. These furnaces burn coke and work
the Lake Superior ore, producing Bessemer pig iron. The annual capacity of
the Ella furnace is 36,000 net tons, and of the Fannie furnace, 26,000 tons.
E. A. Wheeler, of Sharon, is general naanager, and Pickards, Mather & Co.,
Cleveland, Ohio, are proprietors and selling agents.
In 1859 David Edeburn built a stdam grist-mill on the east side
of the Shenango. It was intended mainly for custom work. The Love
Brothers erected a steam saw and planing-mill on the same side of the She-
nango. After doing an extensive business for a time it was burned down.
In April, 1874, J. D. Logan & Co. erected a steam planing-mill near the
same site» and shortly thereafter attached a saw-mill, greatly adding to the
facilities of the town.
A machine shop and foundry was commenced in 1874 and completed in 1875
by a stock company, of which Allen Turner was president, and William Jones,
William R. Burnett, S. W. Johnson, Julius Turner and J. W. Russell were
associate partners.
In 1872 the liberality of the citizens prompted them to offer a bonus of
$10, 000 in cash and five acres of land to any company which would build and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
485
operate a rolling mill in the borough. B. F. Veach, J. J. McFadden and John
Winfield, citizens from Ohio, undertook the enterprise. The mill was erected
in 1873, and operated for two years, when the company failed, and the works
were purchased by the Fannie furnace. They are not running at present.
In 1866 J. W. Veach obtained a charter for organizing the first bank in
the place, the Millers’ and Miners’ Bank. It is still in existence, meeting
the business demands of the community. In 1871 W. W. Morrison estab-
lished a private bank, which continued to do a prosperous business for a num-
ber of years.
Incorporation. — West Middlesex was regularly incorporated in 1864. Its
first borough officers were: Burgess, D. Edeburn; council, C. W. Watson,
Hiram Veach and G. R. Tuttle; justice of the peace, W. R. Burnett; constable,
E. C. Kump; high constable, I. S. Newkirk; school directors, J. W. Veach,
D. W. Luse and W. C. Shay; auditors, J. W. Porter and B. G. King; assess-
or, J. W. Porter; judge of election, F. M. Livermore; inspectors, Isaac
Rayen and J. D. Risher.
Bridges. — In 1840 the first trestle or wooden bridge across the Shenango
was built by James McCandless and Charles Quirrell. Two wooden bridges
succeeded this crude structure, but in 1869 the present iron one was built.
Schools. — In 1837 a small frame house was l^uilt, which served the double
purpose of school and church edifice for a time. It was used for school pur-
poses until 1855, when a contract was made with John McCall to build a
two-story frame, the upper story of which was to be used as a place of wor-
ship. It was paid for by the citizens in shares of $5 each. It served the
educational purposes of the town until 1868, when the present three-story
union school edifice was erected at a cost of 124,000. It is an ornament to
the town. It is one of the best school edifices in the county. Its schools are
well supported and efficiently managed.
Churches. — The Presbyterian is the oldest congregation in the borough.
In fact it had an existence long prior to the town itself. The first preaching
in the region was done by Rev. James Satterfield, his places of assembly
being houses, barns and tents. For some length of time congregations met in
a house belonging to the farm of Thomas Miles. Rev. Satterfield, the pio-
neer preacher of this region, was born in Maryland August, 1767. About
twenty years thereafter he removed with his mother and step-father to Wash-
ington County, where he performed for a time the duties of a farmer. While
in Washington County he was brought under the influence of Rev. I)r. McMil-
lan, a distinguished theologian of those days, from whom he received an
impulse in the ministerial direction. Licensed to preach September 3, 1800, he
removed to Mercer County in 1801, and on the 3d day of March, 1802, was
installed pastor of the congregations of Moorefield and Upper Neshannock
(now Neshannock). He continued to preach for fifty-seven years, dying near
West Middlesex, November 20, 1857, in his ninetieth year.
His work at Moorefield evidently had a great influence upon the surround-
ing country. The public school building erected in 1837, as also that of 1855,
was a common place for worship by the several congregations of the town.
The Presbyterians erected their first house of worship in 1842-43. The pres-
ent beautiful brick structure was dedicated in the winter of 1887-88, under
the pastorate of Rev. K. C. Hays, costing $8,000. The congregation was in-
corporated under the laws of the State January 14, 1878. Its pastors have been
Rev. D. C. Reed, eighteen years; Rev. Brown, six years; Rev. F. M. Woods,
seven years; Rev. W. M. Hyde, three years; Rev. Ken. C. Hayes its present
pastor, about five years. The congregation numbers 190 members, and is quite
prosperous.
486
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
The United Presbyterian congregation dates its origin from the year 1839,
when some members of the Associate congregation, of Deer Creek congregation,
living remote from their place of worship, desired to have preaching at West
Middlesex. They requested their pastor, Rev. James Ramsey, to preach in
the village for their accommodation, a portion of his time. He was disposed
to do so, but was prevented by the unwillingness of his congregation. They
then presented their petition to Rev. Douthett, of the Cross Roads congrega-
tion. His congregation, unwilling to spare his services on the Lord’s day,
were content to have him preach occasionally for these people on week-day
evenings. He spoke for them several times; but when the intelligence was
communicated to the Deer Creek congregation, they reported to the presbytery
that the territory of their congregation had been invaded from without. He
was ordered to confine his labors to his own congregation. The West Middle-
sex people then concluded to send to the Associate Reformed Presbytery of the
Lakes for aid. Supplies were sent in harmony with the petition. Preaching
was held, successively, in the Wilson school-house and Gundy’s barn. Among
the men sent were Revs. William Braden, Mr. Neal, John and William Fried-
ley. This was about 1840. Two acres of land were purchased for $25, of
John Byers, at the Cross Roads, two miles southwest of West Middlesex.
The deed for the property bears date October 19, 1841. The congregation
worshiped in a tent for a time, and was known as the Turkey Run Church.
After the erection of a building, which occurred the same year, the name was
changed to Beulah. The session records for September, 1841, bear that title.
The house was a large and commodious one.
After the union in 1858, which produced the United Presbyterian Church,
a part of the congregation, in 1860, removed to West Middlesex, and pur-
chased the old Methodist Episcopal house for $800. The balance of the con-
gregation refused to make the change, and continues at Beulah as a Reformed
Presbyterian Church.
Rev. Thomas Mehard was with the congregation at Beulah from 1841 to
1845, and Rev. R. W. Oliver from 1846 to 1856. Rev. John Armstrong served
them there and at West Middlesex from 1856 to 1868, since which latter date
Rev. W. J. Snodgrass has been the pastor at West Middlesex. The congre-
gation has now a new brick house of worship, and is said to be in a prosper-
ous condition. It was regularly incorporated on the 19th of March, 1887.
The exact date of the organization of the Methodist Episcopal congre-
gation is not known. The first preaching by a minister of this denom-
ination was done somewhere in the year 1837, by a Rev. Parker, who held
service in the dwelling of Charles Schooks. Itinerants passing through this
region were generally accustomed to stopping and conducting short exercises
of worship among the settlers; and although no records of such services have
been preserved, if. indeed, any were made, yet it may readily be supposed
that the spiritual wants of the early residents of what is now West Middlesex
were not left wholly unprovided for. A revival of considerable intensity
occurred in the year 1842, and shortly afterward regular church worship was
begun. The present church, however, was not built until 1861. It is a brick
structure 45x70 feet, and together with the improvements, made chiefly in
1872, cost $10,000. The complete list of preachers who served the congrega-
tion can not be given. It seems to have become a distinct charge about 1855,
when its preacher was S. K. Paden. Following him came J. Uncles, 1856;
C. R. Pattee, 1857-58; J. M. Green, 1859-60; P. P. Pinney, 1861; E. B.
Lane, 1862-63; C. Wilson, 1864; J. W. Stogdill, 1865; W. H. Mossman,
1866-68; S. Albertson, 1869-71; G. W. Clark, 1872-74; J. Graham,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
487
1875-77; J. Perry, 1878-79; E. M. Bear, 1880-83; A. E. Eich, 1884-85;
W. H. Mossman, 1880, present pastor.
Societies. — West Middlesex Lodge No. 593, I. O. O. F., was chartered
November 20, 1866, with twenty-one members, among whom were D. D. Col-
lins, John Newkirk, Paris Mills, Henry J. Mosier, David Farrell, John Perry,
Washington Eeed and T. C. White. The first officers were D. D. Collins, N.
G. ; Paris Mills, V. G. ; W. S. Powell and T. C. White, secretaries, and W.
T. Eeed, treasurer. The first meetings of the lodge were held in the William-
son (afterward called Jackson) House. A removal was made to the Morrison
building after a period, into a room above the post-office, which was then
located in the same building, near the river bridge. In the latter quarters a
disastrous fire broke out October 17, 1880, which destroyed the charter and
much valuable property of the lodge, thus necessitating the issuing of a new
charter, which was done by the Grand Lodge October 22, of the same year.
Kedron Lodge No. 389, A. Y. M. , was instituted June 17, 1867, in the old
Jackson Hotel, with the following as charter officers: Andrew Bortz, W. M. ;
J. Stevenson, S. W. ; D. F. Houston, J. W. ; James Squire, treasurer; J. W.
Hillier, secretary; William S. Powell, S. D. ; J. W. Eussell, J. D., and
Henry Mosier, tyler. The name was selected by Andi-ew Bortz and Henry J.
Mosier. The lodge met for five years in the Jackson House, after which, for
a period of six years, meetings were held in the Morrison Building. They
are now held in the A. O. TJ. W. Hall, on the 1st and 3d Mondays of each
month, the removal of the lodge to its present quarters having been made
about ten years ago, immediately after a fire, by which a large portion of the
lodges’s property was destroyed. The membership is at present thirty-one.
The officers for 1888 are J. M. Johnson, W. M. ; Samuel S. Gilbert, S. W. ;
Harry A. Baser, Jr. W. ; E. A. Dunmire, secretary; F. M. Powell, treasurer,
and J. B. Livingston, Eep. to G. L.
Post Marion, G. A. E., was established in 1869. It contained thirty
members, with H. W. Warren as the first commander. It disbanded in 1872.
Alonzo McCall Post No. 456, G. A. E., was instituted August 12, 1884,
with the following named charter members; J. W. Porter, H. M. Walker,
George Hollibaugh, John Wood, David Farrell, E. C. Crossman, Cyrus Cross-
man, Alex. McCabe, George Shearer, E. C. Kemp, E. B. McLain, Joseph
Bishop, E. E. Gundy, S. S. Gilbert, E. A. Dunmire, John Sweezey, John
Stephenson, F. M. Powell, A. W. Porter, Charles Hunt, Thomas Taylor, J.
P. Arbaugh, J. W. Lytle, David Chapman, W. A. Eodgers, J. H. Greer,
John Gundy and C. H. Mitcheltree. The post was named in honor of Alonzo
McCall, son of John McCall, who was mustered as a private into Company B,
Tenth Eegiment Pennsylvania Cavlary, July 21, 1861, at Harrisburg, and
was killed at Gettysburg, July, 1863, at the age of twenty years.
Bowman Lodge No. 12, A. O. U. W., was chartered July, 16, 1872. Its
first officers were Mr. Fuisthwait, P. M. W. ; N. E. Bowman, M. W. ; C. C.
Davis, G. F. ; John Boal, O. ; J. K. McBurney, recorder; D. M. Downing,
Fin.; William Mitchell, Eec. ; Peter Gundy, G. ; James Butler, J. W., and
G. T. Dunmire, O. W.
West Middlesex Union No. 409, E. A. U. , was organized January 17,
1884, with the following named charter officers: Noah Ginger, Chan. ; William
A. Eeedle, Add.; John A. Glenn, president; Thomas J. Hyde, vice-president;
Mrs. MiraVeach, Aux. ; Hiram Veach, treasurer;E. W. Jackson, secretary; W.
J. Davidson, Acct. ; Mrs. M. E. Dunmire, chaplain; F. M. McBride, warden;
John D. Truxell, Sent., and Charles Fillenbaum, watchman.
Shenango Assembly No. 8439, K. of L., was instituted August 20, 1886.
488
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
It has a large membership, and is one of the important orders of the place.
The local union of the W. C. T.U. owes its origin to the Woman’s tem-
perance crusade of 1873-74. This developed into the Woman’s Temper-
ance League, organized in March, 1875, which, in the following June, was
changed into the West Middlesex branch of the Mercer County W. C. T.
U. Among the original members of this branch were Mrs. Maria Pen-
dergist, Mrs. Hannah Bdeburn, Mrs. R. A. Henderson and Mrs. Emily Rayen,
the latter of whom was appointed vice-president of the Board of West Middle-
sex and vicinity by the county union. The work was continued under this
title until April 30, 1882, when the local union was organized by Mrs. A. p.
Hamilton, of Sharon, and the following officers elected: President, Mrs. W. M.
Hyde; vice-presidents, Mrs. Emily Rayen, Mrs. S. J. Randall and Mrs. J. B.
Livingston; Rec. Sec.. Mrs. S. E. Satterfield; Cor. Sec., Mrs. F. M. Powell,
and treasurer, Mrs. R. A. Henderson. Among the members were Mrs. G. W.
Clark, Mrs. McCall Allen, Mrs. Frank Espy, Mrs. M. J. Downing, Mrs. Rev.
Woods, Mrs. J. McConnell, Mrs. R. W. Jackson, Mrs. A. Lyons, Mrs. Belle
McFoose, Mrs. A. E. Davidson, Mrs. T. J. Hyde, Mrs. C. Lineberger, Mrs.
E. Johnston, Mrs. William Jones, Mrs. J. Byers, Mrs. E. Lytle, Miss Mary
Gibson, Mrs. Rev. Graham, Mrs. Rev. Bear, Mrs. J. P. Arbaugh, Mrs. Ella
Dunmire, Mrs. H. Gundy, Mrs. R. Turner, Mrs. M. Gundy and Miss H.
Brock. Meetings are held on the last Friday of each month in private houses
or churches. Since the organization of the union there have been sixty names
enrolled, many of whom have removed from the place, and four have died.
The regular paying membership is at present seventeen. The condition of
the local society has never been better.
West Middfesex had a population in 1870 of 888, and in 1880, 918. It
now claims over 1,000 inhabitants.
WHEATLAND.
Wheatland, located on the southwest corner of Hickory Township, is one
of the boroughs upon which the word Ichabod has been written; its apparent
glory has departed. It was laid out by J ames Wood and Sons, of Pittsburgh,
in l872. Being a strong Democrat Mr. Wood named the new town Wheat-
land, in honor of President Buchanan’s residence, near Lancaster, Penn. It
was created a borough by special act of the Legislature, approved February 21,
1872.
Its first officers were: Burgess, John Horton; council, Joseph Coles, N.
N. Allen, Andrew Shilling, F. C. Van Dusen, Thomas Jones and John Wat-
kins; constables, Benjamin Boyer and E. M. Fair; school directors, L. N.
Wood, Samuel McClure, Philip Jones, William B. Maxwell, Henry Shilling
and David Dorman; justice of the peace, J. G. Walker; police justice, Christo-
pher Lewis.
In the list of early settlers in this region may be mentioned George Shilling.
He came from Westmoreland County in 1814, and located on or near the present
site of Wheatland. He bought of John Thompson 200 acres of land, against
which the New Bedford Land Company held a warrant claim. Suit for ejec-
tion was brought against him in the Mercer County courts, and he won. The
case was carried to the Supreme Court at Pittsburgh, by which the decision
of the lower court was reversed on the ground that Thompson in securing the
patent recognized the validity of the warrant claim and took his risk. After
many years’ experience in one of the most celebrated and bitterly contested
law-suits ever prosecuted in Western Pennsylvania, Mr. Shilling had finally
to buy the land a second time to quiet the title, paying $2,120 for a 400-acre
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
489
tract. It was worth the price to get it, and the children made the money to
pay for it by raising crops of corn and rye. He was married in Westmore-
land County to Elizabeth McBride, by whom he had seven children, the first
four of whom were born in Westmoreland, the last three in Mercer County.
Their names were George, still living in Lackawannock Township; Andrew,
living near Wheatland in his seventy-ninth year; Samuel, residing in Sharon;
Henry, deceased; Mary, deceased; Sarah, deceased, and William, residing in
Iowa. Mrs. Shilling was buried January 1, 1837, aged fifty years. Mr. Shill-
ing died in February, 1860, at the age of seventy-nine. He lived for a season
after his arrival on the place now owned by Elijah Baker, and then removed
to the present site of Wheatland, on that portion of land now owned by
his son Andrew.
Among his early neighbors were William (“Billy”) Haywood, who lived
on the farm now owned by John J. Spearman, ’Squire Canon, father of
John Canon and great grandfather of Supt. J. W^. Canon, of the Sharon
schools; he lived on the Shenango, halfway between Wheatland and Middle-
sex, on the farm now owned by IVIrs. John Welch. He arrived in 1797, and
was a justice of the peace for many years. He married twice. By the first
wife, Rachel, he had Moses, John, Ross and Thomas, and by the second wife,
James, William, Samuel and Peggy.
Rev. James Satterfield lived near the Canon place. A sketch of him is found
in connection with the Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex. Jacob Trout,
father of Hon. M. C. Trout (deceased), came from Westmoreland County
about the same time as the Shillings, and settled on part of the land now
owmed by Mrs. M. C. Trout.
Dr. John Mitcheltree and his brothers, James, Thomas and William, came
from Ireland and settled southwest of the Shenango, opposite and a mile and
half from Wheatland. Dr. John practiced medicine here. He married Jane,
oldest sister of Dr. J. M. Irvine. He was one of the earliest practicing physi-
cians in this region. Contemporaneous with him was Dr. Elijah Flower, of
Brookfield, Ohio, a pretty good physician for the times.
William Campbell was a former resident of the Shenango region. He was
here when the Shillings came.
Thomas Bronson, colored, joined with George Shilling in buying 200
acres of land near Charlestown. He lived on the Shenango, within the present
boundary limits of Wheatland, and was an old man at the time of his death. His
descendants are numerous, many of them living near Charlestown and Sharps-
ville. Pratt Collins, Charles Caldwell, WJlliam Elliott and Wnlliam Jackson
were likewise settlers at the same time with Shilling.
(Sc/ioofe.— Andrew Shilling relates that during the “winter of the deep
snow,” viz., 1817, he attended school on the WJlliam Haywood farm, now
owned by John J. Spearman. The teacher was “Master Wilson.” He was
an old man, and wore buckskin breeches. He was accustomed to sit in the
corner of the room and rub his pants with clay to clean them. He used to
make the girls come and kiss him. Some of the pupils of that day were the
Bentleys, the Haywoods, the Quinbys, the Carmichaels, etc. The deep snow
which fell February 4, of that year, came nigh preventing his returning home.
Fences were all covered except the stakes and riders. Deer were caught by
the dogs in the snow. Smaller pupils were kept at home for weeks. Benja-
min Reno was also an old teacher.
The borough has, at present, a school building for four departments. The
structure was erected in 1871, and is valued at $4,000.
Manufactures. — Wheatland in its palmy days was an enterprising place.
490
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
numbering from 2,000 to 3,000 inhabitants. Its era of prosperity began
when, in 1862, William Byers, of Youngstown, George Khodeman and others,
having bought six acres of ground at $75 per acre, began the erection of fur-
naces 1 and 2. The second was built in 1863. No. 1 has been repaired
twice. Both have been standing idle since the firm went into bankruptcy. At
first they did a good business. J ohn J. Spearman, now of Sharon, ran them
successfully for about eight years. In 1863-64 Mr. Andrew Shilling sold
some fifty-four acres to the furnace for $5,000. Henry Shilling exchanged
some land with the furnace for two acres, which they owned. The purpose
was to let the company have shipping facilities on the canal. Furnaces 3 and
4_^were erected in 1864. They have long since ceased to exist.
\~l On the 11th of February, 1881, was incorporated the Wheatland Bessemer
Steel Company, with a capital stock of $25,000, divided into 250 shares of
$100 each. Its board of directors was James W. Friend, president; Harry
T. Friend, clerk; John C. Arnold, treasurer.
On the 11th of April, 1887, was incorporated, for the purpose of manu-
facturing iron and steel, the Wheatland Iron Company. Its officers were;
B. B. Heath, president; James W. Friend, vice-president; and Harry T.
Friend, secretary and treasurer. An active business was done for a time, and
new life began to manifest itself in the borough. The works closed in the
summer of 1887, and remained in such condition through the rest of the year,
and up to the fall of 1888. Operations have recently been resumed, and if
successful Wheatland will again become prosperous.
Churches. — The Methodist Episcopal Church of Wheatland owes its exist-
ence to the beneficence of Mrs. James Wood, wife of the man who laid out
and named the town. She gave the lot and furnished the means for erecting
the building. The organization occurred about 1868, Rev. J. Perry super-
vising the matter. The strength of the congregation depending upon the
mills, its prosperity fluctuated with the changes occurring in their business.
The neat little edifice was erected about 1870. The congregation was incor-
porated September 24, 1870. Following is the list of its preachers: J.
Perry, 1869; G. Dunmire, 1870; B. F. Delo, 1871; J. H. Vance, 1872-74;
J. F. Hill, 1875; J. Graham, 1876; W. P. Graham, 1877-78; C. E. Locke,
1879; James Ballantine, 1880-82; Otho Brant, 1883; John Crill, 1884; John
C. Womer, 1885-87; Rev. Knowles, 1887.
The Welsh Congregational Church was organized August 11, 1872, in the
Methodist Episcopal Church, by Rev. John Edwards, assisted by Rev. O.
Owens, of Pittsburgh, and Rev. O. W. Owen, of Coalburg. The original
members consisted of W. Phillips and wife, I. David and wife, Mary Williams,
John B. Bowers, M. A. Jenkins, Catt Phillips, J. Price, Nancy Edmunds, D.
J ohn and wife, Lewis Griffith, W. Brenan and wife, T. Richard and wife,
W. Thomas and wife, W. S. Morgan, W. D. Lewis and wife, J. Jarrett and
wife, John L. Phillips, Mrs. E. Armstrong, Ann Jenkins, D. Jenkins, Rich-
ard Jenkins, Hanna Williams, Enloe Evans, William Watkins, James Garrett,
Ellen Goodhall, W. F. Morgan, Mary Rowlands, M. Yeenis, R. Jones, T. Z.
Jones, Ella Thomas, Ann Jones. J. Richard and wife, D. J. Jones and Eliza
Jones. The congregation has had but one regular pastor, the present one.
Rev. Thomas M. Griffith. The church services are held at present in the
school-house, as no regular church building has yet been built, but it is the
intention to commence the erection of a suitable chapel in the near future.
The congregation has a membership of thirty- three.
Holy Trinity Catholic Church was established by Rev. William Coonan
about 1871-72. Wheatland was then a prosperous manufacturing town,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
491
and many of the iron workers were Catholics. A large frame church was
erected by Father Coonan, and for several j^ears the congregation was in a
flourishing condition. In 1878 Rev. Bernard Lynch succeeded Father Coonan,
and the following year Rev. Patrick Cosgrove became pastor. He served the
congregation some two years, when the decline of the town, caused by the
mills shutting down, did not justify a resident pastor, and Holy Trinity was
placed under the charge of the pastor at Sharpsville, where it has since
remained. Fathers Coonan, Lynch and Cosgrove also ministered to the
Sharpsville congregation during a part of their pastorates at Wheatland. Holy
Trinity has dwindled down to a few families, but if the mills again start up
successfully, which is now probable, its old-time prosperity will doubtless
return.
BETHEL.
Situated near the corner of Hickory, Shenango and Lackawannock Town-
ships is the village of Bethel. It was incorporated as a borough May 22, 1872.
Prior to that time there had existed a little village known as Sempletown. or
Semple’s Mills. At the time of incorporation, however, a regular tract, taken
from the three townships already mentioned, was laid out in the form of a
rectangle.
The first settlement in the place was made in March, 1846, when S. S.
Semple, its first resident, erected a small frame dwelling-house. His father,
David Semple, had, some years previous, purchased the land from David
Kitch, but had made no improvements.
In 1862 James McConnell and Thompson Hyde had erected a steam saw-
mill, which rapidly swept away the woods. In 1871 S. S. Semple erected a
second mill, of grander proportions, which added much to the business of the
village.
Semple, Thompson & Co. erected, in 1863, a large grist-mill, a three-story
building with three sets of burrs, and intended mainly for custom work. It
became a source of great interest and prosperity to the vicinity.
A store was also needed. This want was supplied in 1868 by S. S. Sem-
ple, the enterprising godfather of the place, who was ready to take hold of
every enterprise. He erected the building subsequently used by T. J. Mar-
shall & Co. , and put in a stock of goods well adapted to the trade. It passed
through various changes to accomplish its purpose as a permanent business of
the place.
Bethel was named in honor of Bethel United Presbyterian Church, near by,
in Hickory Township.
The Christian Church, which for a time held its meetings near the borough,
has ceased to exist, owing to the closing of mining operations. The same
causes operated also against the United Brethren Church.
The first school- house, a small frame building, in the place was erected
in 1871. Miss Sarah White was the first teacher. In 1873 a larger and more
commodious structure was erected.
Coal- mining was for years the industry which sustained the place. The
subsidence of that industry has had a depressing effect.
The first borough election was held in October, 1872, at which time twenty-
eight votes were cast. The result was: Burgess, John Wood; council, James
Howard, D. W. Semple and Isaac Hilkirk; assessor, Hugh Bond; constable,
John Carter; justice of the peace, W. T. Reed.
The first postmaster was S. S. Semple, the office being called Wheeler.
He continued to hold his place until the time of his death, August 22, 1874.
492
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
CHAPTEK XXV.
Boroughs of .Tamestoavn and Clarksaulle— Location of Jamestoavn— First
Settler on its Site — First Grist Mill and Dayellings Erected— First
Merchant, Justice of the Peace and Postmaster— Jamestoayn Laid
Out and Incorporated— First Mechanics— Early Pha'sicians— Historic
Address — Railroads— Schools — Old Academy'— Jamestoavn Sejiinary —
Public Schools — Recent Fires— Banks — Societies — Churches — Cemeter-
ies—Population.
Clarksa'ille LxUd Out — Incorporation and First Officials — Location-
Early' Settlers— Indian Village — First Medical Practitoners— Pio-
neer School-house — Secret and Other Societies— Churches — Popula-
tion.
JAMESTOWN is located in Greene Township in the northwest part of Mer-
cer County, at the crossing of the Erie & Pittsburgh and the Lake Shore
(Jamestown and Franklin branch) Railroads.
James Campbell, after whom the town was named and on whose land it
was built up, was the first settler. He came from County Antrim, Ireland, in
1798. He located on what is known as Seminary Hill, and his dwelling place
for several years was a cave. He died in 1850 at the advanced age of ninety-
seven years, and his remains rest in the old Seceder grave-yard at Greenville.
When Mr. Campbell came to this locality, he secured a “tract” of 400 acres
at $1.25 per acre. He had four sons, John, William, James and Nathan, to
each of whom he gave 100 acres. His improvements were on the east hundred
acre tract, the portion he gave to William. About the year 1799 he built a
small log house, into which he removed his family from the cave in the side of
the hill, and in which he continued to reside for many years with all the con-
tentment of mind which characterized the pioneer settlers.
Between the years 1815 and 1817 Campbell purchased forty acres addi-
tional. This small tract included a mill site and attendant privileges on the
Shenango. Upon it John and James Campbell, Jr., built a grist-mill out of
hewed logs, a little above the site of the Brackin and Carr Mill, which was
burned May 3, 1886. The mill is said to have commenced operations in Feb-
ruary, 1817. It stood until 1856, when the new one was built. It was the
first grist-mill in the place, and really the first improvement. Like similar
enterprises elsewhere, it was the nucleus of the futui’e town. Near this mill
a small shanty of round logs was erected about the same time to accommodate
the mill hands. It was an inferior abode, but served its purpose. It was
subsequently used as a dwelling by James Campbell, Jr., being then the only
abode of the kind within the town limits.
The second dwelling within the borough limits was a small frame house
erected and owned by James Campbell, Jr. It has undergone many efforts
at preservation and ornamentation, and when last heard from was still stand-
ing as a relic of the olden times.
Little progress was made in the prospective town prior to 1831. At that
time John Williamson, still a resident of Jamestown, built the first store-
room in the place, and the second frame structure. It was 18x34 feet, in one
end of which, as was the custom in early days, he dwelt. This structure
stood upon the lot on which the Reed property was burned a few years ago.
Williamson was the first justice of the peace, being appointed in l832. The
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
495
next year lie became postmaster, and J. B. Herrick was his successor as
justice.
In March, 1832, John Keck, Esq., laid out a village, and desired John
Williamson to give it a name. In honor of the original settler, James Camp-
bell, it was christened “Jamestown,” a designation it has never changed.
This was the era of a new growth. People began to flock into the place.
Lots were purchased and a spirit of enterprise and thrift began to manifest
itself. The town was incorporated in 1854, and assumed the dignity of a
borough.
The first tailor was William Rodgers. He put up a frame building in
1832, which was subsequently used by Dr. Gibson as a store-room.
The first tannery was built in 1832 by Andrew Irvin. It stood on land
subsequently owned by Dr. Gibson.
The first blacksmith shop was erected in 1834 by Matthew Hunter; the
year following the first saw-mill was erected by John Williamson for John
Carr. It supplied a long-felt want, lumber being a great necessity in the
growth of a town.
Early Physicians. — The first physician who located in Jamestown was Dr.
James Dowling. He arrived in the spring of 1832, and lived in a part of
Williamson’s house. The following year he bought the Williamson property,
and soon thereafter built a residence of his own. He was a genial man and a
successful physician. He continued in the village until 1836, when he sold
to Dr. William Gibson, just arrived, and removed to Brookville, Penn., where
he died some time in the seventies.
Dr. William Gibson, whose sketch is found in the Medical chapter, was
the second physician. He was a recognized power in Jamestown. Attention
is here called to an address that was written by him in 1807. It is an admira-
bly well-prepared document:
To His Imperial Majesty, Alexander I, Emperor of Russia:
We are a handful of private citizens of America, traveling simply for recreation,
and unostentatiously, as becomes our unofflcial state, and therefore we have no excuse to
tender for presenting ourselves before your majesty, save the desire of offering' our
grateful acknowledgments to the Lord of a realm which, through good and through evil
report, has been the steadfast friend of the land we love so well. We could not presume
to take a step like this, did we not know well titat the words we speak here, and the
sentiments wherewith they are freighted, are hut the reflex of the thoughts and the feel-
ings of all our countrymen, from the green hills of New England to the snowy peaks of
the far Pacific. We are few in number, but we utter the voice of a nation. One of the
brightest pages that has graced the world’s history since written history had its birth,
was recorded by your Majesty’s hand when it loosed the bonds of twenty millions of
serfs; and Americans can but esteem it a privilege to do honor to a ruler who has
wrought so great a deed. The lesson that was taught us then, we have profited by, and
are free in truth to-day, even as we were before in name. America owes much to Rus-
sia— is indebted to her in many ways, and chiefly for her unwavering friendship in
seasons of our greatest need. That that friendship may still be hers in time to come
we confidently pray; that she is and will be grateful to Russia, and to her sovereign, for
it, we know full well; that she will ever forfeit it by any premeditated, unjust act, or
unfair course, it were treason to believe.
Respectfully tendered on behalf of the excursionists on board American steam yacht
Quaker City, Yalta, August 26, 1867.
Samuki. L. Clemens, (Mark Twain), Cal.,
William Gibson, M. D., Jamestown, Penn.,
Timothy D. Ceocker, Cleveland, Ohio.
S. N. Sanford. Cleveland, Ohio.
Colonel P. Kinney, Portsmouth, Ohio.
D. D. Leary, New York, Chairman.
Committee.
28
496
HISTOBY OF MERGER COUNTY.
Railroads. — In 1853 the Pittsbiirgh & Erie Eailroad project was started,
Dr. Gibson being an active participant in the enterprise. After expending
about $125,000 upon it, the work stopped for about six years, when a new com-
pany called the Erie & Pittsburgh was formed. It completed the line from
Erie to Jamestown by December 25, 1859, and thence to New Castle several
years later.
The Franklin & Jamestown Railroad, of which Dr. Gibson was presi-
dent, was started in the winter of 1862-63. Its history will be found in the
chapter on Internal Affairs.
Schools. — The first school building was a one-story frame with two rooms,
which stood on the hill on the north side of town. It was an academy,
and stood in Crawford County. Rev. John Gamble, father of Dr. D. Gam-
ble, was principal. SUrdents came from far and near to attend — some even
from Kentucky. Mercer, Meadville, Erie and other places were represented.
John Rankin, of Mercer, William M. Stephenson, Samuel Griffith and other
men of renown were pupils of his. The building was finally burned down.
The institution of learning which, during its active existence, gave James-
town notoriety was the Jamestown Seminary, which was regularly incorporated
on the 22d of April, 1858, by Dr. William Gibson, Dr. S. G. Clark, John Carr,
Jacob Rogers, William Douthitt, W. W. Neverson and Rev. H. H. Hervey.
The first corps of officers consisted as follows; President, Rev. H. H. Her-
vey; secretary, W. W. Neverson; treasurer, John Carr. Two acres of ground,
bought from J ames McMaster; constituted the site, a beairtiful one, too. Upon
this the two-story frame stnrcture, with three rooms below and two above, was
erected in 1862 at a cost of some $2,000. In 1860 Isaac Collins, Joseph
McKee and Miss Ellen McKee came to town and organized a school in an old
school-house of two rooms. One teacher occupied a hall on Water Street.
They continued thus to operate until the Seminary building was completed,
when work began in it. The first principal was Isaac Collins. Some of
his successors were A. S. Abbey, W. J. Snodgrass, J. R. Wallace, James W.
Stewart, James M. Fulton, H. H. McMaster, etc. The building has been
standing unoccupied for several years.
The Union Schools were established about 1878, in the building that now
stands on Jackson Street, and is used as a town house. The principal teacher
was James McConnahey. The next princii^al in the same building was C. I.
Mullen. About the holidays of 1880 the schools were transferred to the
present commodious brick building, which had just been completed at a cost
of $8,000. In thejist of principals were Charles W. Dean, A. S. Abbey, T.
S. McCanless, L. T. McCartney and M. A. Sutton, the present incunibent.
At the time of the organization of schools the board consisted as follows :
President, J. Andrews; secretary, D. Gamble, J. H. Carr, B. F. Underslice,
T. G. Moats and James McMaster.
Recent Fires. — In March, 1887, a severe fire occurred, which swept away a
large part of the business portion of the town. The Moats House, in which it
originated, and five store-rooms, belonging respectively to a citizen of Chicago,
William Ross, Mrs. Brown, John Davis and Mr. Raymond, were consumed.
These were all on the northwest side of Main Street. Immediately south of
the Moats House was the Reed building, used, at that time, as a hardware store
by Fred Alden. It, too, was consumed. The fire broke out about midnight
in the hotel barn, and soon spread to the adjoining buildings. Its origin was
a mystery. The loss was large, amounting to some $25,000 or $30,000, most
of which was covered with insurance. Loss, about $25,000.
About a year previous a grist-mill, belonging to Carr, Brackin & Co. , was
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
497
burned. The mill was erected originally by John Reed and Thomas Sherbon-
dy. It was subsequently bought by Henry Homer, who converted it into the
roller process.
Banks. — The Jamestown Banking Company was organized July 21, 1874,
with a capital stock of' $50,000, in shares of $100 each. Its first corps of
officers consisted of Dr. William Gibson, president; James McMaster, vice-pres-
ident, and W. W. Davis, cashier. Dr. Gibson, at his death, was succeeded
by James McMaster, the present incumbent. The vice-president is G. C.
Campbell, and the cashier, W. A. McMaster. The firm does a general bank-
ing business.
About the same time, or probably a month later than the other, was organ-
ized the J amestown Savings Bank, a private banking concern, whose partners
were Samuel Gardner, David Anderson, George Fetterman, Capt. William
Thomas, Jasper Fetterman, David Carr, Joseph S. Blair and othejs. The
capital stock was $50,000. Its original officers were: George Fetterman,
president; David Anderson, vice-president; I. W. Worrell, cashier. The last
named gentleman was succeeded by John Morehead and S. R. Martin. It
closed business January 19, 1885, by making an assignment to L. A.
McCrumb and W. A. McMaster, receivers.
Societies. — Adelphic Lodge No. 424, F. & A. M. , was constituted in Sep-
tember, 1868, by G. D. Kughler, D. D. G. M. , of Greenville, assisted by
William Himrod, D. D. G. M. , of Erie, with the following members: L. A.
McCrumb, W. M. ; William L. Riley, S. W. ; E. P. Foster, J. W. ; Charles
Carr, secretary ; James Rogers, ti'easurer; J ames McElhager, J.H. Carr, Samuel
H. Rogers, Rev. F. A. Archibald and William Langhrey. The first place of
meeting was a third story of a frame building now standing on Water Street,
and used for society purposes. In 1874 the lodge had rooms fitted up in the
Carr Block, and have continued to use them ever since. The membership at
present is seventy.
Jamestown Lodge No. 482, K. of P. , was chartered June 29, 1882, with
fortv-five members. Its first corps of officers was as follows: M. G. McElhaney,
P. C. ; F. P. Calhoun, C. C. ; F. L. Belknap, V. C. ; W. W. Thompson, prel-
ate; A. H. Bell, M. E. ; S. L. Robb, M. F. ; F. S. Alden, K. of R. & S. ; J.
F. Robertson, M. A.; A. J. McElhaney, I. G. ; William Eich, O. G. It meets
every Thursday evening in Masonic hall.
The Royal Templars of Temperance were organized in the autumn of 1878.
Among the early members were D. L. Calkins and wife, George V. Burgess
and wife. Nelson McDowell and wife, Charles Truesdale and wife, Henry
Forrest and wife, George Forrest and wife. Dr. T. H. Mitchell, and others.
In the fall of 1880 a division occurred. The original flociely. The North Star,
was continued in the same hall (Masonic), while the colony, Ross, went to the
Grangers’ hall on Water Street. The North Star having had some difficulty
with the Supreme Councillor, surrendered its charter in 1881. The Ross con-
tinues to meet, and has a quasi existence.
About 1872 a lodge of A. O. IJ. W. was organized, but it surrendered its
charter in 1883.
Robert Porter Post No. 326, G. A. R. , was organized April 20, 1883, in
Adelphic hall, with the following members: N. F. Ellis, William R. Ross,
William Eich, William Artman, Albert H. Artman, Abram Artman, William
Harris, Henry H. Forrest, John Forrest, Stephen Mosier, JohnMassena, Rob-
ert Q. Snodgrass, T. F. Sullivan, W. H. Harris, C. Sheppard, Joseph Tx’ues-
dale, Theron F. Cook, James Maxwell and John W. Marshall. Its first corps
of officers consisted of N. F. Ellis, P. C. ; JohnMassena, Adjt. ; William R.
498
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Ross, O. D. ; Stephen Hosier, J. V. C. ; Abram Artman, S. V. C. ; W. H.
Harris, Q. M. ; John Forrest, Chap. ; T. F. Sullivan, Surg. ; Coiydon Sheppard,
O. G. ; R. Q. Snodgrass, I. G. ; Albert H. Artman, S. M. ; Henry Forrest, Q.
M. S. The post meets the first and third Saturdays of every month. Its
present membership is twenty-two, with condition prosperous.
The W. C. T. IJ. was organized in the PresbyteriaH Church on the 30th
of July, 1885, by Mrs. A. P. Hamilton, of Sharon. The original members
were Misses Kate Burton and Kate E. Sloan, Mrs. J. L. Dennison, Mrs. James
Rogers, Mrs. D. L. Calkins, Mrs. S. Sargent, Mrs. Alexander Calhoun, Mrs.
Joseph McClymonds and Mrs. Robert McCartney. These ladies selected, as
their first corps of officers, the following: President, Miss Kate Burton; vice-
president, Mrs. S. Sargent; recording secretary, Mrs. D. L. Calkins; corres-
ponding secretary, Mrs. James Rogers; treasurer, Mrs. Alex. Calhoun. The
union has made vigorous fights against licenses'being granted to hotels, and
has been successful. The present membership, twenty-five in number, is said
to be in a prosperous condition.
Churches. — It seems that Samuel T. Smith, a member of the Lake Erie
Presbytery, of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, was one of the
first preachers to proclaim the word in this vicinity. This he did in a series
of discourses prior to 1840. About this date originated a congregation of that
faith, the preaching being done at the house of Andrew McMaster, father of
James McMaster. The elders in the congregation at the time were Andrew
McMaster and William Calvert. From 1840 to 1846 Mr. Smith preached
occasionally, sometimes in the house and sometimes in the barn of Mr. Mc-
Master, and occasionally in the Gamble school-house. Early members were
William Calvert and wife, Daniel McClurg, Andrew McMaster and wife, Mrs.
Jane Snodgrass, Mrs. Rebecca Carr, James Calvert and wife, James McMas-
ter, Sr., and wife, John Williamson and wife, Samuel Calvert and wife, Will-
iam Gibson, M. D. , and wife; total, seventeen. The regular organization
occurred in 1853, about twelve or thirteen years after the first association.
After the death of Mr. Smith, in 1846, a number of young preachers gave
their labors to the congregation, among whom were Revs. Cannon, McAdams,
Forsythe, Robert Audley Brown, John Dick, D. R. Kerr, Kelso, Patterson
Mehard, Campbell and Dalzell. Their labors continued up to 1849 or 1850.
Following these dates a short vacancy occurred. In 1851 or 1852 Rev. H.
H. Hervey was installed pastor of Crooked Creek and North Shenango. He
also ministered to Jamestown as a branch of the Crooked Creek charge.
Shortly after this, October 28, 1853, he organized a regular congregation
under the title of the Associate Reformed Presbyterians of Jamestown, Samuel
Calvert and Robert Williamson being ruling elders. It continued to move on
peacefully until the union in 1858. About 1847 steps were taken for the
erection of a house of worship. The subscription not being all collected, the
house was enclosed with difficulty. Finally, about 1852, an agreement was
made between the Associate Reformed congregation, of Jamestown, and the
Shenango congregation of the Associate Church, by which the latter was to
complete the house for the privilege of enjoying its use for worship. Thus
was completed the first building.
In 1801-02 Rev. Daniel McLean, who had settled in South Shenango
Township, Crawford County, established there a congregation of the Associ-
ate or Seceder Church. He began to visit the community of Jamestown
about 1852, and his preaching resulted in the organization of a small congre-
gation in 1853. In its ranks were Robert Snodgrass, Sr., and wife, Jacob
Rogers and wife, Robert Snodgrass, Jr., and wife, William Douthitt and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
499
wife, John Brooks and wife, James M. Snodgrass and wife, Quinton Brooks
and wife. Total, fourteen. The first session consisted of Robert Snodgrass,
Sr., Jacob Rogers and Quinton Brooks, Andrew Thompson being subsequently
added. Rev. Daniel McLean was the pastor by natural selection until his
death, in 1854. Subsequently preaching was done for the congregation by
Revs. Bruce, Brownlee, Hindman, Strong and Gilmore. The occasional
preaching was supplanted by the regular preaching of Rev. Hervey. A friendly
feeling finally resulted in the permanent union of 1858. The United Presby-
terian congregation was formed of these two elements, by the general union
which occurred in Pittsburgh in May, 1858. The union gave to Jamestown
about 100 members. Rev. T. J. Kennedy was the first pastor, and continued
one-fourth of his time for seven years. Following him were Revs. H. F.
Stewart and J. R. Wallace. The present brick house was erected in 1874,
costing about $8,000.
The Methodist Church was organized about 1855. Some of its original
members were John Fidler, Thomas Sherbondy, D. G. Clark, Jonathan and
David Hoover, John Koonce and wife, William F. Johnson, Elias Bates,
James Frame, Irvin West and J. W. Clark. The first meetings were held in
the borough school-house. This was the case until about 1859-60, when the
present frame house, 40x45, was erected, at a cost of $1,800. It was built
under the pastorate of Rev. A. J. Merchant. The building committee con-
sisted of Thomas Sherbondy, William F. Johnson, D. G. Clark, J. W. Clark
and Irvin West. The builder was a Mr. Moffett, of Jamestown. A parson-
age was built on the same grounds in 1865, at a cost of about $1,000.
The church edifice has undergone repairs from time to time. The follow-
ing is a list of the pastors; E. T. Wheeler, 1858; A. J. Merchant, 1859-60;
S. A. Milroy, 1861; I. Scofield, 1862-63; W. A. Clark, 1864; S. S. Burton,
one-fourth year, 1865; T. Radcliffe, three-fourths year, 1865; G. W. Ander-
son, 1866; F. A. Fairchild, 1867-68; S. Heard, 1869; S. L. Wilkinson, 1870;
C. Wilson, 1871; A. S. Goodrich, 1872-73; E. D. McCreary, 1874-75; W.
Hollister, 1876-77; R. M. Bear, 1878-79; J. M. Crouch, 1880-82; G. W.
Chesbro, 1883-85; O. G. Mclntire, 1886-88.
The First Baptist Church was organized in the autumn of 1870 by Rev.
J. W. Snyder, with J. T. English and wife, Cynthia Moats, Mrs. John
St. Clair, Charles Truesdale and wife, William Truesdale and wife and Mrs.
Charles Fowler as charter members. The house of worship, a frame struc-
ture 40x70, was erected in 1874 at a cost of about $4,000. The congrega-
tion has a membership of eighty, with a large Sunday-school in flourishing
condition. It has been served, in succession, by the following pastors: J. W.
Snyder, G. T. Griffith, W. B. Skinner, J. P. Hile, Rev. Rapson and D. H.
Dennison.
The Presbyterian Church was organized November 5, 1873, by Revs. J. E.
Wright, of Greenville, and J. R. Findley, of Mercer. In the fall of 1872
(September 5) Rev. John Rice, of Sandy Lake, preached two sermons in
Jamestown, and in October following Rev. Isaac McVitty preached one in the
Methodist Episcopal Church. This was the beginning of Presbyterianism in
Jamestown. At its meeting in Greenville, December 3, 1872, the Presbytery
of Erie appointed supplies for J amestown until the next meeting of that body.
The following ministers performed such duty: J. E. Wright, of Greenville;
Richard Craighead, of Meadville; J. R. Findley, of Mercer; S. J. M. Eaton,
of Franklin; W. S. Wright, of Erie; Rev. Thompson, of Pittsburgh Seminary;
J. Vance, of Erie, and Nathan McFertridge, of Oil City. Some of these serv-
ices were held in the United Presbyterian Church, and some in the Gibson
500
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Hall. At a meeting of the presbytery in April, 1873, Rev. James Lafferty was
appointed a stated supply for Jamestowm and Sandy Lake. These services
were held in Gibson’s Hall until the 29th of June, when they were removed
to the public school building. Interest increasing steadily, a complete organi-
zation was effected in the Methodist Episcopal Church November 5, with twelve
members, eight by certificate and four by profession of their faith. In 1874
the present house of worship, a frame 36x60, was erected at a cost of |6,600,
including the grounds. The following is the list of pastors; James Lafferty,
two years; D. R. Kerr, seven years; J. B. Fleming, three years; J. P. Irwin,
present pastor began March, 1887.
St. Bridget’ s Catholic Church was a mission for many years before it was
organized as a congregation, and was occasionally attended by the pastor of
St. Michael’s Church, of Greenville, who held services in private houses.
Among the original families were those of John Savage, Michael Conway, John
Flaherty and Patrick O’Donnell. In 1874 Rev. Thomas Tracy, of Green-
ville, built the present frame church, 40x80, and it was dedicated and the
congregation organized in August, of that year, under the name of St. Bridg-
et. Father Tracey announced to the congregation, on the day of dedication,
that whoever would give the largest donation toward paying off the indebted-
ness on the new church would have the privilege of selecting the name. A
spirited contest resulted, and to Mrs. Bridget Doyle, wife- of Mark Doyle, of
West Salem Township, both since deceased, fell the honor of choosing the
name of her patron saint as that of the new congregation. In July, 1876,
Rev. Bernard Donohoe, also of Greenville, succeeded Father Tracy. He
finished the interior and paid off quite a large debt which was hanging over
the congregation. He was succeeded in April, 1882, by Rev. Peter Brady,
the first resident pastor at Jamestown, who remained until the following-
autumn. Rev. John Smith was his successor. In May, 1883, Rev. J. H.
McAdam became pastor of the congregation, and remained until the spring
of 1887, when Father Donohoe again took charge of Jamestown in connec-
tion with Greenville. St. Bridget’s congregation has decreased in strength,
owing to many of its members removing elsewhere, and it now numbers only
about fifteen families, though a number of families belonging to St. Michael’ s,
at Greenville, usually attend services at Jamestown.
Cemeteries. — Jamestown has two cemeteries. The first, known as James-
toTyn Cemetery, was incorporated on the 22d of August, 1867, the petitioners
for the charter being J. H. Carr, Thomas Foster, Dr. William Gibson, James
Throop and James McMaster. The grounds are pleasantly located.
On the 13th of June, 1887, Park Lawn Cemetery was incorporated by
William T. Clark, W. B. Plant, Dr. William Gibson, W. A. McMaster and
A. O. Moreland. The capital stock was fixed at 1,500 shares of $50 each.
The site is between the Jamestown Cemetery and the village. In it is the fine
monument erected to the memory of Dr. Gibson, since deceased.
In 1860 Jamestown had a population of 256; in 1870, 572, and in 1860,
974. This shows a steady growth for the two decades between 1860 and 1880.
CLARKSVILLE.
Clarksville was laid out in 1829 by Samuel Clark, the owner of the land
upon which the site is located, and recorded September 13, 1832. Forty-nine
lots were laid out and sold. From the plat now on record we find that the
streets were Mill, Bridge, Orchard, Meadow and Second. It was incorporated
on May 5, 1848. The first list of officers embraced the following: Burgess,
Charles Koonce; council, John Wilson, William White, James Trumbull,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
501
"William Dickson and "William Hamilton; constable, M. Leech; assessor, John
Carver.
Clarksville is located in Pymatnning Township, on the south bank of
Shenango River, about a mile and a quarter from Clarksville Station, on the
Erie & Pittsburgh Railroad. It was formerly on the canal, and then one of
the most important towns in the Shenango Valley. The removal of the
canal and the failure to have immediate railroad facilities has rendered compe-
tition with other towns exceedingly difficult. The blow has been a severe one.
It will doubtless yet recover.
As already said, the site of Clarksville was once the property of Samuel
Clark, a sketch of whom will be found in another part of this work. In 1804
Mr. Clark removed to his tract of land, embracing the site of Clarksville, and
erected a log cabin near the present brick hotel owned by Mr. Jones. After
a time Mr. Clark erected, upon land now owned by the heirs of his spn, Abra-
ham, a more comfortable and commodious house of round logs. From the
window of this structure Mrs. Clark, with trusty ritle, shot a bear in the act
of carrying away one of the young pigs of the new settler. The first white
child born within the limits of the borough was Susannah Clark. This oc-
curred July 15, 1806.
At that time there were few inhabitants in this region. Just north of the
mouth of Pymatuning Creek was a clearing made by several families of the
Corn-planter tribe of the Seneca Indians. These Indians, among whose lead-
ing hunters were Tioga, Flynn, Kindoshawa, Mohawk and Harthegig, re-
mained to fish and hunt until about 1811, when they removed to North Central
Ohio, and subsequently to a reservation in Northern Pennsylvania.
In 1808 Samuel Koonce became a resident of the Clarksville settlement.
His son Charles subsequently attained considerable prominence in the settle-
ment, having occupied the positions of second postmaster, first burgess, and
member of the State Legislature.
John and William Fruit were early and active business men, having estab-
lished a general merchandise business as early as 1828. John was the first
postmaster, in 1832.
Morris Leech was the first justice of the peace, in 1834, and was subse-
quently given the same position for six times in succession.
Among the prominent families that lived in the vicinity of Clarksville in
primitive days were Alexander Simonton, grandfather of Maj. S. C. Simon-
ton, present postmaster of the village. He had been wounded in the He'''olu-
tionary War. David Hayes, who was a prominent school-teacher prior to
1814; he was the progenitor of the numerous Hayes’ living in this region.
George Moore, two and one-half miles east of Clarksville. He was a vigorous
Presbyterian. George Reznor, grandfather of the people of that name still living
in the county. David McKnight, who settled, in 1804, some two miles from
Clarksville. He came from Washington County. He had twelve children.
At a reunion of the McKnights, held at Joseph McKnight’ s in June, 1885,
there were counted 555 descendants of the original David, most of them living
in Mercer County. William and Nathan Fell, two brothers, came from West-
moreland County in 1797 and 1798, respectively, and became the progenitors
of an extensive family in the county, sketches of whom are given elsewRere.
Robert Hodge and John Johnson both belonged to the early settlers. The
latter lived two and one-half miles southeast of the place.
Dr. Wilcox, of Vernon, Ohio, was the first physician who practiced in this
region. In those days physicians were not in great demand, people not
having the leisure to be sick. “ Granny Middleshaw, ” living two miles north-
502
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
west of Sharon, on the place adjoining the one now kept by “ Mother Smith,”
was the first midwife in the whole region. She had an extensive patronage,
and charged a fee varying from |2 to |5. William Clark relates that he was
the only messenger boy who would go for her. With pants badly out at the
knees, he rode for her a xieriod of four years. His pay for all this arduous
service was a constant ‘ ‘ bad cold. ’ ’
The first school-house was erected in 1836. It was a frame structure,
plain and unassuming in its appointments, but sufficient for the demands of
those days, as the jiresent comfortable one is for the present generation.
Abraham Clark aided in the construction of the primitive building.
Secret and Other Societies. — About 1849 or 1850 a lodge of I. O. O. F.
was instituted. Among its charter members were Samuel Lowry, Charles
Bell, Charles Nims, George Lowry, David Williams, George Pomeroy, Har-
wood Bell, E. W. Wood, S. C. Simonton and others. It flourished for years,
but silently gave up its spirit about the year 1858.
The organization of the Sons of Temperance, which made a heavy drain
upon its membership, is assigned as the cause of its decline and final dissolu-
tion. The Sons of Temperance were strong for a time. The order bnilt the
house now occupied by White & McKinney as a store-room. Its dynasty
ceased about the time that of the Odd Fellows did.
A Masonic order had a like fate w'ith that of the Odd Fellows.
A strong Grange organization was established about 1871. It had a large
membership, and for a time “carried things by storm,” but it, too, had to
succumb to the inevitable results of internal strife.
Post No. 222, G. A. R. , was organized June 28, 1871, with the following
members: S. C. Simonton, Thomas Stewart, John G. Smith, S. C. Koonce,
J. Stewart, Isaac Reeker, William White, E. C. Thompson, Joseph T. Brown,
W. B. Wilkins, T. M. Young, R. J. Campbell, James J. Smith, Milo White,
W. E. Dull, W. S. Maguire, G. M. Dull, S. C. Rust, William Dickinson, W.
A. Burns, Thomas P. Seidel, D. B. Hoagland and John W. Fruit. It
continued to meet in the Odd Fellows’ hall for some two years, and then
disbanded.
On the 4th of August, 1887, Clarksville Post No. 557 was instituted, with
the following comrades; J. L. Reno, T. P. Dickson, S. C. Koonce, J. H.
Seiple, A. N. Rice, D.- D. Main, J. G. Smith, S. F. Fingley, A. C. Wolley,
E. J. Tidd, David Thompson, Henry Mali, S. C. Simonton, Lester Stull,
Samuel Weikal, Reuben Stafford, Anthony Struble and Josiah Stewart. The
first corps of officers embraces the following: J. L. Reno, P. C. ; Samuel
Weikal, S. V. C. ; S. C. Koonce, J. V. C. ; J. H. Seiple, adjutant; Anthony
Struble, chaplain; A. N. Rice, quartermaster; David Thompson, sergeant
major. It is in good condition.
On the 23d of January, 1888, there was organized by W. C. Thompson, of
Butler, Penn., the S. C. Koonce Camp No. 152, Sons of Veterans, with fifteen
members. The camp meets every Saturday evening in the G. A. R. hall, and
though but a young organization, promises to accomplish its purpose “to pre-
serve the memory of old soldiers.”
Churches. — The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1820, Rev.
Henry Knapp having done evangelistic work the previous year. The first
preaching was done in the house of Samuel Clark, chairs and boards being
used for seats. The original membership was ten, viz. : Samuel Clark and
wife, Mary, and son Abraham; Benjamin Canfield, Rebecca Canfield, Thomas
Tomlinson and wife, Charlotte Hayes, William Koon and Thomas Morford.
Of this number the late Abraham Clark was the last survivor, he having
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
503
readied the age of eighty-eight years on the 21st of May, 1888. In his
possession was the dass book of 1821. At that time William Swayze was
presiding elder, and Charles Elliott, Dennis Gladden and John Crawford were
preachers in charge. The class was under the leadership of Samuel Clark.
The following is the list of members; Samuel Clark, Mary Clark, Benjamin
Canfield, David Hayes, Abraham Clark, Thomas Tomlinson, Mary Tomlinson,
William Koon, Charlotte Hayes, Mary Hayes, John Woods, Thomas Morford,
Catherine Haun, Benjamin Fell, Cathei’ine Fell, Sarah Clark, James Pettitt,
Mary Dumars, Mary Fell, Catherine Simonton, James Montgomery, John Sid-
don, Mary Siddon, Nancy Haven, Richard Mattock, Mary Mattock, George
Lucas, Benjamin Culver and John Waters. For a time meetings were held in
private houses. On the 2d of February, 1826, a subscription was started to se-
cure funds for the erection of a church edifice. The result was a plank building,
the latter part of the year, on a lot deeded by Samuel Clark for religious pur-
poses. About three or four years later it was torn down and removed to the
site of the present residence of John H. Seiple, where a more commodious
house was erected. The structure was finally sold for a machine shop, and
the present frame edifice was erected about thirty years ago at a cost of $2,000.
William Budd and John Patterson, of Sharon, were the contractors.
In the list of preachers we find the following: William Tipton, Albert G.
Richardson, 1823; Charles Thorn, Job Wilson, 1824; Alfred Brunson, Edward
Stephenson, 1825; Hiram Kinley, John Leech, 1827; W. Carroll, H. S.
Hitchcock, 1836; C. Brown, 1837; A. Keller, John Crum, 1839; J. Van Horn,
J. E. Bassett, 1840; B. O. Plimpton, R. J. Sibley, 1841; T. Graham, 1842;
J. Uncles, 1843; J. R. Locke, H. Winans, 1844; J. McLean, J. W. Klock,
S. W. Ingraham, 1845; J. McLean, H. Luce, 1846; B. S. Hill. W. M. Bear,
1847-48; D. H. Jack, S. Hubbard, 1849; D. FI. Jack, J. H. Vance, 1850;
J. Flower, M. Wood, 1851; S. N. Forest, H. M. Chamberlin, 1852-53; H.
Luce, W. Lund, 1854; M. H. Bettes, 1855-56; R. A. Carnthers, 1857-58;
J. G. Thompson, 1859-60; T. G. McCreery, 1861-62; W. M. Bear, 1863;
J. F. Perry, 1864-65; R. M. Bear, 1866-68; A. H. Dorner, 1869-71; J.
Perry, 1872-73; J. W. Crawford, 1874-75; John Crum, 1876-77; W. Hollis-
ter, 1878-79; John Eckles, 1880-81; John Perry, 1882-84; S. K. Paden,
1885-86; S. E. Winger, 1887.
The Presbyterian Church of Clarksville was organized June 3, 1837, by
Rev. William Woods, with thirty-eight members, all of whom except three
have gone to their long home, viz. : Mrs. James Stuart, Mrs. Nancy Leim and
Mrs. John Lightner. Samuel ‘Ferguson, Josiah Cotton, Joseph Moore and
Charles Koonce were elected elders. Rev. William Wood labored for the con-
gregation one-half of his time until the 1st of January, 1838. In the fall of
that year the services of Rev. Samuel A. McLean were secured, and the next
April a call was extended to him for half of his time. In 1847 the church
divided on the slavery question. Rev. McLean leading the anti-slavery wing,
which, under his direction, seceded and formed what was known as the Free
Presbyterian Church. The pro-slavery wing secured the services of Rev.
Thomas P. Johnston. The cause of the division having ceased, the two wfings
united in 1870, and have so continued. The first pastor of the reunited
church was Rev. D. A. Nevill. The house now occupied was built by the
McLean wing soon after the division.
The first preaching in the bodies from which the FTnited Presbyterian
Church sprang was done by supplies in the Methodist and Presbyterian
Churches. This occurred as early as 1848. The first supply was Rev. Bow-
ers. Among the primitive members were William White and family; Will-
504
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
iam Jamison and family, Jesse McClure and a Mr. Hazleton. The house
of worship was erected, at a cost of about |1,000, by William Maskrey,
of Clai’ksville, son-in-law of Sherilf Carr. It has been repaired several times
at considerable expense. The pastorate has been filled by Bevs. B. K.
Ormond, 1858-69; C. -Cummins, 1870-76, and W. J. Snodgrass, 1878 up to
the present. The membership is about seventy.
Clarksville had a population in 1870 of 359, while the census of 1880
gives the borough only 264. This would indicate that the town has not kept
pace with other portions of the valley. The abandonment of the canal was a
severe blow to Clarksville, and she has not since recovered her old-time vigor.
CHAPTER XXVI.
Boroughs of Grove City" and Fredonia— The Former Laid Ortt and Named
Pine Groyne— Change of Name to Grove City— Incorporation— First
Settlers of that Vicinity" — Pioneer Grist and Sayv-Mills— Cunning-
ham Family"— Early- Business Interests of the Village- Pioneer
Schools and Teachers — Progress of Education — Groy"e City College
—Bank— Manufactures— Churches-Societies— Groyvth xYnd Popula-
tion.
Fredonia— Location— First Settlement on Its Site— Arnold’s Mills
Erected— First Birth — Other Settlers — The Village Laid Out — Its
Groyvth and Progress — Business Interests and Manufactures —
Churches— Schools— Societies— Incorporation and Population.
The flourishing town of Grove City, located in Pine Township, in the south-
eastern part of the county, was formerly called Pine Grove, and was laid
out in 1844-45 by J. G. and Charles Cunningham. That name was chosen by
Valentine Cunningham, WTlliam Miller and others, because of the clump of
pine trees which stood on the hill west of the present town. The name of Pine
Grove was dropped by the post-office department in November, 1882, and the
more significant one of Grove City substituted. It was incorporated, by decree
of the court of quarter sessions, on the 4th of January, 1883, and the first elec-
tion for borough officers was held February 3, ensuing.
The site of this educational town was once the farm of Valentine Cunning-
ham, who came from Shavers Creek, Huntingdon Co., Penn., in April, 1798,
and took up a tract of 400 acres. Valentine was married to Margaret Glenn.
His first cabin stood just above the tan-yard now owned by William A. Young.
Some of his neighbors at that time were John Powell, just south of Cunning-
ham’s tract, who came from Allegheny County; southeast were William Ward
and Alexander White. lYhite came from Westmoreland County, and lived
where O. P. McCoy now resides. Samuel Christy, from Westmoreland Coun-
ty, lived east. The place has been sub-divided, and is now owned by John
and Henry McMillin, J. Newton White, James Gilman and Newton Campbell.
On the north lived James Glenn, and on the west, John W’hitaker and James
Moore, the former being the father-in-law of James G. Cunningham, lately
deceased. Glenn came from Huntington County, AVhitaker from Allegheny
County, and Moore*from near Gettysburg, Adams County.
In 1798 Mr. Cunningham erected, about a hundred yards southeast of the
residence of his son James G. , lately deceased, the first grist-mill within a
radius of twenty miles. It was a log building, whose outer walls Yvere
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
505
scutched with an ax after the structure was erected, and had one run of stone,
quarried on the farm of Minor Gulick, in Pine Township. It remained until
about 1806, when, owing to its being a very ordinary structure, it was removed,
and another placed upon the same site, in 1807, by Robert and Samuel Glenn.
To that structure additions have been made from time to time. It is still
standing, the property of Messrs. Lock and McCandless, to whom it was sold
by ’Squire Cunningham about five years ago. It is said that to supply a
means of “bolting” his meal Mr. Cunningham made use of a deer-skin,
which he drew tightly over a barrel hoop, and then punctured by means of a
heated fork. This improvised sieve served an excellent purpose in separating
both meal and Hour from the bran.
Lumber was also a necessity to the early settlers. A saw-mill was erected
by Mr. Cunningham about 1800. It and the grist-mill were prime necessities
to the pioneers, by whom they were liberally patronized. These industries
doubtless laid the foundation for the development of the college town of the
present.
Mrs. Valentine Cunningham died in March, 1 800, at the age of about tw'enty-
tive years. She was buried at the lower edge of town, the first person who
died on Wolf Creek. Mr. Cunningham died in November, 1804, being about
thirty years of age, and is buried by the side of his wife. His family
consisted of Charles, who married Mary McClintock, daughter of Rev.
McClintock. He lived to the age of eighty. Elizabeth, who married James Tid-
ball. She died about five years ago. James G., well known as ’Squire Cun-
ningham. He married Elizabeth Whitaker, daughter of John Whitaker, in
1825. The result of this marriage was six children, Margaret, John R. ,
Helena, Elizabeth, Rhoda and Charles M.
At the age of eight years James went to live with his grandparents in what
is now Plain Grove Township, Lawrence (then Mercer) County. He remained
with his grandfather Glenn until he was sixteen, when he became an aj^prentice
at the cabinet business with Benjamin W ood, about two and one-half miles
northwest of Grove City. After twenty years’ labor in that direction he went
into the milling business, and continued it for nearly fifty years. ’Squire Cun-
ningham held several civil positions. He was county auditor one year and
county commissioner six years. Besides he was school director, township
auditor and justice of the peace. During the winter of 1888 the writer inter-
viewed Mr. Cunningham, and obtained this general statement of facts. He
was then struggling with a severe attack of cancer, which finally proved fatal.
The following conversation with his physician illustrated a humorous phase of
his life: “I am like an old wagon. Doctor. If you can occasionaly put in a
new spoke, or part of a felloe, it will help me to run the vehicle a little longer.
If you can’t it’s all right.” “But,” said the Doctor, “don’t you talk too
much and become weary ?” “The tongue,” responded Mr. C., “ is the best
and strongest part of the wagon.” Born June 16, 1796, he died June
16, 1888, aged ninety-two years. He never smoked or chewed tobacco,
nor had he touched a drop of liquor for more than fifty years. He
was a Presbyterian in religion, and a Whig and Republican in politics.
The first house erected after the town was laid out was built by William
H. Morrow. The first postmaster was George Morrow. The first store
building was erected by Mr. Crocker in 1835-36; William Flemming was the
first store-keeper; George Black owned the first blacksmith shop, and George
Kinder the first shoe shop. J. M. Plunter kept the first wagon- shop (1848),
and B. R. Welsh the first harness shop.
About 1838 Hiram C. White built the second tannery, on a site formerly
occupied for like purpose by Mr. Tidball.
506
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
The first hutel in the place was kept by Mr. Snyder, in the building sub-
sequently used for the same purpose by W. T. McKean.
’Squire Cunningham insisted that Drs. Nicholas Van Eman and S. R.
Petton were the first physicians in the place. Another authority suggests Dr.
Rosenburg as first.
On the hill, near the site of the present high-school building, stood in
1830 a frame school building, whose first teacher was Nellie Bolton. She
occupied the structure before it was fiuished. Prior to that time James Alex-
ander had taught a dozen pupils in a log building erected by Valentine Cun-
ningham in 1802 as a dwelling. It stood on the street known as the Mercer
and Harrisville road.
John Galbreath was one of the earliest teachers in the region. He lived a
mile and a half northwest of the present site. He was a bachelor and a
prominent man, an oracle in the community. He was easily flattered, and
believed himself destined to become a great leader. He used the rod freely.
He was a patriotic Irishman, and at the age of eighteen came to America to
secure his liberties. He trained the Roses, the Whites and Charles Cunning-
ham to be teachers.
These preliminary efforts resulted in developing a school sentiment which
finally culminated in the present prosperous and efficient public schools of the
borough, supplemented by the advantages of Grove City College.
Grove City College, one of the leading educational institutions of the
county, is the outgrowth of a small select school started in the village in
1876, by Dr. I. C. Ketler, and known as the Pine Grove Normal Academy.
At its opening there were but thirteen pupils. The attendance gradually
increased from year to year, as the excellence of the work done within the
walls of the academy became manifest. The first annual catalogue showed
an attendance during the year (1877) of 115 pupils. In 1886 there was an
annual attendance of 556. In l878 the school was recognized by the lead-
ing American colleges as an institution capable of prejaaring young students
for admission to their freshmen classes, without any other recommendation
than a certificate of attendance in its preparatory course. Since the academy
was enlarged and chartered as a regular college itself, it is not intended as a
preparatory school for other institutions, but is considered fully able and
prepared to supply an educational training equal to that of any of its con-
temporaries. The curriculum now embraces four courses of study, viz. ;
College preparatory, scientific, classical and mufjical. The ofi&cers of the board
are: T. W. Dale, president; Capt. R. C. Craig, secretary, and W. A. Young,
treasurer. The faculty consists of Isaac C. Ketler, A. M. , Ph. D., president
and professor of mental and moral science; James B. McClelland, A. M. ,
professor of Greek; Ella A. Kinder, A. M. , professor of physics and chemistry;
John A. Courtney, A. M., professor of Latin; Frank W. Hays, A. B.,
professor of higher mathematics; John G. Black, A. B., instructor in mathe-
matics; Julius J. Knoch, B. S., instructor in German and history; John A.
Lavely, A. B. , instructor in rhetoric and composition; Effie H. Brown, Mus.
M., professor of instrumental music and voice culture; James B. McClelland,
A. M. , instructor in elocution; John A. Courtney, A. M. , instructor in
English analysis; Frank W. Hays, A. B., instructor in grammar and arith-
metic, and Fina Welch, B. S., librarian.
The Grove City Banking Co. , the bank now controlled by this company was
started in April, 1882, by A. W. Gealy, who acted as president; J. W. Gealy,
cashier, and S. E. Phipps, assistant cashier. The village before this time had
no adequate facilities for the transmission and collection of money, and the es-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
507
tablishment of this medium of business communication marked an important
epoch in the commercial history of the place. The line of the bank’s deposits
gives evidence of its usefulness. The present cashier is Mr. A. E. Graham,
■who has recently associated with him Mr. W. C. Alexander, of Mercer. A gen-
eral banking business is carried on ; collections are made on all accessible points
within the United States, and drafts, money orders and letters of credit are
* sold on Great Britain, Ireland, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Italy, Spain,
Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Austria, Bussia, Poland and
the Orient.
Manufactures. — The Grove City Carriage Works was begun in 1876 by
Mr. A. B. McKay, who removed it from Pardoe to the present location. The
first buildings were erected on Broad Street, the present quarters not being
occupied until 1884. General carriage goods are manufactured, and a superior
line of buggies, carriages, phaetons, buckboards, farm and spring wagons is
turned out. The market is principally local.
Black & Offutt’s Planing Mill was built in 1872 by Mr. J. C. Black, on the
lot between Reimold Bros.’ and G. H. Welch’s store-rooms. Under this man-
agement it was conducted until 1880, Avhen W. S. Offutt was admitted to part-
nership, and the mill removed to its present location on Rail Road Street.
The plant consists of a main building, two stories high, 40x60 feet in dimen-
sions; engine room, two stories, 20x30 feet; saw-mill, 18x45 feet, and a general
wareroom two stories in height and 30x40 feet in size. A general variety of
work is performed by this establishment, such as sash, doors, blinds, siding,
flooring, stairs, bracket and veranda work. The market is local.
Porter & Emery’s Pottery works W'ere established in 1878, by Joseph
N. Emery & Sons. A reorganization took j)lace January 1, 1883, however,
J. N. Emery disposing of his interest and retiring, and the firm name being
changed to Emery Bros. Mr. F. E. Porter was admitted to partnership Jan-
uary 1, 1885, and by securing a half interest changed the name of the firm
to its present title. The products of the pottery embrace nearly everything
in stoneware, useful or ornamental, crocks from one-half to twenty gallons
in size, churns, fruit jars, flower pots, lawn and window vases, umbrella stands,
water coolers and chamber sets, the latter having a particularly large sale on
account of their quaint designs. The clay used by this company is of very
superior quality, being entirely free from limestone and other impurities, and,
by a process known to the firm, is treated so that it does not air-crack. It is
obtained in Butler County. The works employ five men at present, and have
an annual capacity of 100,000 gallons. The market is gradually widening.
Shaw’s Salt Works had their inception in the spring of 1886, when Mr. J.
C. Shaw, becoming impressed with the idea that gas could be found by boring
for it upon his land, sought for and secured from the council of Grove City
a fi’anchise of the streets, for the purpose of supplying the borough, should
he be successful, and immediately began operations upon a gas well. After
drilling some 800 feet, he suddenly struck a large vein of f-trongly impregnated
salt water. Continuing to the depth of 1,400 feet, and at length abandoning
the hope of reaching gas, Mr. Shaw determined to utilize the water by intro-
ducing it into an evaporating apparatus, and thus securing its salt deposits.
Works were accordingly erected, and the process of evaporation of the solu-
tion shortly afterward begun. The product consists of a superior grade of
fine white salt, mixed with which is a considerable proportion of bromine, the
latter material being separated from the salt by thorouglriy washing the sed-
iment with spring water. The works have proven satisfactory.
Churches. — Grace Methodist Episcopal Church was originally a class con-
508
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
nected with Harrisville, the earliest traces of which run back as far as 1845.
The organization, however, it is claimed, had been effected in connection with
Clinton ville long before this. The pastors of the church have been: Revs.
G. F. Reeser, 1845; J. Wigglesmith, 1845; A. Hildebrand, 1846; W. M. Bear,
1846; T. Benn, 1847; G. Stocking, 1849; R. Norton, 1850; J. W. Wilson,
1851; J. S. Lytle, 1852; J. Schofield, 1854; T. G. McCreary, 1857; F. Ver-
non, 1857; R. B. Boyd, 1858; W. R. Johnson, 1859; S. A. Milroy, 1860; J.
Abbott, 1861; B. Marsteller, 1863; R. Beatty, 1865; J. M. Groves, 1868; J
Crumb, 1869; L. Wick, 1871, J. M. Foster, 1872; N. Morris, 1875; L. G.
Merrill, 1877; C. M. Morse, 1879; G. W. Chesbro, 1881; J. B. Espy, 1883,
and A. R. Rich, 1886, the present pastor. The present building, a hand-
some brick structure, costing $12,000, is the successor of an old frame that
stood north of town. It was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies February
27, 1885, and is by far the finest church edifice in the borough. The present
officers of the congregation are: Trustees: William McConnell, J. N. Emery,
J. J. Cornelius, J. P. Locke, W. P. Sutherland, J. N. Kennedy, I. N.
Fithian, J. A. Spear and D. G. Courtney. Stewards: James Crawford, D.
F. Courtney, Sylvester Gulick, F. E. Porter, C. F. McConnell, B. R. Welsh,
A. A. Little, Samuel W. Lawrence, J. G. Perry, Isaac Hilkirk, and J. P.
Locke, the Recorder. Class leaders: Joseph Jackson, F. E. Porter, Will-
iam McConnell, J. W. Campbell, J. P. Locke, B. S. Atkinson, Henry C. Tear,
and J. G. Perry, the treasurer of the board; superintendent of Sunday-
school, S. P. Barr. There is in connection with the regular church organiza-
tion a Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor, of which the president
is Miss Ella Kinder; secretary. Miss Florence Perry, and treasurer, J. B.
Fithian. A Ladies’ and Pastor’s Onion, of which Mrs. Mary Gulick is presi-
dent; Mrs. Sarah Gulick, secretary, and Mrs. Christiana Kerr, treasurer; and
a Young Ladies Union, which is officered by Miss Milly Porter, president;
Miss Carrie McElwain, secretary, and Miss Florence Perry, treasurer. The
membership of the congregation is 350, of its Sunday-school, 275.
The Presbyterian Church was organized February 7, 1842, with thirteen
original members. The first building was erected in 1857. During the time
between the organization and the erecting of the first church, services were
held sometimes in the school -house, sometimes in barns and sometimes in
private dwellings. For several years the house of worship was a mere shell,
with no ceiling, only loose boards for a floor and no pews, simply slabs
arranged in tiers and supported at each end by logs running the whole length
of the building at right angles to them. Ten years after the organization the
membership had increased to nineteen. In February, 1864, a call was made
for Rev. W. T. Dickson for one-half his time. Mr. Dickson accepted, and
thus became the first pastor of the church. He continued in charge of the
congregation until 1874, when he severed his relations with the church, and
was succeeded in the following year by the present pastor. Rev. J . W. McCon-
key. The membership of the church is 500, of the Sunday-school 400.
Following is the present session: T. W. Dale, R. C. Craig, J. A. McDowell,
James W. Anderson, I. C. Ketler, James Gilman and J. E. Black. The
officers of the various societies connected with the congregation are: Sunday-
school, J. E. Black, superintendent; J. N. White, assistant. Ladies Mission-
ary Society: Mrs. B. F. Junkin, president; Mrs. A. M. Craig, secretary; Miss
M. J. Johnston, treasurer. Young Ladies Missionary Circle: Miss Ina
McDowell, presidAt; Miss Flora Craig, secretary, and Mrs. Effie Meyers,
treasurer. Children’s Band: Miss Flora McDowell, president; Miss Mary
Craig, secretary, and Miss Lizzie Laughlin, treasurer.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
609
Societies. — Eureka Lodge No. 60, A. O. U. W., was chartered' in Septem-
ber, 1874, with the following officers: Norman J. Maxwell, P. W. ; James A.
Cutcheon, M. W. ; Silas A. Emery, F. ; Richard A. Locke, overseer; James
P. Locke, recorder; R. C. C. White, Fin.; Joshua A. Kinder, Rec. ; Cyrus
P. Miller, guide, and W. P. C. Emery, I. W. Meetings are held every Sat-
urday evening in the A. O. E. W. Hall.
Wolf Creek Lodge No. 910, I. O. O. F. , was organized June 24, 1875, by
George F. Borey, with the following named charter members: S. A. Walker,
D. J. Washabaugh, J. C. Weakley, R. G. Black, W. J. Newman, J. M.
Rodgers, S. S. Knox, R. A. McCalmont, J. W. Black, C. C. Winder, Georgo
W. McBride, John McBride, Perry Uber, J. E. Leth, W. M. Dight, P. C.
Uber and H. S. Hunt. The lodge meets every Saturday evening. Its present
membership is twenty-seven.
Grove City Lodge No. 35, K. of P. , was instituted July 12, 1884, by
Thomas Perry, Esq., with the following named charter members: Joseph
Bellshaw, .William Callahan, James Jeffrey, William Curz, A. P. Buckholdt,
George Wistcoven, George McDowell, George W. Crawford, A. Koon and
Francis Land. The past chancellors have been: James Jeffrey, William
Curz, A. P. Buckholdt, William Callahan, Daniel Kerr, George W. Crawford,
William Forest and George McDowell. The membership is sixty-five.
The Protected Home Circle was organized in the spring of 1887, by Rev.
H. C. Hall, of Sharon. Its first officers consisted of I. C. Black, president;
A. B. McKay, vice-president; L. P. Heasley, Acct. ; Mont. Black, secretary,
and Edward Jackson, guard. The present membership is Dventy, and the
society is reported to be in good condition.
Marion Craig Post No. 325, G. A. R. , Department of Pennsylvania, was
organized April 16, 1883, by D. Barton, Esq., with the following named
charter members: Jacob Alabaugh, N. J. Maxwell, John L. Cochran, R. C.
Craig, J. A. Bolander, W. P. C. Emery, S. A. Emery, W. P. Sutherland, B.
R. Welch, D. M. Madan, J. W. Anderson, Archie Glenn, J. W. Campbell,
J. C. Campbell, James M. Ramsey, L. D. Bumpus, W. C. Robb, J. A. Gil-
mer, A. B. McKay, A. E. Lawrence, W. M. Frew, W. S. Emery, J. P.
McCoy, J. C. Weakley, Milton Hines, D. C. Johnston, W. J. McKay, C.
L. Fithian, J. M. Coulter, B. F. Junkin, A. T. Black, Isaac Hilkirk, J. S.
Yard, W. J. Harshaw, J. M. Wingard, George Atkinson, Isaac N. White,
D. W. Styers and George S. Westlake. Since the organization of the post
there have been elected the following officers: 1883 — W. J. Maxwell, com-
mander; J. W. Campbell, senior vice-commander; Isaac N. White, junior
vice-commander; 1884 — J. W. Campbell, commander; Isaac N. White,
senior vice-commander ; W. S. Emery, junior -vice-commander; 1885 —
Isaac N. White, commander; M. B. Hofius, senior vice -commander; S. A.
Emery, junior vice-commander; 1886 — M. B. Hofius, commander; S. A.
Emery, senior vice-commander ; R. C. Craig, junior vice-commander;
1887 — W. J. Harshaw, commander; A. B. McKay, senior vice-commander;
J. G. Perry, junior vice-commander; 1888 — R. C. Craig, commander; J.
W. Yeaman, senior vice-commander, and J. C. Weakley, junior vice-com-
mander. The recording officers for the corresponding years have been, in
order named: J. A. Bolander, W. P. C. Emery, J. G. Perry, W. J. Har-
shaw, Isaac N. White and B. R. Welch. The post is now in fine condition,
with seventy-one members in good standing. Francis Marion Craig, in honor
of whom the post was named, was born in North Liberty, Mercer County,
Penn., July 31, 1839, the son of David C. and Mary Craig. At the age of five
years he was removed to the State of Iowa, where, with his parents, he
510
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
remained until 1848, at which time he returned to Mercer County, and located
at Pine Grove (now Grove City) in 1850. In this place he was reared, and
after receiving a good common school education, he entered Westminster
College, in which institution he remained two years. After leaving school
he entered the printing office of the Westminster Herald (now United
Presbyterian), in which he learned the trade of type-setting, which he fol-
lowed in the same office until 1861. Then, at the outbreaking of the war, ho
enlisted July ‘22, 1861, for three years’ service in Company A, Sixty-second
Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanded by Col. Sam. W. Black.
* Mr. Craig served with this regiment as private through the Peninsula cam-
paign. Just previous to the battle of Fredericksburg he was elected second
lieutenant by his company, and was killed in the ensuing tight, before the
commission of his promotion reached him. He was buried in the city
suburbs, where his bones now rest. During life Mr. Craig was a stanch
Republican, and was a member of the United Presbyterian Church. At the
time of his death he was unmarried, being in his twenty-fourth year.
The Pine Grove W. C. T. U. was organized on the 12th of December, 1879,
at the residence of Mrs. R. G. Black, with nineteen members. Mrs. Phoebe
Black, Mrs. Rev. David Patton, Mrs. A. B. McKay, Mrs. Opre, Mrs. Venem-
on, Mrs. Gulic and Miss Maggie Kelly, and other ladies assisted in the organ-
ization. The president’s chair has been filled in succession by Miss Narcissa
White, Mrs. Phoebe Black, Mrs. Rev. David Patton and Mrs. Watson. Mrs. Ada
Martin and Mrs. T. J. Atwell have served as secretaries from the organization to
the present. There is a present membership of some fifty, who meet twice per
month for prayer and business purposes.
Grove City has had a very rapid growth. In 1880 the village had a pop-
ulation of 485, which has so increased in the past eight years that the borough
now claims over 1,000 inhabitants. In fact Grove City is one of the live,
enterprising modern towns of Mercer County.
FEEDONIA.
Fredonia, one of the growing places of Mercer County, is pleasantly situ-
ated in a rich agricultural region, on the west side of Otter Creek, some six or
seven miles west of north of Mercer. It lies partly within both Fairview and
Delaware Townships, the larger portion, however, having been located in the
former. The first improvement within the present borough limits was made
in 1834 by Levi Arnold. It embraced the clearing of ten acres of land near
the site of the grist-mill built by Mr. Arnold and subsequently owned by B. R.
Mitchell. A little more than half a century ago the site of the village was
marked with all the evidences of primitive wildness, no cabin or rude shanty
of any kind affording a home for civilized man. . The land was composed of
two distinct “donation tracts,” which fact accounts readily for the tardy
development of the region.
Arnold had some progressive spirit, and moved ahead until he became the
holder of large possessions. An evil day finally overtook him, and he was
compelled to let his property go. In 1837-38 Mr. Arnold erected a grist and
saw-mill, for many years known as Arnold’ s Mills, ” which may be regarded
as the real beginning of the place.
In 1837 B. R. Mitchell built, on Arnold’s land, a small, round-log cabin,
not far from a refreshing spring. The site was in the southeast part of
the borough. In this rude dwelling lived Mr. Mitchell’s family, and in it,
too, his daughter Caroline first looked forth upon this fair world, the first
child born in Fredonia. She subsequently married Mr. Studds, and became
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HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
513
an honored resident of Fairview Township. Mr. Mitchell, a native of New Eng-
land, thus became one of the benefactors of Fredonia, and specially serviceable
in its milling interests.
The Arnold property was purchased by James Sheriff, of Mercer. He sub-
sequently sold to Jesse Bundle, an Eastern man, who erected a tannery and a
log house and made improvements in the way of clearing. His business not
proving successful he became discouraged, and removed West “to grow up with
the country.” Two other men, Thomas IVhite and William Thompson, were
neighbors of Bundle, engaged in an effort to clear their lands and establish
homes. White soon abandoned the struggle and left, but Thompson remained
until the time of his death.
Aaron Arnold was the first man to erect a respectable dwelling-house in the
new village. It would hardly pass muster now, but served the purpose quite
well then. It was a board dwelling, and stood upon lands subsequently owned
by William Simmons.
The real origin of Fredonia is traced to William Simmons, who, in March,
1866, took possession of the house vacated by Jesse Bundle, and at once com-
menced the erection of a frame store building, the first of the kind in the vil-
lage. In it he did a thriving business, being urged on by the prospects of the
completion of the Shenango & Allegheny Bailroad at an early date. Nor was
he disappointed. On land purchased by him he laid out the village, which some
of his friends were disposed to call, in honor of his name, Simmonsville.
This honor he generously refused, and suggested the name which it now
bears, Fredonia. Lots were now sold freely, and evidences of growth were
manifest everywhere.
In 1867 William Thompson built the first regular frame dwelling. The
same year Mr. S. Royal built a blacksmith shop.
In 1870 a post-office was established, and Mr. Simmons became ihe first
postmaster, his commission dating August 8. Mr. H. McKay began the
same year to deal in grain and coal. In the latter business he was succeeded
by Harsh & Sutliff.
Dr. Cornelius Byles, in 1874, rented an office and became the first physi-
cian of the place. Two years later he built an office, and likewise erected
the first hardware store. In November of this year (1876) Dr. Davenny came
from Oil City and located in the village.
In 1871 the planing-mill of Slater, Hoover & White was established,
George I. Slater erecting the building and operating it for a time alone, and
then accepting the other gentlemen as partners.
In 1873 several improvements of value were made. S. M. Loveland, from
Otter Creek Township, established a large harness shop. J. Bear built a
tannery, which was operated by steam with eminent success.
In 1875 Roof, Pleifie & Co. built, on Main Street, a large cai’riage manu-
factory, and John Noll built another, 22x50, two stories high, on Water Street.
At present a stock company operates the factory . Its p^^rpose is to manufact-
ure vehicles on an extensive scale.
A large frame, steam flouring mill is now in process of construction, and
when completed will embrace the best and most improved machinery. If will
be owned and operated by George Gaiser, whose long and successful experi-
ence as a miller is a guarantee of prosperity in his new enterprise.
Churches. — Fredonia has two churches, Methodist and Presbyterian. The
Methodist Church erected its edifice in 1872, it being a modest structure,
30x40. Preaching had been done for some years previous, the name of Rev.
J. H. Merchant appearing as early as 1870. The first sermon in the new
29
514
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
house was preached by Rev. Albert H. Kenney. The congregation has had a
steady and healthy growth. The following is the list of pastors: J. H. Mer-
chant, 1870; D. A. Crowell, 1871; A. p. Kenney, 1872-73; F. Fair,' 1874-76;
J. Abbott, 1877; J. Crum, 1878-79; John Perry, 1880-81; W. H. Mossman,
1882; R. M. Bear, 1883-85; G. J. Squier, 1886 — present incumbent.
The Presbyterian Church was organized in 1875 by Rev. James McLean,
and a house of worship, a frame structure, about 40x50. erected at a cost of
$3,000. The congregation is mainly a colony from the Cool Spring Presbyte-
rian Church, and embraced in its list of original members James Walker and
wife and children, A. D. Walker and Miss Callie Walker, Thomas McCleery
and wife, Dr. C. Byles and wife. Misses Jennie, Lizzie and Julia Byles, W411-
iam Moore and wife, James Byers and wife, Elias Orr and wife, Robert,
Samuel and John Orr, and Misses Sade, Mary and Maggie Orr, Samuel
White and wife, Samuel Baker and wife and Charles Baker and wife. The
following is the list of pastors: Revs. James McLean, Thomas Hickling, J. M.
Stitt, A. B. Lowes, S. L, Boston and J. E. Irvine, the present incumbent.
The congregation enrolls 175 members, and has a Sunday-school of 120 pupils.
Schools. — For a time the schools of the place consisted of an edifice which
belonged to District No. 5, Fairview Township. It proving too small, a two -
story structure with four rooms was erected to accommodate the people. For
several years a select school or normal academy has been conducted in it with
great acceptance.
Societies. — Eulalia Lodge No. 818, I. O. O. F. , was organized December
30, 1872, with twenty members. Its first officers were: S. M. Loveland,
N. G. ; S. Baker, V. G. ; R. A. Harsh, secretary; John Foster, assistant
secretary, and George Dunkle, treasurer.
Fredonia Grange No. 643 was established in 1872, with upward of twenty
members. Among its leading spirits were S. M. Loveland, who was the first
Master, William McKay and James Marsteller. Like its sister organizations
throughout the country, it has had its day.
Fredonia W. 0. T. U. was organized November 25, 1881, at the Presby-
terian Church, by Miss Narcissa E. White, with the following charter mem-
bers: Mrs. J. M. Stitt, Miss Sadia Pearson, Julia Byles, Mary Pearson, Mrs.
Mary Walker, Jennie Harsh, Mrs. W’. Moore, Eva Moore, Etta Walker, Mary
E. Stubbs, and M. A. Braden. The officers in succession from the first were:
Presidents, Mrs. J. M. Stitt, Miss Mary Pearson, Mrs. Mary Walker, Mrs.
Eliza Ball; recording secretaries. Miss Sadie Pearson, Mrs. Mary Stubbs,
Miss Jennie Harsh, Mrs. F. G. Byles and Mrs. N. A. Simmons. The Union
is in good condition, and determined to persevere in its noble purpose.
Fredonia was incorporated as a borough in August, 1876, and then com-
menced its official life. The census of 1880 gave it a population of 323, which
it is claimed, has increased to about 500 during the past eight years. Located
in the center of a fine farming district, there is no reason why the borough
should not remain one of the flourishing little towns of the county.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
615
CHAPTEE XXVII.
Township Sketches and Population— Cool Spring — Deer Creek — Dela-
ware— East Lackawannock — Fairview — Findley — French Creek —
Greene — Mempfield— Hickory’ — Jackson — Jefferson — Lackawannock—
JjAKe— JjIberty’ — Mill Creek— New Vernon— Otter Creek — Perry-
Pine— Pymatuning — Salem — Sandy Creek — Sandy Lake — Siienango—
Springfield — Sugar Grove— West Salem — Wilmington— Wolf Creek
—YVorth— Official Census by Decades Since 1850.
IN the following sketches of townships we present some material not given
in the other general chapters of the work. It will be necessary, therefore,
to refer to other portions for details not always to be found in these sketches,
the purpose being to avoid needless repetition of statements. Not the least
valuable portion of this book will be found in the biographical chapters, which
contain the bone and marrow of local history. In the future people will read
these sketches with increasing interest, because they speak specifically of those
whose toil and hardships aided mightily in developing the forest wilderness,
and making it blossom like the rose. For the convenience of our readers we
have placed the townships in alphabetical order, which will save unnecessary
trouble in finding them.
COOL SPRING township.
This township formed one of the six original townships that composed
Mercer County at its formation in 1800. From it have since been taken Jack-
son, Lake and Fairview Townships. Its name was taken from the fact that
within its borders were a number of constantly flowing springs, whose cool and
crystal waters furnished abundant drink both to man and beast. The early set-
tlers, appreciating their value, named the township in commemoration of them.
The surface of the township is comparatively unbroken. There is a pleasing
alternation of hills and valleys, but the former are not steep, nor are the latter
abrupt. The rich bottom-lands scattered here and there form fine farm-
ing ground. There are two streams traversing the township. Otter Creek,
which rises in Otter Creek Township, flows south across Fairview, through the
heart of Cool Spring, and unites with Mill Creek at Mercer, to form the
Big Neshannock, and Cool Spring, which arises in Fairview, flows south along
the eastern boundary of Cool Spring Township, and unites with Mill Creek.
Pioneers. — Undoubtedly the first settler of the township was Benjamin
Stokely. He is also believed by many to have been the first white resident
of the entire county, though the latter statement is in dispute. His first en-
trance into the county was as a surveyor of land warrants. He left Pittsburgh
in company Avith others May 1, 1795, and proceeded some distance north, but
was forced to turn back in a short time, owing to the hostilities of the Indians.
A return was made in October of the same year, and the party arrived near the
present site of Mercer. A second time the surveyors retraced their steps to
Pittsburgh, only to resume operations in May, 1796. On the 7th day of Octo-
ber, 1796, in company with his family, Mr. Stokely set out on his third
journey to Mercer County. This time he effected a settlement, and I’eached
his new home, in the southeastern part of the township, on the 14th of the same
month. At this time there were other families living in the vicinity, but these
516
HISTOKY OP MERCEB COUNTY.
all left upon the approach of winter, and Stokely and family were forced to
pass the long, dreary months of winter without any other companions than
wild beasts and Indians. Fortunately, however, the latter were not hostile.
An extended biography of Mr. Stokely will be found on another page, from
the pen of William S. Garvin.
Another man, who divided with Mr. Stokely the honor of being one of the
first settlers of Cool Spring Township, was Joseph Alexander. The latter, at
the age of nineteen, removed from his early home, in Chartiers Valley, in
Washington County, in 1798, and settled on the tract of land subsequently
owned and occupied by his son, Joseph Alexander, Jr. Here he felled tim-
ber, constructed a small log dwelling a short distance west of the location of
the present homestead, by the side of a clear, bubbling spring, and began ac-
tive clearings. He remained alone at this work until 1807, when he took to
wife Miss Grace, daughter of John Wilson, an early settler of East Lackawan-
nock Township. From this wedlock sprang eight children, seven boys and
one girl.
The difficulty attending the securing of sufficient ground grain in those
early days is curiously illustrated in the case of Mr. Alexander. It is related
that the nearest mill was located in Washington County, not far from his old
home. To this he was compelled to return with his grist. He secured his
grain in sacks, threw them over his horse’ s back and set off, mounted on his
faithful animal, for the distant mill. The distance was considerable, and as
there were no inns on the way Mr. Alexander was forced to sleep at night as best
he could on the ground, while his beast grazed near by. To prevent the lat-
ter’ s escape he tied a small bell around its neck, by the sound of which he was
enabled to detect the horse’ s whereabouts.
The brother of the preceding, William, made a settlement near that of
Joseph. The exact date of his entrance into the township is unknown, but
it was as early as, if not earlier, than 1798. The farm on which he located
was subsequently owned by Thomas Alexander. Accompanying him came
Henry Beckwith and father, Silas (an old man), both of whom occupied the
farm immediately north of Joseph Alexander. On the east settled Aaron
Hackney, afterward proprietor of the Hackney House, at Mercer, and brother
John.
About the year 1798 came Robert and Joseph McDonald and Zachariah
Johnston. The first two were brothers. The latter, Mr. Johnston, removed
from Ligonier Valley, Chester County, and located on the far-m afterward
owned by Capt. John Johnston. Shortly after his arrival he was followed by
his four brothers, by name Samuel, John, William and James. They had
come from Ireland, and secured lands from John Hoge, a land agent owning
large tracts in the vicinity.
Hugh McKean, who shares with the foregoing the honor of having been one
of the earliest settlers of the township, reached his new home, in Cool Spring
Township, in the year 1798. He at once began a clearing, and after it had
progressed sufficiently, began to plant apple trees, wisely foreseeing the advant-
ages of an orchard. It is related that he placed one for each day in the year.
The old log cabin used by Mr. McKean was standing as late as 1873. It
was situated on the old homestead, then in the possession of J. W. Page.
Among the other early pioneers of the township may be mentioned Rev.
Samuel Tait, the apostle of Presbyterianism, whose sketch is given elsewhere;
John Bowman, who arrived sometime near 1800, and settled on a farm near
the present site of Cool Spring Station, a man of wonderful physical strength
and vigor, who, in his one hundred and fourth year, carried a bushel of corn
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
517
on his back to the mill, distant one-half mile; ’William McMillan, whose prop-
erty, a tract of 510 acres, subsequently owned by John McEwen, was secured
from John Hoge April 6, 1805, and whose house was a double hewed-log one,
20x21 feet; and John and Thomas McEwen (then spelled McCune), who set-
tled in the neighborhood about 1805-06. McMillan’s house was the first
tavern in the township. It was enlarged by him for hostelry purposes, and,
being situated on the great thoroughfare between Pittsburgh and Erie, was
given a liberal and appreciative patronage. Connected with the inn was an
immense barn, over seventy feet in length, which was considered, at the time
of its erection, a marvel of architectural accomplishment. It may be said of
the tavern that no traveler was ever turned hungry from its door.
There have occurred two remarkable natural phenomena since the town-
ship’s settlement, and, curiously enough, both taking place within a year.
The first was a severe frost, happening on the night of August 19, 1800,
which killed every vestige of corn and left the potato crop a complete wreck.
The severity of this was so great that it has been claimed to have been by far
worse than any similar occurrence before or since. Although it took place in
the summer, no winter frost ever equalled it. The second event, also occurring
in the night, was a terrible tornado, whose devastating advent took place
June 4, iSOl. The force of this storm was so great that fences and barns
were literally shivered into kindling. A cow, belonging to Benjamin Stokely,
was rolled thirty yards and hurled with considerable force on a rail pile, where
she was found the next day. Houses were unroofed, trees felled, and a trail
of ruin and desolation left behind.
The early mills played an important part in the development of young set-
tlements. Families in search of new homes almost invariably selected a
neighborhood having good and convenient grist-mills. These were indis-
pensable, and were about the first mechanical contrivances put in operation.
The first mill in Cool Spring Township was erected in 1811. It stood on the
farm of Levi Arnold, and subsequently of Joseph Bentley. The popular name
of this establishment was the ‘ ‘ old mill, ’ ’ and by this title it is remembered
to-day. Its business was continued for a number of years, until improved
methods and competition rendered its further operation unprofitable. On the
same ground was a powder mill. This was a disastrous investment for Arnold,
inasmuch as it exploded, and killed the son of the proprietor.
There was another grist-mill erected in 1837, on the margin of a small
stream which coursed through the property then owned by J. B. Page, and
later by Joseph Holmes. This did quite a business for a time, but, like its
predecessor, was forced to succumb to the inevitable advances of improvement,
and has long since fallen into disuse. Up to a late date its frame was still
standing, a silent memento of departed usefulness.
A saw-mill was constructed as early as 1825 by John McEwen, on the west
side of the latter’s farm. It began a promising career of usefulness, but
the business was in a few years rendered unprofitable, and the mill was discon-
tinued.
One of the most exciting events in the early history of Mercer County was
the losing or abduction of a little girl, Mary Ann Gamble, several miles north-
west of Mercer. It occurred near the Mercer and Greenville road, on the 20th
of June 1834. The following card describes the
nOST CHILD.
Left its way, goiiur to school, on the 20th of June last, a female child about five years
old; fair complexion, fresh colored, and auburn hair. Had on a blue calico bonnet, pink
518
HISTOKY OF MEBCEK COUNTY.
calico frock (faded nearly 'white) with short sleeves, a cotton apron striped with blue, and
a small reticule. Any information concerning it, directed to the editor of this paper
[Western J-^ress], will be thankt'ullj^ rewarded for their trouble.
July 18, 1834. George Bagnall.
The girl was the daughter of Charles Gamble, and if living would be the
aunt of Hugh Gamble, at present clerk of the board of county commissioners.
She was living at the time with George Bagnall. No trace of her was found,
though search was made by the people of the county for weeks. Judge
Bredin adjourned court, and joined with others in the effort to recover the lost
child. The Mercer Academy was dismissed, and its teachers and students
joined in the quest. Thousands of people from all portions of the county
cheerfully gave their services to sweep in all directions, but to no purpose.
It is supposed that the child was stolen by wandering gipsies and carried
off. Various reports as to her having been seen in Virginia, or Frederick,
Md. , were circulated, but none of them ever received credence. Her fate,
like that of Charley Boss, is involved in insoluble mystery.
DEER CREEK TOWNSHIP.
This township was orginally a portion of old Sandy Creek. On the 18th
of December, 1850, a number of petitions praying for a division of that
organization into four separate and distinct parts, each to be a township, the
purpose of the division being to facilitate the collection of taxes, and to
render the polls easier of access to voters, was presented in court. Agreeable
to the prayer, the Court appointed a board of commissioners, consisting of
Francis Beatty, Joseph Kerr and James A. Leech, to view' the territory pro-
posed to be quartered, and to lay out a system of boundary lines. On the
7th of April, 1851, a statement of their report was retiumed, and on the 23d
of June, same year, the Court confirmed it. This statement established four
townships, named, respectively, Sandy Creek, Deer Creek, New Vernon and
Mineral, afterward Perry.
Deer Creek, the northeastern quarter of the old division, has a compara-
tively unbroken sui'face. In places it is really flat. The soil is quite fertile,
and is well adapted to agriculture. It is a curious fact that the chief wealth
of the township, up to a few years ago, consisted in its forests, from which
were extracted much valuable timber. There are not many underlying min-
eral deposits. Of course, throughout the whole county are scattered coal
veins having more or less value, according to quality and thickness. But
Deer Creek Township has never been classed among the distinctively coal
townships of the county. Its resources have been chiefly of the agricultural
sort. These have proved a som’ce of much prosperity, which the inhabitants
enjoy in as marked degree, perhaps, as any of their neighbors. In point of
drainage, the township is but fairly supplied with a suitable system of water
courses. The only stream of any importance within its limits is Big Sandy
Creek, which rises in Sandy Creek Township, flows southeast in an almost
undeviating course, through the northeast corner of Sandy Creek, the south-
west corner of Deer Creek, and down through New Vernon and Sandy Lake,
lintil it leaves the county. There are several small tributaries to this on the
northeastern side, which pierce into the territory along which it flows, furnish-
ing a moderately efficient means of conducting off all surplus rain-fall.
The early settlement of the township is connected so intimately with that
of the old sub-division of Sandy Creek, that no attempt will be made to
divorce the two. In the pages devoted to that township, will be found the
story of Deer Creek’s early development from forests to homesteads.
HISTOBY OF MEBOER COUNTY.
519
The history of the industrial development of the township is brief. The
most important industry has, of course, been the steam saw-mill business. In
the early days a plain, upright saw, run by meagre water power, was the only
outfit considered necessary to cope with the lumber problem. But the appli-
cation of steam to all motor uses has long since rendered the water power
obsolete, while the march of inventive skill has triumphed over the straight
vertical saw, and in its place has erected the circular one. A thousand im-
provements, too, in the portability of sawing machinery have contributed
greatly to the accomplishments of industrial enterprise.
The first steam mill built in the present township was erected in the
autumn of 1864, by A. Dunham and Solomon Nunemaker. These gentlemen
continued in the ownership two years, at the expiration of which time Nune-
maker retired, and was succeeded by George Stallsmith, the business being
continued under the firm name of Dunham & Stallsmith. In 1866 Elias
Cozad purchased the entire plant. In 1868 Nunemaker and I. W. Stall-
smith resolved to embark in the lumber business, and erected a lath and
shingle mill a short distance west of the Cozad saw-mill. In the course of a
few years this partnership was discontinued, the firm becoming Nunemaker,
Boylan & Jones. The business was a profitable one, and met with flattering
success. In 1867 John W. Thompson built a steam mill in the northern
part of the township, on land belonging to John Turner. In 1872 Mr. Tur-
ner became the proprietor. The mill did a flourishing business, and was of
much service in its way. In 1872, also, the Streight mill, owned by a A. J.
and W. H. Streight, was erected. This did a general sawing business, and
was a successful enterprise in every respect. The Applegate nail-keg mill was
put up in 1873.
At the first election held after the separation from Sandy Creek, on the
5th of May, 1851, the following officers were chosen: Justices of the peace,
Stephen Boss, Eobert Thompson; constable. Perry Caldwell; judge of elec-
tions, K. E. Thompson; treasurer, Stephen Koss; clerk, E. Thompson;
supervisors, John Turner, Jacob Free and H. W. Troy; assessor, Jared Eoss;
inspectors, Joel Smith, Aaron Boylan; axrditors, Alva Scott, Eussell Vaughn,
E. Thompson; overseers, Jacob Burson, Samuel Clark; school directors,
John Eoss, Joel Smith, John Turner, J. W. Streight, H. W. Troy and C.
Montgomery.
DELAWARE TOWNSHIP.
This township was one of eight formed in November, 1805. It has suf-
fered diminution twice, by the taking away of JefPerson April 4, 1850, and of
Hempfield May 24, 1856.
Its surface is unbroken and rolling. The land rises and falls in gentle
undulations, while the valleys are filled with fertile soil. There are two
streams flowing through its borders, one, the Otter Creek, an inconsiderable
rivulet that rises in the township of Otter Creek, and flows in a southeast
erly direction, emptying into the Mill Creek at Mercer, and Shenango Eiver,
which enters the township near its extreme northwestern point, flows in a
marked hook-like course, first in a southeastern direction, and then, after a
sharp turn at Big Bend, in a slightly northwestern course, departing at the
southwestern corner. In addition to these are smaller streams, which serve to
irrigate and drain the soil. The old Beaver & Erie Canal, completed
in the year 1844, crossed the southwestern corner of the townshp, very much in
line with the Shenango. The Pittsburgh, Shenango & Lake Erie Eailroad,
completed in 1869, crosses the township in a parallel direction some two or
three miles to the northeast.
520
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Early Settlers. — John Clark, a native of Lancaster County, Penn., came to
Mercer County in the spring of 1800. He settled near what is now Big Bend,
Delaware Township, and is the earliest settler we have any information about.
He died in 1855.
James K. Marshall, with his wife, Rebecca (Sammons) Marshall, came
from Washington County, Penn., to Delaware Township, Mercer County, in
the fall of 1800, locating near the Big Swamp. Their first child, Margaret,
was born there in 1801, and was doubtless the first birth in the township.
James K. Marshall was a native of Ireland, whose parents immigrated to
Washington County, Penn., when he was only a year old. He there grew up
and married Rebecca Sammons, a native of that county. Her parents subse-
quently removed to Brooke County, Va. , where both died, the mother living
to the remarkable age of one hundred and eight years. Mr. Marshall went to
Erie in the the War of 1812. In 1818 he sold his farm in Delaware Town-
ship to George Reznor, and with his family returned to Washington County,
where both he and wife died. Their only descendants in Mercer County are
Thomas J. and William B. Marshall, of Sharon, who are the sons of their
daughter, Susan S., who married John H. Marshall, of Washington County,
Penn.
John Ralston came about the same time as Marshall, and erected one of
the first log cabins in the township. Adam Kamerer built the first hewed log
house soon afterward, which was then regarded as quite a fine residence.
Samuel Caldwell, Sr., was a native of Ireland, whose parents immigrated
to Pennsylvania in 1787, where he grew to manhood. In 1801 he came to
Mercer County, and settled in what is now Sugar Grove Township. In 1802
he married Elizabeth Donaldson, and removed to Delaware Township, where
the following children were born: John, William, Samuel, James K., Joseph,
Stewart, Elizabeth and Anna A. Only three of these survive, and one, Mrs.
Elizabeth Livingston, of Transfer, a resident of this county. In 1816 Samuel
Caldwell, Sr. , was appointed a justice of the peace, and died in 1830, his
widow surviving him until 1870. Their son Samuel, who inherited the old
homestead, was born thereon in 1809, and spent his whole life in Delaware
Township. In 1834 he married Eliza Jane Livingston, a native of Washing-
ton County, Penn. , who bore him five children, all of whom are living. The
mother died in 1873, and her husband survived her ten years, dying in 1883,
both in the faith of the United Presbyterian Church. He was a strong anti-
slavery man, and a Republican in politics.
In 1809 Henry Hollenbank took up land and built his cabin in the forest
of Delaware. He took sick and died soon after completing his settlement.
Among the other early pioneers, mention might be given of John Hommer,
who removed from Greenville, where his father and brothers settled in 1809,
and purchased land and a hut owned by James Woods, the land having been
subsequently occupied by his sons. In 1816 the Marshall tract of improved land
was bought by George Reznor, a native of Union County, Penn. Samuel
Williamson settled in 1820 near the present site of New Hamburgh, and
Thomas Dumars, the pioneer of the northern portion of the township, who
entered and located upon land afterward owned by Peter Wasser. There were
probably others who entered the township during the years mentioned.
It has always been a source of pleasure to the old to relate to attentive
audiences the reminiscences of their early years. These in a county so uni-
form as Mercer, are nearly all _alike. The aged pioneers, or sons of pioneers,
have each the same story to relate concerning primitive customs, hardships,
dangers and amusements. The region of Delaware Township, according to
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
521
semi-authenticated legends, was at one time the possessor of a real Indian
village. The wigwams, squaws and warriors were all there, and a liberal inter-
mixture of war paint, tomahawks, captives, tortures and other concomitants of
the noble red man will readily occur to the imagination, to give the whole
story an air of reality and vividness. Flints, arrow-heads, stone pipes and
other relics of the departed race have been found in great variety.
Another remarkable feature of the early times was the wonderful abun-
dance of game. Bears and wolves were found in great numbers, and deer were
so common as to excite little interest. The late Samuel Caldwell relates that on
one occasion, while he was going a short distance through the woods, he saw
twenty- five of these agile creatures assembled in a herd. He captured a half-
grown fawn upon another occasion.
Early Mills. — The first grist-mill erected in the township was built in
1832 by John Donaldson, which was still standing a few years ago on the
farm of Donaldson’s descendants. It played an important part in the drama
of pioneer life, and was of much practical utility to the early settlers. Some
years later a man named Comstock erected a second mill, on the farm of
Robert Fruit, and operated it until the business ceased to be profitable. A
third was erected on the Shenango, by John F. Wheeler, in 1869. Samuel
Williamson was the proprietor of the first saw-mill erected in the township. He
built it in 1823, upon the bank of a little creek that flows through the village of
New Hamburgh. Its machinery consisted of a single upright saw, which did yeo-
man service in fashioning the rough timber into marketable lumber. In 1838
a second one was constructed, and the two proved amply sufficient to meet the
demands of the residents of the township.
Besides these simple mechanical establishments there were at various times
in operation several distilleries and a furnace, whose history is given else-
where. The distilleries did a thriving business in early days, but the growth
of the temperance sentiment in the county rendered their maintenance unprof-
itable.
Villages. — New Hamburgh, on the left bank of the Shenango, west of the
center of Delaware Township, is the metropolis of the township. It was laid
out in 1838 by Peter Beil, on lands settled by Samuel Williamson as early as
1820. The growth of the place did not begin until 1840, when Peter Beil,
George Kamerer and Eli George started the first store. The first tin-shop was
started by Mr. George in 1838, on the first village lot gold. Daniel Hecker
was the pioneer justice of the peace. The first shop and the first cabinet- shop
were started in 1840, by Charles Cotterman and James Neihart, respectively.
Not until 1842 did the first hotel make its appearance. New Hamburg has
the usual line of stores and other business interests. For an inland village it
has considerable business activity.
Delaware Grove, located in the southeast part of the township, and north-
east of Big Bend, was at one time quite a prosperous village. The first store
was opened in the place by James T. Black in 1834. In 1840 a post-office
was established at this point, with Mr. Black as postmaster, who filled the
position until 1847. This office existed up to February 5, 1886, when it was
discontinued by the department. Several shops of different kinds were built
and operated, and a large hotel erected. The abandonment of the canal in
1871, and the growth of newer villages along the railroad, sapped the busi-
ness of Delaware Grove, and it is now only a reminiscence of its former
prosperity.
Churches. — St. John’s congregation was organized by Revs. Michael Kuchler
and Philip Zeiser in 1837. The Lutheran and Reformed families living in
522
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
that vicinity had previously worshiped at Good Hope Church, in West Salem
Township, but in 1837 they erected a log building, 24x30, on the Mercer road,
about one mile northeast of New Hamburgh, which was dedicated the same
year, under the name of St. John’s. In 1840 the present two-storied frame
edifice sticceeded the old log structure. The cemetery was commenced at the
time the congregation was organized. The pastors of St. John’s have been
usually those supplying Good Hope. Rev. Kuchler’s successors have been
Revs. Becker, T. H. Hengist, Krantz, Michael Kuchler, Jeremiah Fishburn,
C. A. Fetzer and William Rehrig, the present pastor, who is also professor of
German in Thiel College. The Reformed pastors of St. John’s have been as
follows; Revs. Philip Zeiser, Benjamin Boyer, H. F. Hartman, Frederick
Pilgram and J. M. Shick, the last mentioned being the pastor now in charge.
As early as 1820 the Methodists built a house of worship on the farm of
George Reznor, who deeded the site. The building was open to all religious
denominations, but the Methodists seem to have had the control. Rev. Mr.
Graham preaching the dedicatory sermon. The house was abandoned many
years ago.
The Presbyterians built a church in New Hamburgh in 1853, Casper
Kamerer being the contractor. It was opened for services the year- following
as a free church. It was not fully completed until 1868. The property was
finally sold to the Reformed Church. The organization is now known as the
New Hamburg Reformed Church, and is in a prosperous condition.
The Methodist Episcopal is the second church in the same village. Its
house of worship was erected in 1873, under the efforts of Rev. A. H. Kinney,
its first pastor. The foregoing organizations supply the spiritual wants of the
township.
EAST LACKAWANNOCK TOWNSHIP.
This township was formed from the eastern part of Lackawannock Town-
ship, as its name implies, August 17, 1849. Its name is of French and Indian
derivation. The French word for lake, lac, was combined with the name of an
Indian chief, Wannock, who resided by the banks of a small lake lying within
the limits of the present township of East Lackawannock.
The surface of this township is perhaps more broken than that of any other
in the county. The ground is rocky and rough, and alternates between steep
hills and sharp, precipitous valleys. The hills are veined with abundant beds
of coal. Bog-iron ore has also been found concealed in the grasp of earth,
but the work of smelting it has never been carried on successfully. Besides
these treasures, there is much good building stone to be found in the rocky
hill-sides, and although this has not been opened for shipping' purposes, yet
it supplies a good local demand. There are no streams of any consequence
within the borders of the township. Lackawannock Creek finds its head
here, but it is an insignificant rivulet, that flows in a northerly direction, and
discharges its waters, when it has any, into the Shenango at Big Bend. Nu-
merous little tributaries to the Neshannock penetrate the eastern portion of the
township, while on the west Little Neshannock, heading chiefly in Jefferson
Township, and flowing in a direct southern course to the Neshannock, forms
the western boundary.
One of the principal physical features of the township is Hell’s Hollow, a
narrow gulch-like ravine, about one mile and a half west of Mercer, on the
road leading from that place to where the Middlesex and Sharon roads diverge.
There is nothing particularly striking about this place of itself, but it is inter-
esting chiefly for the singular tradition that attaches to it. This was, that in
the early times an Indian was killed by his pale face brother, and that ever
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
523
sincQ the shade of the former, troubled and restive, has been unable to find
peace in its happy hunting grounds, but returns each night to the scene of
its taking off, where, in storm and tempest, its deep groans and wailing lamen-
tations sound loud above the echo of the howling winds.
Pioneers. — The early history of this township is so nearly identified with
that of its parent, Lackawannock, that no successful attempt can be made to
divorce the two. For a more particular history of the early settlement, there-
fore, the reader is referred to the latter. But there are a few names of
early pioneers which belong distinctively to this place.
Thomas Gordon entered the township in 1800, and settled on land afterward
owned and cultivated by William Edwards. Contemporary with him was
Christian Miller, a German, whose vocabirlary in English was exceedingly
limited. The latter located on the farm on which his son. Money Miller, resided
for a long series of years. Among the other early residents we find by a
patent granted by the commonwealth to John Lynch October 18, 1786, that
the latter conveyed his right of land now owned by SethHoagland to one Will-
iam Smith, who in turn conveyed his title to Thomas and Bevan Pearson,
January 12, 1807, the latter thus becoming the first real settler of the land
mentioned in the warrant. On the 8th of July, 1816, the two Pearsons dis-
posed of the tract to James Thompson and Silas Cossitt. The latter settled
on donation lot 528, comprising 200 acres, in 1809. His residence, or hut,
was situated near a saw-mill at present standing on the Hoagland place. It
is related of him that he became impressed with the truth of an old legend
belonging to the land, to the effect that during the French and Indian War
several jars of gold had been buried on his property by the French to avoid
capture by the British, and forthwith Cossitt began exhuming all the old stones
and chunks of wood he could find, in hope of recovering the buried treasure.
It is almost unnecessary to say that he did not find it.
Jacob Osborn, a native of Washington County, Penn., came to Mercer
County and located near Mercer about the close of the last century. He was a
soldier in the War of 1812, and served under Capt. Junkin, of Mercer. He
was the father of three children, and died within the county.
George Wright and Alexander McCollough were also early settlers of this
township. The former lived one mile west of Mercer, and was the father of
five children.
James Thompson, a genuine “blue Yankee” from New England, who
secured his farm from Pearson, settled upon it in 1816. At the same time
Jacob White entered the township. During the few years following occurred
the advent of John Wilson, William Lafferty, John Hutchinson, James Wil-
son, Malcom McComb and John Thompson. To each of these may be given
the credit of being one of the very early settlers of what is now East Lacka-
wannock Township.
FAIEVIEW TOWNSHIP.
This township was formed by a separation of Cool Spring September 21,
1850, the original township of Cool Spring at that time being divided as nearly
as possible into four equal parts, named, respectively. Cool Spring, Jackson,
Lake and Fairview, by the commissioners appointed by the court for that pur-
pose, David Findley, J. P. Garrett and W. J. Hunter.
The name is suggestive of its derivation. A fair view is precisely what a
traveler beholds as he passes through the township in the summer time, when
the fields are carpeted whh rich foliage, and the forests are alive with birds.
But it is not known who was the first to apply it to its present use. There
524
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
are no striking natural phenomena in the township. The surface is pretty
well broken, and at places is quite rough. There, are two streams of con-
sequence within the limits of Fairview. One of these. Otter Creek, rises in
Otter Creek Township, flows in a southerly direction through the southwest cor-
ner of the township, and effects a junction with Mill Creek at Mercer. The
other. Cool Spring Creek, heads in Fairview, flows almost due south, and empties
its waters into Mill Creek.
Early Settlers. — In the summer of 1798 the first settler of the township,
Thomas Coulson, removed from his home in Fayette County, penetrated the
northern wilderness to what is now Fairview, and settled upon land subse-
quently owned by Henry Knapp. He erected a little cabin of unhewed logs,
and prepared to encounter the perils and hardships of pioneer life. The
name of Coulson is intimately associated with the early history of Fairview
Township, so much so that no apology is made for relating an anecdote con-
cerning him. Seventeen years after the birth of the present century, as the
township became more alive with residents the inhabitant?, being somewhat
secure from their early dangers, began to turn their attention to matters of
education. Coulson was the first to take active measures. With that quick,
practical decision of character which characterized him, he left to others the
pleasure of discussion, and pushed forward toward effective action. He
erected a school-house of logs upon his own land, supplied it at his own expense
with what few equipments it possessed, and, finding that no other teacher
was available, himself commenced discharging the duties of pedagogue. The
school was built originally for his own children, but with true generosity he
threw its privileges open to his neighbors’ children. Coulson continued this
laudable work until the arrival of other masters in the art of instruction ren-
dered his labors superfluous. It is said of his career as the “school-master,”
that he was remarkably successful in teaching the youth under his charge the
mysteries of “ rule of three, ” writing and grammar. Previous to this, how-
ever, in 1812, there had been no tavern in the vicinity. Coulson, perceiving
the necessity of a good house of entertainment, opened his own home to strang-
ers and embarked on the sea of landlordism. There are records still existing
of his feeding soldiers who tarried at his house while on their way to the scene of
conflict. An incident of this is yet related. It appears that among a party of sol-
diers who thus tarried at Coulson’ s tavern was a huge sergeant by the name of
Dorm, six feet in height, possessed of almost herculean strength and endurance,
and remarkably active and pugnacious. He was, moreover, of a quick, irascible
temperament, and when under the influence of liquor was exceedingly irri-
table. For some reason the host was opposed to the continuance of the war.
During the stay of the doughty sergeant the landlord chanced to express his
convictions in opposition to the war, and by so doing aroused the hostility of
Dorm. The latter approached Coulson, and in an insolent tone demanded an
apology. This the latter refused to give. Thereupon the big sergeant struck
the host a powerful blow, which the latter parried and prepared to return.
Coulson was much his antagonist’s inferior in point of physical strength, but
this deficiency was more than compensated by his superior agility and endur-
ance. The two now began to fight with zest. By an accident the sergeant
missed his balance, and being considerably intoxicated, fell to the floor.
Coulson, quick as a cat, pounced upon him and began belaboring him with
good, lusty blows. Thus they struggled for a long time, until at length Coul-
son’s superior endurance gave him the victory, and the boasting Dorm was
compelled to acknowledge that he had at last found an equal.
Probably the second settler of the township was Joseph Alexander, who
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
525
came from Alleglieny County in 1800, and settled upon land afterward owned
by his son Samuel. Coulson and Alexander were then the only residents of
the region. Alexander was known by the name of “ Packer Joe,” on account
of his having, for many years previous to his location in Mercer County, been
engaged in packing goods over the mountains to Pittsburgh. The journey
from Allegheny County to his new home in the Northwest was accomplished
on horseback, and was tedious and painful beyond description. Four years
after Alexander’s entrance the population was increased by the arrival of Jos-
eph Campbell and family, who settled upon land afterward occupied by Joseph
Campbell, Jr. For a long period of years after this the township was sparsely
settled. There were other families that followed Alexander and Campbell,
but their names have not been ascertained. It is known, though, that in
1812 there were probably as many as twenty households in the region now
designated as Fairview Township.
Early Mills. — The first mill of any sort in the township was a saw mill
erected in 1820, on the banks of Cool Spring Creek, by Fergus Smith. It
was a meager affair, and its outfit consisted of a single upright saw. But,
nevertheless, it played an important part in the development of the township.
Ten years later the second mill, also a saw- mill, was built by Silas Coulson,
on land subsequently owned by William Craig. In 1835 a grist-mill was
erected by Marmaduke Rambo. It was located on the William Stubbs farm.
The little stream known as Morrison’s Run furnished the motor-power, and
coarse granite blocks served as mill-stones. In 1838 the fine grist-mill now
standing near Fredonia was erected by Levi Arnold. In 1845 George Slater
built a saw-mill on the land afterward owned by Isaac Slater. Other mills
followed in due time, notably McDowell’ s saw mill, built in 1854, on the banks
of Otter Creek, by George McDowell; Clark’s steam mill, built in the fall of
1869, by Thomas and Joseph Clark, and the Mosteller steam mill, erected
nearly the same time. There have been other minor mills, and also temporary
structures, but these will not be noticed.
Taverns. — Places of public entertainment are always places of interest.
The old inns, which in the early times served as modest forerunners of the pre-
tentious hotels of the present day, were ever the object of veneration and awe
to the rural inhabitant. The first one opened in Fairview was that of Thomas
Coulson, of which mention has been made. The second, dating from the year
1825, was a licensed house, opened by the Pittsburgh and Erie Stage Company
for the accommodation of their hands and patrons. The third was started one
year later, in the northern part of the township, by Silas Coulson. In 1851
William Gamble erected a log house on the line of the turnpike, which he con-
verted into an inn, and as such conducted it for several years. In 1855 he
built the frame house afterward known as the Byers Hotel. In 1852 George
Cubbison commenced the erection of a large tavern in the village of Fairview,
which he intended to run in connection with the general store of which he was
proprietor. He tried the plan for a time, but becoming dissatisfied he sold it
to R. C. Clark, by whom it was converted into other uses.
Churches. — After the extended sketch of Mr. Tait has been read and also
what is said in Chapter XII, little additional needs to be given concerning Cool
Spring Presbyterian Church. It was organized by him in 1800, and embraced
a large part of the people living in its region. He became the first pastor in
November of the year referred to, doing similar labor for the Salem Church.
This relationship continued until 1813, when the people of Cool Spring decided
to worship at Mercer, virtually disorganizing the congregation. In 1827 re-
organization occurred, and on the 24th of June, 1829, Rev. Ira Condit was
626
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
secured to devote one-third of his time to Cool Spring. This he did until
his death, October 24, 1836.
He was succeeded for a short time by Rev. David Waggoner. Rev. James
G. Wilson became the next pastor, his installation occurring in 1842. He
divided his time equally with Salem, continuing in this capacity until 1850.
In 1852 Rev. John W. McCune became the settled pastor, and remained many
years. The congregation is in possession of its third edifice, and is still labor-
ing manfully for the faith it has so long professed. >
The Fairview Baptist Church was organized in September, 1850, with eight
members, viz. : Henry and Jane Fulton, J. and C. McCartney, Mahitabel Don-
aldson, E. Carpenter, E. Furman and A. Lewis. Henry Fulton was selected
as the first deacon and clerk. Elder W. W. DeVan was secured as first pas-
tor, serving until 1854. He was suceeded by Elders Stedman, Clouse, Parker,
King, Ward, Thomas, Davis and others. The house of worship, 30x40, was
erected in 1851.
Oak Grove Wesleyan Methodist Church, in Fairview Township, was organ-
ized July 30, 1862. Their house of worship, known as Oak Grove Chapel,
was built the same year, and stands on land purchased of William Bland. This
congregation sprang from the Methodist Episcopal Church, the separation
occurring on account of radical differences on the slavery question.
FINDLEY TOWNSHIP.
This township was formed August 17, 1849, by a division of the old
township of Springfield, the northern portion of which constituted the new
organization. The name Findley was given it in honor of Judge John
Findley, who had been one of its early settlers and a man of great prom-
inence. Fuller account of him will be found elsewhere. The soil of Find-
ley Township is extremely rich and fertile. There are successfully grown
in it many kinds of fruit, such as apples, pears, peaches, etc., and the staple
cereals, such as wheat, corn and oats. The surface is well broken, and in the
hills are found rich deposits of coal and minerals. The grazing lands found
in the valleys are not surpassed anywhere in the county. In short, both agri-
culturally and in point of mining resources, the township stands fully abreast
of its competitors. Its drainage, likewise, is superior. The two principal
streams within its borders are Otter and Mill Creeks, both of which enter from
the north, and, uniting near Mercer, form the Big Neshannock, which pursues
a southerly course through the western extremity of the township, leaving it a
short distance from Hope Mills. In addition to these are two smaller streams,
one of which, a tributary to Mill Creek, finds its source in the eastern portion
of Findley, and fiows in a western direction to its junction with the larger
water course; and the other, a tributary to the Big Neshannock, heads in the
southeastern portion of the township, and flows in a southwesterly course to
where it discharges its waters into the Neshannock near Nelson Station. There
are also several minor rivulets, that drain the portion lying west of the Neshan-
nock. These streams, all of which have considerable velocity, owing to the
hilly country through which they flow, furnish abundant water-power for saw
and grist-mills, which is utilized in a manner that reflects credit upon the
enterprise of the inhabitants.
Pioneers. — Among the first settlers of the northern portion of the town-
ship, mention will first be made of Christian Troxel, who entered upon pos-
session of land, afterward owned by W. N. Pardoe and Robert McKee, about
the year 1799, as nearly as can be now ascertained. Pie selected the tract
upon which he located on account of the superior quality of timber which it
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
527
contained, and also because of its nearness to the excellent drainage of Mill
Creek.
In 1800 Henry Hosack entered the township, having removed from near
Gettysburg, Penn. He brought with him his entire family, consisting of four-
teen members, and located on the farm subsequently owned by Samuel Hosack.
The Hosacks became a very influential family. One of Henry’ s sons, Thomas,
became especially noted. His name is found on nearly all of the early court
records, where evidence exists to show that he was one of the leading spirits
of his day.
In the region lying near Mercer borough, undoubtedly the first settler was
John Findley, whose residence in the township began in 1799, at which time
he removed from his old home in Westmoreland County to his new one in
Mercer County. The old family dwelling, which is yet standing on the home-
stead, was built by him in the same year. In 1800 he brought to it his wife,
a daughter of Joseph Junkin. From this time on his career in the county was
one of special prominence.
Through the influence of Mr. Findley, Joseph Junkin, his father-in-law,
was persuaded to try his fortunes in the new settlement. This he did in 1803,
at which time he purchased lands, among them being what was afterward
termed the Hope farm, on which he placed his family. In 1805 his two old-
est sons, John and Joseph, arrived in the county and Iniilt a cabin near by.
In a short time they had completed the construction of a dam, above w'hich
they erected a saw and grist-mill, and later a fulling and carding mill. It is
said that the grist-mill contained the first pair of French burr-stones used in
the county, which did such excellent work that the establishment speedily
acquired an extensive notoriety. A more extended account of the Junkins
will be found in the Garvin sketch of that family.
In 1804 Edwin Hughes arrived in the vicinity of Mercer, and located on a
tract of land situated one mile east of the borough. But little is known con-
cerning him. About the same time, or perhaps earlier, James Jeffers, a hunter
of long experience,* entered the region. There are a number of incidents
related concerning his hostility to the Indian race, which had been aroused on
account of the cruelty with which some of his relatives had been treated
by the savages. Whether these are true or not cannot now be determined.
They belong, however, to the folk-lore of the county, and as such deserve
recital. It is said that on one occasion, while roaming through the forest, he
suddenly met two Indians. They instinctively knew him to be a foe, and both
at once dodged behind the cover of friendly trees. Jeffers perceived that the
contest of one against two would bean iinequal one, if carried on squarely; so
he resorted to artifice to overcome the odds. Taking off his cap he placed it
over the muzzle of his rifle, and exposed it, apparently incautiously, to the
view of his antagonists. This had the desired effect. Thinking it was his
head which they saw, .one of them instantly shot and sent a ball through
the empty cap. Jeffers dropped the cap to the groiind, giving a death like
groan as he did so. The two Indians at once sprang from cover, and were
rushing forward to secure the scalp of their supposed victim, when the latter
stepped forth, cocked his rifle and prepared to shoot. He was at first at a
loss to know which of the two had the loaded rifle, but perceiving one of them
lift his weapon to his shoulder, he surmised that he was the dangerous foe,
and accordingly shot him. The remaining savage sprang forward with a huge
knife and engaged in a hand to hand conflict, but the superior cunning of the
white man caused victory to perch on his side. As the savage was about to
make a final thrust, Jeffers deflected the course of the knife, and it sheathed
itself in the breast of the Indian himself, instantly killing him.
528
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
In 1807 John Barnes entered the township, and located on a farm near
Pardoe Station. He had previonsly settled in Jackson Township, where he
and his brother Thomas had secured a farm numbering 100 acres of rich land.
Barnes was an Irishman. His sympathy with that race induced those of his
fellow-countrymen who entered the township to settle near him. Thus the
settlement known as Irishtown originated.
In the southeastern portion of the township few settlements were made
prior to 1 830. Among the earliest pioneers of the region, brief mention may be
made of James Montgomery, who secured 200 acres in this locality in 1834,
and at once began their improvement; Hugh Rainey, yet living, who occu-
pies a portion of the Montgomery place, which he bought in 1838, and Jacob
and Christian Snyder, whose entrance into the township probably dates back
to 1832.
Villages. — Findley Township has several small villages. Hope Mills is a
station on the W. N. Y. & P. R. R., near the boundary line between Findley
and Springfield. The settlement was made by the Junkin’ s family, whose
sketch is given elsewhere. The village has grown up in consequence of the
location of old-time mills at that point. They have finally disappeared by
fire. In the creek near the mill three persons have been drowned. One of
them was a lady school-teacher.
Pardoe, a station on the P. S. & L. E. Railroad, is a sprightly village
of several hundred inhabitants. Its growth has been dependent upon the
activity of the adjoining coal mines, which have given occupation to the people
of the community. It was laid out in 1869 by the Mercer Mining and Manu-
facturing Company. Lots for school and church purposes were donated at
the inception. Three churches, a Presbyterian, a Methodist and a Catholic,
have been since established, the organizations dating back some ten years.
Bernard Heidrich started the first store. The property finally fell into the
hands of C. M. Derickson, of Mercer.
Irishtown is a small village southeast of Pardoe, near the line separating
Findley and Wolf Creek Townships. It was named Irishtown because the
first settlers were Irish, the suggestion being made by John Galbreath. These
settlers came to this region in 1803. Some of the near neighbors then were
John Todd, John Patterson, Thomas Graham, John Richie, John Burnside,
James Alexander, Matthew Alexander, John Hoge, James Bell, Thomas Pax-
ton, Sr., Thomas Paxton, Jr., Joseph Scott, Hugh Evans, James Evans, James
Long, James Craig, Peter AVilson, William Montgomery, James Montgomery,
Samuel McChesney, Robert Allen, John Montgomery, John Allen, Thomas
Barnes, John Barnes and others.
A list of the early officers of each township is given in Chapter XXVIII.
It will be found to contain the names of a number of the leading pioneer spirits
of Findley Township.
FRENCH CREEK TOWNSHIP.
French Creek Township was formed in 1805, the first mention of it on the
court records being under date of August, of that year, when the survey was
returned and approved. It was originally much larger than at present, its ter-
ritory having been very much diminished November 19, 1849, by the formation
of Mill Ci'eek Township. The surface of the township is very much broken.
Precipitous hills rise abruptly up in many places, while the intervening valleys
thus formed are sharply outlined, and give an air of ruggedness to the contour
of the land. In point of drainage the principal stream in the township is
the rapidly-flowing French Creek, which enters from the northwest, flows in a
southeastern course across the extreme northeastern corner of the township.
r
/
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
531
and finally passes into Venango County. There are two or three tributaries
to this, that serve to drain the portion of the township farther removed from
the main stream. In regard to mineral wealth the township is not distin-
guished for the possession of valuable coal deposits. A superior grade of
building stone is found along the banks of French Creek, but its market is
purely local, and no attempts have been made to enter into shipping con-
nections with outside trade. .
Among the physical features of the township might be included the
mound-evidences of the existence of a distinctly civilized and enlightened
pre-historic race of men. On the Heydrick farm is a beautiful hill, whose
triangular summit is covered with an imposing pile of curious relics of pri-
meval workmanship, which have been collected through a long series of patient
search in the region near by. Arrow-heads, darts, pipes, skinning-knives,
hatchets and well-preserved remains of antique pottery have, in many in-
stances, been preserved by the inhabitants of the township. In addition to
these more-subtly wrought implements of civilized life, there are found in great
abundance the grosser and rougher weapons of the later Indians. Their rude
arrow-heads, consisting of flint irregularly chipped off into pointed darts,
and the various other relics of Indian workmanship, have been discovered
in various places in the county, but nowhere as numerously as in French
Creek. Particularly about the mouth of Deer Creek, where it is supposed
the savages assembled in force to hunt, are the weapons of the chase
found in great numbers. There are a number of traditions connected with
these which make the region an interesting one to the student of archae-
ology.
First Settlers. — The first white man to set foot in the region which after-
wai’d became French Creek Township was. according to a supposition which
appears to be reasonably well founded, Joncaire, in l727. He was a French
officer, sent out by his government to occupy the disputed territory, which
became so dread a witness of the fierce struggle called the French and Indian
War. The chain of forts, which the court of Versailles had placed at short
intervals in the country which was to be held, was constructed along the line
of the leading streams . Le Boeuf, now Waterford, was one to which the French-
man proceeded. From thence he passed to Fort Du Quesne, following the
course of the streams of French Creek and Allegheny River. In December, 1753,
George Washington passed through the township, on his way to Le Boeuf.
The expedition was made partly on horseback, and partly by canoes. In his
celebrated journal Washington mentions the territory lying northeast of Ven-
ango as being exceedingly fertile, and was, no doubt, charmed with its pictur-
esqueness. In returning canoes alone were used, and the journal mentions
the fact that the rapidity of the stream, and the stones that arose above the
level of the water, gave his party much annoyance, frequently compelling them
for considerable distances to carry their boats overland.
Coming down to actual settlers, the first settler in the townshqD, so far as
can now be ascertained, was Robert Robb, who in 1802 entered and located on
donation lot 1,028. He had originally come from Allegheny County. The
brother-in-law of Robb, John Smith, followed with his family, consisting of his
wife, son Robert and brother William, in 1807. It is related of these two
pioneers that they were too poor to own oxen, and consequently were com-
pelled for the most part to carry their earthly possessions on their own backs,
when emigrating from Allegheny County. In 1803 a daughter was born to Rob-
ert Robb and his wife, Polly. She afterward became Mrs. Jennie Wallace, and
was the first child born in the township. She was still living up to a few years
ago at Franklin, Venango County.
30
532
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
In 1803 came Hugh Moore, who had been attracted from his old home in
Bedford County by the richness of the new county’s soil. He settled on land
subsequently owned by W. Heydrick. He is said to have owned the first
wagon in the township. About the same time came his neighbor, John Daily,
who made clearings nearby. John Pearson, who settled on donation lot 1,029,
which had been granted to his father for services rendered in the Bevolution-
ary AVar, also arrived at this time and began the settlement of his claim.
In the southern portion of the township Thomas Jones was probably the
pioneer. He came from Allegheny County, and it is said that he was paddled
up the river as far as -Venango by a man named Robert Bowles. At Venango
he was started on his journey in company with two children of Bowles, and was
compelled to prosecute it on foot. He settled on the farm afterward owned
by his son Amos, in 1804. Bowles dying soon after, the two children whom
he had entrusted to Jones’ care were adopted by him, and one of these, a girl,
afterward became Mrs. Jones. In the same year Jerry Henry settled on the
land afterward owned by Jonas Blatt, and located two miles south of Milledge-
ville. In addition to these, later settlements were made as recent as 1850.
As those who made them were scarcely pioneers, no further mention will be
made of them.
There was no township in the county so prolific in game as French Creek,
eighty years ago. The long stretch of woodland, relieved here and there by
streams of running water, afforded ample room for deer. Foxes, also, were
abimdant, as were likewise, in less degree, bears, wolves and panthers.
There were also a number of beavers at one time in the township, for near a
pond located on the farm of C. W. Heydrick is the remnant of a vast beaver
dam. It is estimated that the original dam was eight feet high and thirty long.
The banks of the pond were penetrated in many places by the intelligent ani-
mals, thus affording a safe retreat when pursued.
There are records of several old buildings which were among the first con-
structions of architecture. One of these was a hewed- log tavern erected by
Hugh Moore in 1810, said to be the first tavern in the township. It was two
stories high, was possessed of a finished attic and large chimney, and had sev-
eral thicknesses of mud plaster applied to its interior. About a mile from the
site of this ancient land mark was located what is said, with probable truth, to
have been the first pottery in this part of Mercer County. It was built in
1815, by Joseph Wallace and John Smith. Its dimensions were limited, being
twenty-four feet long by eighteen wide. There was a log kiln-house twenty
feet square connected with it. The business of manufacturing various kinds
of jugs, jars, etc., was carried on until 1824, when it was abandoned. The
first saw-mill was constructed in 1828, by C. Heydrick, and stood near the
mouth of Deer Creek. The building was forty-five feet long and seventeen
wide, and the machinery consisted of a single old-fashioned upright saw, which
performed its duties faithfully for a long period of years. In 1833 another
saw-mill, situated a little distance west of the present village of Milledgeville,
was erected by John Chatley. It was conducted with varying success until
1874. About the same time another one was erected in the southern part of
the village, by William Cooper. All traces of it, however, have vanished. In
1837 a grist-mill was erected by David McQuiston and George Dixon. It was
located on a farm owned by William M. Burns. The original proprietors con-
tinued in possession of the property a few years only, and sold out to William
Brown. The mill has now disappeared. The first tannery was built in 1838,
by William Burns, it being located on his own farm. The business was con-
tinued about ten years, but not being successful, was allowed to perish.
HISTOEY OP MERCEE COUNTY.
533
The only village in the township is Milledgeville. It was laid out upon
donation lot 1,063 in 1851, the land on which it stands being owned at the
time by William R. Cooper, Andrew Williams and William Edeburn. The
surveyor was John Earver. The first dwelling-house erected in it was owned
by Arthur Scott. William McCabe built the first frame dwelling.
Churches. — As early as 1852 Elder John Phillips, since engaged exten-
sively in the oil business, preached in Milledgeville, and planted the seeds of
the present Christian congregation. The family of Samuel Chatley were the
first members, and aided in planting the cause which they profess. This con-
gregation aided largely in building the old union meeting-house, which was
used also for school purposes. In 1875, however, they erected a plain but
substantial structure of their own. Elder B. E. Baker, who since joined the Free
Will Baptists, was pastor of the congregation at the time. The congregation
is in good condition, and is under the pastoral care of the preacher in charge
of the Sandy Lake congregation.
The Milledgeville Presbyterian Church was organized April 8, 1856. John
Rice and William R. Cooper were elected elders, in which capacity they
served until October 24, 1858. The first preaching was done by supplies
furnished by presbytery, Revs. McCune, Semple, Shields, Eaton, Gleason,
Alexander, Coulter, Wilson, McCollough and others doino- that work. Rev.
J. G. Condit continued as supply from 1860 to 1864, and was succeeded by
Rev. John Rice in the same capacity. For about two years Rev. H. B.
Lamb was pastor, and was succeeded in 1867 by Rev. David Patton, who
remained but a year. The congregation has relied almost entirely upon sup-
plies. In 1861 a building was erected, 35x42, which is still in use.
Deer Creek Methodist Episcopal Church, in French Creek Township, a
mile and a half southwest of Milledgeville, was organized early in the forties.
Preaching had been done in the neighborhood, in dwellings and school-houses,
by Revs. Hiram Luce and A. G. Miller, thus laying the foundation for an
organization. In 1842, with about sixteen members, a house 26x24 was built.
Enlarged and improved, it served until 1869, when the present building was
erected, G. W. Clure and J. S. Williams being the contractors. A Sunday-
school has been maintained, with a few exceptions, through the entire year,
since 1842. The congregation is in flourishing condition.
GREENE TOWNSHIP.
This township was erected in 1844, from territory previously included in
West Salem. In 1856 the eastern part was cut ofP in the formation of Sugar
Grove. The name was given in honor of Gen. Nathaniel Greene, who was
born at Potowhommet, R. I., May 27, 1742. In 1775 he was elected briga-
dier-general of the militia of his State, and commanded a division at the bat-
tle of Trenton, in 1776. From that time until 1780 he served with distinc-
tion, in the battles of Brandywine and Germantown, and as quartermaster
general. He defeated the British at Springfield, N. J. , in 1780; was in turn
defeated by them at Guilford Court House, S. C., in 1781, and in an en-
counter near Camden. In September, 1781, he won the hard-fought battle of
Eutaw Springs, and freed the State from the enemy’ s presence. After par-
ticipating in other lesser engagements, he returned to his native State. He
died of sun-stroke in 1786. Gen. Greene is considered to have been one of
the most capable military commanders during the Revolution.
The surface of the township is notably unbroken; with the exception of the
country adjoining the Shenango, the entire township may be said to be uniform-
ly level. In its mineral resources there is no special richness. The chief
534
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
wealth of the township lies almost exclusively in its adaptability to agricult-
ural purposes. In this respect it has few superiors among the townships of the
county. Farming and grazing facilities it has in abundance, but beyond these
there is little to mention. The principal drainage is supplied by the Shenango
Eiver, which enters the northern boundary at Jamestown, flows through the
township in a slightlj^ southeastern course, and departs near the eastern
extremity of the southern border. Big Run flnds its head in the south, and
flows in a southerly direction through W est Salem Township up to the junc-
tion with the Shenango, but its influence upon the drainage of Greene Township
is limited. Some fine timber is yet to be found, which, however, is rapidly
disappearing, and, unless checked, its destruction will soon be complete.
Early Settlers. — A tradition is current that a hunter named Smith settled
in this township as early as 1797, and built a hut and made a small clearing
in the forest. It is said he planted a crop of potatoes which never matured,
because of the dense, overhanging shade surrounding his little improvement.
Smith was probably a squatter, and disappeared at an early date.
The first permanent settlers came into this portion of the county between
1797 and 1800, but so many conflicting statements are made that it is impos-
sible for the faithful historian to give the exact year each pioneer made his
settlement. All of the following, however, were in the township prior to 1800,
as their names appear among the recorded taxables of that year: John More-
land and sons, Isaac and William, James Campbell, Christopher North and
son Thoroughgood, Philip, John and Jacob Sherbondy, and Henry McLaugh-
lin. The Morelands were natives of Ireland, but came here from Westmore-
land County, and located west of the Shenango Eiver. The father died in
1823, aged eighty- four years, and his widow, Letitia, survived him until 1838,
dying at the ripe old age of ninety-six. Isaac Moreland was married in 1800,
to Lillias Mossman, of West Salem Township, who died in 1845, aged eighty.
He followed her in 1851, having also reached his eightieth year. William
Moreland died in 1850, and his widow in 1857, aged seventy-three and seven-
ty- eight, respectively.
James Campbell, the man in whose honor Jamestown was named, located
on the site of that borough, in the history of which fuller notice is given him.
Christopher North and wife, natives of Ireland, came into Greene Township
late in the eighteenth century. His son, Thoroughgood, had preceded him
from Westmoj’eland County a short time. They located on adjoining tracts,
and both spent the remainder of their lives as residents of the township.
Christopher’s grandson now lives on part of this land. The original Christo-
pher reared one son and six daughters, many of whose descendants are still
living in the county.
Philip, John and Jacob Sherbondy, natives of Lehigh County, Penn., came
fi’om Westmoreland County. Philip settled on the farm where his son David
resides. He reared nine children, and died in 1838, his widow, Elizabeth,
surviving him a few years. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. John set-
tled near the West Salem line. Henry McLaughlin and family came from
Fayette County, Penn. It is clamed his son Henry was born in this town-
ship in November, 1798, and was the first white child born in this part of the
county.
Samuel Rodgers, a native of Ireland, and his wife Mary, and family, came
to this township from Fayette County, Penn. , about the same time as the
foregoing pioneers. He settled on the farm in Greene Township where his
son Robert H. lives. They came via the Monongahela Eiver to Pittsburgh,
thence by the Ohio to the mouth of Big Beaver, thence up that stream and
the Shenango to their destination, making the whole distance by water.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
535
The Hoover family were among the early settlers of the township. The
paternal grandfather, Abner F. Hoover, came from Philadelphia, about 1800.
He settled on what was known as the “ King Claim,’ ’ containing 400 acres,
situated in the southwestern part of the township. He had twelve children.
His death occurred in 1854.
Rev. John Betts, of Lancaster County, Penn., whose father, Andrew Betts,
settled in Crawford County, near the State line, in 1800, located soon there-
after on the land in Greene Township where his sons, John K. and Calvin,
now live. Rev. John died December 26, 1863. He was the father of twelve
children. Many of his descendants still reside in Mercer and Crawford Coun-
ties. Andrew Betts, brother of the above, settled in 1807 on the farm where
his son Thomas now lives, in Greene Township. He served in the War of
1812. He reared quite a large family, several of whom live in Mercer and
Crawford Counties.
Many other pioneers took up lands in Greene Township late in the eight-
eenth and early in the present century. Among those we find the names of
John, William and Benjamin Snodgrass, Adam Hill, Hugh McGill, a Revolu-
tionary soldier, John and Mary Latta, Thomas Bole, John Mahan, James Mc-
Curdy, John Atchison, Robert McDowell, John Reichard, Hugh Kithcart,
Robert, Irwin and William Carr, and others equally worthy of mention. Like
most of the early settlers the majority of these were Irish or of Irish ancestry,
and nearly all have descendants in this section of the State.
A Protestant Methodist Church was organized at an early date in this
township. For some years the congregation occupied a log school -house
erected in 1832. In 1853 a new house was built upon lands donated by Noble
McCormick and his wife. The congregation had disbanded once, but was
subsequently reorganized to do more efficient service.
HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP.
The township which heads this sketch was formed from parts of Salem, W est
Salem, Delaware and Pymatuning Townships, May 24, 1856, agreeable to a
petition presented to the court by numerous citizens November 22, 1854.
The viewers, whose report, when confirmed by the court, established the bound-
aries of the new township, were David Findley, John Carnes and James C.
Brown. The name “ Hempfield ” was given out of respect to James Kam-
erer, through whose agency the formation of the township had been chiefly
secured. He had formerly been a resident of Hempfield Township, in West-
moreland County, and hence suggested the title which is at present used to
designate the township in question.
The surface of Hempfield is what would be termed level. Compared with
that of French Creek it might even be called flat, although there are places in
the township having considerable elevation above the adjoining plains. The
soil is rich, and agriculture is fully as far advanced in this township as in any
other in the countji . In point of drainage there is not much to be said beyond
the fact that the chief stream is the Little Shenango, which enters from the
north and flows in a southwestern course until near the borough of Green-
ville, where it makes a turn to the southwest, and discharges its contents into
the Big Shenango. In addition to this stream there are several small tributa-
ries to it which serve to increase the drainage facilities. The natural resources
of the township, considered from a miner’s standpoint, are not particularly,
valuable. There are deposits of coal, but not in sufficient quantity to repay
working.
Pioneers. — In the history of the early settlement of whai- is now Hempfield
536
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Township, one name is found to deserve special recognition. That name is
Andrew Christy, the first settler. Early in the fall of 1796, in company with
Jacob Loutzenhiser, Joseph Keck, Daniel and Peter Klingensmith and others,
he departed from his old home in Westmoreland County, and pushed northward
on an exploring expedition. The object of the exploration was to fix upon suita-
ble locations for new homes. While engaged in this the party passed through
what subsequently became West Salem Township, Mercer County. Here the
Klingensmiths settled. Christy and Loiitzenhiser, however, went farther east,
the former selecting a tract lying within the present boundaries of Hemplield,
and the latter a tract near the site of Greenville, though he first settled on the
site of Orangeville. The land which Christy occupied lies about two miles
southeast of the present borough of Greenville. It is related that he secured
his land by deadening a number of trees that stood upon it. after which, with
many hardships and fatigues, he returned to Westmoreland County to pass the
winter. In the following spring, accompanied by his father, John Christy, his
brothers, John and Samuel, and two sisters, he returned to the site of the trees
he had deadened, and at once began the work of clearing off a homestead.
The difficulties and perils of this sort of life cannot be even surmised in these
days of perfected civilization. Christy was a bachelor when he arrived in his
new home. But despite the fact that his neighbors were few, he resolved to
become a benedict, and he found a spouse in the person of Miss Susan Will-
iamson. The marriage ceremony was performed in May, 1803, Rev. Samuel
Tait officiating as clergyman, and was the first service of the kind held in the
township. Happily, though, it was by no means the last. While Andrew set-
tled east of Greenville, the other members of the family settled south of it, in
the same township, on the Callen farm.
The father of Mrs. Christy, John Williamson, was a native of Carlisle,
Cumberland County. In the fall of 1798 he purchased the land of Jacob Lout-
zenhiser, which lay east of the present boundary line, and began a clearing.
His family, however, was yet in Cumberland County, and he returned to
secure it. On the 11th of June, 1799, the Williamson family entered into
possession of their new Shenango Valley home. The father, John, was of a
practical turn of mind, and signalized his entrance by at once beginning the
erection of a sawmill. The mill-wright who assisted him, one James King,
became impressed with the idea that stones could be so attached as to form a
grist-mill annex. This idea was speedily carried out, and in a little time the
first grain ever ground in this portion of the county was being reduced to
meal. In 1800 Williamson erected a separate mill, this being exclusively for
grist. These two mills met with wonderful success, and were among the most
valuable pioneer enterprises established in the county, and served to render
Williamson’s name forever memorable in local annals. Ask a citizen of
Greenville to point out the location of the old Williamson saw and grist-mills,
and he will quickly take you a short distance east of the Pacific mills, above
the dam, and satisfy your curiosity. Williamson was unable, it appears, to
complete the payments for his land, and in 1806 the farm fell back into
Loutzenhiser’ s possession. The former, though, at once secured another tract
of John Eckles, and removed his family thereto. This second venture was
successful. The farm was eventually paid for, and has been the family home-
stead ever since.
In addition to these two prominent pioneers, the following were very early
residents of Hempfield; Hugh Donaldson, who settled in 1798 on a tract of
land adjoining Williamson’s on the east; James Stinson, who took up land
about the same time east of Donaldson’s; Thomas Bean, who settled as early
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
537
as 1798; Robert Bole, also in 1798; Hugh Brown in 1799, and James Dumars,
who settled south of the Williamson farm in 1800.
Alexander Dumars, a native of Ireland, came from Westmoreland County
in 1800, and settled two miles east of Greenville. He became justice of the
peace in 1810, and held the position until 1838. He was the father of seven
children, all of whom left descendants. His wife died in 1811 and he in 1854.
He was a Democrat, a Mason, and therefore a strong hater of anti-Masonry.
Mr. Garvin relates the following incident concerning him, which shows the
tenor of those times:
“’Sqnh-e Dumars had a case before him. Allen Hill prosecirted Joseph
Nesbit for damages done by his cows in his cornfield. The parties to the
suit appeared. Nesbit claimed that it was Hill’s fault, that he would not
keep up a fence around his field, that he had himself worked to repair and put
up his fence, and had also sent hands for that purpose, but that Hill would do
nothing to preserve his own grain. The Squire said: ‘ If that is the kind
of a man Hill is, he ought to be loaded with powder and blown to hell. ’
The wily Irishman, Nesbitt, immediately said: ‘ If that is the judgment of
your honor, please give us an execution, and let us have it carried out at
once.’ ”
William McMillen entered the township in 1800. His wife, Nancy, died
in 1816, leaving four children. He then married Margaret, daughter of Will-
iam McClimans, a pioneer of West Salem, who bore him several children.
Many of his descendants resided in the county. Timothy Dumars located in
the township the same year, and in 1803 John Sims built a tannery on the
Donaldson farm, which business he afterward abandoned as unprofitable.
Jacob and Samuel Kamerer came in 1812. Sketches of both will be found in
the biographical chapters.
Salem Presbyterian Church is one of the pioneer congregations of its
sect in Mercer County. It was organized in the year 1800, and for a time
was known as Upper Salem. It is located in Hempfield Township. The
preaching which resulted in the organization is said to have occurred on the
banks of the Shenango. near the site of Greenville, and was done by those
veteran Presbyterian missionaries. Revs. Tait and Stockton. Subsequently
the preaching was transferred to a tent which was pitched near the site of the
present church. The first pastor was Rev. Samuel Tait, who officiated in con-
nection with Cool Spring. He was ordained to such relation November 19,
1800. The first eldership embraced Robert Mann, James Stinson and Samuel
Williamson. In June, 1801, Mr. Tait relinquished his charge of Upper Salem
to give his time to the Mercer congregation, which was more conveniently
located. In Juue, 1813, Mr. Tait having relinquished Cool Spring, again be-
came pastor of Salem, and continued in such capacity until the year 1826, when
he began to devote his whole time to Mercer. On the 13th of October, 1828,
Rev. James Alexander was chosen pastor of Salem in conjunction with Green-
ville and Big Bend. In that capacity he labored until June 25, 1834. On the
12th of April, 1836, Rev. James G. Wilson assumed charge of Salem and
Greenville, and performed pastoral functions until the time of his release in
1851. Between this date and that of 1857 Rev. James H. Callen and T. P.
Johnson were in charge. In 1858 Rev. James Coulter, and in 1859 Rev.
David Grier, were pastors. Rev. John W. McCune became Grier’s successor,
and on his death Rev. George W. Zahniser took charge of the church. The
pastors of the Greenville Chnrch have since ministered to this congregation.
The first edifice was a log structure, and stood a little below the site of the
present church, which is the third in order of erection. It is said the early
538
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
preachers were paid in various kinds of produce. Samuel Caldwell, Sr., was,
for a number of years, treasurer of the congregation, and hence performed the
duty of collecting the grain and sending it to the preacher in charge.
Hei'e too is the old Salem Cemtery, that had its inception with the erection
of the first church building. Many of the pioneers were buried in this
ground, and its hallowed associations are a part of the sacred memories clus-
tering around old Salem.
HICKOEY TOWNSHIP.
Hickory Township, the second largest in the county, and one of the
wealthiest in point of mineral resources in the northwestern portion of the
State, was erected into a separate organization in 1833, from portions of She-
nango and Pymatuning. The physical features of the township form an agree-
able study. Nowhere in the county can a richer or a more picturesque
expanse of upland and vale, of hills rising from surrounding plains, and of
valleys nestled down among the elevations be seen. The pasturage afforded
by the lands lying along the banks of the Shenango River is unsurpassed any-
where in the vicinity, and the soil, fertile and mellow, ranks the township
among the most productive regions, agriculturally speaking, in Mercer County.
Added to these are the valuable internal treasures of rich coal deposits, that
give employment to hundreds of the township’s population. In the matter
of drainage, the whole story is summed up in the statement that the Shenango
River enters the township at near the central point of its northern boundary,
flows in a southwesterly course along the western extremity, and then departs
in a southeastern direction to its junction with Beaver Creek, at New Castle.
This stream, with its many small tributaries, furnishes ample drainage facili-
ties.
Pioneers. — The attractiveness of the land lying along the banks of the
Shenango early claimed the attention and won the admiration of the explor-
ing parties, which from time to time passed through the fertile regions of
the Shenango Valley. The excellent facilities of drainage, and the abundant
water supply, which in time of extreme drought was a very necessary recom-
mendation, quite fully characterized the territory lying within the present
limits of Hickory Township as an excellent location for settlements. In 1796
or 1797 Thomas Canon settled on the farm afterward owned by John Welch.
Here he began a clearing, and prepared to take up a residence. One year after
he was joined in his pioneer undertakings by William Campbell, afterward a
sturdy old veteran of the War of 1812. The same year this party of civiliza-
tion-spreaders was re-enforced by the advent of James Smith, who, in com-
pany with eight others, whose names are not known, entered the region; also
the Robb family, consisting of Andrew and Rebecca Robb, and their seven
children, by name Andrew, William, Joseph, Margaret, Mary, Nancy and
Rebecca, settled the farm subsequently owned and occupied by John Rainey.
Col. Henry Hoagland was a native of Holland. He first located in Virginia.
He served in the Revolutionary War, and afterward settled in Washington
County, Penn. In 1798 he came to Mercer County with his wife, Catherine,
and family, and took up his residence on the west bank of the Shenango
River, one mile north of the site of Sharon, where he resided until his death,
October 12, 1818. He took a deep interest in the early militia, and was
captain, major and colonel, successively, of a Mercer County regiment. He
reared four sons and five daughters, and his descendants are still numerous in
the county. He was one of the organizers of the pioneer Baptist Church in
his neighborhood. His sons, John and Richard, died in Hickory Township,
on the farms still occupied respectively by their children.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
539
Daniel, Bashara and John Hull settled in Hickory Township in 1798 or 1799.
Daniel and John reared families, and died on their homesteads. Bashara
removed to Iowa, where he died. John married the daughter of Capt. John
Elliott, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, who settled on the banks of the
Shenango before the Hull family arrived. For some time after John Hull
came to Hickory Township he kept “ bachelor’s hall.” The pot in which he
prepared his corn mush had a little piece broken out of the rim. On one
occasion, when he returned home very hungry from the pursuit of game, he
looked into his pot for his mush. Lifting ofP the lid, he found a rattlesnake
coiled nicely upon the top of the mush which was expected to furnish his sup-
per. A strange prejudice interfered against his eating that mush on that
occasion.
Early in the century William Welch settled on land a part of which after-
ward became the site of Wheatland. A part of the old homestead was sub-
sequently owned by his son John, who lived there for a long niuuber of years.
The same period witnessed the arrival of Archibald Rankin, who settled
near the edge of Lackawannock Township. John Hammel and James Young
were his neighbors, they having arrived about the same time. Rev. James
Satterfield, a graduate of the old theological school of Rev Dr. McMillan, of
Canonsburg, entered the township soon after, and while waiting until a house
could be built upon his land, which lay near by, lived in a small building
which had previously been used by William Welch. His house was completed
in 1803, and stood on the brow of the terrace of the Shenango. Its location
was exceptionally fine, and the early minister much enjoyed to sit in his door
and gaze out over the waters as they flowed peacefully and silently by. The
property was occupied many years later by his son James.
John and Mary Morford setttled in Hickory Township in 1803 or 1804.
He had been a soldier in the Revolutionary War. His son Richard married
his own cousin, and reared a large family. He was married twice, and left
numerous descendants.
Vance and Mary Stewart, with one child, James, came into Hickory Town-
ship in 1805. They were Irish, and crossed the mountains from Huntingdon
County with a pack-horse. They located near what is now Hickory Corners.
They had eleven children, all of whom became heads of families. Both died
on the old homestead, aged fifty-five and sixty-seven respectively.
The year 1805 marks the advent of AVilliam Hunter, who, with his father,
David, came from Huntingdon County and settled a short distance east of
what afterward became the village of Neshannock. There were six children
in the family. Robert Milliken, a native of Ireland, came from Huntingdon
County, Penn., to this township in 1810, and in 1816 settled where his son
James lives. His wife, Nancy, was a daughter of James Sample. James
Sample, also a native of Ireland, came from Huntingdon County with his
family about the same time as Milliken, and settled in Hickory Township. He
was twice married, and left several children by his first wife, all of whom are
dead. He died in 1822 on the farm where his grandson, James K. Sample, re-
sides. Other settlers continued to come in, and it was not long until the clear-
ings had grown and covered nearly all the township.
Churches. — St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, located immediately north
of Hickory Corners, had its inception in the settlement in that vicinity of a few
German Catholic families, between 1845 and 1860, who were principally engaged
in mining coal. Among the earliest of these were Martin Scholl, Nicholas and
Peter Rommelfangen, Michael and Matthias Schumacher, Clemens Dach,
Nicholas and John Kahl, Matthew Koch and Michael Knapp. Rev. Andrew
540
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Skopez is believed to have been the first priest who held services in the settle-
ment, celebrating mass at the house of Martin Scholl prior to 1850. He was
followed in succession by Revs. J. Reiser, J. J. Gallagher, Andrew Schweiger
and Joseph Gobbels, resident pastors of the Greenville congregation, who occa-
sionally visited Sharon and the German settlement at Hickory Corners, and
held services in private houses. The Redemptorist Fathers, of Pittsburgh, alsd
occasionally visited this settlement between 1850 and 1860. In 1859 Rev. F.
J. Hartmann began his visits, and the following year commenced erecting the
present frame church, which he completed in 1861. He. however, held serv-
ices in it in 1860, and the church was dedicated under the name of St. Rose
of Lima. A half acre of land was donated by Clemens Dach, as a site for
church and cemetery, and Father Skopez afterward purchased of Mr. Dach
an additional acre. Soon after the church was completed Father Hartmann
took up his permanent residence in a part of the building, but subsequently
erected a dwelling-house adjoining the same. He remained the pastor of St.
Rose until August, 1870, and during this period built up a large and flourish-
ing congregation, but the decline of the coal business in that locality finally
necessitated the removal elsewhere of a large number of its members. Rev.
Andrew Skopez became pastor in August, 1870, and ministered to St. Rose
congregation until his death in the fall of 1887, being at the time one of the
oldest priests in the diocese. St. Rose was then attended by Father Clarke, of
Sharspville, until September 1, 1888, when its first resident pastor, Father
Hartmann, again took charge of the parish, which now embraces about forty
families.
In 1869-70 a Catholic Church was built in Neshannock, and the first
service held therein by Father Hartmann, of St. Rose Parish, in 1870. The
mission was then placed under the charge of the pastor at Sharpsville, and so
remains up to the present. The building was a frame, but not a very sub-
stantial structure. It was blown down early in 1887, and has not been
rebuilt, and it is not very probable that it ever will be. The mission embraces
only a few families, and services are held in private houses.
Villages. — Hickory Township has several villages in addition to the
boroughs given.
Hermitage Post Office is a cross roads settlement on the Mercer and Sharon
road, four miles from the latter boroiigh. It contains a store, post-office and
several dwellings, besides a school building. Its list of postmasters will be
fouod in the chapter on Internal Affairs.
New Virginia is a mining village of considerable activity in the past. It
has no post-office of its own, but receives its mail at “Five Points,’’ half a
mile distant. The village has the usual supply of dry goods and grocery
facilities, an Odd Fellows lodge, which sprang from the Sharon Lodge, a
Methodist Church and a goodly number of comfortable residences. The peo-
ple are employed chiefly in mining interests.
Keel Ridge was once quite an active place, but the exhaustion of the coal
in the region has had the effect to injure the growth of the community. At
one time it was the scene of unusual activity, and gave every evidence of
financial thrift. It has supported one store. The religious interests of the
community were supplied by a Lutheran Church, which was established in
1854.
Neshannock, the original terminus of the Sharpsville railroad, was former-
ly of considerable importance, but like its sister villages, which have depended
for their prosperity upon a business that was likely to be temporary, it has re-
ceded. It has supported the usual complement of dry goods and grocery stores,.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
541
public schools, hotel and post-office, and has furnished communicants for four
different religious organizations, Methodist, Catholic, United Brethren and
Baptist, three of which were supplied with church edifices. The Baptists were
accustomed to meet in the school building.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP.
The township whose name heads this sketch was erected from a part of what
was originally old Cool Spring Township, September 21, 1850. It was the
southeastern portion of the old division, and adjoins what is at present called
Cool Spring Township. The name given to the new subdivision w'as applied
in honor of Gen. Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States,
who was born in South Carolina March 15, 1767. In 1788 he began the prac-
tice of law' at Nashville, Tenn. Eight years later he became that State’s sole
representative in Congress, and one year afterward entered the Senate. Mas
in turn judge of the Supreme Court of Tennessee, major general in the United
States army, commander of the American forces at the decisive triumph of
New' Orleans, governor of Florida, unsuccessful candidate for the presidency
in 1824, elected President in 1828, re-elected in 1832, and died June 8, 1845.
Jackson Township is one of the best agricultural districts in the county.
Its surface is level, and its soil fertile. There are rich deposits of coal and
minerals in the ground. Grains and fruits are grow'n with much success.
Peaches, pears, plums and apples flourish in rich profusion, while in the cereal
line no township in the county surpasses it in the quality of the wheat and
corn which it produces. The sole drainage is afforded by Mill Creek, which
enters the limits of the township near the northeastern corner, flows in a diag-
onal course through the center down to the southwestern corner, whence it
departs to form a junction with Otter Creek at Mercer. Cool Spring Creek also
flows through a very small portion of the township, and discharges its waters
into Mill Creek near the point where the latter intersects the township line.
Pioneers. — The early history of this township is so nearly identified with
that of the old original division. Cool Spring, that any attempt to form a sep-
aration of narratives will necessarily involve much repetition. The first set-
tlement made here was unquestionably that of the Zahniser family, but their
movements are more particularly traced in the pages devoted to Lake Township.
At the time of the arrival of the Zahnisers, or within a year or two. the
neighbors, within a radius of five miles, were Peter Wilson, William Wilson,
Charles McBride, Thomas McBride, John McMillan, William Parker, Alexan-
der Turner, John McDonald, George Myers, James Rice, Joseph Alexander,
Thomas McClain, Francis Huey, Andrew and Robert McClure, Thomas and
Jabez Coulson, William McMillan, Thomas McMillan and Benjamin Stokely.
The two McBrides came into the county at the same time. Charles re-
moved to the West about 1814. Thomas died about 1830. His son. Arch.
McBride, now lives near Sandy Lake. John McMillan was Scotch-Irish.
He was a worthy citizen. His cousin Thomas was a bachelor, and built a
hotel in which his brother William accommodated some of the attendants at
the first courts held in Mercer County. The farm is now owned by John
McEwen. William McMillan was one of the commissioners who laid out the
town of Mercer. He and Thomas were both Revolutionary soldiers. William
drew a pension.
George Myers was a Hessian, and taken prisoner at Yorktown, never return-
ing to Europe. He died in 1830, aged eighty years.
James Rice had a large family. His sons were Clement, James, Thomas,
Patrick and John. All have sold out and removed from the county.
542
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
For an account of Joseph Alexander, see Cool Spring Township.
Thomas McClain had four children, John, Abijah, Anna and Julia. The
last, married to Mr. Law, is still living in Venango County. Mr. McClain
died about 1812, and his widow married Asa Arnold.
Francis Huey died about 1842, aged about seventy-five. His sons, John
and David, are still living, unmarried, and occupy the homestead.
For an account of the McClures, Stokelys, Coulsons, etc. , see Cool Spring
and Lake Townships.
William Wilson settled in what is now Jackson Township in 1797, a por-
tion of the farm being now occupied by a grandson, also named William
Wilson. The original William Wilson had a number of children, of whom
the following were the elder ones: John, Samuel, William, Betsej'^ and Rebecca.
Of these children, William was a soldier in the War of 1812. His wife was
Ellen Dawson, by whom he had nine children, some of whom are still living.
Peter Wilson, a veteran of the Revolutionary War, arrived in what is now
Jackson Township as early as 1797. He secured a homestead, or settler’s
“right,” as it was popularly called, from a man named Spencer, and settled
on the farm owned many years later by James Dougherty. Wilson was a
native of Ireland, who had emigrated from the country that gave him birth as
early as 1775, taking up his residence in what is now Allegheny County. He
quickly espoused the cause of freedom, and after serving with credit in the
hard campaigns of the closing years of that great struggle, returned to his
Allegheny home. Becoming impressed with a desire to secure a better home
in the Northwest, he, in company with his wife and two children, George and
James, removed to Mercer County. The tract which he secured from Spencer
comprised 200 acres of fine land, beautifully located and well adapted to the
purposes of agriculture. But somehow it was not in all respects satisfactory
to its owner, for we find that in 1799 he traded it to a man by the name of
Littleford, and removed to Worth Township, where he died about 1835.
Some of his descendants are still living in Worth and Jackson Townships. His
brother William came at the same time, and lived until 1825. His direct
descendants are gone. Littleford occupied it until 1812, when he, too, aban-
doned it and left the county. On the 1st of May, 1797, John Pew, accom-
panied by his wife and four children, arrived from Washington County and
settled a short distance from the present town of Mercer. Seven years later
they removed to the portion of Cool Spring Township which subsequently
formed Jackson, and took residence on a 200-acre tract. The land on which
this settlement was made is yet in the possession of the family, having been
occupied by the son Samuel, who was so closely allied to all the public enter-
prises and popular movements of the township until he died, in the winter
of 1887. As early as 1798 William Parker made a settlement on the place
afterward occupied for many years by Col. Thomas Hosack. Alexander
Turner, a native of Ireland, entered Mercer County in 1800, and took up his
abode in Jackson Township, on the farm afterward owned by Fi'ank Vernon,
where he continued to reside for quite a period of time. Among the other
early settlers the names of John Todd, Charles McBride, Henry Glancey,
George Wharton and John Armstrong are found.
Indians. — In the early times Indians were very abundant. There were
three principal villages in the county, the chief one of which, consisting,
according to best accounts, of seventy lodges, was located at what is now
Mercer. The other two were, one at Big Bend, and the other at ‘ ‘ Pine
Swamp, ’ ’ in this township. The forests in the vicinity of the places named
abounded in all kinds of game, and afforded excellent opportunity for hunt-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
543
ing. The creeks, too, were well stocked with fish, and attracted the angling
savages in great number during the spring and summer months. Altogether,
the county was then a favorite Indian haunt. As a result of this early occu-
pation by the copper- colored race, many wild traditions remain concerning
their peculiarities. That these are, in many instances, purely mythical no
one will deny. But running through them all is a thread of truth, from
which is gathered the fact that many of the noble qualities which have been
ascribed to the savages were not at all characteristic of them. They were, in
the main, a lazy, worthless set, and as such were nearly always regarded by
the whites.
An instance illustrating this fact is given. The chief of the Indian village
at Mercer was an old fellow named Petty. He had a son-in-law named Har-
thegig, who was a drunken sot that was disliked by his own race as heartily as
he was detested by the whites. While the Pew family was living near Mercer,
an acquaintance sprang up between its members and the Indian chief. As a
result friendly relations were at once established between the entire village of
red men and the whites. One morning as Samuel Pew, then a mere boy, was
sitting by the fireside, “toasting his shins,” as he expressed it, Harthegig
and two companions entered the cabin door. No attention was paid to them
until the former, who was pretty well under the influence of liquor, advanced
to the boy, seized him by the hair, lifted his hunting knife in a menacing
manner and threatened to scalp him. The household was alarmed by these
actions, and a hunter named James Jeffers, who was present, and who bore an
implacable resentment toward all the Indian race, on account of a loss he
had sustained from its hands, leaped forward, grappled with the savage, dis-
armed him and kicked him out the door. Nothing further was heard of him
that day. On the following, however, he was observed to pass the house, fol-
lowed shortly afterward by Jeffers, fully armed, who inquired the direction he
had taken. Upon being told, Jeffers plunged into the forest, and returned in
a few hours with a seemingly pleased expression on his countenance. He
never related what had happened, but Harthegig was never seen more, and
a skeleton found in the woods several years afterward was identified as that of
the savage, whom Jeffers had doubtless killed. It is a significant fact,
though, that no one, not even the Indians themselves, took any offense at
the act.
Early Mills. — The first mill established in the township was one erected
on his own farm, in 1799, by Peter Wilson. It was an undershot grist-mill,
and its apparatus was simplicity itself, consisting merely of two flinty boulders,
smoothed down by being rubbed together, and a cheap sieve for a bolter.
There was much trouble had with this imperfect machinery, as small pieces of
stone were constantly scaling off and mixing with the meal. This mill passed
into the possession of Littleford, upon his securing the Wilson farm. He
conducted it for a series of twelve years, and finally abandoned it. William
Parker claims the honor of establishing the second. This, too, was a grist-
mill, and was located a short distance west of Jackson Centre. Its machinery
was, at start, nearly as simple as that of Wilson’s mill, a hand-sieve serving
as bolter for a number of years. But in time a pair of French burrs was
secured and placed in operation, and the result was eminently satisfactory.
In 1817 Thomas Hosack erected one on his farm, and conducted it until his
death. In addition to these were numerous saw-mills, some stationary, some
itinerant, all of which, though, serving good purposes. An extended account
of these is deemed unnecessary.
Jackson Centre. — The site whereon the village of Jackson Centre stands
544
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
was owned by Eben Turner, who located there in 1835-36. When he erected
his house a controversy arose as to the name of the prospective town. It was
finally agreed to leave it to the judgment of the first man coming along the
road. He called it “ Shandaggan,” a name which the place bore for a long
time. AVhen the post-office was established it was called Satterfield, in honor
of Eev. James Satterfield. The first grocery store was kept by Elliott Davis,
and the first general store by M. L. Zahniser and his father. The first black-
smith shop was operated by John Gill, and the first shoeshop by Samuel
Turner. Jackson Centre was surveyed February 28, 1882, by S. B. Stephen-
son, Esq., of Mercer. The petition for incorporation, based upon the plat
submitted by Mr. Stephenson, was signed by Johnson Graham, Thomas
Clark, A. P. Jones, John Infield, W. J. Gill, C. R. Heasley, W. C. Turner,
AV. J. Graham and others. The petition was referred to the grand jury
March 8, 1882, and the same day recommended to be granted. On the 5th of
June, 1882, the court granted the decree, appointing Johnson Graham judge,
and A. M. De France and L. L. Milner to be inspectors of the first election,
held June 27. The village is a thriving place, and has a flouring-mill run
by water power, the property of J. R. Dight; several dry goods stores, two
hotels, kept by John Infield and John Gill, respectively, both of which have
butcher shops connected with them; a stock breeders’ association, one furniture
store, one drug store and other business interests.
Churches. — Cumberland Presbyterian Church was organized about 1841.
The first edifice was a frame structure 35x40. It answered the demands of the
church until 1808, when, during the pastorate of Eev. J. M. Gallagher, some-
thing needed to be done to secui’e a more suitable place. It was first proposed
to repair the old structure at this point. Dr. A. G. Egbert, now of Franklin,
a native of AVorth Township, offered to donate |3, 000 toward the erection of
a new building. His suggestion was accepted, and a brick structure, costing
$8,000, took the place of the old one. Dr. E. K. Squires, of Pittsburgh, assisted
at the dedication ceremonies, at which time considerable money was raised, but
not enough to liquidate the indebtedness. Dr. Egbert finally suggested that
he would make up the deficit, which was about $2,000. His contribution to the
$8,000 structure was about $5,000. Among the preachers in charge of this con-
gregation have been Revs. Jacob Murphy, Carle Moore, Jacob F. AVaugh,
J. A. Bowman, A. M. Blackford, J. M. Gallagher and J. M. Norris. In 1876
quite a colony went out and formed a congregation in Lake Township, whose
sketch is found elsewhere [see Bethany Church]. The Jackson Centre con-
gregation is represented as being in a healthy condition.
Cottage Methodist Episcopal Church was organized before 1856, by Rev. Dil-
lon Pearson, in what was known as Cape-Horn School-house. The original mem-
bers were George Jones and wife. John AA^ebb and wife, Mrs. Doratha Pete,
Mary Black, Rev. Robert Boyd and John Dight and wife. The following summer
a small church edifice was constructed, costing about $300. It was subsequently
sold to John AATlson for a dwelling, and on the same site, two miles west of Jack-
son Centre, on the Franklin and Mercer road, in 1870, a fine frame building
was erected, costing $2,000. Rev. McGill was probably the first regular pas-
tor. The present minister is Nathaniel Morris, and the membership is 100. A
Sabbath-school is kept up, with William Pew as superintendent.
Societies. — Jackson Centre Lodge No. 171, I. O. O. F., was instituted on
the 30th of June, 1871, and is still in existence. In the summer of 1876 a
Grange organization was organized, but, like its associates, has long since
ceased to exist.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
545
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP.
The formation of Jefferson into a separate organization was effected April
4, 1850, at which time the court confirmed the report of three viewers, J. F.
Satterfield, John Forker and John Findley, appointed agreeable to a petition
presented May 16, 1849, praying for a division of Delaware Township, in order
to facilitate the collection of taxes and to render elections easier. The new
subdivision was given its present name in honor of that illustrious patriot and
memorable statesman, Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States.
He was born in Virginia in 1793; in 1709, after practicing law for a number of
years, became a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses; in 1773 was ap-
pointed delegate to the first Continental Congress; in 1775 took his seat in the
Congress, was appointed chairman of the committee that drew up the Declara-
tion of Independence, and was largely instrumental in framing that document;
in 1779 became governor of Virginia; in 1785 became Minister to France; on
returning became Washington’s Secretary of State; in 1797 became Vice-
President; in 1800 was elected President, and re-elected in 1804; retired to
private life in 1809, and died in 1826.
The surface of the township is generally rolling. Agriculturally speaking,
some of the finest farm lands to be found in the county are visible in the val-
leys of Jefferson Township. The soil is very fertile and productive, and the
crops, unless impaired by outside agencies, are nearly always abundant. The
drainage is furnished principally by the Shenango River, which thrusts itself
into the limits of the township by means of a sharp, long bend, which has been
given the suggestive title, ‘ ‘Big Bend of the Shenango. ’ ’ In addition to this
large water course are numerous smaller ones, chiefly tributary to the former,
of which the most important is Lackawannock Creek. Altogether the surface
is as well drained as that of any other township in the county.
Pioneers. — There is a dispute as to who was the flrst actual settler of the
township. The facts presented in support of each contestant’s claim seem to
establish that an error is made on one side or the other. In the year 1798, accord-
ing to the best authenticated accounts, Robert McDonald, Sr. , settled upon
the boundary line dividing Cool Spring and what is now Jefferson Township, he
having entered the county an emigrant from Washington County, Penn. On the
farm which he thus occupied he erected a log cabin. This, the first one in
the vicinity, was located within the limits of the present township of Jefferson,
and was, consequently, the first cabin in it. In this rude shelter his son Rob-
ert was born on October 29, 1800, according to records which cannot be
questioned. The other claimant to the honor of having been the first settler of
the township was one John Mitchell, who located at a date nearly as early, on
what is now the Greenville and Mercer road, about four miles from the
latter place. Here he also effected a clearing, built a cabin, and began
the struggles of a pioneer life. It would be a waste of energy to speculate upon
the probable priority of either of these. It is enough to know that both at an
early date braved the perils of their new surroundings, and manfully began the
work which was to be, in later years, the foundations of a vigorous civilization
and a healthy prosperity.
Among the other early pioneers might be mentioned Robert Fruit, who, in
the year 1811, was living a short distance northwest of Pearson’s mill, upon
donation lot 210, 4th district; his brother, Thomas, a new-comer from North-
umberland County, who settled about the same time on a tract of adjoining
land; William Bagnall, who occupied the farm on which he is at present liv-
ing early in 1828, at which time very few settlements had yet been made, and
William Boyd, also an early resident of the region in question.
546
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
It is singular that Jefferson Township should be behind its neighbors in
point of settlement, but it is a significant fact that such is the case. As late
as 1830 comparatively few settlements had been made.
Early Mills. — The most important industry that could be developed in a
primitive community, next to the necessary efforts at clearing and securing
sheltering homes, was the milling industry. Upon this so much depended
that, next to his house, the early settler looked first to his mill, or to the mill
at which he expected to trade. A mill in the vicinity, within reasonably
easy access, was absolutely indispensable to him, and the erection of such a
necessity was one of the foremost projects of his mind. The first mill located
within the limits of the territory now under discussion was that belonging to
a man named Pearson, which was built in 1816, upon the bank of Lackawan-
nock Creek. It comjarised both a grist and a saw-mill, and thus served a
double purpose. The advantages which this enterprise bestowed induced Dr.
Evans, an old physician living in the neighborhood, to build a rival, which he
did, locating it further down the same stream. The Evans mill was exclusively
a saw mill, and its apparatus consisted of a single upright saw, run by the
motor power furnished by a large wooden water-wheel. A fulling and carding
mill was established some time later. This is yet in operation, under the
management of the Broadbents. A third saw- mill was erected several years
later by James McFarland. It has long since become obsolete, as have also
its two competitors. The Clay furnace, so famous in the industrial history of
the county, is treated of elsewhere.
Villages. — In June, 1808, Joseph Morrison surveyed and laid out a town
at the Big Bend, consisting of 245 lots and spacious streets. It was projected
on an extensive plan, and was expected to become the seat of justice of the
county. This prospective capital and metropolis, which “died a bornin,”
was christened Shenango. Its complete history will be found in the annals of
unrealized expectations.
The chief village of the township is Charleston. This was laid off in the
winter of 1838, by Henry Campbell. The first purchaser of the lots, which
were sold for $25 each, was Charles Beatty, who was given the honor of nam-
ing the new town. He called it “Charleston.” The postmasters of the place,
which became a post-office in 1858, are given in the list of postmasters in
Chapter V. The village sustains one store, kept by David Beil, and a har-
ness-shop by Samuel Hunter, and is at present in a fairly healthy vitality for
an inland country town.
Churches. — All Saints’ Catholic Church, in Jefferson Township, about three
miles from Mercer, to the left of the road leading to Greenville, was organized
about 1838. At that time its principal members were John and Ellen Jen-
nings, William Jennings, Richard Jennings, Patrick McCloskey (a pioneer of
1796), William Kane, William McKeever, John Griffin, Patrick Griffin,
Thomas Connolly, Daniel O’Connor, John Donahoe and others, some of whom
were among the first settlers of the county. The same year a small frame
church edifice was erected on land donated by one of the Jennings family. It
was used, likewise, for school purposes. James Hanavan, one of the pioneer
teachers of the county, and a resident at present of Sharon, taught there as early
as 1843. This building, having undergone suitable enlargements and improve-
ments in 1855, answered the purposes of the congregation for thirty years more.
In 1885 the present structure was erected at a cost of $12,000. It is a com-
modious, ornamental and substantial brick structure, in harmony with the most
improved notions of church architecture. It, with the extensive grounds sur-
rounding, constitutes a valuable property. The congregation has grown to be
N . ' ih., %
t-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
549
a large and influential one in the community. It has been ministered to by
Revs. Hugh Gallagher, John Reed, M. J. Mitchell, C. M. Sheehan, Father
Creeden, Arthur McConnell, J. J. Gallagher, Patrick C. McGrath, William
Pugh, Peter Brady, John Donnelly and J. H. McAdam, the last being the
present pastor. All Saints is the pioneer Catholic congregation of the county,
and is in quite a flourishing condition. The present pastor has accomplished
a great deal since taking charge.
The Methodist Episcopal Church at Charleston was built in 1850, on land
given to the society by Henry Campbell. William Glindwell was the con-
tractor. The society had been organized in 1840, with only eight or ten mem-
bers, under the leadership of William Miller. He was succeeded by James
Murdock, John Henderson, John Pierce, James Anderson, Henry Jennings,
John Henderson, Jr., B. Hughes and Jacob Zahniser. A hewed log house of
humble pretensions was erected about the time of organization. The congre-
gation is in good condition and has a comfortable house of worship. -
The Big Bend Methodist Episcopal Church was erected in the autumn of
1867, Mr. Z. Hancock furnishing the site. The building, a plain one of mod-
est pretensions, 35x50, is the first one, the early preaching having been done
at school-houses and private dwellings. Rev. L. L. Lewis was the first preacher
after the erection of the present house.
The Free Methodist Church was organized in 1881, at what is known as
“ Jefferson Hall, ” by Rev. Jeremiah Barnhart. The pastor of the congrega-
tion, numbering twenty-two, is William Rupe, and the trustees of the same are
Henry Davis and Cornelius Shaffer.
LACKAWANNOCK TOWNSHIP.
This township, as it was originally known, was formed in 1805. It con-
tinued without alteration until 1846, when New Wilmington Township, as it
was then called, was detached. In 1848 a petition was received in court asking
that another division be made. Accordingly Maj. Thomas Graham and Gen.
Thomas S. Cunningham were appointed viewers, with authority to divide the
township and determine the boundary. They reported in favor of a division,
and fixed the line of separation as the Little Neshannock Creek. This action
was confirmed August 17, 1849, and the portion situated on the west side of
the line of division has retained the original title.
The origin of the name “ Lackawannock ” is supposed to be two-fold.
The French word, lac, means in English, lake, while the latter part, Wan-
nock is believed to have been the title of an early Indian chief, who settled
many years ago beside the bank of the lake situated in the northern part of
East Lackawannock Township. Nothing definite has ever been found con-
cerning this chieftain, and were it not for the fact that some theory is required
to account for the name, his very existence would doubtless be considered
mythical.
The township is rich in mineral and coal deposits. Underlying the sur-
face are rich veins of coal. The soil above is especially fertile, and in places
cannot be surpassed by that of any other section of the county. The sur-
face is comparatively well broken, and hills rise up from adjacent valleys,
forming marked contrasts. The drainage is not especially good, although
amply sufficient. The principal stream is the Little Neshannock, which rises
in the township of Jefferson, and flows in an almost direct southern course
along the eastern border, whose boundary line it forms. The small branches
that shoot out from the parent stream into the farm lands lying along the west-
ern bank form the chief network in the drainage system of Lackawannock
Township.
3 I
550
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Early Settlers. — As usual in nearly all of the localities of the county, the
date at which the first settlers arrived is so involved in obscurity that rival
claimants have waged contest for recognition as the real pioneer. The prior-
ity of each of these was established clearly in his own mind, and is now
emphatically believed by his adherents. The two who thus lay claim to this honor
in the township under treatment are James Young and Nathaniel Cozad. The
best evidence at hand goes to demonstrate conclusively that each of these
arrived in the region in the year 1798.
There is a tradition to the effect that even these were not the first settlers.
Nearly two years previous a settler, whose name has never been ascertained,
arrived from Washington County and began a clearing on what afterward be-
came the Yarion place. Here he remained a short time, planted the first
peach- seeds ever sown in the county, became discouraged, abandoned his cabin
and left the vicinity. On his journey out from the township, the story relates
that he sold the information he possessed about the territory, and also the fact
of his settlement, to Cozad for $1. The latter made practical use of this,
and was thus enabled to enter the region of his future home with some
knowledge of its desirability. The Yarion place is located in the northeast-
ern part of the township, and was surveyed for a man named Isaac Johnston,
May 20, 1795, in pursuance of a warrant bearing date of April 21, 1794.
Of the two who arrived in 1798 more is known. They were both natives
of New Jersey, and both came to Mercer from Washington County. , Cozad,
according to reports, was a man of wonderful resources. He possessed an in-
domitable will and an invincible determination. This, coupled with the fact
that his physical strength was fully equal to his industry and energy, made
him vastly superior to the average pioneer. An instance of this fact is given.
He came to the county in great poverty. As his sole possessions, besides a few
household articles of prime necessity, he brought with him nothing but
an ax and a grubbing-hoe. With these he undertook to complete a clearing
and effect the erection of a suitable home. Not one man in a score would
have ventured upon such an arduous task without better preparation. But
Cozad was not an ordinary man. He succeeded, after labors which can better
be imagined than described, in completing both tasks, and did this, too, with
no other assistance. It is related that Youog at one time made a covert allu-
sion to his poverty, and said, rather lightly, that he (Cozad) ‘ ‘ need not expect
to succeed with such utensils as those, ’ ’ pointing to the hoe and ax. But the
following spring Young himself was forced to resort to his less wealthy neigh-
bor for seed-grain, his own crops having failed. In common with his fellow-
settlers, Cozad experienced much difficulty in getting supplies for his family.
In 1799 he left on an overland journey to Pittsburgh, proposing to bring back
with him some few necessaries of life. Owing to rains and unexpected delays
his return was not made within the time he had set for the completion of his
trip. His family, who were awaiting him expectantly, soon exhausted the
meager store of provisions which they possessed. Without means of replen-
ishing the empty larder, they were in time forced by sheer ];iunger to dig
up a patch of green potatoes, which had not attained a size larger than that
of hazel-nuts, and upon which they subsisted. But even these did not hold
out. At last, as an extreme resort, the agonized mother, followed by the half-
famished children, set off for Young’s house, several miles distant, resolving to
throw herself upon his charity. While on the way she fainted several times
from exhaustion. But fortunately she was enabled to reach her destination
safely, and soon recovered.
James Gilkey was among the early settlers of Mercer County. About
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
551
1798-99 he settled near Wilmington. He was one of the pioneer surveyors of
the county. He was the father of nine children, six of whom are living in
Mercer and adjoining counties. It was he who first developed the celebrated
Neshannock potato, also called the “Mercer” and the “ Gilkey. ”
Archibald Rankin, a native of Ireland, settled in 1798-99 near Charles-
ton, in Mercer County, where he died a few years after his settlement. His
descendants are now residing in various portions of the county.
Matthew Dawson, a native of Washington County, settled in Lackawan-
nock Township early in the present century. He was a soldier of 1812, and
held a commission as captain. He was the father of a large family. He died
in 1863.
Among the other early settlers might be mentioned the names of two
brothers, Robert and James Hawthorne, who settled about the year 1800 on
the land afterward owned by John Young. Their first place of abode, .accord-
ing to a story yet related, was the trunk of a hollow tree. David Hunter was
also an early pioneer, arriving as early as 1805, at which time he began a clear-
ing on the place afterward owned by his son William. William Gordon entered
the township near the same time, and located on the farm afterward in the
possession of his descendants. Many others came to the region during the
first quarter of the present century, and although they may be fairly termed
early settlers, their arrival and subsequent experiences were not sufficiently
uncommon as to need further mention.
Two things were very usual sights to the early settlers — Indians and wild
game. Both were tolerably abundant. Mercer County can never lay claim
to being the theater of many Indian adventures, but she may reasonably feel
distinguished on account of the game, especially deer, bear, wild turkey and
smaller animals, that abounded in her primitive forests. Among the names of
the savages who were prominent in Lackawannock Township may be mentioned
Mohawk, Flynn and Kindoshawa.
Greenfield is the most important village in the township. The ground
upon which it now stands was cleared in 1820 by Archelas Wilson, prominent
in the early political history of the county. He erected a log cabin on his
new farm, and thus became the veritable pioneer of the hamlet.
Unity Church of Greenfield. In the spring of 1832 a plat of ground was
procured from William Jewell, sufficient for a church, burying ground and
out-ground. A petition was prepared by the Presbyterian friends, and pre-
sented to the presbytery of Hartford when it convened in session at New
Castle, June 26, 1832, by James Marquis. It contained fifty-four names,
asking for a church organization. The petition was acted upon the next day,
with the following result: Resolved, that the prayers of the petitioners be
granted, and that they be constituted a congregation to be denominated Unity.”
In the meantime a house of worship had been erected, and occasional services
held. On August 27 the congregation assembled for organization. Rev.
James Satterfield preached a sermon, and thirty-four persons were enrolled as
members of the church, viz. : Joseph Porter, Nancy Coyle, John and Rachel
Hawthorn, William and Esther Jewell, Hannah Shaffer, William, Margaret
and Robert B. Young, Isabel, Robert, Martha, John and Jane Coyle, James
and Mary Marquis, David and Elizabeth Jackson, Nathaniel and Jane Cozad,
Margaret Graham, Rebecca Campbell, Isabella Porter, William, Agnes,
Samuel and Miss Agnes Gordon, George and Margaret Blackstone, Davis and
Mary Pollock and Esther Jewell. William Young, James Marquis and
Matthias Zahniser were elected and ordained the first elders.
In the summer of 1837 a new house, 36x50, was erected on land secured
552
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
from Jolin Wilson, on the road leading from Mercer to West Middlesex, about
midway between the two places. During 1838 Samuel Marquis, Francis
Scott, David Jackson, Benjamin Vanatta and Robert McClelland were elected
and ordained deacons. In June, 1853, the congregation decided to erect a
new house, 41x56, on the south side of the road. It was dedicated December
18, 1853, the cost being $1,474.12. Rev. James Satterfield was the first
pastor, and remained several years. Rev. Samuel A. McClain was pastor
from 1838 to 1841.
LAKE TOWNSHIP.
This township, originally a portion of the old Cool Spring Township, was
formed by the division of September 21, 1850, which separated the old organi-
zation into the new ones of Lake, Jackson, Fairview and Cool Spring. The
alteration was accomplished with a view toward facilitating the collection of
taxes, and also to secure more convenient elections. The petition for the for-
mation of the new township was presented in court at April sessions, 1850.
David Findley, W. J. Hunter and J. P. Garrett were elected as commissioners.
Their work was accomplished so satisfactorily that the report which they pre-
sented was confirmed on the date given above, September 21, thus insuring to
the inhabitants of the new subdivisions the advantages for which they peti-
tioned.
Lake Township derives its name from the presence of a large body of water,
known as Sandy Lake, which lies within its bounds. It is a singular fact
that the names of both the parent township and the new one were each sug-
gestive of water — Cool Spring, from whose cool recesses bubbled forth a
bounteous supply of the clear, refreshing liquid, and Lake, in whose confines
the aggregated volume of the spring’s discharge might find a final lodgment.
The surface of this township is very greatly diversified. There is perhaps
no part of the county where the ruggedness of the contour is so marked. Hills
shoot abruptly up, and give way as abruptly to precipitous valleys. This of
course is merely in miniature. But the contrasts are just as sharp as they
would be were the hills mountains, and the valleys veritable ravines. There are
portions, however, where the surface is comparatively rolling, while others
yet manifest the characteristics of small table-lands. The soil is likewise vari-
egated. In places it is barren and sterile, elsewhere there are streaks of rich
loam, while in other portions of the township nothing but the ordinary soil is
found. Taken all in all. Lake Township cannot be classed among the best
agricultural townships in the county. Its wealth consists almost wholly in
the rich measures of underlying coal and other deposits, the mining of which
comprises by far its most important industry. The richness of these deposits
is visibly manifested in the vicinity of Stoneboro, a borough which has sprung
up almost like magic on account of the coal interests centered in it. Apart
from the coal there are strata of good building stone. In the matter of drain-
age the township is notably deficient. With the exception of the lake, which
acts as a sort of general reservoir for all water -fall in the vicinity of its shores,
and an insignificant branch of Mill Creek, which traverses a portion of the south-
eastern corner, there is really no system of natural drainage within the borders.
This, however, does not act disadvantageously, as will be evidenced by the
fact that there is no more marsh land in Lake than in many of its better
drained competitors.
Pioneers. — The year 1796 and the fore part of the month of April, wit-
nessed the arrival of the first settler. His name was Matthias Zahniser. He
was of German birth, and removed to this country in 1751, locating in Lancas-
ter County, Penn. , the county that furnished Mercer County with so many of her
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
553
earliest settlers. While living here he became acquainted with, and eventually-
married, Miss Mary Lint, by whom he had thirteen children, eleven boys and
two girls. In 1789 he changed his residence from Lancaster to Allegheny^
County. Becoming favorably impressed with the accounts he had heard con-
cerning the region known now as Mercer County, he resolved to penetrate still
further toward the great Northwest, and accordingly started on his long and
wearisome journey in search of a new home, accompanied by his wife and
children. He arrived in what is now Lake Township at an auspicious time.
The ground was covered with beautiful wild flowers, while the forest trees,
just peeping forth in their new drapery of green foliage, resounded with the glad
carolings of birds. On every hand the evidences of a renewed life inspired the
most sanguine expectations. Reaching the spot which many years afterward be-
came the farm of James Zahniser,he determined to locate. This he did, and began
at once active preparations toward securing for himself and family a comfortable
abode. It is related that on this journey the new-comers, packing their goods
and making difficult way through the almost unknown wilderness, were met
by Thomas McMillan at a place called Indian Springs. The party at once
placed themselves under his guidance, and, by the aid of a small pocket com-
pass which he carried, were enabled to reach their destination in safety. Had
it not been for this timely assistance, they would in all probability have en-
countered more trouble than they did, owing to their unfamiliarity with the
country through which they were traveling.
There w'ere a number of settlers scattered throughout the territory into
which the Zahnisers penetrated. But the winter of 1796 was an unusually
severe one. Heavy snows fell, and an unprecedented frost early in the fall
warned the inhabitants that their position in the new country was an exceed-
ingly perilous one. Accordingly nearly everybody made preparations to leave,
and at length did depart back to the more populous coimties south of
them. So far as is known but two families remained during that winter
in what afterward became Cool Spring Township. These were the families
of Benjamin Stokely and Matthias Zahniser. Strictly speaking, however,
the latter’s household did not remain intact. All but three returned to
their former home. But these three, consisting of the father and his
two sons, Michael and John, resolved to brave the winter’s storms and cold.
They had with them five head of cattle. These suffered terribly from hunger
and cold, but by the strenuous efforts of their owners were kept alive. The
food which was available for the cattle’s consumption consisted of the leaves
and tender branches of underbrush and small trees, which were uncovered
from the snow. The men had succeeded during the summer in raising some
potatoes, pumpkins and turnips. They had not, however, had opportunity to
remove these from the ground before the advent of cold weather, and, as a
result, their food comprised frozen potatoes and pumpkin mush. Even this
scanty store was rendered unfit for use before the season was over, for a big
thaw occurred, which softened the vegetables, after which they again froze
solid, thus making them totally valueless for human diet. But by incredible
suffering and perseverance the winter was endured. The return of spring
brought back the remaining members of the family. Clearings were continued,
a better house was erected, and preparations for a continuous sojourn made.
By the coming of the second winter the pioneers were in such a situation that
they could view its approach with much less apprehension. Their second
year was passed under much more favorable circumstances. It was not long
until their condition became comparatively comfortable.
During the spring of 1797 another pioneer arrived. This was Francis
554
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Drane, who settled upon what is latterly known as the Love farm, his tract
consisting of 150 acres. Here he began a clearing, and in time succeeded in
erecting a cabin. It is said that in the same year of his arrival he sowed an
acre with wheat, claimed to have been the first wheat sown in the township.
The same year witnessed the coming of Daniel Harper, an old veteran of
the Revolution. He located upon the tract of land many years subsequently
known as the Williamson place. He was, it is related, a very peculiar man in
many respects, being in particular a devout Baptist. The subject of religion
was to him one of deep, immediate interest. Harper’s house, which in later
years was used as a sort of improvised tavern, was known far and wide as the
Baptist headquarters, from the frequency with which the ministers of that de-
nomination assembled in it. It appears, however, that even the devoutness of
Harper did not operate to render him tenacious of his theological views, for he
afterward became as firm a Presbyterian as he had been a Baptist. But even
the subtleties of Calvinism did not suffice to chain his faith, for his last years
were spent in the folds of the Methodist Church.
Robert McClure, a native of Ireland, came to Mercer County in 1797 or
’ 98, locating on a tract of land in what is now Lake Township, where he re-
sided until his death. Pie was a soldier in the War of 1812. His descendants
are still occupying the old homestead.
In 1800 arrived William McCauley, who settled near the present site of
Stoneboro, and Andrew McClure, from Washington County, Penn., and a
brother of Robert. He took up 150 acres of land near what is now known
as Coulson Station, and began clearing off the timber. Both he and Rob-
ert became prominent in the local affairs of the township. Among other*
early settlers might be mentioned Robert Hamilton, who settled on land after-
ward owned by V. B. Coulson in 1802; John and James Rice, two brothers,
whose land was located not far from Hamilton’s, and who arrived in the town-
ship about the year 1803, and Richard McClure, who settled on another part
of Coulson’ s farm in 1814. There may have been others of considerable prom-
inence— doubtless there were; but the insufficiency of preserved records ren-
ders any treatment of them impossible. One thing is especially noticeable in
Lake Township’ s history — it is so blended with that of the parent organiza-
tion, Cool Spring, that nearly every attempt to separate the two is met with
confusion.
The early accounts of game are very numerous. From these it appears
that many varieties existed in the region in great profusion. Deer and wild
turkey are known to have been abundant. An occasional bear was seen in
early days, and also upon one or two occasions a panther. Smaller animals,
however, such as squirrels, foxes, raccoons, etc. , were quite numerous. Nearly
every pioneer was an ardent disciple of Nimrod, and indeed in more ways than
one imitated that mighty hunter.
There was, so far as is known, but one mill within the bounds of Lake
Township. That was a saw-mill erected in 1815 by Richard McClure. The
machinery consisted, as nearly all of the primitive mills did, of a single upright
saw, the motor power for which was supplied by a large water wheel. It was
located on the bank of the Little Run, a short distance below Coulson Station.
Churches. — A Methodist Episcopal Church was built in 1868, a short dis-
tance west of Coulson Station, on the Western, New York & Pennsylvania Rail-
road. The structure erected for the accommodation of these zealous followers
of John Wesley is a neat one. Rev. Milton was their first pastor. Since
then the congregation has been under the care of the different preachers
which the itinerant system of Methodism provides for its membership.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY,
556
The Bethany congregation of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church was or-
ganized April 1, 1876, in Lake Township, by Rev. J. M. Gallagher, with seventy
members. The present membership is about 140. The house of worship used is
a frame structure that was erected in 1859 at a cost of $1,000. The first ses-
sion consisted of John Kemm, David Zahniser, Daniel McClure, William
McKay and F. M. Fleming. Since that time Thomas Kemm, John Zahniser
and James S. Palmer have been chosen. The congregation is out of debt,
and therefore enjoying peace and prosperity. It has regular preaching by its
first and only pastor.
LIBEETY TOWNSHIP.
This township, forming the extreme southeastern corner of the county,
was carved out of Wolf Creek, February 17, 1851. The surface of Liberty
is considerably varied, at places being level, elsewhere rolling, and again
broken. The scenery is particularly pleasing and picturesque. The town-
ship is not especially rich in mineral wealth, but is rather an agricultural cen-
ter. The soil is fertile, and well adapted to the purposes of farming. Coal,
however, is mined in several places, and is of a very fair quality, the chief
impediment to the development of a large mining industry being the fact
that the coal strata are somewhat thin. Gas is also found, the first gas and
oil well in the county having been put down on the farm of James George.
In the matter of drainage Liberty Township excels. The ample means sup-
plied by Wolf Creek and its numerous small tributaries have long since ren-
dered the drainage advantages of the township famous. In fact, in almost
every respect, the territory lying in this corner of the county compares fav-
orably with any other portion.
Pioneers. — Probably the first settler of what is now Liberty Township,
though this is not an established fact, was William Gill. The date of his
coming is set by some at the year 1797 and by others at 1798. He was an
old Revolutionary veteran, and had suffered on many a battle-field in his devo-
tion to the cause of liberty. It is related that upon one occasion he received
a wound while in an engagement. This wound was so severe that he was
unable to join his companions in their retreat, and was reluctantly abandoned
by them to the British. Suffering as he did from the effects of his disability,
he resolved at all hazards to avoid capture. The enemy’s dragoons were
scouring the forest in which he lay in every direction. He could hear their
movements as they passed by. What should he do? He revolved the question
in his mind for a long time, and was about to give up, when he accidentally
espied a hollow log lying some distance off. He crawled slowly to it, every
action causing sharp pain, and by an almost superhuman exertion succeeded
in concealing himself within it. Scarcely had he done this when a scarleted
trooper dashed forward and began a search for the “rebel.” He had seen
the latter moving. The feelings of Gill may be imagined as he breathlessly
listened to the efforts of his enemy to discover his hiding place. The Briton
carefully went over every spot of ground in the vicinity, passing and repassing
the log where the object of his search anxiously lay. So near did he come
that Gill afterward said that he could have touched the hem of the former’s
coat. At length he gave up in despair, and rode away. Gill lay within the
log twenty-four hours, not daring to venture forth. At the expiration of that
time he came out, and in time, by dint of great exertions, rejoined his com-
pany in safety.
Gill came to Liberty Township from Allegheny County. He settled upon
the farm which was subsequently occupied by David Dale, near Courtney’s mill.
Here he began a clearing and erected a small cabin. By continued effort he at
556
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
length succeeded in getting quite a respectable farm in condition for cultiva-
tion. An old resident relates that at an early day Gill possessed a yoke of
stubborn oxen. One of these was in the habit of lying down in the fur-
row while plowing. To prevent this Gill adopted the plan of throwing a
blanket over its head, thus smothering the animal until it was willing to
arise in order to got fresh air. The sons of Mr. Gill one day took the yoke
and started to plow. The refractory ox, as usual, threw itself down upon the
ground. The boys endeavored to smother it into obedience, but were unable
to do this. They, however, ran to a burning brush pile, secured two or three
burning sticks, and with the flaming points of these speedily roused their
obstinate beast, which thereafter gave them no further trouble.
In the Western Press of April 20, 1833, occurs the following: “Mr. Gill, of
W olf Creek Township, this county, a Revolutionary pensioner, dropped dead from
his feet on Wednesday morning last [17th]. The house of Mr. Gill is a
brick one, with a brick kitchen attached to it. While waking the corpse of Mr.
Gill on the following night, a violent storm arose, which lifted the roof off the
large house and threw it onto the kitchen, which gave way to the immense
weight, thereby instantly killing four ladies, and wounding two or three others,
who were unfortunately in that part of the dwelling at the time. Three of
the ladies were daughters of Mr. Gill.”
Elsewhere in the same issue is the following additional explanation: “ The
account above given of five persons killed is incorrect. The attending physician.
Dr. Beckwith, furnishes the following: ‘ According to the custom of the West, a
large number of persons had assembled to wake the dead, and were occupying
various apartments in the house, while an adjoining kitchen was occupied by
eight females and two males, at the time of the approach of a tremendous
tornado, which broke in one end of the large house (which was made of
brick), and passing through the upper story, carried away the roof and threw
down the other end of the wall upon the kitchen, which was crushed to its
basis, burying its inmates in the ruins, four of whom were crushed to death
without a groan, viz. : Miss J ane Gill, daughter of the deceased, aged about
forty-eight; Miss Eliza JaneBranden, aged sixteen, and Miss Lavina Ritchey,
aged six, granddaughter of the deceased, and Miss Rebecca McElree, aged
about twenty-eight. On these bodies were broken skulls, broken necks, and
broken limbs, together with many shocking contusions. Among the wounded
were Samuel Gill (son of the deceased) and his daughter, a daughter of Sami.
Hugh Gill, Miss Margaret Anderson and Miss Nancy Tannehill, all of whom
were injured to a considerable extent; but Samuel H. Gill and Miss Tannehill
received the most serious injury. ’ ’
The year 1797 brought four additional settlers, in the persons of four
brothers, Abraham, Simon, John and Michael Uber, who arrived from West-
moreland County, and located in the western portion of what is now Liberty
Township. Here they made clearings, planted crops, and after a time set
out orchards, of which some trees were standing as late as a few years ago.
John built the saw- mill, in 1800, by which the lumber used in the construction
of the old court-house at Mercer was sawed.
In 1798 William Dale, a native of Eastern Pennsylvania, arrived in the
township. He was a blacksmith, and signalized his advent by securing a tract
of land numbering two acres, which he cleared and upon which he erected a
small shop. Here he did a general smithing business, and was, in all proba-
bility, the first blacksmith in the county. It is not at all likely that he did
anything at his trade, though, for several years afterward. Among the other
new-comers in the year mentioned above were William Craig, who settled
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
557
upon the farm afterward known as the William Jack place; and Hugh Foster,
an Irishman, who came to this country and located in Franklin County at an
early day, removed from that locality to Westmoreland County, and at
length, in 1798, to Liberty Township, where he settled on a farm situated
just a short distance below the site of the present post-office in North Liberty,
which afterward was occupied by Mrs. Robert Foster. He brought with-
him a wife and live children, two additional daughters being born after his
arrival.
David Courtney and his brother Thomas, both of whom afterward became
prominently identified with the business and political interests of the old Wolf
Creek Township, were among the arrivals of 1802. The present Courtney
mill, which they erected, is located on the original tract which they secured
immediately upon their entrance into the county. The tract consisted of 600
acres of perhaps the finest land in the region, situated in a beautiful stretch
of country, on the bank of Wolf Creek, whose water furnished the motor-
power for the mill. David was the builder of this mill, which was erected in
1803. He had been a miller at his old home in Franklin County, and, upon
viewing the superb facilities afforded by the swift-flowing stream, he became
imbued with a desire to resume his former occupation. The mill was, like
most of its fellows at that early day, a combination affair, uniting in one
establishment the advantages of a saw and a grist-mill.
Of those who came into the township in a few years afterward, the
most prominent were James George, John McKee and Daniel Stewart. Of
these the former was a native of Ireland, who immigrated to America in 1796,
and settled a short distance east of Pittsburgh, on a small stream called
Turtle Creek, where he labored in a saw mill, helping in the preparation of
the timbers used in the construction of Allegheny County’s first court-house.
He saved a small amount of money by economy and frugality, and began to
look about for a suitable investment. He was offered land on the present
site of the city of Allegheny for the remarkable price of $8 an acre. This
offer he refused, and determined to try his fortunes up in the northwestern
county of Mercer. Accordingly, in 1804, he arrived in what is now Liberty
Township, purchased the farm on which his son Hugh lived for so many
years afterward, and began his career as a farmer. The warrant for the
survey of this farm was dated April 8, 1805, while the deed bore date of July 15,
1807. It appears that the land had been originally settled by a squatter
named Studebaker, but little is known concerning him.
Mr. George began the erection of a cabin when he first came, and soon
afterward set out an orchard. The first dwelling was of round logs. By a
process of evolution this gave way to a structure of hewed timber, and this,
in turn, to the brick house now standing, which was constructed in 1828 out
of 70,000 brick, made the year before by Alexander Blair. The neighbors
were James McKee and Hugh Foster. An embryo village named Georgetown
was pushed into life on a portion of George’s farm, but, as it was located
near an unhealthy swamp, the enterprise was abandoned. Mr. George was a
very prominent man in local affairs. He was one of the early county com-
missioners, and was identified with every public movement. Being of a
charitable disposition, his name will be remembered by many whom his bounty
and liberality aided.
Of the remaining two, John McKee arrived in 1805, purchased 415 acres
of land and located near the George farm. His father and three brothers,
James, Hugh and George, came to the township with him. They were all
more or less prominent. Daniel Stewart entered in the same year and settled
558
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
a short distance south of the present village of North Liberty. Among other
pioneers who came to Liberty during the first two decades of the present
century, and who therefore deserve some sort of mention, are Jacob Snyder,
who came from Westmoreland County in 1805, and three men named McMil-
lan, Miller and Christy. There were, of course, many others, whose names,
if not recorded on the printed page, will at least be perpetuated by works on
the face of the country they helped to clear and develop.
Villages. — The principal village in the township is that of North Liberty.
This was laid out in 1821-22 by James Foster. The building of the Mercer
and Butler turnpike through the region, thus opening up a way for better com-
munication between the settlers and the communities round about, was chiefly
responsible for the establishing of the new town. The first house erected was
piit up by Bobert Waddell. It is still standing, and is at present used for a
post-office. Jacob Snyder, mentioned elsewhere, began the first blacksmith
shop.
James Stewart, the first innkeeper, built his tavern in 1823. It was a nice
little hostelry, and was visited by many guests.
The post-office, under the direction of the first postmaster, Robert Shaw,
was established in 1840. The succeeding postmasters are given elsewhere.
The original school -house, erected in 1828, a plain, log structure, was super-
seded in 1840 by a frame building, octagonal, in shape. This in turn gave
way in 1869 to the present two-story brick building, which amply accom-
modates the forty or fifty pupils in attendance at the temple of learning.
Amsterdam, the other hamlet of Liberty Township, is situated in the west-
ern part. A blacksmith shop was opened by Charles Wingard in 1874, and
several houses cluster about it. The population has never, owing to the
difficulty attending the taking of a correct and accurate census, been com-
puted, but it is variously estimated at from ten to twenty-five.
North Liberty Presbyterian C/mrc/i was organized June 1,1880, by Dr. Robert
Walker and Rev. Samuel Williams, with a membership of seventy-one. The
first elders chosen by the congregation were Levi Dale, A. S. Barber and John
Boyles. The present church building, a commodious and conveniently
arranged frame structure, was erected in the summer of the same year at a
cost of $3,500. It admirably serves the purpose for which it was intended.
The only pastor the church has ever had is its present efficient minister. Rev.
J. H. Wright. Under his charge the congregation has been blessed with a
fair measure of temporal and spiritual prosperity, and has grown in member-
ship until it numbers at present fifty within it folds. The present elders of
the congregation consist of Levi Dale, A. S. Barber, John Boyles, Andrew
Breckenridge and James Thorp.
MILL CREEK TOWNSHIP.
In May, 1849, a petition was entered for the formation of a new township
out of the original one of French Creek, and presented in court the same
month. A board of commissioners, consisting of John Moore, Abraham Pugh
and John Findley, was appointed to view, fix boundaries and report upon the
advisability of erecting the desired organization. A favorable report being
rendered June 28, 1849, the division outlined therein was confirmed Novem-
ber 19, of the same year. The name Mill Creek was given the new township,
from the name of the stream which flows in beautiful course across its territory.
The shape of the township is nearly rectangular. Its area is a little less than
eighteen square miles.
The surface in the southern part is undulating, and presents in the sum-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
559
mer a beautiful picture. The land rises and falls in almost imperceptible
terraces, which, when covered with green sod, resembles cultivated parks. In
the northern part, however, a change is noticed, where abrupt bluffs and hills
abound. Good building stone is found in the strata of the hillsides.
Agriculturally speaking the township is not a marked success. Portions
of it have good soil, and rather fairly improved. But the greater part is not
well adapted to the general uses of farming, although by no means unproduc-
tive. Abundant drainage is supplied by Mill Creek and the tributaries of the
Big Sandy Creek. No surplus rain-fall is permitted to stand very long stag-
nant.
Pioneers. — The history of the early settlement of the townshij) under dis-
cussion is very much shrouded in mystery. The parent organization, French
Creek, was the real center of attraction, and but few settlements were made in
the southern part, which afterward became Mill Creek. The first settler,
though, is believed, in accordance with the best testimony, to have been Jacob
Reed, a German, who in the autumn of 1796, attracted by the accounts he had
heard of the fertility of the soil lying over in the great northwestern part of
the commonwealth, left his home in Westmoreland County and prepared to
establish a new one farther from the confines of population centers. He
arrived at what is now Mill Creek Township, and finding a portion of land
not under claim of land speculators, located upon it in conformity to the act
of April 3, 1792, by which such unclaimed land was thrown open to set-
tlement, and began the erection of a suitable cabin. After completing the con-
struction of this, and effecting a small clearing, he returned to pass the winter
in Westmoreland County. When he returned in the following spring he was
accompanied by his two brothers, William and George, and a negro named
Robert Morgan. The latter settled upon land near the site of the present
borough of New Lebanon, while the brothers secured tracts lying just east of
Jacob’s place. During the summer Jacob was joined by his family, and thus
became the first householder in the township. A few years ago there was an old
beech tree standing opposite the house of his grandson, Charles, upon the bark
of which, hacked deep into the fibers of the tough wood, were carved the initials
“J. R. , 1796.” The growth of the tree had elevated these nearly ten feet
above the ground.
About the only other settler of whom much is known was Adam Carnahan.
This man’s life reads like a record of misfortunes. It appears that some
adverse destiny was his, and that a fatality shaped all his ends. He took pos-
session of a tract in what was afterward Sandy Lake Township in the summer
of 1797, having entered the region from Westmoreland County in the faint
hope of bettering his condition in life. Upon this tract he built a humble
cabin, made some needed improvements, and had just begun the work of clear-
ing for himself a farm, with fair prospects ahead, when a stranger suddenly
appeared upon the scene of action, and politely insisted that he (Carnahan)
was an intruder upon another’s property, and intimated that if he would take
the trouble to accompany the said stranger to the other side of the tract in
question he (Carnahan) would be abundantly satisfied of the correctness of his
(the stranger’ s) assertions. Upon expressing his willingness to witness any
such indubitable evidence, the stranger led off and Carnahan followed. After
a short walk they arrived at a pile of upright poles, arranged in some sort of
order, which the former declared was the remains of a cabin which he had him-
self erected the year previous. Now Carnahan, according to all accounts, was
a mild mannered man, averse to creating disturbances, so, rather than raise
any question of the stranger’s veracity, he merely picked up his things and got
560
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
out. This was misfortune number one. From his recent home he removed
to a farm near Milledgeville, where he erected a second cabin, began the culti-
vation of crops, and, in short, undertook to retrieve his fallen fortunes. But
for some unexplained reason he found it necessary to return to Westmoreland
County. Being a confiding man, too, as well as mild mannered, he induced a
neighboring family to occupy his cabin during his absence, hoping thereby to
prevent any intrusion upon his rights. Here, though, was misfortune number
two. For when he returned, after a few months’ stay, the family to whom he
had intrusted the keeping of his claim refused to yield possession, and, as they
had nine points of law, Carnahan was again shut out into the cold, cold world.
Stung by these repeated persecutions, and embittered by the reflection that he
was nothing but a mere atom of destiny, he wandered off to Mill Creek
Township, where in the year 1800 he at length found rest, and located upon a
tract of land subsequently occupied by Thomas Burrows.
William R. Cooper, a native of Westmoreland County, came with his wife
Mary to Mercer County, and located in what is now Mill Creek Township, in
1800. His family consisted of six children, all of whom have paid the death
penalty. He himself died in 1809. Some of his descendants are still living
in the county.
Among the other settlers who came in afterward was Francis Dunn, who
began a clearing in 1816 upon the place where he lived many years. At
the time he entered there were three miles of continuous woodland between
the farm on which he settled and the place which afterward became the site of
New Lebanon. At that time, when French Creek included both townships,
there were but twenty-five votes cast in the entire division. Others followed
Dunn in the years that marked the gradual development of that portion of the
county. But their entrance was so comparatively recent that they will not be
mentioned here.
Of the early industries of the township that of milling was by far the most
lucrative and the most important. It was, moreover, absolutely necessary to
the community’s success, as the locality which had not a mill within easy
access, no matter how flattering might be the other inducements held out,
would not attract many new-comers. The first grist-mill in the region under
treatment was one erected on the property of Samuel Glenn in the year 1816.
It was at the time the sole enterprise of the kind within many miles about, and
its patronage, therefore, was considerable. A second one was erected some
years later at the little village called Kerrtown. Glenn also established the
first saw mill in the township. Two or three others were afterward built, the
latest and best being the steam mill erected in October, 1874, near New
Lebanon, by Caleb Thompson, which, with its improved machinery and large
patronage, was an important addition to the township’s industrial wealth.
The first tannery was built in 1811 by James McCracken, and was conducted
for a number of years, until its further continuance was rendered unprofitable,
after which it was abandoned. One or two distilleries were also in operation at
an early day, the first one being that belonging to Jacob Reed, which was
built as early as 1800. It seems that the demand for whisky antedated even
that for flour, as the distillery preceded the grist-mill several years.
The only village in the township, outside of the borough of New Lebanon,
is that of Kerrtown, which was named in honor of Judge Kerr many years
ago. The town has for a number of years been progressing backward. A few
houses now mark its site.
A list of early township officers, given elsewhere, will be interesting,
doubtless, to those who desire to understand who the men of early political
HISTOEY OF MEECER COUNTY.
561
and public notoriety were. A list of post-offices, which is also given else-
where, will include the names of the postmasters who have at various times
distributed the mail of the residents of the township.
NEW VEENON TOWNSHIP.
New Vernon Township was originally a part of Sandy Creek. But the
latter was so large and unwieldy that great trouble was had in collecting taxes
over such an extensive area, and also in establishing voting places at points
accessible to persons living in all portions of the township. These difficulties,
it was thought, would be greatly lessened by a separation from the parent
organization and the formation of a new and smaller one. Accordingly on the
18th of December, 1850, a number of petitions were handed in to the Court
praying for the appointment of a board of commissioners to view the territory
in question, lay out boundaries for the establishment of three new townships,
and report upon the general practicability of the scheme. In accordance with
these prayers, the Court appointed Joseph Kerr, Francis Beatty and James A.
Leech. The latter looked over the ground, decided that a division of the old
township into four equal parts would be expedient, and reported accordingly,
April 7, 1851. This report was confirmed June 23, and the four new town-
ships were named, respectively. Deer Creek, New Vernon, Mineral (now Per-
ry), and the fourth retaining the original title, Sandy Creek. Of these four
New Vernon was the southeastern division. Its surface is well diversified.
The portion adjacent to Big Sandy Creek is rather level, while in the south-
eastern part of the township many sharply-marked hills spring up, forming a
bluff looking outline. The principal interest in the region is agriculture.
The soil is fertile, and good crops are raised from it. The township is one of
the best drained in the county. The Little Shenango and the Big Sandy both
flow through it, and with their tributaries form a network of sluiceways which
carry off all the surplus water. Indeed, considered from an agricultural point
of view. New Vernon may fairly take front rank. The history of the settlement
of this township is so intimately interwoven with the narrative of the parent
organization, Sandy Creek, that the reader is referred to the pages devoted to
that. The early settlers were later in arriving in the southeastern part of the
old division than in some other portions of the county. But their arrival, even
if late, was fraught with beneficent results, both to themselves and to those
who came after them.
The Ten Milers. — This was the name of a colony which originally came
from New Jersey and settled in Washington County, Penn., some time dur-
ing the latter’ half of the last century, on what was known as Ten Mile Bun.
These people sold out in Washington County in 1797 or 1798, and removed to
Mercer County, settling on the Big Sandy, not far from the present village of
New Vernon. The name “Ten Milers,” given to this settlement, was derived
from the place left in W ashington County. In the list of ‘ ‘ Ten Milers ’ ’ were
Daniel Axtell, David Condit, Cyrus Biggs, John Holloway, Isaac Holloway,
Ithiel Dodd, Stephen Biggs, Price Dilley and Ira Condit, the preacher. Lin-
coln Axtell, son of Daniel, built the first grist-mill in the neighborhood.
These men were afterward elders in the Fairview Presbyterian Church at New
Vernon.
Mills. — In glancing at the industrial interests of New Vernon Township,
one is impressed with the fact that they are few in number and unimportant
in extent. Not unimportant, either, for nothing can be wholly unimportant
which is so intimately associated with the development of any community
from primitive wilderness to modern improvements. Yet, compared with some
562
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
of her sister townships, there is an evident discrepancy on the side of the one
at present under consideration. The most prominent, and the only one that
will be treated, was the saw-mill business. This, of course, in later years, as
forests are depleted and torn down, has diminished. But a few years ago it
comprised the most striking source of the township’s wealth. The first steam
mill was built in 1854, near the' village of New Vernon, by George Axtell. It
did a flourishing business. In 1868 a second one was erected in the south-
western part of the township by the firm of McClure & Boyd. In 1870 the
third was located at a place about two miles south of New Vernon village.
Gill’s saw-mill and shingle-factory was built in 1868, by L. J. Gill. It, like
the other enterprises named, did a rushing business for a number of years.
All contributed largely to the increase of New Vernon’s industrial resources.
New Vernon Village is the only one in the township. It was at one
time called Middleton, but afterward New Vernon. It is quite an old town,
and looks much older than it really is. The houses, which are in nearly every
instance unpainted frames, appear to have been erected years ago. The vil-
lage sustains two stores, kept by David McElwain and J. N. McCutcheon, and
a blacksmith shop, operated by T. J. Osborn. There is a lodge of the K.
and L. of H., in a flourishing condition.
At the first election held after the division of the old township of Sandy
Creek the following officers were chosen: Justices of the peace, Archibald
Montgomery and David Lynn; constable. Henry Hosack; judge of election,
Huston Borland; inspector, John Tuttle; assessor, David Holloway; auditors,
Daniel Holloway, R. Forbes and David Bliss; school directors, Lawrence
Streight, David Lynn, David Condit, Henry Boyd, Hugh Lackey and Samuel
Axtell; supervisors, Joseph Boyd, James Hosack and John Tuttle; clerk. Elk
Holloway, and overseers, Hugh Henry and Ithamar Tuttle.
Churches. — Fail-field Presbyterian Church was organized near what is now
the village of New Vernon, in September, 1799, and is, therefore, the oldest
congregation of the denomination in Mercer County. Elisha McCurdy and
Joseph Stockton superintended the organizing of the congregation. Daniel
Axtell, David Condit and Ithiel Dodd, all “ Ten-Milers,” were the first elders.
They came from W ashington County, and brought their religious convictions
with them. Rev. William Wylie was the first pastor, from 1802 to 1804. He
also preached for Upper Sandy congregation. He was succeeded by Rev.
Cyrus Riggs in October, 1807, the pastorate continuing until April, 1812.
Rev. Ira Condit began at the last date, and continued as pastor until October,
1836. The next pastor was Rev. David Waggoner, remaining from July,
1838, to May, 1853, at which latter date Rev. J. M. Shields began his labors,
and continued them until 1864. Rev. John Rice succeeded as a stated supply.
Such is the early history of the pioneer Presbyterian congregation in the
county. The present church edifice is seventy-one feet long, and proportion-
ately wide. Near it is a grave-yard, which has received the bodies of many of
the pioneers, as its marble slabs will plainly show.
The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized at an early day, probably
prior to 1840, in the southern part of New Vernon Township. A great revival
occurred in a school-house in the neighborhood in 1843, resulting in securing
twenty-three members to the congregation. In 1849, at the suggestion of
Rev. Robert Beatty, a meeting-house was erected, he assisting in the work.
The first members of this congregation embraced James Boyd and wife,
Thomas Boyd and wife, George Forbes and wife, Joseph Boyd, George Bur-
rows and wife, and Mary Forbes. James Boyd was the first class-leader. The
congregation has measurably declined, but the house is still used for funeral
and other occasions.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
563
Mount Hope Methodist Episcopal Church is at New Vernon. It is the produc
of a revival held in 1851 near New Lebanon. Many of the converts were from
the region of New Vernon. In 1852 they organized the Mount Hope Church
at the residence of George Marstellar. Kevs. Elisha Wheeler and John
Abbott were the preachers to conduct the movements. Elisha Moore was
selected as the hrst leader. In 1854 a house of worship was erected on
land deeded for the purpose by Joseph and Daniel Holloway. Robert Beatty
was contractor. This congregation, starting with twenty members, has had a
regular and healthful growth.
The United Presbyterian Church was organized in 1858, Rev James Bur-
rows being first pastor. An effort was made in 1858 to erect a house of wor-
ship, but before the house was completed it was destroyed by the fire- fiend.
A second effort in 1862 was more successful, the house being built on the first
foundation, and completed in 1865, during the labors of Rev. J. A. Bailey, now
of Sharon. The house is a comfortable one, being one of the best in the town-
ship.
OTTEE CEEEK TOWNSHIP.
A petition praying for the division of the old township of Salem, so as to
facilitate the collection of taxes and render voting easier, was presented in
court November 6, 1857. On the 18th this petition was granted, and
James Williamson and Thomas Leech, Jr., were oppointed as commissioners
to view the said township and lay out boundaries for a separation. But about
this time there appeared to be considerable opposition to the proposed change.
The Court therefore directed that an election should be held to determine the
will of the inhabitants. The question was upon the formation of the new town-
ship in accordance with the specifications set forth by the board of commis-
sioners in their report. The majority voted for the division, and, accordingly,
April 21, 1858, the Court confirmed the report and directed that the part south
of the Little Shenango, which was fixed as the line of separation, should be
known as the township of Otter Creek.
The surface of Otter Creek is generally rolling, but comparatively un-
broken. Coal is found beneath the surface, and in places strata of building
stone also. Agriculturally the township is one of the foremost in the county. Its
soil is especially rich and fertile. Otter Creek heads in the southern portion,
and a small branch leads into Little Shenango at the north. But outside of
these diminutive streams little drainage is afforded. But this is evidently no
inconvenience, as the farm lands seem never to be under a surplus of
rain- fall.
Pioneers. — In treating of the early settlement of the township, one is con-
stantly under surprise at the lateness of the arrival of pioneers. The territory
lying farther to the northeast, and also to the southeast, seems to have attracted
immigrants much earlier. But why this should have been is a mystery. The soil
in the fertile regions, lying along the banks of Little Shenango, was evidently
better than that lying in the other regions named. One explanation of this is,
that in all probability the majority of the early comers followed the course of
the Allegheny and French Creek in their entrance from the regions along the
Ohio, and thus escaped noticing the land lying further west. It is certain
that many came up by water, while many others came on horseback, but kept
close to the river’s bank. However that may be, it is admitted that the first
settler of the township was James Williamson. He was a Revolutionary
veteran, whose patriotism and love of liberty was such that it is said of him,
that at the time of his entering the army to accept the commission of lieutenant
he had just married a beautiful young lady, whom he was forced to leave, and
564
HISTOEY OP MERCEE COUNTY.
from whom he was separated, by the cruel exigencies of the war, for over a year.
He entered the Shenango Valley in 1797, located upon the farm owned a long
time afterward by Josiah Kitch, and erected a small cabin. After thus estab-
lishing his right to the land, he returned to his family and remained three
years. In 1800 he came a second time to his new possession, began a clearing,
and was so successful that he was enabled, the same year, to harvest the first
crop of wheat ever raised in the township. In the following year he concluded
that the hardships of a pioneer life were sufficiently ameliorated to render his
permanent residence possible, and he therefore brought his family out and
located upon the farm, which he occupied until death. Williamson was
without neighbors for a long time. He was eventually joined in his labors of
clearing the forest by Thomas Jolly, who located upon the land known as the
McKean farm. Robert McKean himself occupied the tract Jolly had cleared,
and continued to do this from 1815 through many following years. Much of
the land lying in the township was embraced in the donation tracts, and in
only a few instances did the holders of the patents for these tracts make actual
settlement. Their claims they considered as being very trifling, and frequently
disposed of them at what would now be considered ridiculously small prices.
Often, when settlements were attempted, the patentee would find some one
already in possession of his land, holding it by a sort of squatter title, and the
trouble and expense of conducting the litigation necessary to secure a dislodge-
ment were, in many instances, deemed more than commensurate with the
value of the land in question. For this reason, a confusion of titles arose,
and vexatious complications rendered the occupancy of land in the region a
matter of more caution than profit. The tract afterward owned by David
Trime was granted by the commonwealth to one George Henry, a private in
the Revolutionary army, being designated a ‘ ‘ donation. ’ ’ Henry never
settled, but threw his title away, and for a number of years no one knew who
the owner was. In 1801 Frederick Horn determined to secure the land.
After a long search he discovered the legal owner and made a purchase of his
claim. On the 24th of December Horn settled and erected a cabin. He at
once set about clearing off the timber, and in the course of a few years he
found himself in the possession of a valuable property.
A great lapse of time occurs between the date of Horn’s settlement and the
date of the next recorded entrance. On November 6, 1832, George Needham
located upon the tract afterward secured by Daniel Hance, and began the task
of improving it. The tract, like Horn’s, had formerly been a “donation lot,”
and had been originally granted by the commonwealth to private Joseph
Palmer, who had never occupied it, but had merely sold it for a “song.”
Needham, however, succeeded in making it a very desirable possession. Jacob
Snyder and his son, Joseph, settled on the farm afterward occupied by them
in 1843. There were at the time of their entrance comparatively few pioneers
in the region. Jacob Layman had entered in 1824, and taken up a claim
near the Perry Township line. Andress Loveland came from Erie County,
Penn., in the spring of 1828, and settled on a tract of 100 acres in Otter
Creek Township, where he lived to the ripe age of ninety-four years. One or
two others were also in the possession of land in various parts of the township.
The largest land-owner in the township was Andrew Bush, an Ohioan, who
came to the region from Jackson Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, in 1845.
He purchased nearly all of the large valley lying southeast of Pleasantville. The
farm which he thus secured was an exceedingly valuable one, and would now
be considered a veritable fortune. But titles were so easily purchased in those
days that his expenditure in securing it was very small. There were other
HISTOBY or MEKCER COUNTY.
567
settlers whose names might be mentioned. Indeed, the period of settlement
may be almost said to have extended down from 1800 to 1845, inasmuch as
at the latter date there was considerable uncleared land lying in the township.
But it is thought that the names given include nearly all of the distinctively
first pioneers.
There have been mills erected several times during the development of the
township’s industrial resources. One, a saw-mill, located in the southern part
of the township, was built about the year 1831 by two brothers named Carr.
The motor power was supplied by water, which was secured by the erection of
a large dam. Near this dam a -young man named Reirben Wasser was
drowned, in 1845, while in bathing. The mill has been abandoned for a long
period of years. In 1845, in the northwestern corner of the township, on the
bank of the Little Shenango, John Young and Adam Thompson built the first
grist mill ever operated in the township. The method of grinding was the
one then in common use. It was by means of a pair of rough' stones, turned
by water-power. Nevertheless, notwithstanding the rude equipments, the mill
enjoyed a considerable patronage, and was conducted for a number of years
without cessation.
On another page will be given a list of the early townshij) officials of Salem
Township. By reference to it the reader will ascertain the names of some. of
the early political dignitaries, and also those who were esteemed by their
fellow citizens worthy of public trust.
PEEEY TOWNSHIP.
Perry Township was originally a portion of old Sandy Creek. On the 18th
of December, 1850, owing to the fact that great inconvenience had been
encountered in collecting taxes over so large a territory, and in securing an
easily accessible place of voting, a large number of petitions were presented in
court praying that the township be subdivided into four parts, each part to be
a separate township. Joseph Kerr, James A. Leech and Francis Beatty were
accordingly appointed commissioners to ascertain the practicability of the
sought for alteration, and to lay out a system of boundaries. They reported
favorably to the division April 7, 1851, accompanying their report with the
present boundaries as the result of their labors. This report was confirmed
on the 23d of June, and the new townships of Deer Creek, New Vernon and
Mineral were thus ushered into existence, the fourth part still retaining the
original name of Sandy Creek. The name ‘ ‘ Mineral’ ’ was given to the
southwestern portion on account of the rich deposits of bog-iron ore and coal
found beneath its surface. At a subsequent time it was decided to change this
title and adopt the present one of “ Perry,” in honor of the gallant commo-
dore who so resolutely fought the British fleet on Lake Erie,* and achieved the
signal triumph which has since been known as ” Perry’s Victory.”
At the first election held the following officers were chosen: Justices of the
peace, Allen Morrison, Joseph Milner; auditors, Caleb Ball, A. McCleary and
J. B. Donaldson; assessor, William Zahniser; school directors. T. M. Levitt,
J. H. Robinson, S. B. Foster, Henry Fulton, William Zahniser and Alex.
McCleary; treasurer, John Kelso; supervisors, John McClure and Philip
Mann; clerk, Henry Fulton, and overseers, J. Feather and J. Limber.
The surface of the new township, as might be expected in an iron ore
district, is diversified. At places one would suppose it to be perfectly level,
while elsewhere the precipitous hills, alternated with sharp, clear-cut valleys
resembling miniature ravines, would give a fair idea of a mountainous country.
In an agricultural sense the soil can scarcely be ranked among the best.
32
568
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
althougli fine crops are in many instances raised from it. The township is
well drained. The Little Neshannock, which traverses the entire length of
the township, in a northwestern course, is joined by numerous smaller tribu-
taries that themselves branch out into the adjacent farm lands, thus comprising,
with the parent stream, an extensive and efficient system of natural drainage.
The settlement of Perry, as well as the other new townships formed out of
old Sandy Creek, is necessarily connected, with indissoluble bands, with that
of the parent organization. The history of it, therefore, is given under the
heading of Sandy Creek Township. In addition to the facts therein narrated
mention will be made of one early pioneer, whose life was a succession of eccen-
tric thoughts and equally as eccentric actions. Keference is made to Martin
Carringer. He was an old Eevolutionary veteran, whose entrance into the
township dates back, according to the best authenticated accounts, to the year
1796. Some assert that Carringer arrived as early as 1795, and built a cabin.
If this could be verified it would unquestionably establish him as the earliest
settler in the county. But however the mere date may be he is fairly entitled
to rank among the very earliest pioneers. He settled on donation lot No. 941,
which had been granted to him from the commonwealth on account of his
services in the Revolution. He was a German, as the name indicates, and
was known, in later years, after settlements had been made about him, for his
wonderful kindness. He was extremely generous, but his generosity was
only extended to the poor and helpless. All worthy public enterprises received
his hearty support, and all unworthy ones were as readily met with his
vehement opposition. It is seldom in the history of any community that a
character is found which deserves higher encomiums than those which even
his neighbors and associates bestowed on Martin Carringer.
Industries. — The industrial interests next merit notice. There have been
three of these which became of the highest importance; these three are the
coal mining, the iron blasting and the steam saw-milling interests. The first
coal used in the region, and exhumed from the ground of what is now Perry
Township, was taken from the Goodrich farm by a gentleman called Curtis,
living in Mercer, who, it is said, as early as 1825, made a small opening,
from which he extracted enough to supply his own demand. Others followed
his example, and, in a brief time, nearly every inhabitant had secured enough
local fuel for his home uses. The coal thus taken from the ground became,
in later years, a staple of trade, being sold at one time for the small sum
of one cent per bushel. The later developments of the interest are too well
known to need recital. Of the blasting industry it may be said that it was
at one time by far the most important of any in the township. There were
once two furnaces ; the first one, called ‘ ‘ Harry of the W est, ’ ’ was built about
1838, by J. G. Butler, and was situated near the line dividing Perry and
Otter Creek Townships. Blasting operations were begun in 1839. The old
method of charcoal was in vogue, and with this the furnace was conducted with
reasonable success until 1845. But owing to a lack of capital, and a general
falling off in the iron trade, Butler at last became bankrupt, and his enterprise
passed into the hands of William Powers, a resident of Crawford County.
But Powers, it appears, was as unsuccessful as Butler had been. For, in
1850, the furnace entered the possession of the firm of Irwin & Co. ' By this
firm the establishment was conducted for over five years. During this period
extensive operations were at times carried on. But a singular fatality seemed
connected with the concern, for at the expiration of the period the sheriff made
an appearance upon the scene, and threw a damper upon the business, from
which it never recovered; and the buildings, after standing idle for a series of
years, at last decayed and fell to earth.
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
569
The second enterprise was started in 1847, on the same vein of ore, by
Ward & Russell, a firm living at Niles, Ohio. The location of its furnace was
a short distance south of its predecessor. While under the operation of this
firm, who used it as an auxiliary to their Buckeye Rolling Mill, a severe acci-
dent occurred. This was the burning of the buildings with two workmen
inside. Both perished in the flames, one being resolved to cinders before
taken out. A second time the furnace was started, but the business did not
meet expectations, and after a ten years’ existence, the ‘ ‘ Mineral Ridge ’ ’
furnace was permitted to perish.
In connection with the mining enterprises of the township it will doubt-
less be interesting to state that the site of the famous lead mine, which excited
uch a curiosity in the minds of the early settlers, was alleged to be in this
vicinity. The tradition claims that in primitive times the Indians, of whom
there were a considerable number yet remaining in the region, frequent-
ly appeared before the white new-comers with masses of pure lead, which
they endeavored to exchange for whisky. They asserted, and it was generally
believed, that they secured this metal in a hidden mine near by, which the
whites did not know how to find. These statements gradually aroused much
curiosity on the part of the settlers, and many attempts were made to pene-
trate the secret of the hidden store. No one was ever successful in this quest,
however, and the Indians were wont to make the contemptuous remark, in
explanation of the failure: “White man no find it; white man always look up,
Injun look down.” Donation lot 915 is said to have been fixed upon as the
particular locality. But donation lot 915 has never, up to the present
moment, yielded up its secret.
The third industry, and by no means the least, is the steam saw-mill busi-
ness. The first mill of any consequence was erected in 1860, the proprietors
being Amos Rulman and Henry Osbell. The former’s farm furnished the site.
This mill did a flourishing business for a number of years. Twelve years
later a similar mill was built in the township by Lyman Hunt. In the south-
ern part of the township the English & Co. stave factory was built in 1874,
upon land occupied by George Baggs. It conducted an extensive business.
Villages. — There are two considerable villages in the township. Clark’s
Station, in the eastern part, on the Lake Shore branch, was once denominated
Clark’s Mills. There had in early days been several mills in the vicinity,
which gave the name. Giles Clark, from whom the place was named, erected
one in 1838, and a later one, in 1852, under the firm name of Giles Clark &
Son. There were two systems of machinery in use, one for grist, and the
other for sawing purposes. A stave-mill was also located in the village. This
was erected in August, 1872, by L. T. Hunt. This was an important factor
in the maintenance of the town, inasmuch as it at one time gave employment
to upward of twenty-five of the inhabitants. A post-office was opened Jan-
uary 16, 1871. In the list of postmasters, printed elsewhere, the different
officials in charge at various times will be given.
Hadley, the second village, lies on the same railroad, and is located three
miles northwest of Clark’s Station. It, like the latter, is entered by the
Little Neshannock, at this place a beautiful, clear, well-flowing stream. The
territory on which the town is located was originally owned by Andrew Pat-
terson, afterward by James Ward, and at the time of the town’s christening
by David Hadley. The post-office was established in 1868. A list of its
incumbents is given elsewhere. The town was laid out in 1871, by Joseph
McClure, under the direction of Mr. Hadley. The hotel was built in the
summer of 1871, by B. C. Roberts. In 1874 the present station was erected
570
HISTOBY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
at a cost of $7,000. A barrel factory was opened in 1868, by Edmund Bell, of
Youngstown, Ohio. It gave employment at one time to ten men.
Churches. — Hadley Presbyterian Church was organized May 11, 1875, by
Rev. B. M. Kerr, Rev. S. J. M. Eaton, D. D., and Rev. David Waggoner.
The original members were J. W. Beatty, Mrs. J. W. Beatty, William
Hadley, Mrs. William Hadley, R. B. Hadley, Mrs. R. B. Hadley, John
Patterson, Mrs. John Patterson, D. C. Hadley, Mrs. D. C. Hadley, John
Cleland, Mrs. John Cleland, Lizzie Cleland, Allen Morrison, Mrs. Allen Mor-
rison, Maggie Morrison, Sadie Morrison, R. E. Roberts, Mrs. R. E. Roberts,
Stephen Feathers, Wilson Beatty, Ann Mills, Mrs. Frank Mellon, P. C. Clark,
Thomas Dilly, Mrs. Thomas Lilly, Sarah Dilly, Eva Dilly, Zenas McClure,
Mrs. Zenas McClure, Maggie Vaughn, Daniel Adams, Mrs. Daniel Adams and
David Hadley. The present structure, a convenient frame building, well
adapted for religious purposes, was dedicated March 10, 1876. Its cost was
$4,150. The congregation at present numbers 121 members. The annual
expenses of the church are estimated at $700.
The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1882, by Rev. J. B.
Espy. Among the original members are found the names of David S. Goodrich,
James D. Kelso, John Mizner, Joshua Gilger, John Cole, Richard Eoalk and
others. The house of worship was built in 1883, and dedicated March 26,
1884, by Rev. David Latshaw. Its cost was $3,000. The first pastor was
Rev. J. H. Vance. Following him came Rev. J. M. Foster, Rev. W. S.
Shepard and Rev. C. C. Hunt. The congregation at present numbers about
fifty members, and is in a very fair condition, both spiritually and temporally.
PINE TOWNSHIP.
The old township of Wolf Creek was divided February 17, 1851,
into three parts, the two lower portions being called Pine and Liberty,
respectively, and the upper retaining the original name. Pine Township,
therefore, lies between Wolf Creek and Liberty, and may be said to be in the
extreme southeastern corner of the county. The honor of naming the new
division fell chiefly to Mrs. Cunningham, who gave it its present title because
of a small bunch of pine trees which crowned the hill iust west of Grove
City.
The surface of the township is considerably diversified. In places it is
undulating in gentle rises and falls. Again it is quite broken, and marked in
rough outline by hills which rise abruptly. There are yet other localities quite
level. Prom an agricultural point of view, the township is considered as being
one of the best in the county. Fruits, grains and vegetables of various kinds
are raised in profusion, and the soil is very fertile, particularly along the banks
of Wolf Creek, which flows in a nearly direct north and south course through
the entire territory. Forests are also quite dense in places, and pine, hem-
lock and the deciduous trees flourish in great variety of size and shape. But
it is chiefly in the mineral and coal measures that the wealth of the township
consists. Probably no part of the county contains better coal lands. Salt is
also found at the well located on J. C. Shaw’s farm. Mingled with this is a
large amount of bromine, the preparation of which into the marketable drug
may in the near future add another to the list of the township’ s industries.
In point of drainage Pine is unexcelled. Wolf Creek, as mentioned, flows the
whole length of the township. From it shoot out numerous small tributaries,
which wind in sinuous course through nearly every farm in the entire region,
thus forming, with the parent stream, an unexcelled system for the carrying
off of surplus rain-fall. Good building stone is quarried in places. It is of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
571
fair quality, and the outlook for a larger demand for it is very promising. Good
brick clay is also found in abundance.
Pioneers. — The early settlement of the township is partly discussed under
the head of “Wolf Creek Township.” From all the confused testimony and
untrustworthy records that could be seen, it appears that the first settler in
the region now called Pine Township was a man named John Sutherland.
But little is known of him. He entered the county sometime in the early
spring of 1796, and secured a settler’s claim of 400 acres adjacent to the farm
afterward owned by James Hume. He appears to have been a man open to
barter, for, in the summer of the same year, John Perry, a veteran of the
Revolution from Lancaster County, entered the region and purchased half of
Sutherland’s tract. Perry was of German descent. He settled on the land,
improved it, perfected a clearing, built a cabin and made the home habitable.
In the winter he returned to his Lancaster County home, and in the following
spring, accompanied by his wife and nine children, set out to take up his per-
manent residence in the new country. The following winter they passed in
their new home, braving its severities with heroic fortitude, at a time, too, when
nearly all of their fellow -workers in the county had returned to the populous
settlements. Contemporary with Sutherland, and by some claimed to have
preceded the latter in his entrance to the township, was Philip Hoon. He
came in the spring of 1796, and, like Sutherland, squatted on a 400 acre tract.
The two tracts adjoined. It is not known when Hoon was joined by his
family, but it was certainly as late as 1797.
William Buchanan came from Washington County and settled in what is
now Pine Township in 1797. His family consisted of two sets of children.
By his first wife, Elizabeth, he had George and William, and by his second,
Polly, he had Robert, Alexander and Hunter. He entered 400 acres of land.
It is now divided into small tracts and occupied by his descendants. Mr.
Buchanan had to go to Pittsburgh for his supplies. On one occasion he went
for provisions. Returning, he came as far as the Connoquenessing, which,
badly swollen by recent rains, he was unable to cross. He was compelled to
tarry on the south side until the water had subsided. This delay caused him
and his horse to eat up their stock of provisions. He returned to his cabin for
more money with which to buy an extra stock. He was thus compelled to
make a second trip; but such was pioneer life.
The year 1798 brought several prominent settlers. Among these were
David and Matthew McDowell, who located on a 400 acre tract at what is
called Cranberry Plain, where the latter was joined in the following year by
his son, Robert. They were all from Westmoreland County. From Hunt-
ingdon County came James Glenn, accompanied by his wife and child.
He secured a farm in the western part of the township and located upon it,
at once beginning a clearing and preparing to make it his permanent home.
John Miller, from Pittsburgh, entered the territory in the same year. Being
pleased with the prospects he sent word over to his brother, James, then in
Scotland, and the latter immigrated to this country, and proceeded direct to
meet his brother. He purchased fifty acres of land from him, obtained a
settler’s claim on other tracts, and purchased 100 acres from another settler,
whose name is not known. The Waldron and Gregg farms are part of the land
which Miller thus acquired.
In September, 1798, Ephraim and Jacob Rose came from Centre County,
Penn., via Phillipsburg, Brookville, etc., to what is now Pine Township,
Mercer County. Their means of conveyance was a pack-horse, which carried
a scanty supply of provisions, cooking utensils, an ax, grubbing hoe and rifie.
572
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
After selecting a 440 acre tract, they built their cabin on the southeast corner
and commenced clearing. Their first crop was turnips. Some of the neigh-
bors at that time were the McDowells, Glenns, Cunninghams, McKinleys,
etc. The next year Jacob returned to bring the family out. The family then
consisted of Andrew and his wife and the following children: Ephraim, Jacob,
Andrew, James, Chapman, Benjamin, Betsey and Polly. Elizabeth, or Betsey,
married David Mitchel, and Polly married James McKinley, and is the grand-
mother of Hon. William McKinley, member of Congress from Canton, Ohio. Mr.
Rose built a larger house this year (1799), increased the capacity of his stables,
and prepared to entertain strangers over night, though he did not keep a reg-
ular hotel. The Rose sons married in this order; Ephraim, Jacob and James.
Jacob married Rebecca Clark about 1802-03, and reared quite a large family,
of whom M. H. Rose, the fifth child, born September 14, 1813, is a resident
of Cleveland, Ohio. James married Martha McKinley, daughter of David
McKinley, April 3, 1806. James died in 1805 and his widow in 1872 aged eighty
and eighty-seven respectively. The Rose family has furnished some promi-
nent citizens for both the county and the State, records of some of whom will
be found in the biographical department.
One of the early settlers of Pine Township, a contemporary of the Cun-
ninghams, the Glenns, McDowells, etc., was Benjamin Wood. He was a cab-
inet maker, carpenter, and a farmer on a small scale. He was of English extrac-
tion, was born November 22, 1782, and his wife Catherine October 14, 1778.
He died in 1852. They had the following children: Margaret, Samuel and
John, born, respectively, December 22, 1804, November 6, 1808, and January
5, 1812. Mr. Wood settled on a small farm near the Rose place. His wife
was the aunt of the late James G. Cunningham, who had learned his trade
with his Uncle Benjamin. In politics the Woods were Democrats, in religion
they were Presbyterians. The sons died at the ages, of seventy-one and sev-
enty, respectively.
Among the settlers who came into Pine (then Wolf Creek) Township in
1798 were the Whites, from Washington County. They were of Scotch
descent; Seceders in religion, and anti-slavery in politics. The ancestor of
this family was Alexander White, whose wife was Rachel Henderson. Their
children were John, Elizabeth (married to Hugh Watt), Alexander, James,
Samuel (soldier in the War of 1812), Hannah (married to George Buchanan),
Hugh (the only one born in Mercer County). Alexander, the father of these,
was a Revolutionary soldier. John White, the eldest of the family, occupied
a tract of 200 acres. He married Margaret Query, of Butler County, by
whom he had a large family: Rachel (married to Begges), John B., James,
Jane (never married), Elizabeth (married to Samuel Koonce), Samuel G. ,
George W. , Hiram C. and Henderson. Hiram C. (born August 14, 1813),
the only one living, is a resident of Mercer, and the father of J. G. White,
Esq., and others. His family consists of James, Alexander, Margaret, Jane,
John G., Ella, Charles, Mary, Edward, Louis and David H.
No record exists of any important settlements being made in the year 1799,
although it is presumed that some must have been made. In the first years
of the present century, however, there was another influx of settlers. Among
them were William Daugherty, a Revolutionary veteran, who came from
South Carolina and located on a 400-acre tract, upon which his grandson,
John Daugherty, afterward resided, and Thomas Dunlap, who entered in
1826, from the adjoining county of Butler, and settled upon a farm in the
northern part of the township. There were 200 acres in the original tract,
and on a portion of this William Dunlap located, building a cabin and clear-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
573
ing off a small space of land. John McConnell entered in 1811, and settled
upon a piece of land on which his son, William, afterward lived. As the
name indicates, he was an Irishman. William McBride, another Irishman,
came to the eastern part of the township in 1826. Besides these there were
many others, whose names are not within reach. The work of settling, which
was thus auspiciously begun, was continued for a long series of years. The
township gradually took rank, under the careful watch of its early developers,
among the foremost in the county, a position which it has ever since main-
tained.
Mills. — Among the most interesting landmarks of any community are its
early mills, the remains of which, still standing on the primitive location, often
recall memories of past usefulness to the speculative observer. Probably the
first one erected in Pine Township was built in 1806, by James Graham. It
was a grist-mill, and was located on Wolf Creek, the waters of which sup-
plied the motor power for the operation of the unwieldy mill-stones that
ground the grain. A saw-mill, probably the earliest concern of the kind, was
erected near the same spot in 1812, by Robert Moore. The wright in charge
was a man named James McCoy. The second saw-mill was built in 1842,
also on the banks of Wolf Creek, by William Perry. It is now conducted
by J. C. Shaw, and is located near the grist-mill which he operates. In
another chapter will be found a list of the early township officials of Wolf
Creek Township, which contains the names of a great many men distinguished
in local, social and political circles. In the list of early inn keepers the names
of the township’s entertainers will also be found.
Centre Presbyterian Church was organized in the year 1801, through the
efforts of Rev. William Wood, who was installed its first pastor November 3,
1802, Rev. Dr. McMillan delivering the charge. The first members of
the congregation were Andrew Rose, Ephraim Rose, Andrew Rose, Jr., David
McKinley, James McKinley, Robert Glenn, James Glenn, William Glenn,
James Gormley, William Brandon, George Hosack, Mrs. Elizabeth Whit-
taker, Mrs. James Gormley, and others whose names have not been found.
The first house was erected near what is now known as the Cranberry School-
house, on the Moore farm. It was built of pine logs, the crevices of
which were filled with mud, and was 50x30 feet in dimensions. The floor
was earthen, while above shone the clear sky, as no ceiling was built,
and the thatched roof was filled with interstices. The pews consisted
of split logs placed on blocks, and warmth was furnished to the shivering
brethren by a tin-plate stove. This house was built during Rev. Wood’s
charge. This, however, came to a termination August 24, 1808. For a period
of nearly ten years no regular services were held; but February 25, 1818, the
second pastor of the congregation. Rev. John Munson, was installed. Dur-
ing the early part of his ministry services were held in the house of Robert
Glenn, though the old log church had been removed to the site of the present
church building, and located about one and a half miles west of Grove City. The
latter building, a brick, costing $1,800, was erected in 1837-38, and was at
the time considered one of the finest structures in all the country round. Rev.
Munson continued as pastor of the Centre Church until June 28, 1859, at
which time he was released, after a pastorate of forty-one years. His succes-
sor, Rev. W. W. McKinney, was installed in 1861, and remained until June,
1865. Following him came Rev. S. A. Hughes, installed in October, 1866,
and released in 1871 ; Rev. David Patton, September 4, 1872, February 22,
1875, when removed by death, and Rev. W. J. McConkey, November 17,
1875, April 29, 1878. Since the latter date none but provisional services has
574
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
been beld. The present elders of this old congregation are James Glenn,
Valentine Glenn, W. W. Breckenridge and John B. Bell. The trustees are
Harrison Armstrong, John Glenn and Joseph Gregg. The superintendent of
the Sunday-school is W. A. Coulter.
PYMATUNING TOWNSHIP.
This township, one of the original six. is the largest in the county, having
an area of thirty-eight square miles. It is rectangular in shape, although the
appearance presented is nearly that of a trapezoid. Its surface is level. The
fertility of its soil is unsurpassed. Agriculture flourishes as in but few other
townships in the county. The finest kind of grain and fruit are produced,
and the "grazing lands lying along the course of the Shenango are equal to
any in the entire Northwest. There are considerable veins of coal extending
underneath the surface, which add materially to the industrial wealth of the
township. The principal source of the wealth of the inhabitants, however, is
not industrial, but agricultural. The drainage is unexcelled. The principal
stream, Shenango River, enters the borders in a direct eastern and western
course at the eastern boundary, near the southern extremity, flows west for a
short distance, is deflected from its course and passes through the borough of
Clarksville, then follows a northwesterly direction for a short distance, and at
length, near its junction with Pymatuning Creek, turns abruptly south, and in
a tortuous course enters the township of Hickory east of Sharpsville. Pyma-
tuning Creek heads in Ohio, flows eastward, and near Orangeville changes its
course to a sharp southeasterly direction, in which it unites its waters with
the parent stream near Clarksville. Booth Run rises in West Salem, and joins
the Pymatuning at Orangeville. These streams of water, with the smaller
branches that flow in on either side, form a system of drainage that is abun-
dantly able to successfully convey away all surplus rain- fall.
Pioneers. — The first settler of this township was doubtless Jacob Loutz-
enhiser, who came out from Westmoreland County, Penn., in the fall of 1796,
with a party of land prospectors, embracing the Klingensmiths, Kecks and An-
drew Christy. He selected a tract of land on the site of Orangeville, upon which
he settled permanently in the spring of 1797. His cabin stood on the Pennsylva-
nia side of the line, and in 1798 he erected, on Pymatuning Creek, a saw and
grist-mill, one of the first, if not the first, in Mercer County. He sold this prop-
erty to Adam Haun in 1802, and removed to the vicinity of Greenville, where
he died in 1821.
In the spring of 1798 Nathan Fell and wife Ann located where their grand-
sons, Mahlon and Aaron Fell, now live. They too were from Westmoreland
County, and spent the balance of their lives in Pymatuning Township. A full
sketch of the family will be found in the biographical department.
David Hayes located near the site of Sharpsville about the same period.
He reared quite a large family, and was one of the pioneer school-teachers of
the valley. Many of his descendants are residents of the county.
Robert McCord and Andrew Chestnut came from Westmoreland County,
Penn., in 1798, and settled in Pymatuning Township. The former was of
Irish parentage, and a man of very good education. He taught a school in the
township in 1814-15-16, and was regarded as quite a successful teacher.
He located about two miles east of the site of Transfer, where a daughter was
born in 1800. She became the wife of Thomas Gill. When the War of 1812
commenced McCord’s son Robert raised a company to fight the hereditary foe
of his native land. A roster of this company will be found in a previous chap-
ter. He was one of the leading pioneers of the valley throughout its early his-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
575
tory. Andrew Chestnut was a relative of McCord, and also served in the War
of 1812. He settled on the farm now occupied by his daughter, Mrs. F. J.
Bean, and died in 1867 at the ripe old age of ninety years. A sketch of his
family will be found elsewhere in this work.
Godfrey Carnes was a veteran of the Revolution, who came from Westmore-
land County, Penn,, in 1801, and settled upon the farm whereon his grandson,
Godfrey G. Carnes, now lives. The title to his first tract was a patent given
as a reward for his services in the Revolutionary War. In his trip to his new
home he followed Indian trails most of the distance. He erected his cabin on
what afterward became the Sharpsville and Orangeville road. In a few years
this rude structure was succeeded by what the pioneers called a “double log
house.” This house was the polling place for most of the early elections in
Pymatuning Township. Mr. Carnes was a leading Democrat, a very suc-
cessful pioneer, and accumulated a large estate. He died in 1842.
Adam Haun was one of the first settlers. He purchased Jacob Loutzenhiser’s
mills in April, 1802, and that place was known for many years as “Haim’s
Mills.” He is one of the township’s best remembered pioneers.
Samuel Clark settled on the site of Clarksville in 1804, and laid out the town;
after him it was named. He lived there until his death, October 29, 1860, at
the age of ninety years, nine months and twelve days. His wife died October
7, 1863, aged ninety-one years, eleven months and twenty-three days. He
was the founder of the Methodist Church in Clarksville, the first preaching
being done at his house in 1819. A year later a congregation was organized
and he became its leader. In possession of his son Abraham, who died re-
cently at Clarksville in his eighty-ninth year, were the class registers for some
ten years.
David McKnight came to the township in 1804, and settled three miles
north of the site of Sharpsville. He was a native of Washington County,
Penn . , married Hannah Gill, and left a numerous progeny, as the reports of
their family reunions show. In 1824 he was appointed a justice of the peace,
which office he filled up to his death, November 16, 1839.
In 1808, Samuel Koonce located near Clarksville, entered upon possession
of a large tract of land, and gradually effected a clearing, on which he began
raising fair crops. In 1816, Thomas Gill settled upon a 200-acre farm lying
about two miles and three-quarters north of Sharpsville. Two years after
ward, William Campbell, an early settler of Hickory Township, removed to
Pymatuning and took up his residence. These were all comparatively early
settlers. Many others Entered in later years, and were compelled to clear
their farms and live in log cabins.
At the time treated of there were numerous Indians in the vicinity. They
belonged to what was called the Corn-planter tribe, named from a chief by
that title, and were, in all probability, a remnant of the nation of Senecas.
Mr. Carnes found an encampment of them upon his land when he arrived.
They were never troublesome, in a belligerent sense, though their presence in
the vicinity often used to account for the absence of many of the settlers’
valuables. It is related that they would come to Mr. Carnes and request the
privilege of using his rifle a few moments. If granted, they would take the
weapon, set off into the forest, be gone a day or two, and return, carrying
with them a large deer in payment for the loan of the gun. A tradition
exists to the effect that near the mouth of what is known as Big Run, they
had concealed a valuable lead mine, from which they used to stealthily extract
quantities of the metal, smelt it, and dispose of it to the settlers, who used
it for bullets. This story has been related so often that at various times jier-
576
HISTOBY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
sons have been induced to make explorations in the vicinity alluded to, hoping-
to discover this hidden store. But, so far as is known, the ore- vein has never
yet been found. It is certainly true that the savages were -in the possession of
a quantity of a superior quality of lead; but whether they secured it by dig-
ging, or thieving, must ever remain a question open to discussion.
In the chapter on Township Officials will be found the names of the early
officers of Pymatuning, from 1802 down to 1831, inclusive. These will throw
some light upon who were the prominent men of those early days. They will
demonstrate whom the people entrusted with the discharge of public duties,
and will also illustrate whom the early politicians were. A list of early inn-
keepers is also given elsewhere.
Villages. — Orangeville, formerly known as Hann’s Mills, is located on the
Pymatuning Creek, the greater part lying in Ohio. That portion is incor-
porated, and contains the post-office, while a flouring-mill, hotel, etc., is on
this side of the line. The first settler wms Jacob Loutzenhiser, who erected
a saw and grist-mill in 1798. The building was a hewed log structure, and
the motive power was supplied by a huge under-shot wheel, twenty-five feet
in diameter, operated by a race from Pymatuning Creek. On the 19th of
April, 1802, Loutzenhiser sold the mills to Adam Harm, who carried them on
many years. A mill has ever since existed at that point, a very good one
being now operated by S. L. Hendrickson.
At an early day a woolen-mill was built by Mr. Hull, the father of George
E. Hull, of Orangeville. It served an excellent purpose, but was burned
down on the 3d of April, 1838.
On the 20th of March, 1838, a small craft, known as the “Orangeville
Packet,” left Orangeville, at the mouth of Booth Run, where it was built,
destined for Galena, 111. It contained the three families of St. Clair, Casper
and Carnes, and was intended to go via the Pymatuning Creek and the Shen-
ango, Big Beaver, Ohio and Mississippi Rivers to its destination. It sailed on
its way grandly, distributing its crew at various points along the route, but
is understood never to have returned. This is the only expedition of the kind
that ever descended the Pymatuning.
Transfer is located on the Erie & Pittsburgh and the N. Y. P. & O. (Erie)
Railroads, near the point where the latter line deflects to the west. It is a
point of considerable business activity. It has two churches, the Presbyterian
and the Baptist.
Churches. — The Presbyterian Church was erected in 1825, a small log house
which served its purpose for a number of years, when its place was taken by a
larger and more suitable structure, erected by the joint efforts of the different
denominations. Some difficulty arising in the management, the Methodists
transferred their interests to the Presbyterians, who subseqiiently became the
exclusive owners. The congregation is in good condition.
Transfer Regular Baptist Church was organized in February, 1872, in the
town hall, by Revs. Jacob Morris and J. W. Snyder. The first members,
seventeen in number, were J. Frampton, Matilda Frampton, Miss H. J.
Frampton, Miss Tillie Frampton, S. McClelland, Mrs. E. McClelland, L.
Chittenden, M. J. Chittenden, William T. McClelland, D. A. Frampton,
Delora Frampton, L. Bumpus, Miss M. E. McClelland, Miss N. A. McClel-
land, Mrs. E. Frampton, Miss O. R. McClelland and Miss A. Saveren. The
building in which worship is held is a good, substantial frame structure, 36x50
feet in dimensions, erected in 1876 at a cost of $3,500, to which an addition
33x18 feet was made in 1887, thus securing a very convenient meeting place.
The church has baptized on profession of faith, since its organization, seventy
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
577
members, and has received by letter sixteen more. The membership, which
is at present sixty-four, would be much larger were it not for the fact that the
residents of the place are constantly removing to other localities. The first
pastor was Rev. J. W. Snyder, who remained five years. Following him
came Revs. William P. Keile, two years, and T. J. Bristow, D. Bull, A. Peck-
ham and A. G. McLean, the latter acting as supplies. The secretaries of the
congregation have been Leroy Chittenden and R. E. Woods. Considering the
obstacles with which it has had to contend, this congregation is in a truly
prosperous condition. Its annual expenses are $501, and the members are in
good spiritual and material state of advancement.
SALEM TOWNSHIP.
This was one of the original six townships. It has been divided and sub-
divided, and at present represents about one-fourth of its original size. The
surface is pretty well broken. Portions of it are undulating and well adapted
to agricultural purposes, and others are rather rough. Farming is very suc-
cessfully carried on within the limits, and constitutes an important source of
the township’s wealth. There is comparatively little coal land, occasional
veins being found beneath the surface at various distances and in various
thicknesses. This, however, has never been mined in sufficient quantity to
give the township a reputation for producing the black diamonds. In the
matter of di’ainage little need be said, for the drainage itself, though sufficient,
is not especially prominent as a physical feature of the region. However,
surplus rain-fall is generally carried off in a manner that is satisfactory to the
farmers.
Pioneers. — In the spring of 1796 a party consisting of John Caughey, Rob-
ert Roberts and James Hubanks, intent upon securing homes in the new terri-
tory of the northwest, which had been thrown open to settlement just four years
before by the act of 1792, arrived in what is now the township of Salem, from
Westmoreland County. Roberts, in after time, became known as the cele-
brated Bishop Roberts, afterward conspicuous in Methodist Church history.
The party which thus arrived had set out from Westmoreland County on foot,
carrying all their provisions and equipage on their backs. Each of the party
had a gun, with the exception of Roberts. When the company left Westmore-
land County it was larger by two than when it arrived in Salem Township.
A brother of Robert Roberts, Thomas by name, and William McLean started
on the expedition. As they reached a point on the Allegheny, afterward
known as Freeport, their hearts failed them and they turned back. Thomas
endeavored to induce his younger brother Robert, then only eighteen years of
age, to return to the settlements with him, but the lad spiritedly declined,
stating that he was not afraid of a little hardship. In Elliot’s Life of Roberts,
we find that on the third day after the return of Roberts and McLean, the
remainder of the party, who had been pushing resolutely forward, reached
what was known as the old Venango path, which they followed to its intersec-
tion with French Creek. Here a short stop was made, and after a brief
council they determined to follow the stream up to the mouth of the Cussa-
wago (now Meadville). After they had arrived at the place they retraced
their steps for a distance of eight miles, and then pushed off in a southwesterly
direction until they arrived at the headwaters of the Little Shenango. Fol-
lowing the custom of all early pioneers, as soon as they reached a suitable
spot for location, they halted and built their cabins. The point at which this
was done was located about a mile north of the residence occupied for a num-
ber of years by John Leech, Sr. Here they at once began clearings, com-
578
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
mencing their operations bj girdling the trees. In the course of a few weeks
two strangers appeared and asked the privilege of joining them in their labors.
The names of these are not related, nor has inquiry found out. The “ Life”
referred to states that after a brief time the provisions of the party were
exhausted. Wild game, of course, was abundant, deer being especially so,
but fresh meat became a monotonous diet when depended upon altogether.
So the whole party walked to Meadville and packed their goods home on their
backs. They purchased seed potatoes and corn, paying $3 per bushel for the
former and $2 for the latter. These trips were repeated at difPerent intervals.
Upon one occasion young Roberts started back from Meadville with some
sugar in his arms. It was on Sunday. A rain which fell dissolved it, leaving
the party to do without their sweets. Roberts believed that the accident was
a direct punishment from God for their wickedness in traveling on His holy
day.
In the following June Roberts and Hubanks returned to Westmoreland
County, leaving Caughey to look after their interests, and, in accordance with
the act of 1792, to occupy their tracts and keep them free from intruding
squatters. Caughey, however, was not destined to long remain alone in
the township, for in the same spring a party, consisting of Stephen Riley,
William Lindsay, Lewis and Thomas Roberts, from Ligonier, and Rev. Jacob
Gurwell, entered and began settlements. Some accounts say that John
Caughey had returned to the populous regions, and came back to his new land
in company with the party. At any rate, the new-comers entered the region
of Salem Township and prepared to secure land claims. The two Roberts
brothers and Gurwell shortly afterward returned to the place whence they had
come, intending to replenish their store of provisions, which had run low.
They promised to be back in a short time. Weeks and months ensued, but
they came not. Riley also returned home, and Lindsay was left to meet star-
vation. He subsisted for an almost unendurable period on squirrels and other
small game. But this proved so weakening that he was almost prostrated, when,
upon looking out his cabin door, he beheld a party of whites approaching,
which made his heart beat with joy. It comprised the Roberts family, includ-
ing the father, three sons and one daughter, Elizabeth, the first woman ever
in the territory. The new-comers brought abundant supplies, and also a few
head of stock, with which to begin farming in earnest.
During the two following winters Robert, the future bishop, and his sister
Elizabeth were left in the wilderness to guard the cabins, the remainder of the
party having returned to Ligonier. It is related that during the long winter
days, when there was nothing to do inside, Robert would take his rifle and
depart on a hunting expedition into the surrounding forests, leaving his sister
to pass the day alone. There was, fortunately, nothing to frighten her, as
the few Indians who lived in the vicinity at the time were generally peaceful,
and all had a high respect for the plucky woman. At night she used to take
her station on the cabin roof, and by shouting at the top of her voice guide
her brother in to his home. His answer to this signal was always a gunshot,
which he fired to let her know he was coming. In the spring of 1798 Lind-
say, Caughey and Robert Roberts settled permanently in the township,
and became thereafter prominently identified with its history and development.
Lindsay became Elizabeth’s husband, while Caughey married her sister.
Among the other early settlers the following only will be noticed. Will-
iam McLean and family came in 1798, purchasing his land from John Caughey.
The spring of 1799 witnessed the arrival of Caleb Rhodes, with a family of
wife and nine children, from Fayette County. He settled on a 400 acre
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
579
tract afterward occupied by bis grandsons, and located in the northern part of
the township. In 1799 Thomas Limber, of Centre County, settled upon a 200
acre tract on which Minard Freeland afterward lived. In the year following
he brought out his wife and children, the land having been donated to her on
account of ■ her father’s services in the Revolution. He erected a hewed log
cabin, which stood for nearly eighty years. In it the celebrated Dr. John
Taylor, an Irishman, born in County Armagh, an astronomer, philosopher and
master of arts, also author of Taylor’s Almanacs, was killed by lightning on
the night of August 10, 1838. Of the other pioneers, James Stevenson, a
blacksmith; Henry Williamson, an early settler upon the Beatty places; Will-
iam Stewart, on the Rhodes place; Samuel Watt and Andrew McLean were
among the most prominent. They all did heroic service in the cause of civil-
ization, and could they arise from their long sleep would behold sights of
progress and enlightenment of which they never, in the wildest flights of their
fancy, dreamed. George Williamson, brother of James, settled in Salem
Township. His sons were: Samuel, who was the colonel of the first volunteer
regiment in the county. He was twice a candidate for Congress, but the time
had not then come for Mercer County to be honored with a live Congressman.
James, another son, died early in Mercer. He was a merchant. Jacob, who,
in company with David Crawford, started the second newspaper published in
Mercer, in the interest of Gregg, who was a candidate for governor.
Mills. — The importance of early mills upon every community’s growth is
generally conceded. In the present township a great inconvenience was at
first experienced in securing ground grain. But the grist-mill erected in 1805,
by Bishop Roberts, on a small stream known as Big Run, obviated this difiiculty
and became a genuine public blessing. It enjoyed a large patronage. In the
southeastern part of the township one was built in 1824 by John Long. In a
short time he added a saw-mill attachment, and later still a carding-mill.
A saw mill was built in the summer of 1828, on the Big Run, by James
Caughey. This is claimed to be the first erected in the Roberts neighbor-
hood. It, too, did good service, but in a few months became unmanageable
and was abandoned. In 1834 James Stevenson replaced it, being assisted in
the trouble of operating it by his partner, Lewis Lindsay. This one was a
success, and received an extensive patronage. Two other mills were built in
the neighborhood, one in 1846 by Adam Thompson and James Young, in the
southwestern part of the township, and the other in 1850, in the same region,
by George Fulke. These landmarks in the history of the township’s indus-
trial development, while not of themselves of extreme importance to a reader
of to-day, yet illustrate as well as anything else the progress that has been
achieved during the closing decades of our present century. They are, there-
fore, instructive.
SANDY CREEK TOWNSHIP.
The old township of Sandy Creek, with its gigantic area of fifty square
miles, was erected in 1804. It extended from the line of Crawford County on
the north to the old township of Cool Spring on the south, and was bounded on
the east by French Creek Township and on the west by Salem. It existed in this
shape until the year 1850. On December 18, of that j«ear, a number of petitions,
asking for a division of the old organization into four new ones, was presented
in court. Francis Beatty, James A. Leech and Joseph Kerr were appointed
commissioners. They reported a division, which, being confirmed June 23,
1851, resulted in the formation of the four townships of Sandy Creek, Deer
Creek, New Vernon and Mineral (afterward Perry). The surface of the old
township, as well as the new one, was broken. There are several valuable de-
580
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
posits of coal, and also considerable valuable strata of building stone. Agri-
culturally the soil is quite fertile, and vpell adapted to grazing, cereal raising
or sheep growing. Excellent drainage is supplied by Big Sandy Creek,
which, with the numerous tributaries that shoot off from the parent stream
into the country adjacent, forming a veritable net-work, is well qualified to
carry off all surplus water-fall.
The territory in question lay in the very heart of the old donation and war-
rant lands. Land speculators and traders were among the first to perceive the
fertility and value of the soil of the new region, and as a result their efforts
were instantly turned toward securing the inflow of a body of settlers, through
a traffic with whom they anticipated immense profits. It must be remembered
that in no region in the State, among the less historical portions, were the orig-
inal land titles more confused and jumbled together. Two deeds, and even three,
were often issued for the same piece of land within the same year. Squatters,
too. were numerous, encroaching, wherever opportunity offered, upon the rights
of legitimate settlers. That much litigation and a vast amount of trouble
arose is not, therefore, astonishing. Such was the only logical outcome of
the general looseness with which the land business was carried on. The first
land-jobber to begin speculations in the region of which we speak was a Phil-
adelphian named Fields, who took out warrants for a large body of land lying
tn Sandy Creek Township in 1790, or thereabouts. There were others that
followed in his footsteps, though, and in a short time much of the land was
claimed by outside owners. By an act dated April 3, 1792, all land not thus
under warrant was placed under settlement. This caused many desirous of
penetrating the great Northwest to cast their eyes toward the region, and to
investigate as to its desirability for settlement.
Pioneers. — In 1796 two Irishmen, who had emigrated from their native coun-
try to Allegheny County, heard from a party of surveyors, who had been engaged
in surveying the region afterward known as Mercer County, that beautiful
lands awaited settlers in the locality where they had just been. Impressed by
these recitals the two emigrants started forth, and after a long journey arrived
at and settled upon land lying a short distance north of the present town of
Sheakleyville. This was in the spring of 1796. They effected clearings and
began preparations to remain. They were soon joined by others. Among these
was Martin Carringer, a veteran of the Bevolution, who had settled within the
present limits of Perry Township. One John Smith also arrived. But the win-
ter promised to be too severe in that exposed region, consequently nearly every
settler in the whole region returned to the ini and settlements. In the spring
of 1797 the two Irishmen, reinforced by William Byers and John E. Larimer,
returned, erected cabins, and began cultivating the land. During the summer
Thomas Phillips, Ross Byers, David Chase, Andrew Dawson, John Chase,
Hugh Richardson, Alexander McCracken and Joseph Nelson joined the party,
dr rather entered the neighborhood. Further away had entered J ohn Custard,
John Arbuckle and Richard Custard, all from the Susquehanna Valley. Each
of these set out a patch of potatoes, and when the vegetables had attained their
growth, buried them in the earth and returned to the populous regions a second
time to pass the winter. • The following spring witnessed the return of most
of the number. An anecdote is related of McCracken relative to his third
spring’s experience. A land-jobber named Irish, attempting to bluff the set-
tlers away from their lands, raised claim to them upon warrants, and made
ready to secure the lands as though they were vacant. The settlers were
apprised of this. When the intruder appeared upon McCracken’s tract, and
began to lay out the boundary, McCracken also appeared with a gun loaded with
HISTOKY OP MEBCER COUNTY.
581
buck-shot. This had the desired effect, and the land-grabber withdrew in such
haste that he left behind him his Jacob’s staff, which McCracken kept standing
as a warning to all new-comers that he would not be intimidated. Mr. Minnis
had left his family behind until he could make necessary preparations to
receive them. When he had done this he sent for them. They had nearly
reached their new homestead when the father, who had been a stout, vigor-
ous man, was taken ill. His son, who had been with him all the time, at once
set out to hasten the family’s steps. When he returned with them he found
nothing but a new-made mound, which contained his father’s corpse. The son
of the deceased, John, at once set about completing the labors which his father
had not been permitted to finish. With heroic resolution he toiled day after
day, barely being able to support the large family. His reward at length came,
for in after years the name of Capt. John Minnis became known far and wide
as the title of a man of worth, integrity and honesty.
The year 1800 witnessed a great influx of settlers. The first blacksmith
in the territory, James Hazen, was numbered among these. His coming was
a great convenience to the settlers, who had hitherto had little means for
securing their smithing done by a master hand. Daniel Perkins was another
of these immigrants. He located just north of Alexander McCracken, upon
the land claimed by the land speculator. Field. It is claimed that covering
the cabin, which he shortly afterward erected, was the first shingle roof ever
built in Mercer County, and under it the first cellar. He was a native of
Ireland, emigrated to this country, settling at Little York, Penn., and removed
from that locality to his Mercer County home. He did not remain long, how-
ever, but sold his farm to William Church, father of Judge Gaylord Church,
whose career reflected lustre upon the pages of Sandy Creek history.
In the region afterward known as Deer Creek Township, the new comers
during the year mentioned were Aaron Boylan and David Caldwell, from Fay-
ette County, Penn. They paddled their way up the Allegheny Eiver and
French Creek to the cabin of James Herrington, in Crawford County, by
whose direction they found the vacant land on which they settled. They
erected two cabins, each twelve feet square. Their provisions shortly after-
ward gave out, and as they were not near any settlement, they found them-
selves in a peculiar dilemma. They subsisted for a long time on corn bread
made by cracking the rough corn between two stones and mixing the product
with water, the dough being then baked to a crust. But even this gave out.
They looked about in vain for means with which to ward off the severe attacks
of hunger, but none were found. At length, after trying every expedient
without success, the two pioneers resolved to return to the settlement from
which they had just come, intending to bring back with them fresh supplies.
This they accordingly did. When at last they succeeded in packing the food
they had secured back to their new cabin home, they were met at its door by a
man named Davis, who coolly informed them that he was the owner. An un-
written law of the border land declared that whenever the fire of a settler
located upon land which he claimed by mere right of possession went out, the
claim became forfeited, and the land was thus opened to settlement by the
next new comer. On the strength of this, Davis argued his right to the land,
averring that he had come along through the forest, spied a cabin, and finding
no fire on the hearth-stone, had concluded that the abode was tenanlless.
Boylan, whose cabin had thus been wrested from him, knew the conformity of
Davis’ claim with the border law, and further knew that nothing short of
artifice would dispossess him. He accordingly entered, and requested the
privilege of warming himself by the fire. This was readily granted. In a
582
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
short time Davis excused himself and started to a spring near by for a bucket
of water. No sooner had he passed out of sight than Boylan arose, dashed
the embers from the hearth and closed the door. When Davis came back
and demanded admittance, Boylan pointed to the fireplace, which then con-
tained no fire, and said ihat according to the very law which he (Davis) had
quoted, his right to the cabin had ceased. Davis saw he had been outwitted,
and after a few vain attempts to shake the original owner from his claim,
departed and left Boylan again in the possession of his rightful property.
The year 1801 brought Ithiel Dodd, who settled near what afterward
became the village of Middleton; Lincoln Axtell, a prominent man in early
township annals, who located upon the farm afterward owned by J. K. Boss;
Stephen Biggs, upon land afterward occupied by J. L. McCormick; Daniel
Axtell, father of Lincoln, also a prominent citizen, and several others, whose
names have not been found so frequently in public records.
In the years that followed during the first decade of the present century
many important accessions were made to the ranks of Sandy Creek pioneers.
Among these were Israel Tuttle, who came from Venango County in 1804 and
settled in the southern part of what afterward became Deer Creek Township,
upon the Livingston place, and the Montgomerys, John, Joseph, James and
William, four brothers, who arrived in 1802 from Juniata County, and located
upon a 400-acre tract situated near the present line between Mill Creek and
New Vernon Townships. Of these James became the most distingnished. He
was a member of the Legislature in 1813, a member of the constitutional con-
vention in 1837, a captain in the war of 1812, a colonel of militia, and for
many years a justice of the peace in Sandy Creek Township. He also filled
several minor offices, and was prominent in local political circles. Besides
the names mentioned, there were scores of others who arrived in time to assist
materially in clearing the obstacles ofP the pathway of progress. John Sheak-
ley and family located on the site of Sheakleyville in 1804. For a full sketch
of this family the reader is referred to the biographical department of this work.
The original inhabitants of the territory of which we have been speaking
was a remnant of the great race of Seneca Indians. Their wigwams were
scattered at various intervals over the entire face of the country. It must not
be inferred from this that they existed in large numbers. On the contrary,
they were weak in strength, and generally peaceable. Only when under the
influence of liquor did they become troublesome. But a rigid enforcement of
the common proprieties on the part of the whites made the intercourse of the
two races safe, and, in some instances, pleasant. An instance of this is related
concerning an Indian warrior named Jake Shandy. He came one day to
McCracken’s cabin, carrying a large dead bear on his shoulder. The husband
was not at home. The Indian threw his prize down in front of the fire-
place, on the clean floor, and began preparations toward skinning it. Mrs.
McCracken was not appalled by this impudence, but coolly walked up and
gave Shandy a tremendous kick, telling him at the same time that he had
better get out at once. The savage apparently relished this courage in the
white squaw, for he obeyed, and took his bear outside the cabin. When he
had completed skinning it, he returned with a choice portion of the flesh,
which he presented to Mrs. McCracken as a conciliatory offering.
Abundant game was found in early days. Bear, deer and foxes were
exceedingly common. Wild turkey swarmed, and smaller animals fairly
flocked together in herds. Otters were also seen. Many anecdotes are told
by the older citizens concerning the antics of their boyish days when they
delighted to join in the chase, and roam through the forest in search of game.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
585
It miglit be remarked that in view of the numerous signs which stare at
one on every side as he passes through the country, each bearing the
significent warning, “No trespassing on these grounds, under penalty of
fine and imprisonment,” the ways of the past in respect to hunting, at least,
are by no means the ways of the present.
Industries. — No one will dispute the influence which the early mills exerted
upon the communities in which they were located. They were essential to their
development. The first establishment of this sort in Sandy Creek Township
was the old saw-mill erected by William Byers on the bank of a little run within
the present limits of Sheakleyville. When built, in 1802, it was considered
quite a novelty. The concern passed into the hands of John Sheakley in 1804,
and in 1822 was taken down. The first grist-mill, owned by a man named
McCartney, was built in 1806 on this same run, about a half mile east of the
town. The apparatus consisted of two hard stones, run by water-power. The
mill met with considerable patronage, but lived only a short time. In 1807
Lincoln Axtell erected the mill located on the Ross place in New Vernon
Township. A man named John Holloway was its purchaser when Axtell re-
tired from the proprietorship. David Condit erected a saw-mill in the same
region in 1811. A steam mill took its place. John Sheakley, Sr., built a
grist-mill in Georgetown (now Sheakleyville) in 1815. In 1824 a saw-mill was
erected by George Y. Streight, in the south-eastern part of Deer Creek Town-
ship. This was twice burned and as many times rebuilt, but finally succumbed
to inanition. In 1830 a grist-mill was built a short distance above it. It had
a large overshot wheel, twenty-four feet in diameter, which operated two sets
of millstones — a marvel of mechanical ingenuity at the time. An old mill,
presumably a saw-mill, was built in 1842 in Perry Township upon the Long
farm. The only fulling-mill in the region was the one built in 1803 by Benoni
Tuttle near the Axtell grist-mill. Tuttle sold it to John Robinson, who in
turn disposed it to oblivion, the business becoming unprofitable.
Next to the mills, the distilleries of the early times were probably the most
important branch of industrial enterprise. Of these there were several in
Sandy Creek Township, each one of which turned out, in its day, a liberal sup-
ply of the genuine “bug-juice. ” The first one was built by Hugh Richardson
in 1801, and stood on his own land. Several were afterward begun on the tract
known as the “Narrow Vacancy,” a name conferred to a strip of land which
lay between the claims of the early land speculators, and which was, therefore,
open to general settlement. Aaron Ross became the proprietor of one in 1809.
It was located in Deer Creek Township. James Montgomery was the cham-
pion distiller in the present township of New Vernon, he having built one
there in 1828. George Sheakley erected a similar institution in Sheakleyville
in 1817. All these sold the fluid at what would be considered now as phe-
nomenally low rates. Sheakley, for example, retailed the product of his still
at from twenty to thirty cents per gallon.
There were one or two tanneries in the township at one time. In 1818
Joseph Culbertson built one in Georgetown, and in 1828 Daniel Axtell erected
a similar concern in New Vernon Township. The business, however, was
never profitable, and both the enterprises became defunct long ago.
SANDY LAKE TOWNSHIP.
The territory which is known under the above name was at first a part of
Sandy Creek Township. A division was affected in 1805 when Sandy Lake
was erected. The surface of the township thus erected is broken. There
is a stretch of country lying just near the lake which is level and low. But
33
586
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
at other points one can see a marked difference. Hills spring up, forming
sharply marked valleys. Indeed, there is apparent to the traveler a vride
diversity. The soil is a rich, sandy loam, vphich is particularly fertile, and on
account of the ease -with -which it is worked, well adapted to the purposes of
agriculture. There is considerable underground wealth, vast measures of
coal underlying the township’s surface in numerous places. This coal is of a
good quality, and for ordinary uses is generally satisfactory. The drainage
of the township is excellent. Big Sandy Creek flows through the entire
territory, while Sandy Lake, lying inland, is a vast reservoir for the collection
of surplus water-fall. These, with the smaller streams that pierce the terri-
tory through and through, are what makes the drainage system. Like most
of the northeastern townships, Sandy Lake yet retains a large quantity of its
early timber. At one time the forests of this region equaled those of any
other portion of the State. Even now there are patches of forest land which
will compare favorably with any others found in the county.
Ante-dating the whites in possession of the territory of which we speak,
was a race of Indians, who, for a period of time which cannot be measured,
trod their paths through the woodlands, and pursued their own occupations,
whether of hunting, fishing or inter-tribal fighting, undisturbed by any save
themselves. How long and in what numbers they lived this free and happy
life no one can tell. The memorials of antiquity give no answer. Primeval
chronicles, traced by the fingers of patient industry on the tablets of rough rock
and hard flint, or fashioned out of the plastic clay, reveal naught but the skill by
which they were constructed. Whether or not any premonitions of their coming
extermination ever crossed the minds of these early residents, cannot be told.
But by the time the first white settlers had pushed their way into the territory
now comprising Sandy Lake and adjoining townships, the Indians had learned
by the severe lesson of experience what their fate was to be. Their spirit had
already been broken. The repeated defeats which they had sustained at the
hands of the soldiers of Wayne and others sent against them had quelled their
ferocity, and they were subdued into submissiveness. The Mercer County
Indians were a remnant of the old Seneca nation, and went under the title of
the Corn-planter tribe. The name Corn-planter was derived from a distinguished
chief whose name was the same. Corn-planter, according to all accounts, was
a peaceable chieftain who invariably counseled moderation among his followers.
He was much difPerent from the commonly understood savage leader. There
was no element of vindictiveness in his nature, and little of the revengeful
spirit. He was at all times friendly to the whites, calm in his demeanor, even
when sustaining injury, and in nearly every respect the direct reverse of the
generally accepted idea which clothes all Indian chieftains. The Indians
had a village at the margin of what is known as the Pine Swamp. Various
remains, such as spearheads, tomahawks, stone skinning- knives, shears and
other paraphernalia of the chase have since been picked up in the region. The
village was not a large one.
There were three methods by which the general settler could acquire land.
One of these was by direct purchase, another by taking out what was called
a settler’s claim, the provisions of which were that a price of $20 per 100
acres should be paid to the commonwealth, or a two-years’ residence on the
claim desired to be taken out, with a clearing of at least two acres in every
hundred; while the third method, probably not a de jure one, was that of
simple squatter occupation. To the soldiers of the Revolution there were
open donation lands. The second method was the one most used, although
the third, that of squatters and intruders, was by no means left unemployed.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
587
The long litigation, with its vexatious and costly delays necessary to secure an
ejectment, often made the latter plan a safe and efficacious one.
Pioneers. — It is to the credit of Sandy Lake Township that its first settler,
Patrick McCloskey, resorted to no dishonorable expedient to secure his land, but
adopted the method of securing a settler’s right. The date of his entrance is
variously estimated at 1796, 1797 and 1798, but from the best evidence it ap-
pears to have been 1796 or 1797. He was an Irishman, as the name indicates,
and one of the founders of All Saints Catholic Church in Jefferson Township.
He settled upon the farm afterward known as the Tuttle place. After his arrival
he faithfully began a clearing, in accordance with the provisions of the act
which enabled him to secure his title, and in a brief time he had erected a cabin,
and set out a very respectable orchard. McCloskey took an active part in the
early official business of the township. In the course of a few years, as other
arrivals became common, McCloskey decided to sell some of his land. He
accordingly disposed of 150 acres to Jared Tuttle in 1812, the consideration
being, it is said, |3. 50 per acre.
The year 1800 witnessed the arrival of three or four others. Probably the
first of these was William Egbert, an old Revolutionary veteran, who entered
the township and took up land upon which his descendants still reside. He
was of a practical turn of mind, and after the land he had located upon
ceased to demand his unremittent attention, he signalized his practicality by
opening the first blacksmith shop in the entire community. Contemporary
with Egbert was Adam Hill, who secured the right to a tract of land located
a short distance south of the borough of Sandy Lake. This he cleared and
settled upon. After remaining in his possession many years it is now owned
by the Mercer Iron and Coal Company. In the eastern part of the township
Robert Fowler entered during the same year, and cleared a tract afterward
owned by Hugh Baird. He, too, settled upon his land, and remained a num-
ber of years. The farm known in recent times as the Butcher place was
settled in the year mentioned by Enos Sanford, a York State Yankee, who,
with the ingenuity for which this race is distinguished, had no sooner become
comfortably located upon his claim than he began the erection of a saw-mill,
the first in the township. It was a water-power concern, as they all were in
those days, and the sawing was done by a plain upright saw.
Alexander Brown, a native of Cumberland County, Penn. , came to Mercer
County about 1800, settling at the ‘ ‘falls’ ’ of Big Sandy Creek, in what is now
Sandy Lake Township, where he built the second mill in the township. He
soon removed to Mercer to educate his children, and being a surveyor assisted
in the survey of a portion of the county. For a time he engaged in mercantile
business with Bevan Pearson. He is said to have been one of the earliest men
to engage in wool carding in this part of the State. He reared a large family,
and has descendants still living in the county. His death occurred in 1839.
Three years now elapsed, during which time no trace of any important
entrance has been discovered. But in 1804 the Giebner farm was entered
upon and occupied by Charles A. Giebner, who, with his wife and seven
children, came from Westmoreland County. Their journey was conducted on
horseback, the children being placed in sacks, one in each end, which were
then thrown across the horses’ backs. The old fashioned pack saddles were
then in vogue, and were used to their fullest capacity in conveying the goods
and provisions of the family. In the same year came Allen Dunn, since
prominent in church and political circles of the county. He located a short
distance north of the borough of Sandy Lake, where he cleared a tract of
land and prepared it for human habitation. Others entered in the years that
588
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
followed, of whom some of the most prominent only will be noticed. One of
the purchasers from McCloskey was Levi Higbee, who came to the township
with his wife and son in February, 1817. His land comprised 250 acres, of
which about six acres were in fair cultivation. A cabin was also standing on
the place. Contemporary with Higbee were Jason Barker and Samuel
Buckley, who secured pleasantly situated farms, and devoted the remaining
years of their lives to cultivating them.
In 1823 a clearing was made by William North, on the farm purchased in
1828 by Francis Hears, an Englishman from Staffordshire. When the latter
occupied the place he erected a cabin, and was forced to clear the land a
second time, vast patches of underbrush having grown up since North had
finished his labors.
One of the latest, but by no means one of the least important arrivals was
that of Job Perrine, who entered the township in 1832, locating on the farm
which he occupied for so many years. The Perrines had come to the county
as early as 1800, and settled in Worth Township. In the year following Job’s
advent, his three brothers, William, Lewis and Harrison, followed in his
course, and likewise occupied land in the immediate vicinity. In a year or
two later W. H. Perrine followed, while in 1847 O. P. Perrine located at
what was called Yankeetown.
Of the industrial history of the township little need be said. The com-
munity has nearly all been devoted to agricultural pursuits. The occasional
attempts made in other directions have been rather spasmodic, and not regu-
lar and evenly carried out. Spasmodic efforts in an industrial sense seldom
accomplish anything, as has been proven in the present instance. Mention
has been made of the Sanford mill. This was the first enterprise of the kind
ever attempted in the township. In 1830 it was succeeded by a second saw-
mill, similar, indeed, to the first, but larger and better equipped. It was run
by an overshot wheel over twenty- four feet in diameter. The wheel had the
cob-gearing arrangement, which marked its improvement over the former one.
The wollen mill, which is located near by, was erected in 1823 by Joel Sanford.
About five years later it passed into the possession of T. C. Sanford, a
brother of the previous proprietor, who enlarged it and continued its operation
for a number of years. Thomas Butcher purchased the entire plant in 1872.
Besides these, there are one or two additional saw and shingle-mills, and also
other small manufacturing establishments, of comparatively recent date, which
have little interest attaching to them.
The Old Rocky Spring Church of the Associate Presbyterian (or Seceder)
denomination, is an object of local interest. It was located by the side of the
public road from Sandy Lake to New Lebanon, a mile north of the former
town, in a beautiful grove, near a large spring of excellent soft water. When
the congregation was first organized is not recorded, or exactly known. The
old “ Session Book ” records the minutes back to July 21, 1811. Then a
meeting of session was held at which Kev. John Walker, father-in-law of Rev.
George C. Vincent, D. D., of Latrobe, Penn., was moderator. Rev. Walker
was the first pastor. He preached to this people till some time in 1813,
when he resigned. At a communion held in the church, September 14, 1811,
the session was composed of the following members: Moderator, Rev. J.
Walker; ruling elders, John Hamilton, William Patterson, John Montgomery,
William Braden, John Todd, John Barnes, Allen Dunn, Thomas McBride,
James Braden, David Nelson and Joseph Work. The congregation then
extended over a large portion of “the region round about ” now occupied by
other congregations of a like religious faith. Elder Allen Dunn was
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
589
afterward sheriff of Mercer County, and tilled other important local offices.
His son, Francis Dunn, was for a long time an elder in the church and clerk
of its session, and his grandson. Rev. William C. Dunn, son of Francis Dunn,
has for many years been the successful pastor of the large United Presbyterian
congregation of Scroggsheld, Ohio. At the communion held at Rocky Springs
September, 14, 1811, twenty-two new members were added to the congre-
gation. mostly heads of households. It was without a pastor from 1813 for
thirteen years, or to 1826, though supplied with preaching part of the time.
At the latter date Rev. I. Beggs, a man of much ability and “mighty in the
scriptures” became pastor. How long he occupied this position is not recorded.
Rev. Edward Small was installed pastor in 1839, who preached part of his
time at Springfield and Mineral Ridge, Mercer County. He was distinguished
for his zeal in the temperance and anti slavery controversies which then were
occupying much attention. Rev. Small continued a faithful pastor for twenty-
two years, or till April 3, 1861, when he resigned his charge, consisting then
of the Rocky Spring and Springfield congregations.
At the consummation of the union between the Associate Presbyterian
and Associate Reformed Presbyterian Churches, in Pittsburgh, May 26,
1858, forming the United Presbyterian Church, Rocky Spring congrega-
tion went unanimously into the new organization, what before was known
as the Rocky Spring Associate, thus becoming the United Presbyterian Church
of Sandy Lake. Rev. Small continued to live in Mercer, where he had his
home during his long and useful ministry, till his death in January, 1888.
His successor. Rev. John A. Bailey, now pastor of the United Presbyterian
Church of Sharon, Penn., was installed pastor of Rocky Spring or Sandy
Lake United Presbyterian Church in May, 1863. During that year quite a
number withdrew from the church on account of its testimony against slavery.
Rev. L. I. Crawford was installed pastor of the church at Sandy Lake, in
connection with Utica and North Sandy, July 1, 1870. Under his ministry it
numbered near 100 members. He resigned his pastorate Aifgust 12, 1879.
Rev. J. C. Heron was called to the pastorate in 1884, and continues to preach
half time to his old congregation, that since 1869 has had its place of worship
in the village of Sandy Lake. In the summer of 1871 the old frame (40x50
feet) church, near the big spring and the old Rocky Spring graveyard, was
sold and taken down. All the old members living at the time of organization
are dead, but their influence for good is still widely felt in the community.
The present session consists of the following members ; Moderator, Rev. J.
C. Heron; ruling elders, Archibald McBride, Harvey Vogan, William Beggs
and Samuel George. The present membership of the congregation, after
a life of more than seventy-seven years, during which the congregations
of New Vernon, Utica and North Sandy were organized within its old borders,
is between fifty and sixty. A weekly prayer meeting and Sabbath- school are
maintained, and the congregation enjoys the preaching of the gospel each
alternate Sunday.
In another chapter will be found a list of the officers of the township,
from its organization down to 1831. It will include many names familiar to
the people to-day, by reason of the fact that the descendants of the early office
holders have in many instances themselves succeeded to the emoluments and
honors of public service.
SHENANGO TOWNSHIP.
The territory comprised under the above title was erected into a township
in 1805. It has been subsequently diminished but once, by the formation out
590
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
of it on the north of Hickory Township, in 1833. The surface is rolling.
Undulations of dark green grass land, like veritable billows of emerald, greet
the eye as it glances over the territory in question, and extend away into the
distance, fading from view with each successive wave, until all is dim and
blurred. The soil is particularly fertile. Indeed, of all the townships in the
county, Shenango, by reason of her rich soil and beautiful, placid landscape,
is entitled to precedence. There is scarcely a square foot of it which is not
finely adapted to agricultural uses. In full proportion to the extreme fertility
of the upper layers of soil are the valuable treasures of coal which lie below.
Here, as above, nature seems to have poured out her favors with a lavish
hand. The coal measures are very numerous, and the coal which is taken
therefrom is of a superior quality that renders it popular with both the
domestic and outside trade. The drainage is unsurpassed, the historic
Shenango flowing through the whole township, and with its tributaries fur-
nishing ample means for the speedy transferral of surplus water-fall. The
name “ Shenango” was derived from the river, which, in turn, received its
title from the Indians. The word means ‘ ‘ Black W ater, ’ ’ and the reference
is explained by the statement that in early times, when the Indians were yet
in the possession of all the territory now known as Mercer County, the forest
trees on the margin of the stream shed their foliage in such abundance as to
give the water a muddy tinge upon the decaying of the leaves.
Pioneers. — The first settlers were Samuel Byers and Andrew Wylie. In
the spring of 1796 they left their old home at Morgantown, Va. , to depart
upon an expedition of exploration and discovery, so to speak, in the region
lying in what was then generally known as ‘ ‘the northwest. ’ ’ Their purpose
was two- fold. They were desirous of becoming familiar with the territory in
question, being both of a roving disposition, and they also were in search of
land upon which to establish newer and better homes. They took with them
an ample equipment of agricultural and hunting implements, together with
such other necessaries as were absolutely indispensable to them while on their
journey. They passed by way of the Monongahela, in a canoe. Before
reaching Pittsburgh, however, they met with the misfortune of having their
boat capsized, losing thereby, according to one account, everything but an
ax. But they were of too determined a disposition to be deterred by an occur-
rence so slight, and leaving the settled regions far in their rear, they pushed
forward toward the land upon which they were destined to eventually take
up an abode. They followed the course of the Shenango Eiver, and when
they had arrived at a point distant about one mile from the present town of
Pulaski, Byers determined to halt. He accordingly did so, erected a cabin,
staked out a claim, blazed a few trees with the ax which had escaped from the
accident on the Monongahela. After thus securing his property from seizure,
he resolved to return for his family. He was seconded in this by Wylie, who
had also taken up a claim in the manner described. During the same year
he returned again to his Shenango Valley home, accompanied by his wife
and six children. The following is a graphic and accurate account of their
return as given by one of the family: “The entire journey was made by
land; Mrs., Byers rode on horseback, with a feather-bed for a saddle, and
with one child before and another behind her. Two of the next oldest
children were carried upon another horse, with various household goods,
while the father and two older sons walked, and drove several cows, a sow and
seven pigs. Their progress was necessarily slow. Several young men from
Virginia accompanied the family, among whom was Andrew Wylie, who had
come out the spring before, and who subsequently settled in Shenango Town-
HISTORY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
691
ship. On rising the next morning after their arrival, a large bear was
observed in the top of a tree which shaded the cabin, which had evidently
climbed thither for the purpose of reconnoitering, but whose philosophic
meditations were brought to a melancholy end by a rifle ball, and the flesh of
the monster furnished food for the family. Their cabin would be thought a
curiosity at the present day, as it was built of round logs, after the usiral man-
ner of the times, and had a door of shaved clapboards, split from white oak
logs and hung on wooden hinges. Provisions were raised during the first
summer to sustain them through the winter, and, with some additions to their
store, from the game which abounded, they were supplied until the harvest of
1797. Once or twice in 1796 Byers returned to Virginia, and brought back
a supply of groceries and other articles of which they stood in need, and in
1798 six sheep were driven out, and from that date clothing was mainly manu-
factured at home. Bells were attached to them during the day, and they
were watched by the younger boys while the older members of the family were
clearing land, and at night they were enclosed in a log pen ten feet high, to
protect them from the wolves, which prowled near the rude dwellings.”
Great difficulty was had with bears, which were then exceedingly numerous.
Byers had a fine breed of hogs, and these animals were in constant danger of
destruction by the carniverous bruins. It became necessary to keep a constant
guard over them. Upon one occasion, a large sow and her six shoats escaped
and wandered too far from the pen. They were set upon by bears, and on the
following day, the remains of four of the venturesome porkers were found
partly eaten in the adjacent woodland. Byers, however, managed to over-
come these difficulties of a pioneer life. He was assisted by several hunters
who entered the region soon afterward, and began the work of extermination.
In a few years the larger game had all disappeared, and only the smaller
sort remained.
The Canons were early settlers. Thomas Canon came into the township
as early as 1796 or 1797, locating near the present site of West Middlesex.
A sketch of this family is given in the biographical department.
Two years after the Byers party had taken up their residence in the town-
ship they were joined by two other new comers. The first of these was William
Bell, who came from the I'egion round about Pittsburgh. He settled at length
upon the tract afterward occupied by his son Samuel. The land he thus se-
cured claim to had been previously issued in a warrant to Philemon Hunt,
dated 18th of March, 1794. But Hunt never laid claim to the territory, and
Bell became the legal owner by default of any one else arriving to dispute his
title. The other new comer was William Clingan, who located on a 400-acre
tract afterward occupied by the descendants of Dr. John Mitcheltree — the
first practicing physician in the township, who subsequently became the pos-
sessor of Clingan’ s right. Upon this land Clingan built himself a cabin. It
is said that he was too poor to afford a team, hence it was out of the question
for him to build his dwelling out of large logs, such as were commonly used.
He therefore cut a pile of small poles, which he carried on his back to the
site of his proposed cabin, and constructed a fairly comfortable sheltering place.
In the list of early settlers mention should be made of Bichard Van Fleet,
a farmer and weaver, who settled in Shenango Township in 1798. He was
born in New Jersey October 21, 1769, and was married August 1, 1801, to
Sally Hogue, resulting in the birth of these children ; Phebe, William, Eleanor,
John, Hannah, Bichard H. , Sarah, Alexander, Jesse G. , Bebecca, David and
Eliza. Of these six are yet living, the youngest being abont sixty-four. Van
Fleet was one of the founders of Hopewell Church at New Bedford, organized
in 1799.
692
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
George Walker, a native of Ireland, settled in 1798 on the farm where his
grandchildren now live. He married Kate Walker, also a native of Ireland,
who bore him ten children, all of whom are dead, the last survivor, Samuel,
dying on the old homestead in the spring of 1888. Mr. Walker died about
1858, aged 92 years. James Dick, an Irishman, came from the Ligonier
Valley in 1799, and settled in the southeast corner of the township.
James, John and Thomas Mitcheltree, natives of Ireland, located in the west
part of Shenango Township early in the present century. All married and left
descendants except John, who was a pioneer physician and merchant of the
township, and died in 1852. The three brothers died in Shenango Town-
ship. Rev. Henry Fraser came with his family to Sharon in 1807, and in
1809 settled in Sh'enango Township, where his son Joel lives. He died in 1853.
Besides those named there were numerous other arrivals, who may justly
lay claim to a place among the township’s pioneers. Among these were Charles
Caldwell, who came in 1803 from Huntingdon County; Robert Stewart, whose
entrance dated in 1809; Matthew Porter, one of the first blacksmiths in the
county; Nathan Wyatt, whose land lay near the borough of West Middlesex;
John Anderson, John Clark, David Clark, William Edeburn, prominent in
political circles afterward, and James Clark. James Gilkey was also an early
settler, and his name is frequently mentioned on the county court records as an
officer of Shenango Township.
There remains little to be said as to the industrial interests of the town-
ship. The chief occupation, as mentioned before, is agriculture. There are
now no manufacturing establishments worthy of mention. The first grist-mill
was erected on the bank of a little stream called Deer Creek, in the year 1804,
by Daniel Ault, who came into the valley in 1800, and had been quite famous
as a modern Nimrod previous to his embarking in the milling business. His
apparatus consisted of two small rough stones, which were placed in motion by
motor power, furnished by an undershot wheel. The first saw-mill was erected
in 1818 by James Mayers, who was the first man to introduce domestic manu-
factured lumber into the community. Both these primitive enterprises served
a valuable purpose in their time, and prepared the way in no small degree for
the advancement both in industrial and educational circles which has since
taken place.
In a list given elsewhere will be found the names of all the early officers of
Shenango Township from its formation down to the year 1831. Among these
will doubtless be recognized many prominent and worthy ones. The list
gives some idea of who were considered of enough standing in the community
to be intrusted with the discharge of public duties and invested with public
emoluments and honors.
Churches. — Beulah Presbyterian Church was organized in the fall of 1839
in the dwelling house then owned and occupied by James White, by Rev.
John Neil and under the auspices of the Associate Reformed Presbytery,
and went into the United Presbyterian Church at the time of the union of the
Associate and Associate Reformed Presbyterians in 1858. There were five
original members: Mr. and Mrs. Carnahan, John Byers and wife and Mrs.
McGufPey. The latter only survives and is the mother of the publishers of
McGuffey’s series of school books. The first elders were Messrs. Carnahan
and Byers. A tent was erected in 1840, which served the purpose of a meet-
ing house until 1841, when a building 64x42 feet was constructed, and
which was supplanted by the present building in 1883, at a cost of $2, 500.
In 1860 some trouble arose from the desire of a part of the members to
remove to West Middlesex, which ended in a division of the congrega-
HISTOBY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
593
tiou. The portion concluding to worship in the old building applied to the
Reformed Presbyterian synod for spiritual assistance from ministers of their
denomination, and in 1862 were admitted into that body with which they have
since remained. The following have been elders since the term of Elders
Carnahan and Byers: James Oliver, David Allen, William Mitcheltree, James
Crawford, John Donnelly, David Anderson, Hugh Bond, James Baird, S. T.
Mitcheltree, William Long, A. McNair and George Allen, the last three being
the present officials. Rev. Thomas Mehard, a. brother of Rev. Dr. Mehard, of
New Wilmington, was pastor, 1841-45; Rev. R. W. Oliver, 1846-53; Rev.
John Armstrong, 1856, who went with the division of West Middlesex in
1860. From 1862 to 1879 the congregation was supplied by Revs. Robert
McMillen, John Alford and others. In 1879 Rev. G. W. Brownell was called
and is still pastor.
The United Brethren Church was organized in 1863, one-half mile east of
the borough by Rev. S. Casterline. There were about sixty original members,
among whom were J. Eaton, J. Cantior, J. A. Stewart, J. Hutchison, George
Ery, A. C. Wise, Thomas Stewart, William Stewart, Anne Gettes, James
McFarland and John McFarland. The house of worship, a frame structure
35x40 feet in dimensions, situated at the summit of a fine elevation on the
Middlesex and Mercer road, was erected in 1865, at a cost of $1,500, and is a
very convenient and commodious edifice. There is connected with the church
property a burying ground. The congregation, while at one time quite large,
has been reduced in membership by death, removals and disaffection until at
the present time it numbers but twelve members. The successive pastors
have been: Rev. S. Casterline, three years; Revs. H. F. Day, D. Traver, S. M.
Smith, J. Excell, A. Williams and S. Casterline, one year each, in the order
named; O. D. Cone, two years; R. Smith, D. Landan and J. W. Clark, one
each; O. J. Gage, two years; H. Bedow and J. Andrews, one each; A. C. Wise,
two years, and G. C. Dilley, W. Robinson and W. R. Allen, one each. The
church is at present without a regular pastor.
SPKINGriELD TOWNSHIP.
This township was formed in 1805. It has been diminished but once, by
the erection out of it of Findley Township, which took place August 17, 1849.
It forms one of the southern tier of townships which lie adjacent to the Law-
rence County line. It is bounded on the north by Findley, on the east by Pine
and Liberty, and on the west by Wilmington and East Lackawannock Townships.
In the eastern portion the surface is what is described by the word billowy,
the land rising and falling in gentle undulations, which give a decided pictur-
esqueness to the scenery. Along the Neshannock, however, the reverse is
true. Sharply formed hills abruptly rise up in small barriers, leaving inter-
stices that resemble miniature ravines. The landscape at tliese points has a
rugged, wild appearance, softened here and there by occasional stretches of
fertile bottom lands, through which wind in wiry course one or two small
streams. In the intermediate territory, where the two characteristics become
blended, there is a pleasant perspective of rich agricultural land, well culti-
vated and apparently well adapted to farming purposes. The drainage of the
township is very ample. Neshannock Creek and two or three tributaries of
Wolf Creek furnish the outlets for surface water. The health of the inhabi-
tants is particularly good. The climate appears to be equal to any in the
northwestern part of the State.
Pioneers. — It is believed that Benjamin Uber located in the township in
1796. If so, he was undoubtedly the first settler. It is known to a certainty
594
HISTOEY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
that Robert Gilmer entered the northeastern part of the territory embraced
in Springfield Township in April, 1797, and located upon a 500-acre tract of
land, a portion of which, after many years of arduous struggles, he succeeded in
clearing and preparing for cultivation. He erected a cabin and began his
career as a pioneer with resolute fortitude.
The Denniston settlement was made in the southwest part of Springfield
Township, at the closing of the last and the opening of the present century.
There were five brothers, Andrew, James, William, George and Johnson, of
one family; and three brothers, Andrew, Alexander and William, and four
sisters of another. These sisters were married as follows; One to Thomas
McCoy; one to James Denniston, a cousin; one to Andrew Ramsey, and the
other to James Collins.
Andrew, the oldest in the first family mentioned, was one of the early com-
missioners of the county, and his son Andrew was a commissioner afterward
when the railroad bonds were recalled.
Edward Denniston, of Liberty, descended from Alexander of the second
family.
George, in a chopping frolic in 1816, cut his leg so severely that amputa-
tion was necessary. He was the father of James Denniston, who recently
lived west of town, and the grandfather of Major Joseph F. and Lieut. Will-
iam H. Denniston, the first of whom has been treasurer both of Allegheny
County and of Pittsburgh, and the other manager of a bank in Pittsburgh.
The Dennistons came from Washington County. In traveling through the
glades of Butler County, the wolves were so threatening in the night (for they
camped out) that they sought safety in building a number of fires round their
encampment. Even then Alexander succeeded in killing one that came near
enough to show the refiection of his eyes. This wolf is said to have measured
eight feet from the tip of his nose to the end of his tail.
A step-daughter of Michael Brown, who settled south of the Dennistons,
named Nancy Quillen, who afterward married George Denniston, was
looking for the cows in a snow-storm when she found that the snow had so
filled up her tracks that she could not find her way back. She called for her
father, but could get no response. Presently a large Indian came to her, who
told her that he knew her father and that he would take her home. He ful-
filled his promise, gallantly removing the snow from the logs she had to cross.
IVhen home was reached, the young girl filled a basket with turnips, and pre-
sented it to him. A day or so afterward he presented her father with a veni-
son saddle ; and the result was that as long as that Indian stayed about, re-
ciprocal favors were passing between him and the family of Mr. Brown.
James and Betty Orr, natives of Ireland, migrated to Westmoreland
County in 1795, and in 1797 came to Mercer County, settling the farm now
owned by their great-grandson, William Orr, in Springfield Township, where
both died. They left two children, William and Jane; the former served in
the War of 1812, and left a numerous family.
Among the others who arrived during the years immediately following,
were Daniel Rice, Arthur McCann, Robert and Thomas Simpson, each of whom
entered the vicinity some time near 1800, and took up settlers’ claims, and
James Rice, who came in 1802, and located on a tract of land situated just
a short distance southeast of the village of Leesburg, on which William Rice
afterward resided. It is claimed that on this place Rice erected the first
hewed log house ever built in the township. It was an important edifice in
popular estimation at the time, and was visited by several curious observers,
who came to admire this new evidence of architectural skill.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
596
One of the most important families that entered the region of Springfield
Township during pioneer times was the Black family, which deserves mention.
The account which follows corresponds with data in the Garvin collection :
“ The first member of the Black family who came to the neighborhood was
Adam Black, who was born in Adams County, Penn., 31st of January,
1763, and, after removing, in 1803, to Washington County, where he lived
one year, he came to Springfield Township, Mercer County, in 1804, and set-
tled with his family upon a 200-acre tract of donation land, afterward pur-
chasing a second tract of the same size, just north of where London Post-office
now stands, and a third tract, also 200 acres, where the village of Blacktown,
or Balm Post-office is now located. Adam Black died in 1816. Polly Alle-
gan, his wife, was born in Adams County in 1769, and died in Mercer County
in 1841. They were married in 1787, and raised a family of nine children,
eight of them coming with their parents to Mercer County, the youngest,
Peggy, being born in the county in 1805. The oldest child, Betsy, ' married
John Chambers, of Mercer County, in 1805. The Chambers were early set-
tlers. The second child, Henry, served as a captain under Gen. Harrison,
and was also one of Harrison’s presidential electors from his district in
Pennsylvania. Joseph Black was also in Harrison’s army, and Alexander
Black was out twice to Erie as a volunteer. Adam Black belonged to the
Mercer Blues, and held the office of justice of the peace for one term, while
his brother, Alexander, had the office two terms. Kobert Black was a cap-
tain of infantry, and afterward a member of the Legislature. He died at Har-
risburg, Penn., while acting in the latter capacity. Maria Black, born in 1802,
was married to Major Harris, now deceased, who was a member of the Legis-
lature from Butler County, and whose father was the founder of the town of
Harrisville in that county. Adam Black owned at one time 700 or 800 acres
in the neighborhood of the place where he settled. The farm lately owned by
David Gilson is the old homestead.”
Among the other prominent pioneers was Abraham Tiber, who purchased
a farm at a very early day of Andrew Denniston, the consideration being a
rifle and a cow. The tract where Uber settled had been previously secured
by Denniston, but had not been materially cleared. It was located not a
great distance from London village. Charles Painter was another early in-
comer, he arriving in the year 1806. There were several who came in later
than this. In 1810 David Leyde, from Washington County, entered and
settled upon a farm which had been partially cleared by some itinerant squat-
ter. A log cabin was standing on the place. This Leyde at once occupied.
John Carr was another late arrival, coming about 1813. There were unques-
tionably many others who entered the township in ample time to go through
the experiences, the hardships, perils and pleasures of pioneer life. They
doubtless enjoyed the freedom and want of affectation which characterized
their mode of living, and they were probably actuated, as were their associates
who entered earlier, by the same fortitude and courageous persistence that
stamped themselves on the characters of nearly all pioneers.
Villages. — There are three important villages in the township. The first,
Leesburg, is a pleasant little hamlet situated in the southwestern part. The
first house in it was built in 1828 by James Palmer. The same man, assisted
by his brother John, opened the first store in the place, a general country one,
which contained for sale nearly every article that could be thought of. The
original hotel was kept by David Bower, and had a whiskey attachment in the
form of a bar. There was a blacksmith shop opened at an early day by Joseph
Harbaugh, who was the pioneer of that craft in the village. At one time a
596
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
blasting furnace was conducted near the town. It stood at the falls. Ore
was very scarce, however, and after producing a few pigs of iron, it succumbed
to the stagnation of trade.
London, a post-office once called New London, is situated in the extreme
eastern part of the township. It is situated on land formerly owned by Adam
Black. The first residence was erected in 1830 by Peter Uber. His brother
Simon was the first blacksmith in the village. Alexander Riddle has the honor
of establishing the first mercantile enterprise in the village.
The London Creamery occupies a building which was erected in 1885 by
W. A. Coulter, W. C. Davis and G. C. McCracken. It is 20x35, and is
said to have been the first of the kind in Northwestern Pennsylvania. Its
capacity is 1,200 pounds per day. The business, confined wholly to the making
of butter, is operated about nine months each year.
The London post-office was named by David Gilson, who was the first post-
master. The village was named after the post-office. For dates see list of
postmasters in chapter on Internal Affairs.
The London W. C. T. U. was organized August 26, 1887, by Miss Sarah
Pew, of Mercer, with twenty-seven members. It now has forty. It meets
in the school- house the first Saturday of every month. Its corps of officers
embraces the following ladies: President, Mrs. A. M. Carlon; vice-presidents,
Miss D. Christy, Mrs. L. J. Black and Miss Mina McCoy; recording secre-
tary, Miss L. Hindman; corresponding secretary, Mrs. Mattie E. McCoy. The
Enion is said to be in good working condition.
The third village. Balm Post-office, or Blacktown as it is more familiarly
known, was first populated by Henry Black, who erected a log dwelling and
prepared to greet all new-comers. His brother Alexander shortly afterward
followed. In 1845 James S. Black opened a small grocery. He was suc-
ceeded in this enterprise by William Gilmore, Black & Stewart, Black &
Painter, and Alfred Painter, who is now the sole owner. In 1848 Christian
Snyder opened the first hotel. Others have since acted as hosts, among them
Adam Ketler, Henry Van Horn and James Stevenson. The school system
dates its origin back to 1847, when the first educational institution was opened,
the building being a small frame. In a list given elsewhere will be found the
names of the officers of Springfield Township who held public trust up to 1831.
Many familiar ones will be found among the number. The list illustrates who
were in the early days sufficiently well versed in the dubious ways of politics to
obtain preferment, and who, of those not distinctive politicians, were thought
worthy of public honor by their fellow citizens. A list of postmasters is also
given, as is a list of early tavern keepers.
Churches. — The history of Nazareth Methodist Episcopal Church would
be incomplete without mention of James Burns, one of the pioneer Meth-
odists of Northwestern Pennsylvania. He was born in Florence Court, near
Inniskillin, Ireland, in 1778. His father was a native of Scotland, and his
mother of England. About 1794 or ’95 he immigrated to America, and settled
in Carlisle, Cumberland Co., Penn. The faith in which he had been reared
was the Episcopal, but in Carlisle he connected himself with the Methodist
Episcopal Church, in whose membership he ever after lived. After remaining
a few years at Carlisle he removed to Brownsville, Fayette Co. , Penn. In
1810 he was married to Mary Morrow, near Bentleyville, Washington County,
at which place he purchased a farm. Remaining upon it but two years, he re-
moved in the spring of 1812 to Slippery Rock Township, Mercer County,
now Plain Grove Township, Lawrence County, and settled on the farm on
which he died in 1864. There being no Methodist preaching in reach, Mr.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
597
Burns supported and attended the Presbyterian Church at Plain Grove until
1818, when he withdrew from that congregation and, in connection with James
McKean, William M. Stephenson and others, formed a class in Mercer. Oc-
casional visits were made to his home, however, by itinerant preachers, and
each time service and preaching were held. These services were in reality
the inception of the present Nazareth Church, although no permanent organi-
zation was effected until 1823. Previous to this, however, Mr. Burns was
visited by James Watts, Shadrach Rwark, D. D. Davidson, Samuel Adams,
Philip Green, R. C. Hatton, James McMahan, Ezra Booth and others, in their
passing to and from their appointments in the Shenango Circuit, as this resrion
was then termed. In an old record appear the following names, constituting
the members of Burns’ class, which place the date of organization about the
fall of 1822 : Charles Elliot, P. E., and Henry Knapp, circuit preacher, of
Mercer Circuit; James Burns, Mary Burns, Michael Brown, Jane Brown,
Sarah Gardner, James Palmer, leader; Isabella Palmer, Anne Nelson, Ed-
ward Hanna, Sarah Daniels and John Green. In the following year the Burns
class was made a regular appointment, and met in the Burns house until 1840,
when, as a more central location, meetings were held in a school-house, near
the present location of the Nazareth Church. The class, though, being quite
large, was divided several times for prayer meeting and class meeting purposes,
one of which divisions met in the house of Henry Guist, of Leesburg. The
appointment belonged until 1831 to the Butler Circuit of the Erie District of
the Pittsburg Conference, but the Meadville District being formed in that year,
and embracing the territory in which this appointment lay, it became a part of
the Centreville Circuit. The class having grown quite large, and inconven-
ience being experienced in holding revival meetings, it was decided to erect a
house of worship, which should be as near as possible to the center of member-
ship. The site now occupied was at length selected, Mr. Washington P.
Sedwick donating an acre of ground, and the work of building commenced.
The location was in a dense tract of timber, through which no roads but blazed
paths passed. In the spring of 1840 the members worked steadily, hewing
logs and preparing everything for the purpose, and in March the “raising”
occurred, and the first Methodist Church building for miles about was
erected. It was not dedicated until December, 1843, when services were held
by Revs. William Carroll and I. Mershon, who gave the new church the title
“Nazareth.” The first quarterly meeting held in the new structure took
place 10th of September, 1848, and was pi-esided over by B. O. Plympton, P. E.
of’the Meadville District. In 1859, the congregation having grown too large for
its accomodation, a new building was erected, the present one standing just in
front of where the old log one stood. The south wing of the class at this time
withdrew, and built the Mount Pleasant Church, in Plain Grove, Lawrence
County, about three miles south of the Nazareth Church.
The Nazareth Church possesses an interesting history. In early times, when
services were held in the Burns house, itinerant revivalists were accustomed
to hold prolonged exercises, two of whom. Revs. Thomas Thompson and
John Somerville, in June, 1832, continued a meeting for two days. On the
8th of May, 1834, took place a debate which was famous at its occurrence for
the depth of theological learning it displayed. The disputants were Rev.
John Munson, of Presbyterian belief, and Rev. Alfred Brunson, presiding
elder of the Meadville district of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the
question at issue was: “Is the Doctrine of Predestination, Election and
Reprobation, as held in the Confession of Faith in the Presbyterian Church,
Scriptural or not?” The discussion was held in the Plain Grove Church, and
598
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
upward of 2,000 people assembled to hear it. As usual, each claimed the
victory, and departed considerably firmer in his belief than before. Follow-
ing is a list of the preachers who have ministered to the congregation since
the organization of the class in 1823: 1824, Revs. Charles Thorn and Job
Wilson; 1825, Rev. Job Wilson; 1826, Rev. John Chandler; 1827, Revs. J.
W. Hill, L. D. Proser; 1828, Revs. J. P. Kent, J. Babcock; 1829, Revs. J.
Somerville, A. McCamon, William Keeper; 1830, Revs. Isaac Winans, Will-
iam Butt, John J. Steadman, sujiplied; 1831, Revs. Thomas Thompson, J.
Somerville; 1832, Revs. John Scott, John Robinson; 1833, Revs. D. Richey,
S. H. Ingraham; 1834, Revs. William Carroll, J. W. Davis, supplied; 1835,
Revs. J. W. Davis, Ahab Keller; 1836, Revs. R. Peck, W. B. Lloyd; 1837,
Revs. Charles C. Best, H. Hitchcock; 1838, Revs. J. A. Hallack, Isaac
Schofield; 1839, Revs. Rufus Parker, D. W. Vorse; 1840, Revs. Rufus
Parker, J. P. Blenn; 1841, Rev. J. P. Blenn; 1842, Revs. Joseph Leslie, E.
B. Lane; 1843-44, Rev. I. Mershon; 1845, Revs. George F. Reeser, J.
Wriggleswith; 1846, Revs. A. Himebaugh, William M. Bear; 1847-48, Rev.
Thomas Benn; 1849, Revs. George Stocking, D. B. Himebaugh, supplied;
1850, Revs. R. Norton, W. P. Bignell, supplied; 1851, Revs. J. W. Wilson,
J. McComb, supplied; 1852, Revs. J. W. Wilson, J. S. Lytle; 1853, Rev.
J. S. Lytle; 1854, Rev. I. Schofield; 1855, Revs. I. Schofield, F. Vernon;
1856, Rev. T. G. McCreary; 1857, Revs. J. T. Boyle, S. K. Paden; 1858,
Rev. R. B. Boyd; 1859, Rev. W. R. Johnston; 1860, Rev. S. A. Milroy;
1861-62, Rev. John Abbott; 1863-64, Rev. B. Marsteller; 1865-66-67, Rev. R.
Beatty; 1868, Rev. J. M. Groves; 1869-70, Rev. E. Bennett; 1871-72, Rev.
Nathaniel Morris; 1873-74, Rev. J. L. Stratton; 1875-76-77, Rev. J. M.
Crouch; 1878-79, Rev. J. M. Foster; 1880-81, Rev. N. Morris; 1882, Rev. W.
S. Shepard; 1883, Rev. S. E. Winger; 1884-85, Rev. John Eckels; 1886-87,
Rev. R. M. Bear. The following are a few of the class leaders: 1823, James
Palmer; 1826, Daniel Williams; 1828, N. D. Hall; 1829, William Albin; 1834,
W. P. Sedwick; 1836, J. Ray; and since, H. Guist, Alexander Leslie, W. H.
Morrow, James Guist, Jacob Winger. The present stewards, who have been
in office for many years, are Mark Campbell and Jacob Baker.
The Presbyterian Church of Leesburg was the first church organized at
the village, that event taking place in 1853, with thirteen members, all of whom
are dead. The first elders were Robert Stevenson and William Rice. Rev.
David Waggoner served the congregation as a supply for three or four years.
In fact, the organization had no ministers except supplies until 1864, when its
first pastor. Rev. S. A. Hughes, was called, and he divided his time between
this and a church at Rich Hill, Lawrence County. He resigned his pastorate
of the Leesburg congregation in 1866, and was followed by Rev. A. W. Boyd
in 1867, and he by Rev. Cooper in 1869. In 1877 the present pastor. Rev.
R. M. Davis, was called, ordained and installed. Rev. A. W. Boyd is the
only one of the pastors, who has served this church, who is dead. The fol-
lowing have been ruling elders since the terms of Rice and Stevenson: J. M.
Orr, Osben Grandy, Samuel Drake, B. F. Gordon, W. A. Munnell and G. S.
Elliott. Of these Grandy and Elliott are dead, as also Rice and Stevenson.
The present membership is 225, and the church is in a prosperous condition.
The United Presbyterian congregation was organized in Leesburg in 1859,
the session being composed of John Van Eman, Enoch Clark, Thomas Palmer
and George Huttenbaugh. There were forty-two original members, some of
whom afterward left the congregation. Robert Egleson, H. B. Munnell and
Michael Huttenbaugh were elected members of the session. During this term
some left the bounds of the church and others died. A. S. Black, John Egle-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
599
son and D. M. Edeburn composed the next session, and Enoch Clark, A. S.
Black, John Egleson and G. W. Palmer constitute the present session. The
congregation had no regular pastor before 1874, the pulpit being occupied by
supplies. J. L. Robertson became pastor in 1874, and in 1877 Rev. J. C.
Bigham, the present pastor, was installed, and administers to the spiritual
wants of the 100 members composing this congregation.
SUGAR GROVE TOWNSHIP.
On the 11th of March, 1856, petitions were handed in at court from citi-
zens of Salem and Greene Townships, praying that a new township be erected
out of parts of the two mentioned, the reason for the desired change being to
secure more convenient places of voting, and to facilitate the collection of
taxes. Agreeable to the prayer, John Cairns, James F. Brown and David
Findley were appointed commissioners to fix the boundaries. They reported
a series of bounds, and accompanied these with a statement to the effect that,
the plan was a feasible one. Therefore, on the 22d of November, 1856, the
court confirmed their report, and directed elections to be held in the new sub-
division for township officers. The name “Sugar Grove” was derived from the
presence of a small clump of maple trees standing near Kennard. Sugar Grove
Township forma one of the extreme northern tier of townships, which jut out
to the Crawford County line. It is bounded on the east by Salem and a por-
tion of Otter Creek, on the south by Hempfield, and on the west by Greene
and a portion of West Salem. Its area is nearly twelve square miles. Its
surface, like all its neighbor townships, is somewhat diversified. There are
portions of it where the soil is quite low and even marsh-like. Then again
the land becomes elevated and even hilly. The soil itself is quite fertile.
Agriculture is the chief occupation of its inhabitants. The drainage is good.
The system comprises, as the two principal streams, the Little Shenango,
which crosses the township from east to west, and a tributary called Crooked
Creek. In addition to these are numerous small branches, each of which trav-
erses and drains a considerable portion of territory.
Pioneers. — The early settlement of Sugar Grove is necessarily interwoven
with that of the townships from which it was formed. The reader is therefore di-
rected for more minute particulars to the pages relating to them. William Lind-
sey, however, was the first settler in what is now Sugar Grove Towuship. In
1796 he took up a tract of 200 acres on the Little Shenango, and erected a 10x12
log cabin thereon. All the territory now embraced in Sugar Grove, Salem,
Otter Creek and Hempfield was originally Salem Township, and the descend-
ants of pioneers, in telling of the early settlers of this portion of Mercer
County, usually speak of them as first settling in Salem. Lindsey sold his
improvement to James Walker in the fall of 1797, who immediately took pos-
session, and spent the remaining years of his life on that tract, dying February
20, 1834. Marvin Loomis, of Greenville, is the son-in-law of Walker.
A daughter, Martha, was born to Mr. Walker April 27, 1798. She is believed
to have been the first white child born in that part of the county.
To return to Lindsey; he married Agnes, a sister of Bishop Roberts, and
after selling out to Walker he settled another tract farther up the Little
Shenango. He was a brother-in-law of John McGranahan, the famous hunter
of that region, who was accustomed to take a sled load of skins to Pittsburgh to
sell them. One of Lindsey’s sons, Lewis, born May 1, 1808, is still living
near Leech’s Corners. Lewis bought the old Bishop Roberts farm of 4O0
acres. It is now owned by his son-in-law, Henry D. Johnson.
John Riley was one of the pioneers of Sugar Grove Township, coming
600
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
in 1798 from Westmoreland County. He was a local Methodist preacher.
His children were Cornelius, Catherine, Margaret, James T., John W.,
Abigail, Jane, Elizabeth and Hannah. Of these John W. , Abigail, Jane and
Hannah are still living.
One of the pioneers of Mercer County was John McOranahan, of Sugar
Grove Township. He was born in Cumberland County, Penn., November 12,
1778, the son of John and Nellie (Smith) McGranahan. While a mere lad he
removed from Cumberland to Westmoreland County, where he remained
until 1798, when he came to the settlement in Sugar Grove. On the 12th of
May, 1801, he was married to Nancy, sister of Bishop E. E. Eoberts. These
children were born to them: Eleanor, Sarah, Elizabeth E., David, George G. ,
Jane L., Lewis N. , Nancy A., Jesse M., Mary M. , Sophia and Margaret.
He was a successful farmer and a famous hunter. He was a captain in the
War of 1812, and served in the defense of Erie. He held many township
offices during his time; was always a Democrat and a faithful member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. He died September 2, 1868, full of years, and
leaving a large number of descendants to carry on his work. His father, John
McGranahan, settled further north, in Crawford County. He was a packer for
the American army during the Eevolution. He died in 1830. David
McGranahan, the oldest living child (born November 24, 1808), resides near
the old Eoberts place. He marrie'd Abigail Eiley, daughter of John Eiley,
who came also from Westmoreland County in 1798 and settled in the same
region.
Jacob Hannell, also a Westmoreland County man, began clearing a tract
of land in the eastern part of the township about 1798. Thomas Arnold
entered in the same year, located in the southwestern part of the township,
and after clearing a tract of land, erected a cabin and took up his residence.
Along near the Salem line, where the Eoberts family settled, Lewis Eoberts
came over into what is now a portion of Sugar Grove Township. His cabin
was erected near what is now Kennard Station, and about it he cleared what
afterward became an excellent farm. A bear story is related concerning this
man, which is here given. He had been in the township for several years,
when, one day, upon coming from Hannell’ s mill toward his home, a little
dog, which followed him, spied a young bear endeavoring to creep away un-
noticed among the bushes, and, running after it, chased it up a tree. Eoberts,
thinking that he might capture the animal, which was quite small, climbed
the tree, when his horror can be easily imagined at seeing the parent brute
appear and prepare to go up after him. But in this dilemma, when he was
meditating upon the expediency of jumping to the ground, at the risk of
breaking his neck, the little dog proved his friend, for as the bear approached
the tree he attacked her upon the flanks, and obliged her to turn her attention
in that direction. Several times she reared upon her hind feet and com-
menced climbing, and as often the cur bit her furiously, and compelled her to
turn back. Meanwhile, his master had followed the cub to the end of one of
the limbs, and, shaking it with all his strength, threw him to the ground, when
both of the beasts left, and he was able to come down in safety.
The tract lying directly east of Arnold’ s was settled first at an early date,
probably 1799, by one Jonathan Lodge, who had just built a cabin and was
preparing to begin a clearing when winter set in, and he was forced to turn back
to the settlements. In the following spring, when he returned to resume the
labors he had left off the autumn before, he found a man named William
Mortimer firmly intrenched in the cabin, and with a clearing well under way.
When he requested Mortimer to relinquish his claim and yield possession, the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
603
latter refused to comply, alleging that, according to border law, the land had
been vacated, and was, consequently, open to settlement at the time he (Mort-
imer) had arrived. No efforts Lodge could make had any effect upon the in-
truder, and at last the former had to give up in despair and seek a home in
some other locality. This species of squatter sovereignty was very common in
those days, when that truth of the old adage, “possession is nine points in
law,’’ was illustrated on every hand. The year 1800 witnessed the arrival of
Thomas Jolly, who located just east of James Walker.
In 1802 Jolly was bought out, claim, cabin and improvements, by John
Leech, of Somerset County, who removed to his new home with his family and
took possession on the 4th of May, 1802. Leech was a prominent man in his
time, being a justice of the peace, a State representative and a State senator,
and a full biography of him will be found elsewhere. Of the others who set-
tled about this time, a few only can be mentioned. Leech’s eastern neighbor
was a man named Gibbons, who came in shortly afterward. John Gildon
and William Mahan arrived aborrt 1805. North of Gildon settled Abram
Smith, and east of him John Atchison. IVilliam McCurdy immigrated from
Ireland about 1812, and located in Sugar Grove Township. He married Mary
Listen, by whom he reared six children. He died in 1874, aged eighty-two,
leaving many descendants to perpetuate his memory.
Industries. — The industrial history of the township is brief. The first en-
terprise of an industrial nature was a saw-mill, built in 1808 by Jacob Hannell,
to which millstones were afterward attached and a grist-mill started. The loca-
tion of this establishment was alongside of a little run near Kennard. Hannell
was succeeded in the ownership by Philip Berrier. The business was a profit-
able one, as no competitor was within easy access. A fire, in which two of
Hannell’ s sons perished, destroyed a portion of the structure. The second
mill was established by Jacob Leech, near the hamlet of Leech’s Corners. It
was a saw-mill. In later years the movable steam mill superseded the old
stationary water-power ones, and many of the latter are now in operation in
the northern part of the county. In this connection might be mentioned the
cheese factory, which was opened at Leech’s Corners in l873, by Breckenridge
& Harper, in a small frame building, 40x50 feet in size. It served a good
purpose, turning out at one time as many as eight cheeses per day.
Villages. — There are two villages in Sugar Grove, Leech’s Corners and
Kennard Station. The former was established as a post-office during the ad-
ministration of Andrew Jackson. It was discontinued and then re-established.
John Leech opened the first store in 1841.
Kennard is a station on the Erie Railroad. The first store in it was opened
in 1854 by Pennock & McCardney. In the list of jiost-offices given elsewhere
will be found the names of the various occupants of the two offices.
In the list of innkeepers, given on another page, will also be found the name
of Cornelius Riley, who opened a tavern in the township many years ago. He
was killed while on his way from home to Greenville.
Salem Methodist Church is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, Methodist
congregation in Mercer County. It grew out of the Roberts settlement, made
in 1796, 1797 and 1798, nearly all of whose members were Methodists. The
original house of worship, built of logs, 25x40, stood near or on the site of the
present house at Leech’s Corners. Just when it was erected is not known
with certainty. It must have been as early, however, as 1807, that being the
date fixed by the most reliable authority. The house continued to be used
until about 1823, when its place was taken by a frame structure, about 35x45,
with gallery. This second building continued to be used until about the open-
34
604
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ing of the late war, when the third and present frame, 45x60, was built. So
far as could be ascertained the original membership of this congregation em-
braced the following: Robert R. Roberts and wife, John Caughey and wife
Hattie, William McLean and wife, William Lindsey and wife Agoes, John
McGranahan and wife, William McGranahan and wife. Smith McGranahan and
wife, John Riley and wife, Thomas Roberts and wife, John Leech and wife,
John McFetridge and wife, Thomas McClelland and wife, James Stevenson
and wife, Lewis Roberts and wife, John Rogers and wife, William Steward,
Nancy Wilson, Thomas Dumars and wife, James Dumars and wife, Jacob
Gurwell and wife, Thomas Jolly and wife, James Walker and wife, Morris
Dunlavy and wife, William Gurwell and wife, John Waters and wife, Probson
Gibbons and wife. It will be seen that this nucleus of Methodism in the north-
ern part of the county furnished the names of men and women who achieved
not only a creditable local reputation, but a world-wide fame. Families are
numerous who rejoice in the fact that their ancestors were connected with the
old Salem (place of peace) settlement.
The names of the early preachers cannot be given. Roberts, McClelland,
Gurwell and others supplied the pulpit of the home congregation. Fora long,
time R. R. Roberts (afterward better known as Bishop Roberts) was the lead-
er of the class at Salem. The watchful care which this duty imposed prepared
him gradually for the more extensive labors he was subsequently called upon
to perform. For many years Salem belonged to the Shenango Circuit. She-
nango finally lost its identity, and about 1834 Salem took its place in the
Meadville District. The preachers since then have been: T. Stowe, A. G.
Sturgess, 1834; E. B. Hill, R. Peck, 1835; A. Keller, C. C. Best, 1836; A.
Keller, 1837; S. W. Ingraham, L. Burton, 1838; L. Rodgers, S. P. Hemp-
stead, 1839; L. Rodgers, H. N. Stearns, 1840; J. Leslie, H. S. Winans, 1841;
H. S. Winans, R. Parker, 1842; H. Luce, J. W. Davis, 1843; W. Patterson,
H. D. Cole, 1844; J. Deming, W. Patterson, 1845; J. Crum, A. Callender,.
1846-47; D. H. Jack, G. Stocking, 1848; J. McLean, H. M. Chamberlin,
1849; J. McLean, T. Benn, 1850; J. Leslie, B. F. Langdon, 1851; J. B.
Orwig, J. Leslie, 1852; I. C. T. McClelland, J. W. Wilson, 1853; D. King,
J. W. Wilson, 1854; W. French, R. Gray, 1855; W. French, S. L. Wilkin-
son, 1856; J. Abbott, A. Hight, 1857; J. Abbott, J. C. Sullivan, 1858; I.
Scofield, A. H. Bowers, 1859; A. H. Bowers, 1860; J. W. Hill, 1861-62; W.
H. Mossman, 1863-64; G. H. Brown, 1865-67; J. W. Blaisdell, 1868; S. L.
Wilkinson, 1869; J. Abbott, 1870-71; J. A. Humes, 1872-74; J. L. Mecklin,
1875-76; A. R. Rich, 1877-79; J. F. Perry, 1880; J. M. Foster, 1881-83;
S. E. Winger, 1884-86; F. R. Peters, 1887, present incumbent.
WEST SALEM TOWNSHIP.
This subdivision was formed in 1805, and contained, as first constituted,
a large portion of Hempfield Township and all of Greene. It extends from
Sugar Grove and Hempfield on the east, to the State line dividing Ohio and
Pennsylvania on the west. On the north it adjoins Greene and Sugar Grove,
while the southern boundary is Pymatuning. West Salem is one of the larg-
est and richest agricultural townships in the county, and it has always been
politically Democratic. The surface is quite diversified. Most of it is high
and rolling, a small portion quite hilly and broken, and an occasional stretch
of low, wet country intervenes. An abundance of fine timber covered the land
when the pioneers began the clearing process, since which it has yielded to
the woodsman’s ax, and very little of the original forest remains to attest its
former glory.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
605
Extensive coal measures underlie a considerable portion of the township.
The first coal used in Mercer County was taken from a ledge on the farm now
owned by Peter Simpkins. It was discovered late in the eighteenth or early
in the present century by prospectors from Trumbull County, Ohio, who were
seeking it for blacksmithing uses. This farm has ever since annually yielded
a large amount of good coal. Many coal banks have been operated in West
Salem during the past fifty years, and thousands of tons have been mined and sold.
At one time the principal operations of the Greenville Coal Company were
confined to the strata lying a short distance west of that borough. The coal
measures west of Greenville are still worked to a considerable extent, and a
very fine grade of coal for domestic purposes turned out.
There are also considerable quantities of superior building stone quarried
from the hill west of Greenville. Here we find the quarries of Charles Frey,
Plimpton Leech and Amy & Brown, all of which turn out a splendid class of
building and paving material. These features, combined with the rich agri-
cultural interests, make West Salem second to none in the county.
Pioneers. — The early settlement of this township was contemporaneous
with other portions of the county. It is claimed that John Walker, of the
land firm of Lodge, Probst & Walker, was the first settler, and that he built
his cabin on the farm afterward owned by Jacob Loutzenhiser, and subse-
quently by Jacob Hommer, in the spring of 1796. At least he was found liv-
ing on that place by the first party of land prospectors from Westmoreland
County, who visited the Shenango Valley the following autumn. Walker was
a bachelor, and is said to have died in the township.
Thomas Brown and family located northwest of Walker in the fall of 1796.
During the succeeding winter their small stock of provisions began to give out,
and Brown concluded to go through the trackless forest to Pittsburgh, and
obtain a new supply. The trip consumed more time than he anticipated, and
his wife often related to subsequent settlers how closely the family approached
starvation ere the return of her husband. The brave woman gathered the
mosses from the forest trees and dug up the roots of wild herbs, which she
cooked and fed to her children to preserve their lives. Their son Solomon is
said to have been the first male child born in the township. Brown and wife
died in West Salem, and none of their descendants are living in this vicinity.
In the fall of 1796 a company of Westmoreland County citizens visited
the valley on a land-prospecting tour. These were the Klingensmiths, Kecks,
Loutzenhisers, Christys, and perhaps others, several of whom selected lands
in this township. Daniel Klingensmith, a German by birth, was the father
of the family of that name, and in the spring of 1797 settled permanently
on the site of the Greenville Rolling Mills, where both he and wife spent the
balance of their lives. His wife was a sister of Jacob Hommer, Sr., and was
also a native of Germany. His family consisted of three sons and three
daughters, Peter, Daniel, John, Mary, who njarried Jacob Loutzenhiser;
Catharine became the wife of Joseph Keck, and Magdalena married Abraham
Keck. His son Peter settled on the William Bortz farm, where a daughter,
Susan, was born October 17, 1799, the first female born in the towoship. She
became the wife of William McLaughlin. Peter finally sold his farm and
removed into Pymatuning Township, where he passed the remaining years of
his life, being drowned in the Big Run in 1842. His brother Daniel died
young, and John settled and died on the Howe farm.
The Kecks included five brothers and one sister, viz. : Peter, Abraham,
Jacob, Joseph, Daniel and Catharine, all of whom settled in West Salem in
the spring of 1797. Peter located on the Martin Benninghoff farm, near
606
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Greenville, where the remainder of his life was spent. Of his children only
one, a daughter, is a resident of the county. Abraham occupied the Levi
Bortz place, a little farther south, on the Clarksville road. His wife was
-Magdalena, daughter of Daniel Klingensmith, Sr., who was the mother of a
large number of children, all of whom are dead except two daughters living
near Sheakleyville. Abraham and his wife both died on the old homestead.
Jacob settled on the Cossitt farm, four miles south of Greenville, where he
died. His widow, Betsy, a daughter of Jacob Loutzenhiser, married again.
One son, Isaac, lives in Greenville, a daughter in Salem Township, another
daughter in Ohio, and a son in California. Joseph married Catharine, daughter
of Daniel Klingensmith, and located on the site of Shenango. He was doubt-
less the most widely known of the family, as he began operating a distillery
at his farm in 1801, and carried on a grist-mill in Greenville . several years,
and also owned the land and laid out the original portion of the town east of
the river. He reared nine children, of whom three are still living: Mrs.
Esther Bean, of Wellsville, Ohio; Abraham, of Hancock County, Ohio, and
Henry, of Greenville. The parents spent their lives in the vicinity of Green-
ville, the mother dying in 1847, and the father in 1854. Daniel settled west
of his brother Jacob, on the farm now owned by Peter Seiple, where his wife
died. He subsequently removed to the place not far from his former home,
where two of his daughters still live. He died there. One son lives at
Leech’s Corners, and one in the West. Catharine married Frederick Ever-
hart, a pioneer of West Salem, and died in that township. Everhart was
engaged for many years in the pottery business, and was succeeded by his son
Paul.
William Fell and his son. George W., selected land in the southern part of
what is now West Salem Township in 1796. The next spring they returned,
built a cabin and made a permanent settlement. The family came out in
1798. They came from Bucks County, Penn., of which they were natives.
He died in 1841, but his wife about twenty years previous. Two grand-
daughters, Mary and Hannah, still reside upon the old homestead.
In the spring of 1797 Jacob Campbell, of Chestnut Hill, near Philadel-
phia, came to Mercer County, and selected a tract of land in the southwest cor-
ner of West Salem. He made a small improvement by clearing a patch of
ground and erecting a cabin, and then returned for his family, whom he
brought to his new home the same year. His family consisted of his wife
Barbara, two daughters, Catharine and Kachel, and a six-year-old son, Andrew.
The daughters afterward married John and George Fell, respectively. The
parents died on the old homestead. Andrew removed to Greenville at quite
an early date and assisted in erecting many of its first buildings. He bought
the old log mill in 1829, and a few years afterward replaced it by a frame
structure. Campbell was in the milling business several years, and also owned
a part of the present town site.
William and Molly Woods were natives of Ireland, but came to West Sa-
lem from Westmoreland County; he in 1797 to take up land and build a cabin,
and she the following year. They brought with them four children. William
was the first to be born in the new county, the date of his birth being January,
1800. The descendants of this pioneer family are still residing on the land
settled by their ancestor.
The Mossmans were one of the most numerous and prominent families of
the township throughout its, early history. The ancestors of the branch that
settled in Mercer County were John and Elizabeth (Herdman) Mossman, na-
tives of Ireland, and the parents of four sons and three daughters, viz. : James,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
607
Francis, John, William H., Eleanor, Nancy and Lillias. The mother died in
Ireland, and on reaching maturity the three eldest children, James, Francis
and Eleanor, emigrated to Maryland, where the last mentioned married a Mr.
Harris and remained. James and Francis removed to Fayette County, Penn.
About 1790 John, William H. , Nancy and Lillias, accompanied by their father,
also emigrated to Maryland, whence William H. , Nancy, Lillias and father
removed to Fayette County, and joined James and Francis, while John stayed
in Maryland and lived there, and in Adams County, Penn., until 1807, when he
followed the family to Mercer County. In the autumn of 1797 Francis and
William H. , with John and Thomas Gillis, visited the Shenango Valley and
selected a body of land in what is now West Salem Township, lying along the
Ohio line. They then returned to Fayette County, and the following year,
accompanied by several more to whom they had spoken of the new country,
again came out and made some improvements on their lands. In 1799 they
removed their families, and became permanent residents of the township. The
Mossmans included James, Francis, William H., Nancy, Lillias and their
father, John. James, however, settled across the line in Ohio. The father
died in 1802, and was the first interment in what is now Rock Ridge Cemetery,
then a part of Francis Mossman’s farm. This was the second death in the
settlement, John McLaughlin having died the year previous.
The eldest son, James, reared five children: John, Joseph, Robert, Francis
and Eleanor, who married James Bailey, a pioneer of West Salem. Francis,
the second eldest, married, in Ireland, Sarah Brown, sister of Hugh Brown,
who settled at the same period, near Greenville. She reared the following
children: John, Elizabeth (who married George McCord), Mary (who became
the wife of Thomas Gillis), Hugh, Jane (who married Isaiah Brainerd), James,
Francis and William, all of whom became heads of families. John, the third
son, married Jane McGowan, and reared four children: John, James, Eliza-
beth and Mary. William H., the fourth son, married Sarah Gillis, of Mary-
land, who bore him eight children: Robert G. , John, Thomas, Elizabeth
(who married John McCrumb), William, Lovina, James and Allen, all of whom
are dead except James, a resident of Kansas. Of the two daughters who
came to this county, Nancy married John Richardson, and Lillias became the
wife of Isaac Moreland, a pioneer of Greene Township.
James, Francis, John and William H. Mossman all served in the War of
1812, and the three youngest spent their lives in West Salem and were laid to
rest in Rock Ridge Cemetery. They were among the largest land owners
and wealthiest citizens in this part of the county during pioneer days, but the
beautiful farms they settled and improved have, since the deaths of the old
stock, passed into the hands of strangers, while nothing remains of Mossman-
town, once a flourishing little hamlet, but the decaying ruins of an old tan-
nery.
With the Mossmans came Thomas and John Gillis, Richard Melvin, Miles
Cherry and James Bailey. The Gillis family settled west of what was known
as the Big Hollow, on the Greenville and Vernon road, while the others set-
tled on the east side of the ravine. Cherry died in 1820, and his wife, Nancy,
in 1823. Both are interred in Rock Ridge. Some of the Gillis family are yet
residing in the township, but none of the Cherrys or Baileys remain in this
part of the county.
Richard and Agnes Melvin were natives of Ireland. They migrated
first to Wilmington, Del., and thence to the Red Stone settlement, from which
Mr. Melvin came to West Salem Township in the siulng of 1798, and built a
■cabin, and the following year became a permanent resident. His family at
608
HISTOBY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
the time conbisted of his wife and one son, James R. The old homestead is
now occupied by his grandson, Lester. Mr. Garvin relates the following anec-
dotes concerning this family:
“ Richard Melvin was one of the pioneer settlers in West Salem Township,
along the State line. An incident of some interest occurred soon after his
arrival. With considerable difficulty he had transported to the wilderness a
little pig, which he hoped to turn into a good fat porker in due time. Accord-
ingly, he built a small pen for it close to the cabin. One rainy, dark night he
heard it squeal ; alarmed for its safety, he sprang to the door. The blackness
of a rainy and moonless night prevented his seeing what was the matter. He
then seized a burning brand from the lire, and running out he heard the
squealing pig going away. He followed, waving his brand, when the squeal-
ing ceased, and he suddenly found himself confronted by a bear, standing on
the other side of a fallen tree, and the pig on his own side. He again waved
his brand, and rushed toward bruin, who ran off without further ceremony,
although he was loth to leave his tempting supper.
“James Melvin, a brother of Richard, was another of the first settlers in
the neighborhood of his brother. He wanted to provide for wool in the
future, and became the purchaser of a single sheep, which he attempted to
protect by a pen of rails from the prowling wolf. His efforts, however, were
unsuccessful, a wolf one night getting into the pen and killing his sheep.
Whether the wolf gorged himself so as to be unable to jump out, or the pen
was so constructed that it was easier to get into than out of the difficulty, is
not known; but poor wolf could not get out, and paid with his life for the meal
of mutton he enjoyed the previous night. ’ ’
William McClimans, a native of Scotland, immigrated with his parents to
Virginia before the Revolutionary War. He served in that war, and afterward
settled in Bedford County, Penn. , where he married Mary Ritchy, a lady of
Irish parentage. In 1798 or 1799 he removed with his wife and children to
Mercer County, and settled in the northeast part of this township. They
reared two children, John F. and Margaret, who married AVilliam McMillen,
a pioneer of Hempfield. Mr. McClimans died on the old homestead, north of
the site of Thiel College, in 1825, and his widow in 1854. Numerous
descendants of this pioneer couple are living in Mercer County.
John Ferguson, an Irishman, came with his sons John and James (Mrs.
Ferguson having died prior to the family’s leaving Westmoreland County) in
the spring of 1798, and settled in the northeast corner of the township. He
died in 1842. A daughter, by second marriage, is at present living in
Sharpsville, an aged and respected citizen.
Richard Tunison, a native of New Jersey, came from Westmoreland County
about 1798 or 1799, and located on a farm northwest of Greenville. This
farm he occupied until his death, leaving a numerous progeny in the township.
Joseph Morford, a native of New Jersey, settled in AVest Salem Township,
where his grandson. Dr. R. D. Morford, now lives, in 1798 or 1799. He was
married twice, the first marriage yielding no children. His second wife, Eliz-
abeth, was the daughter of Abraham Fell, by whom he reared seven children.
He was a justice of the peace for many years, and became comfortably wealthy.
He died in 1861 in his eighty- seventh year. His wife departed in 1868 in
her eighty- third year.
Frederick Everhart, of Westmoreland County, came to Mercer County
toward the close of the last century, soon after the Kecks, and married Catharine
Keck, sister of Joseph, Peter, Abraham, Jacob and Daniel Keck, all of whom
settled in the Shenango Valley in 1797. Everhart at a very early day started
a pottery in AVest Salem Township, and carried it on to the time of his death.
f
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY. 609
He was a soldier in the War of 1812. His son Paul, born in this county in
1804, learned his trade from his father, and carried it on. in Greenville until
old age compelled him to abandon hard labor.
Richard and Andrew Brown settled in West Salem Township in 1800.
They were of Irish extraction, and came from Eastern Pennsylvania. Both
lived as neighbors in the region of Maysville, where they died, leaving several
children each.
In the spring of 1800 Peter and John Loutzenhiser, accompanied by their
father, Joseph, all natives of Germany, came from Westmoreland to Mercer
County, whither their brother Jacob had preceded them a few years. Peter
was'a bachelor, and settled the lands now owned by James McElhaney and
John Loutzenhiser, Jr., where he soon afterward died. John brought out
his family ancj located near the southwest corner of West Salem, but after
Peter’s death he came into possession of the latter’s property and removed to
it. Both he and his father died on that place. Full sketches of the Loutzen-
hisers will be found in the biographical department.
Joseph and William McClurg, natives of Ireland, were among the earliest
settlers of the township. They lived northwest of Greenville. William died
in 1858 in his eighty-second year, and Joseph in 1864, aged ninety.
John McLaughlin and Nancy, his wife, both of Irish lineage, came to this
township in April, 1800. On the 9th of August, 1801, John died, it being the
first death in the township so far as any records show. His widow the next
year married Peter Losse, of Ohio. The eldest son, Patrick, is well remem-
bered in the township.
In 1801 John Speir, a Scotchman, came with his wife and three children
from Beaver County, and located in West Salem, within sight of what is now
Greenville. He died in 1813, leaving a family of eight children, the last sur-
vivor of whom, James, died in July, 1888.
Adam and Catharine Miller emigrated from Maryland to this township in
the fall of 1802, locating on the land now owned by Joseph Calvert and W.
H. Johnston. Miller served in the War of 1812, and both he and wife died
in this township, though they had lived in other parts of the county. They
reared several children and have many descendants. One of their daughters,
Mrs. Catherine Hunter, is still a resident of the township, where she was born
in 1807, and another, Mrs. Boies, lives in Greenville.
Henry Lininger and his wife Catharine, natives of Virginia, came from east
of the mountains about 1802, and settled on part of the farm now owned by his
son Jacob. Two of the sons, David and Jacob, are residents of the township.
Edward Johnston came with his wife, Nancy, from Mifflin County, and in
1803 settled in the northwest part of West Salem Township. Johnston was a
pioneer pedagogue, and taught the first school in that neighborhood, the log
school-house standing on his own farm. He was a soldier in the War of 1812.
Jacob Artman, a native of Westmoreland County, came to West Salem
Township and married Hannah Fry in 1809. In the natural order of events
he must have been a resident of the township for some time previous. Short
courtships and hasty marriages were not so popular then as now. They reared
a family of seven children. After their marriage they went back to West-
moreland County (in 1813) where they resided five years, returning then (1818)
to their first home. Both died near where their children still reside.
Jacob Hommer (now written Homer) a German and an old Revolutionary
soldier, came from Maryland with three sons and four daughters in 1809, and
settled near the limits of what is now Greenville, in West Salem Township.
Both died on the old homestead and are buried in a graveyard on their own
farm. Their descendants are very numerous.
610
HISTOEY OP MERCEE COUNTY.
Alexander and Margaret Hunter, natives of Ireland, . came from Cumber-
land and Fayette Counties, and settled a 400-acre tract in West Salem
Township in April, 1812. Their descendants still occupy it. They had nine
children. Hunter was a surveyor.
John and Mary Smail, natives of Germany, came from Westmoreland
County to West Salem Township in 1812 or ’13. They reared eleven chil-
dren, viz. : Jacob, John, Samuel, George, Susan, Elizabeth, Polly, Sarah,
Katie, Christina and Rachel. The parents died in West Salem, where their
descendants are quite numerous.
Villages. — Maysville is a little village near the center of the township,
and contains a store and cheese factory, owned by E. O. Brown, and also a
blacksmith shop. The West Salem Baptist Church is a part of the village,
and a good brick school-house furnishes full educational advantages for the
youth of the vicinity. The first grist-mill in the township was built, in 1829,
at this point by John Gravat. The water-power was furnished by Big Rirn,
which flows through Maysville. In 1846 Thomas McMahan erected a saw-
mill on the run, and two years afterward he built a steam grist-mill near the
village. He operated this about twenty years and then sold it to Philip
Schuster, who ran it until it was burned down. In 1873 John Mussell built
a cheese- factory at Maysville, which was burned, and in 1875 Morford & Clark
rebuilt it. This, too, was finally burned, and the present one was then erected
by J. W. Woods. A post-office was established at Maysville February 16,
1852, with George E. Hasenplug as postmaster. It was discontinued Novem-
ber 25, 1872. A complete list of postmasters will be found in a previous
chapter.
Mossmantown was at one time quite a flourishing hamlet, located near the
northwest corner of the township. A post-office, called West Salem, was es-
tablished at this point August 11, l851, James W. Mossman, postmaster.
The office existed until November 4 1875, and nothing remains of His once
busy little place to attest its former glory but the ruin of an old tannery.
Shenango is located at the intersection of the N. Y. P. & O., P. S. & L.
E. and Erie & Pittsburgh Railroads, about two miles south of Greenville, on a
farm purchased, in 1866, of Rev. H. F. Hartman, pastor of the German Re-
formed Church at Good Hope. The town was laid out by William Brigden in
the year 1868, was first named “Atlantic City,” but shortly afterward changed
to Shenango.
The village contains, according to the census of 1880, 160 inhabitants.
The men are nearly all employed on the railroads and in the shops, erected in
1882, and are, without exception, sober, industrious and thrifty.
A Union Sabbath School was organized at Shenango on the first Sunday in
April, 1877, and for several years held its sessions in passenger cars of the S.
& A. Railroad. The pioneer in this Sunday-school movement was Mrs. Ed.
Richardson, wife of the master mechanic of the S. & A. Railroad, to whose
efforts the Sunday-school owes its organization.
Churches. — Good Hope Church is the pioneer religious organization of
West Salem, and one of the oldest in Mercer County. It had its beginning
in 1805, when Rev. Michael Steck held services and preached to the families
of Lutheran and Reformed faith living in this portion of the county. In 1806
he held confirmation services. He was succeeded by Rev. Stough, and in
1808 Rev. Andrew Simon commenced his visits to the settlement. Revs.
Peter Kuebert and William Solson were next in the order of time. In Janu-
ary, 1815, Rev. Henry Huet, a pioneer Lutheran minister, began visiting this
congregation, and the following November made an arrangement to serve them
every four weeks. He continued as pastor of Good Hope until 1827.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
(311
During his pastorate, in 1816, a site for a church was donated by Peter
Klingensmith, and a log building, 26x30, erected the same year. Its first
seats were rough boards laid on blocks of trees sawed the required length.
It underwent various repairs, and supplied the needs of the congregation for
more than half a century. It contained a small gallery at one end for the
children to occupy during services. On the 2d of May, 1869, the corner stone
of the present frame structure was laid; and the house, 35x50, costing about
$3,000, was dedicated the following autumn.
Rev. Philip Zeiser, a minister of the Reformed Church, came in 1827,
and in 1828 Rev. Michael Kuchler succeeded Rev. Huet as pastor of the
Lutherans. These ministers preached alternately to the congregation until the
spring of 1840, when Rev. Henry Becker succeeded Mr. Kuchler and served
till April, 1847. Rev. Zeiser served till the spring of 1848, and his successors
have been as follows: Revs. Benjamin Boyer, a veteran of 1812, H. F. Hart-
man, Frederick Pilgram and J. M. Shick, the present pastor. The consecu-
tive successors of Rev. Becker have been Revs. T. H. Hengist, Michael Kuchler,
Jeremiah Fishburn, C. A. Fetzer and William Rehrig, professor of German at
Thiel College.
On the 16th of September, 1828, the church authorities received a deed
from Peter Klingensmith and Jacob Keck for something over four acres of
ground adjoining the original lot, for church and cemetery purposes, the con-
sideration being $10. A subscription paper was circulated by Rev. Kuchler
for the purpose of raising funds to clear off the timber and fence the land.
From this old document, written in German and dated April 19, 1828, we
copy the following names of pioneers, most of whom belonged to the congre-
gation: Jacob Hum, Jacob Keck, Daniel Keck, Frederick Everhart, Jacob
Artman, John Loutzenhiser, Abraham Frey, Philip Ziegler, Joseph Keck,
David Loutzenhiser, Joseph Hommer, Samuel Kamerer, George A. Blank,
Jacob Kamerer, Peter Harnit, Conrad Bittenbanner, Adam Barnhart, Peter
Klingensmith, John Frey and Andrew Campbell, each of whom subscribed $1.
The following gave fifty cents each: Samuel Loutzenhiser, Solomon Klingen-
smith, Joseph Morford, John Keck, John Loutzenhiser, Jr., Jacob Frey,
Solomon Lininger, Jacob Hommer, Jacob Klingensmith, Abraham Klingen-
smith, Casper Willyard, Paul Everhart, Aaron Blank, Andrew Lininger, John
A. Bean, Jacob Layman and Peter Keck. The following gave twenty-five
cents each: Jacob Keck, Jr., George Keck, Jacob Klingensmith and Peter
Willyard. The foregoing embraces the great majority of the families who
belonged to Good Hope, though Henry Lininger and wife, Adam Kamerer
and wife and Henry Bortz and wife were also pioneer members of the con-
gregation. Though hoary with years. Good Hope is still vigorous and pros-
perous.
West Salem Baptist Church may be said to have had its inception in 1807,
when Rev. Thomas Jones, of the Sharon charge, organized a Baptist society
in this township. It was connected with Sharon until a separate organization
was effected, nearly twenty years afterward. During this period the principal
place of worship was a small log building on the site of the Baptist cemetery,
where the first burial occurred in 1803. Revs. Joshua Wood, Samuel McMil-
len, Sidney Rigdon and George McCleery were the consecutive successors of
Mr. Jones. This church was regularly organized September 16, 1826, at the
house of John Loutzenhiser, Joseph Nelson acting as moderator, and Elders
Henry Frazer and Jesse Brown conducting the exercises. The following
members signed the covenant on the day referred to: Richard Morford, Pat-
rick McLaughlin, John Gravat, George Burns, Margaret Loirtzenhiser, Mar-
612
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
garet Canon, Lucinda Calvin, Elizabeth Burns, Elizabeth McLaughlin, Mary-
Brown, Sarah Speir, Rebecca Bodwell, Alanah Brown, Jane Watts, Edward
Kirby, fifteen in all. Within a few years there were added by letter or
baptism, upon profession of faith, Mary Gould, Sarah Carson, Susan Gra-
vat, Mary Gravat, Martha Simpkins (died August 25, 1829), Eliza W’akefield,
Sarah Runyan, Sarah Stern, George Brockway, Azariah Dunham, John Lout-
zenhiser. Peaceable Brown, John Morford, Margaret Gravat, Rachel Burns,
Sarah Ann Loutzenhiser, William Westby, Jane Westby and others.
The early meetings were held at private houses, viz. : those of John Lout-
zenhiser, Patrick McLaughlin, Alanah Brown, George Brockway, Richard
Morford and others. This continued to be the case until 1840, the time of
the erection of the first church edifice. It was a small frame building, unpaint-
ed, and is now used as a wagon-shed by Rev. Nimrod Burwell. The second
house, a comfortable frame structure, 41x51, was erected in 1856, on a lot
bought from Richard Morford. The cost of the structure was $1,400. In the
list of preachers we find the names of Elders Frazer, Churchill, Woodworth,
J. H. Hazen, Sanford, Jacob Morris, William Leet, William H. McKinney,
J. W. Snyder, D. W. Swigart, .Allen Peckham and T. B. Marlin, the present
pastor. The membership has had many experiences to test it, and at present
numbers over seventy.
The Evangelical Association Church, worshiping in a house near the
home of Jesse Shoemaker, was organized about 1836, by Rev. John Seibert,
an evangelist of his denomination in this region, at a private house. There
were about a dozen members, consisting of Solomon Shoemaker and wife,
Jacob Hazenplug and wife, Joseph Foulk and wife, George Shoemaker and
sister Mary, Adam Barnhart, Daniel Keck and wife, Michael Frey and wife,
and several others. For many years, in fact up to 1854, the preaching was
all done at private houses. At the date referred to the present house, a
frame, 30x38, was erected; Rev. Jacob Weikel was pastor at the time. The
site was donated by George Shoemaker and Reuben Bortz. It is impossible
to give the complete list of preachers, as no records could be found from which
to obtain them. In the list, however, are Revs. Bucks, Miller, Staver, Goetz,
Nievel, Hollinger, Weikel and Day. The present membership is about thirty,
who are principally residents of the vicinity.
The United Brethren have had an organization in West Salem for many
yeajs. A church building was erected before the war on the farm of David
Stull, which was finally burned down during that exciting period. A new
structure was then built northeast of the old site, which was widely known as
the “ Swamp Church,” because of its location. The building was removed a
few years ago to its present site near Rock Ridge Cemetery, where a small
congregation worship, with Rev. Foulk in charge. This was at one time
quite a flourishing church, but its glory has apparently departed.
Grace Church, of the Evangelical Association of North America, located
at Shenango, was built in the summer of 1883, and was dedicated November
11th, of the same year. ■ The first members were William J. Weikel and his
wife, Mary Ann. The first pastor was Rev. T. B. Zellers, who served about
one and one-half years, and was succeeded by the Rev. I. H. Voght, near the
close of whose pastorate an organization was efPected. The next pastor was
the Rev. G. W. Brown, who served the full term of three years, and was suc-
ceeded by the Rev. A. B. Day, who assumed charge in May, 1888. The
present membership is twenty- eight, and the society is in a flourishing con-
dition.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
613
WILMINGTON TOWNSHIP.
The above named township was erected in Febrnary, 18-16, the territory
comprising it being taken from Lackawannock and Neshannock Townships, the
latter of which was subsequently detached from Mercer in the formation of
Lawrence County. The new township was greatly diminished by that forma-
tion, and now it is probably the smallest subdivision in the county. It forms
one of the extreme southern tier of townships that face on the Lawrence
County line. It is bounded on the north by the two Lackawannocks, on the
east by Springfield, and on the west by Shenango. Its surface is rolling, and
the soil is very fertile, perhaps equal to any in the county. The drainage
system is a fairly satisfactory one. The main stream in the township is the
Little Neshannock, which heads in Jefferson Township and flows in a directly
southern course through the region in question. An im2)ortant tributary of
this, called the West Branch, rises in Hickory Townshi}:), flows southeast
through a portion of Shenango and the southwestern corner of Lackawannock,
and at length joins the parent stream near where it dejiarts into Lawrence
County, thus traversing a large portion of Wilmington.
Much of the land which subsequently became Wilmington Township lay
in the third district of donation lands. These latter were tracts which were
granted to the survivors of the Revolution and their descendants, by the
commonwealth, as a reward for their services and sacrifices. Few, indeed, of
these veterans, ever realized much from the gifts so received. In the majority
of instances, the claims were either sold at prices fabulously incommensurate
with the value of the land, or passed into the control of some of the many
land-speculating firms who seized upon any opportunity of securing territory,
with which to carry on their business, with the most astonishing avidity.
Many a humble pioneer, whose scanty means had been expended in the pur-
chase of a land title from some of these corporations, found, when only too
late, that the m'oney he had parted with brought him in return no legal claim
to his home. There frequently came up to his cabin other victims, who had
also purchased the same land.
The early settlement of Wilmington is connected very intimately with that
of Lackawannock. The reader is therefore requested to refer to the pages
devoted to that township. So far as is now definitely known, the first settlers
were a company of young men, who arrived early in the spring of 1798, and
began to take up claims. The names of these were John McCrumb, John
Waugh, John Hughson, William Hughey, Robert Wier, James Hazlet and
John Blair. Each of these began settlements, and after clearing off a small
portion of ground, erected a cabin and prepared to meet the necessities of a
pioneer life with as much fortitude and perseverance as they could command.
They were in a peculiar position. Near them were no fellow-workers with
whom they could join company and share confidence. They knew not when
they would be joined by others, and they had to encounter not only the direct
perils of their life, but were forced day by day to meet the little vexations and
indirect annoyances which such a border existence always calls forth. That
they did this in cheerfulness and with patience, is evidence of the obligations
which the present generation really owes to them.
Samuel Blackstone settled in Wilmington Townshiji in 1708. His son
James was born in that township November 2, 1798, and in 1822 married
Nancy Waugh, locating in East Lackawannock Township, where his descend-
ants still reside.
Hugh Means, another early settler, whose name is frequently met with
while tracing the history of Mercer County, arrived with his family in 1800,
614
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
and located on the old homestead. There were a large number of boys in the
family, and these have since become the founders of a regular community of
Means.’ Five years later James Young, a Revolutionary veteran, came to the
township, and settled upon the farm subsequently occupied by his son John.
Among the other settlers might be mentioned Joshua Cook, Christopher Irwin,
Benjamin Junkin and Isaac Donaldson. All these were prominently identified
with the best interests of the region they lielped to settle. Their names are
found on the court records in many instances, and even when not thus recorded,
it is safe to say that they left an imperishable impress upon the history of the
township’s development.
There was but one early mill in the vicinity, and that was the one built in
the year 1804 by Hugh Means. It was a small, clumsy, inefiicient concern
compared with our modern giants of industry, but it served a good purpose,
and saved the early residents many a weary journey through the forests and
over hills to farther removed places of grist-grinding. It had but one run of
stone. This was operated by power furnished by a small water-wheel, which
the creek near which it was located revolved in a slow and creaky manner. In
this old establishment the first township election was held.
Of the game that used to be seen in this vicinity, a writer says: “Game
was very plenty, deer, bears, etc., abounding, and wolves and snakes being
profusely plenty, wolves becoming so bold as to kill stock almost in the door-
yards, and carrying it off before the very eyes of the settlers. One man is
related to have killed six bears in one day, although that particular feat was
not very remarkable. He ran across an old she -bear and three cubs in the
woods, and being successful in killing the mother at the first fire, soon dis-
patched the cubs, they refusing to leave the body of their parent. Then, on
his way home for help to drag the carcasses to his house, he spied another
bear asleep in the fork of a tree, and dropped him with another lucky bullet;
while on his way back with help he killed the sixth. This incident at least
shows how plentiful these animals were. ’ ’
WOLF CREEK TOWNSHIP.
This township is one of the six original ones. It included all of what are
now Liberty, Wolf Creek and Pine Townships until February 17, 1851, at
which time the former and the last named were taken out and erected into new
and distinct organizations. It forms one of the extreme eastern tier of town-
ships that face on the Venango County line. It is bounded on the north by
Worth and a portion of Jackson, on the west by Findley, and on the south by
Pine Townships. Its shape is that of a trapezoid. The surface is quite well
diversified, portions, especially in the southern part, affording an interesting
view to the spectator. In some places there are pleasing undulations, while
in others the surface is comparatively level, without particular charm. The
soil is fertile, and from it good crops are produced. The township is an agri-
cultural one, and as such ranks among the first in the eastern part of the
county, thus evidencing that its soil must at least be up to the average. The
drainage is good. Wolf Creek, with its many little tributaries shooting off in
all directions, each of which penetrates the adjacent country and filters through
its soil, furnishes the basis of a system that is, perhaps, equal to any in the
county. The water facilities thus afforded are utilized in numerous ways.
Hitherto we have spoken of the external wealth. It now remains to say that
the internal treasures are not one whit less valuable. Rich coal measures
underlie nearly all the township. From these an abundant supply of good
fuel is obtained. Owing to the cheapness and general distribution of coal
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
615
throughout the neighboring regions, the market for Wolf Creek’s mines are,
in nearly every instance, purely local. The healthfulness of the climate is
beyond dispute. The township has enjoyed immunity from almost every
species of contagious disease, other than those natural to all localities. Indeed,
the health of the inhabitants, when no extraneous causes enter into calculation,
is fully equal to that of any other portion of the county.
The lands which afterward comprised Wolf Creek Township was mostly
what is known as ‘ ‘donation lands. ’ ’ That phrase, and the one ‘ ‘depreciation
lands, ’ ’ originated in this way : During the Revolution the soldiers supplied
by each colony were paid in continental currency, a kind of paper inflated
scrip that readily depreciated in value as the exigencies of the war sank lower
and lower the colonial credit, until it became almost worthless.- When the
contest was over, and independence won, the commonwealth of Pennsylvania
determined to extend its bounty to the remaining veterans who had fought so
gallantly in behalf of liberty. To do this two measures were passed by the
Assembly, one giving a certain portion of the public domain as a donation for
services rendered — whence arose the term “donation lands” — and the other
issuing warrants for lands to all who suffered loss in the depreciation of the
continental currency — whence came the phrase “depreciation lands.” In the
settlement of these lands much trouble arose. The survivors of the war were
in many cases indisposed to encounter the perils and hardships of settling in
a new country, and as their land was located in a new region, they merely
retained the ownership, without endeavoring to realize any other benefits. In
some few instances they settled themselves, in others they disposed of their
title to intending settlers; but in the majority of cases they simply let the
land lie idle and unimproved. When the influx of settlers ensued, from 1796
to 1800, as no ownership to the soil could be detected from any evidences
manifest on the land itself, many new-comers usurped claims for which they
had at no time any legal right. But the truth of the old adage, that “posses-
sion is nine points in law,” was never more clearly demonstrated than in the
region of which we speak, for when the proper owners arrived, either in
person or by proxy, as in the cases where the soldiers had sold their titles to
those who purposed forming settlements on the land, an inevitable conflict
ensued, in which the clash of conflicting interests was audible for many years
after the commencement of the land-title troubles. Indeed, much troublesome
and vexatious litigation followed, causing ill-feeling and engendering much
ill-blood. This, of course, was not confined to Wolf Creek Township, but
extended over the entire region known as Northwestern Pennsylvania. It is
mentioned here simply as explanatory of what is implied in the phrase
‘ ‘donation and depreciation lands. ’ ’
Pioneers. — Probably the first settler in the township was Samuel Waldron,
a New Jersey man, who came with his family as early as 1796, packing his
provisions from Pittsburgh on horseback', and conveying his heavier utensils in
an ox-cart. Waldron had been a Revolutionary soldier, and the tract upon
which he settled, afterward occupied by Simeon Waldron, was a donation lot.
Thomas McCoy settled in the township in 1796 or 1797, removing thither
from Harper’ 8 'Perry, Va. He had six sons that settled in the neighborhood,
viz. : John, Joseph, James, Thomas, Hugh and William. All grew to man-
hood, leaving sons and daughters. His neighbors at that time were William
Breckenridge, the nearest one; Samuel Waldron, the McKees, William Mc-
Millan, Abraham Snyder, William Smith and others. These people had their
peculiar sport. One of their tricks was to pull the hair of a comrade who
could not say “thump, thunder and thatch.” When a German was coaxed
616
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
into the party, and called out ’‘tump, tunder and tach,” he was sure to have
his head well plucked. In this game poor Snyder was the sufferer among the
Wolf Creek boys. Another trick was to bump the reaper in the harvest field
who failed to reap clean as he went. Two of his comrades would catch him,
each by a leg, lifting him up, and then run to the first handy tree, where the
process would be gone through.
John Montgomery, a Scotchman by descent, whose father had immigrated to
America when quite young, arrived from Allegheny County in the spring of
1797. With him came his father, William, and his five sisters and four’
brothers. The tract upon which the family settled was one of 200 acres, near
what is now known as Montgomery’s Hill. The first winter was passed back
in Allegheny County, only two of the brothers remaining to look after the
property. In 1801, though, the entire family returned to their Mercer County
home, in which they now permanently established themselves. The sons of
William, as soon as opportunity offered, cleared homes of their own, and
afterward marrying, reared quite a colony of Montgomerys, which is still to
be met with. Montgomery’s neighbors on the south were John Perry and
family, and John Sutherland, who entered in 1798, or thereabout.
In the year last mentioned, as nearly as can be ascertained, Philip Hoon,
afterward a prominent man in the affairs of the township, entered the region,
took up land, and effected a settlement. It was on this tract that one of the
first coal banks in the county was opened. The date of the opening was 1827.
The product, a fair grade of coal, was used at first merely for blacksmithing
pm’poses, but its adaptability to other uses soon extended the scope of its use-
fulness, and the fuel came to be regarded a valuable factor in the township’s
natural resources. Another incomer of the year mentioned was Samuel Cole-
man, who, with his brothers, had come to the county the year previous. The
latter located in Worth Township, while Samuel took up his residence near
Centre town, upon a 400- acre tract of fine land, afterward occupied by E. S.
Dunn.
James Craig, of Scotch and Irish descent, came about 1798 with four of his
brothers, and a family of his own, into Mercer County, settling on a tract of
land in what is now Wolf Creek Township. His son Francis was a soldier in
the War of 1812. The descendants are still numerous.
Caleb Ball, a native of Washington County, Penn., settled in Wolf Creek
Township in 1798. He served in the Revolution and War of 1812. He con-
tracted a disease while in the latter, which caused his death. Among the
later settlers were John Gealy, John Burnside, John Kelly, Jonathan Sopher
and others, whose efforts, while not so prominent, were yet greatly helpful in
developing the territory in which they settled. Edward Riddle settled in this
township in 1804, in the neighborhood of the McMillans. He served in the
whole seven years of the Revolutionary War. He subsequently removed from
Cumberland County, Penn., to a place near Wheeling, Va. , where there was
a block house, which he occupied until he could erect a house for himself, and
in which one of his sons was born. From that place he came to Mercer
County. The Riddles appoint a meeting once a year for all who can attend.
There were six brothers, sons of Edward, whose posterity numbers between
300 and 400. At these meetings the financial condition of each is inquired
into, and where assistance is needed, those who are in good circumstances
contribute. The six sons were named Alexander, James, twice at Erie in
the War of 1812; Samuel, William, John B. and Washington. The daughters
were Rebecca, who married Alexander McCracken; Mary Ann, who married
Scott Stephenson; Eliza, who married John Emery, and Lucinda, who married
William Mills.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
617
It is not possible to say anything which can unduly impress the obligations
which the present generation owes the one which has just passed away. But
a single thought might be given to the perils and hardships, the deprivations
and sacrifices of personal comfort and happiness, which they underwent in
order to prepare the way for posterity.
There is little to be said concerning the industrial interests of the town-
ship. The first grist-mill erected in the vicinity was the one built by Samuel
Waldron at what is now called Centretown, which was operated by water flow-
ing from an adjacent spring. It did nothing beyond grinding corn. In
about ten years the first saw- mill was built near the same spring. Samuel O.
Waldron was the originator of the saw-mill which used to stand on the east
branch of Wolf Creek. He built it in 1835. It has been replaced twice, the
last time by the Williamson brothers. In the following year John Montgomery
built and started in operation the grist-mill afterward conducted by James
C. Montgomery. Two years later Henry Carter built the saw-mill which
used to be run in the southwestern part of the township.
The only village in the township is Centretown. This is located on land
formerly owned and originally settled by Samuel Waldron. Alexander Biddle
was the first merchant, William Atwell the first blacksmith and Hugh Shaw
the first shoemaker.
Ebenezer Eeformed Presbyterian Church is the only church of its kind in
the township, the denomination not being noted for its aggressiveness. It is
situated about a mile or more east of Centretown. It was organized in 1855
or 1856 by Rev. David Kennedy.. The house of worship is also used by other
denominations.
WORTH TOWNSHIP.
The territory comprised under the above named township was formerly a part
of the township of Sandy Lake, from which it was detached on the 10th day of
November, 1849, and erected into a new organization, which was named in
honor of the distinguished general in the Mexican War, William J. Worth.
It forms one of the extreme eastern tier of townships that face on the Venango
County line. Its northern boundary is Sandy Lake, from which it was taken;
its southern. Wolf Creek, and its western, Jackson Township. The surface is
very uneven. In places it is especially broken. Hills rise up in wild out-
line, and the gulch-like appearance of the sharply outlined valleys give the
whole an air of rugged picturesqueness, that is quite pleasing when contrasted
with the low lands lying in some of the adjacent territory. Elsewhere in the
township the land falls in gentle slopes, and even becomes undulating. It is
this variety of landscape that constitutes the chief charm of the scenery.
There is much valuable timber yet standing. The soil is generally fertile, and
from it satisfactory crops of cereals and fruits are grown.
The lands which afterward became known as Worth Township was origin-
ally under the control of the North American Land Company. In order to
secure an influx of settlers into the region, and thus to increase the value of
their lands, the company offered 150 acres to every man who would make a per-
manent settlement upon a 400-acre tract, the remaining territory to be im-
proved for, and afterward sold by the company itself. This offer, much more
liberal than any which had been previously made, was eagerly accepted.
Pioneers. — The first settlement effected in the township was that of the
Hendersons. In the year 1796 five brothers, three of them named, respect-
ively, William, Archibald and John, entered from the region lying near Pitts-
burgh, and, in accordance with the offer spoken of above, made settlements
upon tracts of 150 acres each. After effecting a few improvements, blazing a
618
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
few trees, and, in other ways securing their claims, they returned to their for-
mer homes to pass the severe winter which was just setting in. In the follow-
ing year, with their families, they started on their journey to their new homes
in Mercer County. Their progress was slow, and beset with many difficulties.
The goods which they brought along, consisting of their provisions and neces-
sary articles of household use — all articles not absolutely indispensable being
left behind — were stowed away on the back of an old gray mare, the dilapi-
dated saddle of which was for a long time preserved in the family as a
memento of the tour. Mrs. William Henderson sat astride the animal, and it
is related that while fording Slippery Rock Greek the party suddenly got
in water beyond their depth, and in the struggle which ensued the horse, with
all its burdens, capsized. The water flowed very rapidly, and it was by the
merest accident that Mrs. Henderson, who was a large, stout woman, was
saved. In the confusion a large pot hooked her under the arm and held her
head above water until she was rescued. At length, however, after numerous
annoyances and perils, of which the one narrated is but a specimen, the new
homes were reached. The brothers had not erected any cabins as yet, and
the party was forced to be without shelter, sleeping at night under the trees,
on beds made of leaves, until small dwellings could be improvised. William
Henderson, probably the most prominent of the brothers, succeeded in getting
the first roof over his family’s heads. There was but one room in the shanty.
In the course of a few weeks this was decorated with rough hewn seats, and a
table made of a huge log, hewn flat on the upper surface. Around this the
family congregated at meal time and enjoyed their repast, which was exceed-
ingly frugal. Game abounded, and with his trusty rifle Mr. Henderson sup-
plied the meat used at his table. He at once began cultivating the ground,
and preparing it for seed. In this task he was assisted by his wife, who was
much larger and more powerful than he. The implements with which
they set out to conquer the wilderness, consisted of two hoes and a mat-
tock. In the use of the latter instrument they took turns. Henderson working
with it until exhausted, and then giving place to his wife. When they came
to fence in their cleared land she lifted the heavy end of the rails while he car-
ried the opposite extreme. With them they had brought a cow and a dog. The
former was almost indispensable to their existence, as it used often to supply
food for the family when all other resources failed. The canine, which was
a large and powerful one, was in the habit of accompanying its master upon all
his expeditions into the forest in search of game. Upon one of these occasions
it saw a large animal slowly moving along in the distance, and, without pausing
to ascertain what kind of beast it was, the dog gave a bound and set upon it.
The animal thus attacked proved to be an immense black bear, which no sooner-
beheld that its antagonist was a dog, than it immediately showed fight, and in
a few moments had almost succeeded in killing it, when Henderson reached the
scene, and with a large, keen knife which he carried, with a few dexterous
strokes ended the struggle in favor of the dog, thus saving his faithful ani-
mal’s life. The other four brothers settled in the township at various places,
one of them, John, locating a short distance north of the present site of the
village of Hendersonville.
The year following the first entrance of the Henderson exploring expedition
witnessed several important arrivals. Probably the first of these accessions to
the population of the county was made by the coming of Burroughs Westlake in
the spring of 1797. He was originally a resident of Westmoreland County,
and came with the idea of bettering his condition in life by securing a home in
the Northwest, which was then, in the expressive language of to-day, being vig-
f
I
i
HISTOBY OP MEBCER COUNTY.
621
orously ‘ ‘boomed. ’ ’ He and bis family settled near the present village of
Millbrook. The old homestead is still in the possession of his descendants.
Near him located the family of John Grace in the same year. The members
of this family afterward achieved quite a prominence in local political circles,
as will be attested by the early court records, in which the name of Grace,
connected with some kind of official business, is very frequently seen.
On the east of Millbrook, settled in the same year William Carroll, claimed
to be a distant relative of Charles Carroll, whose name, appended to which, in a
bold hand, is the phrase ‘ ‘of Carrollton, ’ ’ stands forth as one of the signatures
attached to the Declaration of Independence. Carroll was an Irishman by
birth and a Catholic, and on rejuoving to America became as strongly patriotic
over his new as he had been over his former fatherland. He enlisted and
served as a soldier in the Revolution. He married a Miss Wakefield, by whom
he reared five children, one of whom, David, is said to have established the first
iron foundry and machine shop in Worth Township, if not in the county. The
parents died in the township. A third new-comer was Daniel Wolverton, whose
entrance, likewise, dates back to 1797. He was according to all accounts a
“mighty hunter, ” and, like a veritable Nimrod, he searched the forest in quest
of game.
In the following year Peter Wilson, who had entered what is now Jackson
Township from Allegheny County in 1797, removed with his family to Worth,
locating on the farm afterward occupied by his son James. In 1799 a daughter
was born to Peter, and this is said to have been the first birth in the township
among the white residents.
Among the pioneer settlers of the township were William Waddle and his
sister, Mrs. Sarah (Waddle) McDowell. They came from Franklin County,
Penn., about 1798. He located 100 acres and she the adjoining
tract of 100 acres, lying south of what is known as the St. Paul School-
house. William Waddle was married to Catherine Stephenson, aunt of the
late William M. Stephenson, Esq., of Mercer. They had two sons and five
daughters, one of whom, Hannah Stull, is still living, over eighty years of
age. William Waddle was in the War of 1812, and died at Erie of camp fever.
His sons left no children to perpetuate the name.
Mrs. Sarah McDowell came to the county, as already intimated, with her
brother. She had two twin boys about three years of age. Isaiah, one of
them, married Elizabeth Davidson in 1820, and reared a family of twelve chil-
dren, nine of whom are still living. He died in 1882, but his widow is still liv-
ing at Millbrook, aged eighty- seven, with her faculties unimpaired. The names
of Isaiah and Elizabeth McDowell’s children are: W’illiam D., of Bradford,
Penn.; John J., living in Worth Township; David, deceased; Isaiah, living
in Venango County; Samuel, deceased; Mrs. Jane D. McElrath, living at
Lakeville. Minn.; Mrs. Julia A. Eakin, of Millbrook; Mrs. Louisa Albin, of
Centretown; Cyrus, living in Gordon, Neb. ; Mrs. Sarah E. Boyles, of
New Castle, and Milton R., deceased.
The year 1800 witnessed the arrival of William Perrine and family, who
settled at what afterward became known as Perrine’ s Corners. They were
originally from “ Jersey,” and the sons of William, of whom there were seven,
subsequently became quite prominent in local affairs, Daniel being a soldier
in the War of 1812, Job becoming a respected citizen of Sandy Lake Town-
ship and the others occupying at different times various posts of responsibility
and honor.
One of the most distinguished families ever in the township was the Car-
michael family. The first members of this to enter were John and Duncan
Carmichael, who arrived in 1802 from Allegheny County. Each secured land
35
622
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
and began clearings. After eigM years’ experience Duncan concluded to go
further west, so in 1810 he sold out to William Henderson and removed with
his family to the State of Indiana. John, however, remained on the old home-
stead, where his descendants yet reside. The family is of Scotch origin, and
the first to immigrate to America was John Carmichael, Sr., a soldier in the
British army, who served with Wolfe in his gallant assault upon Quebec. He
became deaf from the tremendous din of that engagement. The present Car-
michaels, like their ancestors in times past, take a deep interest in the welfai’e
of the township and county in which they live, and are active in assisting all
worthy movements which have a tendency to promote this.
There are many others who may fairly lay claim to mention in the list of
Worth Township’s pioneers. Among them are William Graham, the Pennys,
John, William and David; William Jack, Samuel Osborne and Jonathan
Cochran. Space forbids more extended notice. Their efforts are borne
abundant testimony to by the many evidences of material and intellectual
prosperity among the inhabitants of the territory they labored so hard to cul-
tivate, which follow as the legitimate and logical results of their noble, and, in
nearly every instance self-sacrificing, endeavors. Too much praise can
scarcely be accorded them. And if, as is often, too often, indeed, the case,
this was not given them while living, let it not for that reason be denied now
that they are dead.
Villages. — There are three villages within the present limits of the town-
ship. The first of these, Hendersonville, located in the extreme northeastern
corner, was laid out in 1834 by Robert Henderson, from whom it takes its
name, and by whom the first house had been erected as early as 1828. Robert
afterward became the first postmaster. A tannery was built in 1829 by
Jonathan Henderson, who remained its proprietor until 1855, conducting a
shoe-shop in connection therewith, at which time he sold to Frank Adamson.
The last owner was James Bowlender, under whose control it languished and
died. School had been opened as early as 1812, the children of the neighbor-
hood assembling in a small log hut at that time to receive such primitive in-
struction and educational training as the times afforded.
A short distance southwest is Perrine’s Corners, in which the first dwel-
ling was erected by John Forrest, in 1838. The list of postmasters, given
elsewhere, will show the different officials who have distributed mail in the
township.
Millbrook, the third village, is situated in the southern part of the town-
ship, on land formerly belonging to Joshua and Nathaniel Coleman. At the
time the place was surveyed by Benjamin Stokely, the proprietors were Wes-
ley, William and John Hogue. The only mills of any historic interest in the
region are situated here. The first was a saw-mill, erected at a very early day
by Nathaniel Coleman. This subsequently came into the possession of Daniel
Waldron, who enlarged and improved it in 1846, and afterward conducted it
with much success. More important even than the Coleman saw-mill, which
supplied a want long felt by the early residents, was the grist-mill erected in
1815 by Peter Wilson. This was, according to all accounts, a very small con-
cern, and the method of operating it was very unsatisfactory. But its suc-
cessor, built by John Wilson, did much better, while the successor to this,
built by Calvin Matthews, was superior to any near, and did a good business
from the outset. There was at one time a carding-mill, operated by the
Hogues, and a potash factory, run by Hogue, Dunn & Co. The latter subse-
quently passed into the possession of Carnahan & Hill. The first hotel was
conducted by J. F. Cochran, while the first rural emporium of trade was es-
tablished about fifty-three years ago by Calvin Matthews.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
623
Churches. — The Methodist Church near Millbrook is said to have been the
oldest church in the township, the edifice, a rude log one, being built in 1816.
The organization of the society, as the wont in those primitive days, occurred
at the house of William Carroll. His residence answered as a place for meet-
ings until the church structure was ready for occupancy. Rev. Asa Shinn, one
of the pioneer preachers of the county, is said to have organized this congre-
gation during the presiding eldership of Rev. Jacob Gruber. The preaching
for this congregation was done by the pastors in charge of the circuit to which
it belonged.
The Methodist Episcopal Church at Hendersonville was begun about 1833,
when meetings were held first by Rev. John P. Kent. Preaching first occurred
at the house of Robert Henderson, and after several years they were taken to
the school-house. In 1840 the society erected their present church edifice.
The following is the list of pastors as found upon the proper records: R. Par-
ker, D. W. Vorce, 1839; H. Luce, 1840-41; A. G. Miller, 1841; J. M. Plant,
A. G. Miller, 1842; M. H. Bettes, J. Van Horn, 1843; W. Monks, G. F.
Reeser, 1844; W. Monks, H. Pritchard, 1845; H. S. Winans, J. R. Lyon,
1846; H. S. Winans, H. M. Chamberlain, 1847; J. Abbott, T. G. McCreary,
1848; J. Abbott, P. Burroughs, 1849; P. Burroughs, D. M. Stever, 1850; E.
Hull,' J. G. Thompson, 1851; A. Keller, P. W. Sherwood, 1852; A. Keller,
J. H. Vance, 1853; J. H. Vance, S. S. Stuntz, 1854; T. G. McCreary, A. L.
Miller, 1855; J. McComb, A. L. Miller, 1856; J. W. Weldon, S. Hubbard,
1857; W. R. Johnson, 1858; R. B. Boyd, J. McComb, 1859; R. B. Boyd, E.
Bennett, 1860; R. Beatty, E. Bennett, 1861; R. Beatty, S. K. Paden, 1862;
J. Abbott, B. F. Wade, 1863; J. Abbott, J. Howe, 1864; C. Wilson, 1865-66;
T. Graham, 1867-69; J. M. Edwards, 1870; I. Scofield, 1871; H. C. Smith,
1872-74; J. M. Foster, 1875-77; J. A. Ward, 1878; F. Fair, 1879.
The Millbrook Wesleyan Methodist Church. As early as 1838 a sentiment
existed in Milbrook and vicinity in opposition to American slavery. The per-
sons who were thus opposed to it believed with Wesley that “slavery was the
sum of all villainies, ’ ’ and laid the sin of its existence and continuance at the
doOTs of the political parties and churches of the United States. Animated by
this spirit, and appealing to the considerate judgment of their brethren and
to God for the rectitude of their intentions, they withdrew from the commun-
ion of the Methodist Episcopal Church and organized the Wesleyan Metho-
dist Church of Millbrook. The organization was effected by Rev. Edward
Smith, in September, 1843, soon after the Utica Convention, and was partici-
pated in by the following original members ; Wesley Hogue, John F. Hogue,
Freeman Dunn, Solomon Davis, Tobias Kimmel, David Reagle, Samuel Curt,
Daniel Gildersleeve, George Westlake, Daniel Axtell, Nathaniel Coleman,
Bennet Perrine, William Irwin, Thomas Lamb, Elizabeth Lamb, Rebecca
Kimmel, Fanny Westlake and Mileah Lamb. A frame building was erected
in 1848 for the use of the congregation, costing $1,000. Following is the
succession of pastors : Revs. Joel Parker, George Jacquis, Thomas Lamb,
Thomas Savage, J. A. Preston, Andrew Donaldson, J. F. Selby, William
Koon, James Langdon, Daniel T. Beckwith, George Savage, Thomas Foster,
A. D. Carter, Benjamin Longhead, O. M. Sackett, James S. Albertson, D. S.
Kinney, C. F. Hawley, H. S. Childs, J. E. Carroll, A. T. Wolff, S. H.
Foster, and J. B. Knappenberger. The first officers were : Class leader,
George Westlake ; stewards, Wesley Hogue and Freeman Dunn ; trustees,
David Carroll, Jesse Gray and Aquilla Grace. The present officers are :
Class leader, S. E. Westlake ; stewards, W. T. Q. Gildersleeve and William
Smith ; trustees, D. G. Bagnell, S. E. Westlake and J. C. Perrine. The
membership is sixty. Connected with the congregation is a Sunday-school,
624
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
the officers of which are ; Superintendent, W. H. Howe ; assistant, J. C.
Perrine ; secretary. Miss Lulu Perrine ; librarian. Miss Mary E. Westlake,
and treasurer. Miss M. A. Gillann. ,
Zion Wesleyan Methodist Church was organized on the north line of the
township in 1845, with some thirty members, who withdrew from the Method-
ist Episcopal Church on account of differences of sentiment on the question
of human slavery. Rev. John Moore is said to have been the first pastor.
For a number of years prior to the erection of the present frame structure,
which was the first, the services were conducted in a school-house. Francis
Mears, of Sandy Lake Township, was instrumental in raising funds for the
church edifice, as he was subsequently useful in completing the same as a
member of the building committee.
OFFICIAL CENSUS BY DECADES, SINCE 1850.
In the following table will be found the population by decades of the
townships and boroughs of Mercer County from 1850 to 1880 inclusive, accord-
ing to the official census reports published by the United States Government :
TOWNSHIPS AND BOROUGHS.*
1850.
1
^ 1800.
1870.
1880.
Bethel Borough
151
Clarksville Borough
376
359
264
Cool Spring Township
2,760
892
865
970
Deer Creek Township
488
579
581
Delaware Township
2,893
922
1,816
794
1,703
1,616
660
East Lackawannock Township
672
l^fl.irviPiw Township
895
920
834
Findley Township
1,066
1,098
1,710
1,609
323
Predonia Borough
French Creek Township
691
883
999
1,093
881
Greene Township
933
932
832
Greenville Borough
1,036
1,101
777
1,848
1,119
7,700
752
3,007
1,006
5,926
1,111
974
Hempfleld Township
Hickory Township
2,089
3,009
814
Tnol^^son Township .
Jn.mpistown Rorong^h
256
572
JpfPorson Township
1,265
968
1,292
1,079
524
1,126
1092
Lackawannock Township
1,123
Lake Township
589
638
Liberty Township
726
634
642
Mercer Borough
1,004
1,249
1,050
1,235
2,344
876
279
Mill Creek Township (including New Lebanon'in 1870)
New Lebanon Borough
840
1,086
273
New Vernon Township
700
796
845
Oftpr DuppIa Townsiiip. .
471
560
530
Pprry Township
849
914
1,160
Pinp Townsliip
1,220
2,031
585
1,235
2,540
686
1,652
2,319
Pymatuning Township
2,161
2,206
Rnlpm Townsliip
592
Sandy Creek Township
2,865
1,100
691
734
745
Sandy Lake Township
1,061
1,028
428
1,097
730
Rnnfly TiH.kp RoroiiP’h
RliflTon RoroiiP’h
541
900
4,221
5,684
1,824
222
Slifirpsvillp RormiP'h
Shpnhlpyvillp RoroiiP’h
218
273
Shenango Township
1,574
1,275
2,107
1,438
2,616
1,595
1,464
1,186
655
Springfield Township
1,318
471
Stoneboro Borough
Kiigflr Orovp Township
508
511
Wpst MiHHlpspir Roroiip'h
888
918
W^psf; Rfl.lpm Township
2,481
1,879
2,082
2,071
583
Wilmington Township
549
578
548
556
^Volf Orpp.k Township.
2,048
1,015
610
555
636
Worth Township
1,030
1,084
1,094
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
625
CHAPTEK XXVIII.
Thirty Years of Township Officials— Value of Such a Eecord— Charac-
ter OF THE Men Chosen — List of First Justices — Township Officers in
1804— The Pioneers Who Annually Filled the Offices in Each Town-
ship FROM 1806 TO 1831 Inclusive.
a EE AT interest often attaches to the inquiry, Who were the men that
occupied the humbler positions in the early history of the various town-
ships of the county ? Townships are the lowest units of organization in the
general economy of our government. They are to the rural regions what
borough corporations are to the aggregations of population. In these gov-
ernments of the people, it is possible for every elector to become acquainted
with the necessary qualifications of those whom he assists in putting into
position. The responsibility of the position he shares, because he has the
opportunity of knowing in advance what may be expected of the candidates
to be chosen.
As a rule the most competent men are chosen for township offices. An
examination of the accompanying lists will indicate that the men chosen were
leaders in their respective townships, and frequently chosen to fill both county
and State positions. This was strictly in harmony with the maxim, that he
who has been faithful over a few shall be appointed to rule over many.
It may be proper to remark that the townships are mentioned in the
order in which they existed. For an account of the order of formation refer-
ence is made to other chapters of this work bearing upon that question.
List of First Justices. — First District — Cool Spring: John D. Littleford,
January 2, 1802; Ebenezer Magoffin, January 2, 1804; Peter Rambo, April
1, 1806; John Creighton, July 4, 1806; Benjamin Stokely, March 29, 1808.
Second District — Wolf Creek: Hugh Hamilton, April 2, 1802; William
McMillan, April 1, 1809.
Third District — Neshannock: John Monteith and John Carlisle Stewart,
April 2, 1802; Thomas Canon, Arthur Hury, April 1, 1806.
Fourth District — Mercer: Isaiah Jones, July 4, 1804; Joseph Junkin, July,
1808.
Fifth District — Salem: John Christy, William McLean, April 1, 1806;
David Semple, July 4, 1806.
Sixth District — Sandy Creek: Thomas Robb, April 2, 1802; Allen Dunn,
April 1, 1806.
At the February term of court, 1804, the townships, with their executive
officers, were as follows:
Cool Spring. — Justice, John D. Littleford; constable, William Pangburn.
Wolf Creek. — Justice, Hugh Hamilton; constable, Barnabas Johnston.
Sandy Creek. — Justice, Thomas Robb; constable, Aaron Boylan.
Salem. — Justices, John Christy, George Williamson; constable, Peter
Yeatman.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Christian Miles.
Neshannock. — Justices, John Monteith, John C. Stewart, Thomas Canon;
constable, John Mayburn.
1806.
Mercer. — Constable, John McElhaney; supervisors, George W. Bartlett,
626
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Alexander Bean; appraisers, Jonathan Smith, C. S. Semple; overseers, Alex-
ander Bean, Washington Porter.
Springfield. — Constable, Moses Cochran; supervisors, James Denniston,
James Hart; appraisers, John Garvin, Thomas Hosack.
Mahoning. — Constable, John Mayberry; supervisors, George McWilliams,
John Small; appraisers, John Olmstead, Samuel McBride; overseers, John
Williamson, Robert Walker.
Lackaivannock. — Constable, Thomas Gordon; supervisors, John Blair,
Thomas Gordon; appraisers, Robert Wier, Robert Stevenson; overseers, Will-
iam McMillan, William Hunter.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, John Powell; supervisors, John Uber, David
McDowell; appraisers, John McKee, James Foster; overseers, John Gillman,
James Gormley.
West Salem. — Constable, JohnGravat; supervisors, John Potter, Luther
Calvin.
Slippery i?ocfc.— Constable, John Hagerty; supervisors, Jonathan Harlin,
Robert Cochran; appraisers, Thomas Taylor, John Green; overseers, William
Michael, James Glenn.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Jonathan Dunham; supervisors, John Morford,
Godfrey Carnes.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, William Pangburn; supervisors, Caleb Ball,
William Perrine; appraisers, Cary Cooper, Job Egbert; overseers, Joseph
Montgomery, Nathaniel Coleman.
Salem. — Constable, James Stevenson; supervisors, Andrew Christy, John
Gilliland.
Shenango. — Constable, Christian Miles; supervisors, Benjamin Custard,
David Crawford; appraisers, Thomas Felton, Henry Hoover; overseers, Charles
Reno, William Jewell.
Neshannock. — Constable, John Watson; supervisors, Charles Gibson,
Robert Irwin; overseers, James Reynolds, Matthew Kerr.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, William Eggleston; supervisors, Daniel Perkins,
Stephen Riggs; appraisers, John Custard, Ithiel Dodd; overseers, Joseph Nel-
son, Daniel Axtell.
Delaivare. — Constable, George Moore; supervisors, George Moore, David
Bean; appraisers, Henry Bean, Robert Gault; overseers, John Gillespie,
Robert Beatty.
French Creek. — Constable, Samuel Kilgore; supervisor, Patrick Kilgore;
appraisers, Jacob Reed, James Montgomery.
1807.
Mercer. — Constable, John McElhaney; supervisors, Walter Jordan, David
Watson, Sr.; appraisers, Joseph Osborn, William McMillan; overseers, John
McElhaney, Alexander Bean.
Springfield. — Constable, Moses Cochran; supervisors, James Denniston,
James Hart; appraisers, Benjamin Alexander, James Braden.
Lackawannock. — Constable, Joshua Cook; supervisors, Thomas Gordon,
John Blair; appraisers, James Waugh, Sr., Samuel Blackstone; overseers,
Robert Stewart, Asa Arnold.
Cool Spring. — Constable, James Mustard; supervisors, Cyrus Beckwith,
Thomas Rice; appraisers, John Rambo, John Rice; overseers, Matthias Zahn-
iser, Daniel Harper.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, John Powell; supervisors, William Ward, James
Foster; appraisers, John McKee, Robert Glenn; overseers, Adam Urey, David
McKinley.
HISTOEY OP MEECEE COUNTY.
627
West Salem. — Constable, Stephen Calvin; supervisors, Joseph Campbell,
John Potter.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, Jacob Rose; supervisors, Jonathan Harlin,
Andrew Denniston; appraisers, John Green, Thomas Taylor; overseers, James
Glenn, William Michael.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Archibald Titus; supervisors, John Morford,
Godfrey Carnes; appraisers, Samuel Clark, Robert Bean; overseers, David
Hays, James Morford.
Delaware. — Constable, Samuel Caldwell; supervisors, David Beatty, John
Gillespie; appraisers, Adam Gott, Henry Bean; overseers, Samuel Caldwell,
George Moore.
Neshannock. — Constable, William Jackson; supervisors, Thomas Sampson,
Jesse Dushane; appraisers, John Moore, William Painter; overseers, William
Richards, Matthew Kerr.
French Creek. — Constable, John Robb; supervisors, Thomas Robb,' Esq. ,
Robert Robb; appraisers, Adam Carnahan, William Reed; overseers, Joshua
McCracken, Francis Scott.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, John Sheakley; supervisors, David Condit,
Alexander McCracken; appraisers, Ross Byers, John Thompson; overseers,
Daniel Axtell, Joseph Nelson.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, J oseph Caldwell ; supervisors, Allen Dunn, Casey
Cooper; appraisers, Patrick McCloskev, William Henderson; overseers, Adam
Hill, William Carroll, Sr.
Salem. — Constable, Hugh Donaldson; supervisors, James Stevenson,
James Williamson; appraisers, Thomas Jolly, Robinson Gibbery; overseers,
John Caughey, James Walker.
Mahoning. — Constable, William Delaney; supervisors, Thomas Scott, Will-
iam Budd; appraisers, Charles Caldwell, William Edeburn; overseers, Benja-
min Bentley, W^illiam Jewel.
Shenango. — Constable, Christian Miles; supervisors, John Black, Hugh
Watson; overseers, Robert Walker, John W^illiamson.
1808.
Mercer. — Constable, James Hunter; supervisors, George Wright, Hugh
Bingham; appraisers, Samuel Patterson, James Clark; overseers, John
Creighton, John McCurdy.
Springfield. — Constable, Josiah Winters; supervisors, Christian Troxel,
James Denniston; appraisers, Benjamin Alexander, William Denniston.
Lackawannock. — Constable, Samuel Hawthorn; supervisors, William McMil-
lan, Robert Stewart; appraisers, William Young, George Stewart; overseers,
Asa Arnold, John Johnston.
Mahoning. — Constable, William Delaney.
Cool Spring. — Constable, William Parker; supervisors, Cyrus Beckwith,
Thomas Rice; appraisers, John Rice, Thomas Rambo.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, John Powell; supervisors, John Perry, William
Ward; appraisers, James Moore, John McKee; overseers, Robert Kerr, Clem-
ent Pearson.
West Salem. — Constable, Stephen Calvin; supervisors, Michael Fry, John
Klingensmith; appraisers, John Gravat, John Lininger.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, James McCune; supervisors, Andrew Dennis-
ton, John Emery; appraisers, John Green, Thomas Taylor; overseers, George
Rogers, Edward Hanna.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Godfrey Carnes; supervisors, John Morford,
628
HISTOKY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
Godfrey Carnes; appraisers, Robert Bean, Samuel Clark; overseers, David
Hays, David McKnigbt.
Salem. — Constable, Jacob Hunnell; supervisors, James Stevenson, Alex-
ander Dumars; appraisers, William Lindsey, John Sims.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, Jacob Egbert.
Shenango. — Constable, Christian Miles; supervisors, William Budd,
Thomas Scott; appraisers, William Edeburn, Charles Caldwell; overseers,
John Moore, Charles Canon.
]Sl eshannock. — Constable, John Hanson; supervisors, Bevan Pearson, Will-
iam Painter; appraisers, William Richards, Henry Falls; overseers, William
Raney, William Painter.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, Alexander McCracken; supervisors, Andrew
Borland, John Arbuckle; appraisers, Robert McCartney, Alexander Caldwell;
overseers, John Williams, Andrew Dawson.
Delaware. — Constable, Adam Miller; supervisors, David White, James
Marshall; appraisers, James Donaldson, Andrew Bean; overseers, Adam Gault,
David Bean.
French Creek. — Constable, Jacob Reed; supervisors, John P. McElwain,
Samuel Evans; appraisers, Jacob Reed, John Montgomery; overseers, Thomas
McCracken, Price Dilley.
1809.
Mercer. — Constables, James Clark, Joseph Hunter; supervisors, Joseph
Smith, Hugh Bingham; appraisers, John Chambers, Marcus Heglin.
Springfield. — Constables, James Collins, Josiah Winters; supervisors,
James Denniston, James Braden; appraisers, William Denniston Christian
Troxel.
Lackawannock. — Constables, John Gordon, John Wright, Sr., William
Mercer; supervisors, Asa Arnold, Joseph Watt; appraiser, William Young.
Mahoning. — Constables, William Delaney, George Allison; supervisors,
Hugh Watson, John Angell; appraisers, Thomas Mathers, John Anstall.
Cool Spring.— ConsiablQB, Henry Beckwith, Cyrus Beckwith; supervisors,
Adam Forker, Cyrus Beckwith.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, John Powell, Thomas McKay; supervisors,
John Puny, Andrew Breckenridge ; appraisers, Thomas Love, Robert Kerr.
West Salem. — Constables, Stephen Calvin, James Connell, John Brown;
supervisors, Michael Fry, John Klingensmith; appraisers, Andrew Brown,
Peter Klingensmith.
Salem. — Constables, Jacob Hunnell, William Gurwell; supervisors, John
Leech, George Williamson; appraisers, Lewis Roberts, James Dumars.
Pymatuning. — Constables, John Carmichael, Robert McCord; supervisors,
Godfrey Carnes, John Morford; appraisers, James Morford, Bashara Hull.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, Alexander Hunt, James Maxwell; supervisors,
Andrew Denniston, William Nicholson; appraisers, James Sharp, John
Green; overseers, Jonathan Harlin, George Rogers.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, Job Egbert.
Sheyiango. — Constables, Nathaniel Harriott, Christian Miles; supervisors,
William Budd, Thomas Scott; appraisers, Samuel Hoover, Benjamin Caster.
N eshannock. — Constables, Charles Gibson, Joseph W. Reynolds; supervis-
ors, James Gilkey, Robert McCaslin; appraisers, Henry Falls, William Rich-
ards; overseers, William Raney, Alexander Hawthorn.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, John E. Larimer, Ichabod Dilley; supervisors,
Daniel Axtell, John Williams; appraisers, John Holloway, Ezekiel Condit.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
629
Delaware. — Constables, David Bean, David Beatty; supervisors, Adam
Gault, Adam Miller; appraisers, David White, Samuel Donaldson.
French Creek. — Constables, John S. McElvrain, John Montgomery; super-
visors, Thomas McCracken, Samuel Kilgore; appraisers, John Moore, Adam
Carnahan.
' 1810.
Mercer. — Constable, Francis Hamilton; supervisors, George Wright, James
Clark; appraisers, Nathan Patterson, Jonathan Smith.
Springfield. — Constable, James Collins; supervisors, James Braden, Adam
Black; appraisers, John Garvin, William Denniston; overseers, Robert Creigh-
ton, John Garvin.
Lackawannock. — Constable, Hugh Means; supervisors, Matthew Dawson,
Asa Arnold; appraisers, James McClain, George Stewart; overseers, Samuel
Marquis, Robert Stevenson.
Mahoning. — Constable, George Allison; supervisors, James Welsh, John
Piper; overseers, Robert Walker, Thomas Laughlin.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Cyrus Beckwith; supervisors, Cyrus Beckwith,
Alexander Turner; appraisers, John Rambo, Hamilton Robb; overseers, Isaac
Clark, John Mustard.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, William Daugherty; supervisors, James McCoy,
Isaac Rose; appraisers, John McKee, Conrad Smith.
West Salem. — Constable, David Johnston; supervisors, John Potter,
Michael Fry.
Salem. — Constable, Jacob Hunnell; supervisors, John Leech, John Mc-
Granahan; appraisers, John McLean, John Sims; overseers, Nathan Patter-
son, Robert Bole.
Pymatuning. — Constable, John Carmichael; supervisors, Matthew Young,
David McKnight; appraisers, Jeremiah Hazen, Daniel Hull; overseers, Henry
Hoagland, Jonathan*Dunham.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, William Rogers; supervisors, Andrew Dennis-
ton, Abraham Hunt; appraiser, James Gilfillan; overseers, William Seeds,
William Michael, John Elder.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, William Carroll; supervisors, William Perrine,
Jacob Egbert; appraisers, Caleb Ball, John Caldwell; overseers, John Car-
michael, Duncan Carmichael.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, James Brush; supervisors, Daniel Axtell, Isaac
Holloway; appraisers, Thomas Phillips, John Holloway; overseers, David
Gardner, John Holloway.
Shenango. — Constable, Nathaniel Harriott; supervisors, William Budd,
Thomas Scott; appraisers, Benjamin Caster, Elias Jones; overseers, John
Moore, Charles Reno.
French Creek. — Constable, Adam Carnahan; supervisors, Thomas Mc-
Cracken, Samuel Kilgore; appraisers. Price Dilley, Hugh Moore; overseers,
John Gibson, Robert Robb.
Neshannock. — Constable, James W. Reynolds; supervisors, James Gilkey,
Robert McCaslin; appraisers, James Mitchell, Francis Gibson.
Delaware. — Constable, Adam Gault; supervisors, John Walker, James
Woods; appraisers, David White, John Gillespie; overseers, James Marshall,
James Rankin.
1811.
Mercer. — Constable, Samuel Thompson; supervisors, John Stewart, Silas
Amberson; appraisers, Samuel Patterson, Joseph Smith; overseers, John
Chambers, Samuel Scott.
630
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Springfield. — Constable, Joseph Marlatt; supervisors, Benjamin Alexan-
der, Adam Black; appraisers, Thomas Cummings, Robert Simpson; overseers,
Christian Troxel, Andrew Ramsey.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Alexander Turner; supervisors, Cyrus Beckwith,
Alexander Turner; appraisers, John Rambo, John Mustard; overseers, Isaac
Clark, George Mustard.
Delaware. — Constable, William Baker; supervisors, James Gilkey, John
Hunter.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, Richard Stephenson; supervisors, John McKee,
William Daugherty; appraisers, Abraham Uber, Conrad Smith; overseers,
John Galbraith, George Abel.
Neshannock. — Constable, George Pearson; supervisors, James Gilkey,
John Hunter.
Pymatuning. — Constable, James Clark; supervisors, Robert McCord, God-
frey Carnes; appraisers, Robert Hodge, John Gillespie; overseers, Henry
Clark, Henry Hoagland.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, Thomas Phillips; supervisors, James Caldwell,
Aaron Ross; overseers, Robert McCartney, Israel Tuttle.
French Creek. — Constable, John Montgomery; supervisors, John Mont-
gomery, Samuel Glenn; appraisers, William Kilgore, John Moore; overseers,
John Robb, Robert Robb.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, William Rogers; supervisors, Andrew Dennis-
ton, Jacob Emery; appraisers, John Green, James Sharp; overseers, Daniel
Stewart, William Lock.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, George Hunter; supervisors, Nathaniel Coleman,
John Caldwell, Job Egbert; appraisers, William Carroll, Robert Fowler; over-
seers, James Kilgore, Caleb Ball.
West NaZem.— Constable, Joseph Keck; supervisors, Peter Klingensmith,
Robert McKean; overseers, William Fell, Richard Melvin.
Lackawannock. — Constable, William McMillan; supervisors, Robert Mc-
Comb, Hugh Means.
Shenango. — Constable, Nathaniel Harriott; supervisors, William Budd,
William Welsh; appraisers, Benjamin Caster, Samuel Hoover; overseers,
Charles Reno, John Moore.
Mahoning. — Constable, Joseph Williamson; supervisors, James Welsh,
John Piper; overseers, Samuel McBride, Thomas Laughlin.
Salem. — Constable, Robert Bole; supervisors, William Lindsey, Samuel
Long; appraisers, William Trindle, Thomas Bean; overseers, Edward Crow,
Jacob Hunnell.
1812.
Mercer. — Constable, Samuel Thompson; supervisors, John Stewart, Hugh
Bingham; appraisers, Joseph Smith, C. S. Semple; overseers, George Wright,
Samuel Patterson. ^
Springfield. — Constable, Joseph Marlatt; supervisors, Joseph Junkin,
Adam Black; appraisers, James Braden, James Gealy; overseers, Robert
Ramsey, Henry Hosack.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Hugh McKean; supervisors, Cyrus Beckwith,
Alexander Turner; appraisers, John Rambo, Levi Arnold; overseers, Isaac
Clark, William Alexander.
Delatcare. — Constable, James Marshall; supervisors, Richard Fruit, Jon-
athan Hoover; appraisers, Robert McDonald, Adam Miller; overseers, Adam
Gault, James Marshall.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, Richard Stephenson.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
631
Neshannock. — Constable, Peter Mitchell; supervisors, William Ferguson,
James Gilkey; appraisers, Henry Fauls, Hugh Braham; overseers. Dr. Samuel
Wilson, James Mitchell.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Samuel Ferguson; supervisors, Archibald Titus,
John Gillespie; overseers, Henry Hoagland, Henry Clark.
Sandy Cree^. — Constable, James Davidson; supervisors, James Caldwell,
Aaron Ross; appraisers, Ithiel Dodd, Lewis Dilley; overseers, Ezekiel Con-
dit, Carpenter Ross.
French Creek. — Constable, Thomas McCracken; supervisors, John Smith,
John Robb; appraisers, Adam Carnahan, Joshua McCracken; overseers,
Francis Scott, Price Dilley.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, James McCommin; supervisors, Andrew Den-
niston, Joshua Buckmaster; appraisers, James Glenn, Kinsey Daniels; over-
seers, Henry J ordon, Isaac Daniels.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, John Grace; supervisors, Robert Fowlerj Eliab
Axtell; appraisers, John Simpson, Archibald McCormick; overseers, Allen
Dunn, Nathaniel Coleman.
West Salem. — Constable, James Hill; supervisors, John Potter, Michael
Barnhart; appraisers, Abraham Keck, John Gravat; overseers, Joseph Mor-
ford, Philip Sherbondy.
Lackawannock. — Constable, James Hazlip; supervisors, Robert McComb,
Joseph McClain; appraisers, John Huston, William Mercer.
Shenango. — Constable, John Anderson; supervisors, Elias Jones, David
Kitch; appraisers, Benjamin Caster, Henry Hoover; overseers, John Moore,
Charles Reno.
Mahoning. — Constable, Joseph Williamson; supervisors, Alexander Thomp-
son, Adam Whiting; appraisers, James Wallace, James Watson; overseers,
Samuel McBride, Thomas Laughlin.
Salem. — Constable, John Caughey; supervisors, Thomas Jolly, Joseph
Long; appraisers, Andrew Christy, Thomas Limber; overseers, James Walker,
TimothY Dumars.
1813.
Mercer. — Constable, Thompson Clark; supervisors, Hugh Bingham, John
Stewart; appraisers, Jonathan Smith, George Wright; overseers, C. S. Semple,
Bevan Pearson.
Springfield. — Constable, John Garvin; supervisors, James Collins, James
Braden; appraisers, Thomas Cummins, Robert Gilmore; overseers, James
Kerr, John Cummins.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Cyrus Beckwith; supervisors, Thomas Coulson,
Alexander Turner; appraisers, Hamilton Robb, John Alexander; overseers,
John McMillan, Adam Forker.
Delaware. — Constable, Robert Beatty; supervisors, Andrew Bean, Francis
Beatty.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, Richard Stephenson; supervisors, Abraham Tiber,
Daniel McDowell; appraisers, James Moore, William Gile; overseers, John
Albin, John Powell.
Neshannock. — Constable, Ephraim Dick; supervisors, Francis Gibson,
William Watson; appraisers, John Cunningham, William S. Rankin; over-
seers, Hugh Watson, Thomas Pearson.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Nathan Fell; supervisors, Archibald Titus, John
Gillespie; appraisers, Matthew Young, George Fell; overseers, Henry Hoag-
land, Henry Clark.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, John Holloway; supervisors, James Brush,
632
HISTOBY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
Charles Montgomery; appraisers, Carpenter Ross, Israel Tuttle; overseers,
Aaron Ross, John Thompson.
French Creek. — Constable, Andrew J. Carnahan; supervisors, Andrew J.
Carnahan, Robert Robb; appraisers, John McCracken, Samuel Glenn; over-
seers, Hugh Moore, John Smith.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, James McCormick; supervisors, Jonathan
Harlin, Andrew Denniston; appraisers, William Lock, James Gilfillan; over-
seers, John Green, Barnabas McElway.
Smidy Lake. — Constable, John Henderson; supervisors, Patrick Mc-
Closkey; John Grace; appraisers, William Henderson, William Egbert; over-
seers, William Perrine, Adam Hill.
West Salem. — Constable, William H. Mossman; supervisors, William H.
Mossman, Hugh Brown.
Lackawannock. — Constable, John McClain; supervisors, William Hunter,
William M. Long; appraisers, William Young, George Stewart; overseers,
William McMillan, James Hazlip.
Shenango. — Constable, James Swasick; supervisors, James Sample, David
Kitch; appraisers, Pratt Collins, Nathan Wyatt; overseers, Charles Reno, John
Moore.
Mahoning. — Constable, Joseph Williamson; supervisors, Adam Whiting,
Alexander Thompson; appraisers, Matthew Murdock, William Cox; overseers,
Samuel McBride, William McFate.
Salem. — Constable, John Caughey; supervisors, James Williamson, James
Dumars; appraisers, James Walker, John Walker; overseers, Nathan Patter-
son, James Walker.
1814.
Mercer. — Constable, James Davitt; supervisors, Hugh Bingham, John
Stewart; appraisers, Matthias Mounts, John McElhaeny; overseers, William
Amberson, Samuel Scott.
Springfield. — Constable, John Garvin; supervisors, James Braden, Isaac
Rose; appraisers, James Denniston, John Findley; overseers, James Kerr,
James Braden.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Cyrus Beckwith; supervisors, Thomas Coulson,
Alexander Turner; appraisers, Joseph Alexander, Levi Arnold; overseers,
Thomas Rambo, John Alexander.
Delaware. — Constable, David White; supervisors, Richard Fruit, James
Donaldson ; appraisers, Adam Gault, Christopher Strigle ; overseers, Christopher
Strigle, David White.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, David McDowell; supervisors, Abraham Uber,
William Buchanan; appraisers, James Moore, John Perry; overseers, John
Albin, John McCoy.
Neshannock. — Constable, Crawford White; supervisors, William Watson,
Andrew Reed; appraisers, Thomas Fisher, John Watson; overseers, Peter
Mitchell, Nathan Patton.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Henry Hoagland; supervisors, John W. Dun-
lap, Samuel Ferguson; overseers, Matthew Young, John Hull.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, John Holloway; supervisors, Ezekiel Condit,
Martin Carringer; appraisers, Jacob Carringer, Amos Axtell; overseers, George
Ross, Thomas Philips.
French Creek. — Constable, Andrew J. Carnahan; supervisors, Andrew J.
Carnahan, James McCracken.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, James McCalmont; supervisors, Andrew Den-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
633
niston, Archibald McCrine; appraisers, Isaac Pounds, Edward Hanna; over-
seers, Robert Wallace, Alexander Rogers.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, Peter Wilson; supervisors, John Grace, Patrick
McCloskey; appraisers, William Egbert, William Perrine; overseers, John
Carmichael, Timothy Linn.
West Salem. — Constable, Hugh Brown; supervisors, Joseph Keck, John
Potter.
Lackaicannock. — Constable, Robert McComb; supervisors, George Zuver,
William Gordon; appraisers, Andrew Zuver, Joseph McClain; overseers,
John McClain, Samuel Marqxris.
Shenango. — Constable, Andrew Robb; supervisors, John Moore, Samuel
Byers; appraisers, James Smith, William Byers; overseers, George Shilling,
Benjamin Caster.
Mahoning. — Constable, Thomas Laughlin; supervisors, JohnSankey, John
McComb; appraisers, John Rhea, Matthew Murdock; overseers, John Ander-
son, John Summerville.
Salem. — Constable, Robert Bole; supervisors, Jacob Hunnell, John Sims;
appraisers, James Walker, Joseph Long; overseers, James Williamson,
Thomas Limber.
1815.
Mercer. — Constable, James Davitt.
Springfield. — Constable, Thomas McCoy; supervisors, James Braden,
Robert Creighton.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Cyrus Beckwith; supervisors, William Zahniser,
Thomas Coulson; appraisers, Jacob Forker, Abraham Clark; overseers, Joseph
Forker, John Rambo.
Delaware. — Constable, James K. Marshall; supervisors, Robert Beatty,
Richard Fruit; appraisers, William Beatty, Adam Gault; overseers, Adam
Gault, Samuel Caldwell.
Wolf Creek. — Constable, David McDowell; supervisors, Samuel Waldron,
Daniel McMillan; appraisers, John Uber, James Moore; overseers, John
McKee, John Galbraith.
Neshannock. — Constable, Thomas Fisher; supervisors, William Fisher,
Nathan Patton ; overseers, Henry Falls, Peter Mitchell.
Pymatuning. — Constable, Henry Clark; supervisors, Henry Hoagland,
Samuel Clark; overseers, Jeffrey Bentley, Bashara Hull.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, Ichabod Dilley; supervisors, Ezekiel Condit,
Andrew McClure; appraisers, David Gardner, Joseph Stright; overseers,
John Sheakley, John Williams.
French Creek. — Constable, Jesse Kilgore; supervisors, James McCracken,
George Reed; overseers, Hugh Moore, Robert Robb.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, James McCracken; supervisors, Robert
Wallace, Andrew Denniston; appraisers, James Clark, Alexander Anderson;
overseers, James Glenn, Jonathan Harlin.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, William Perrine; supervisors, John Grace,
Patrick McCloskey; appraisers, Jonathan Carroll, Enoch Perrine; overseers,
Adam Hill, William Carroll.
West Salem. — Constable, Alexander Hunter; supervisors, John FergUson,
George Fell; appraisers, William Fell, John Fell; overseers, Francis Moss-
man, Jacob Keck.
Lackaicannock. — Constable, William Porter; supervisors, James Love,
Hugh Means; overseers, Hugh Means, William Hunter.
634
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Shenango. — Constable, Andrew Robb; supervisors, Janies Sample, Samuel
Byers; appraisers, James Smith, William Robb; overseers, George Shilling,
Benjamin Caster.
Mahoning. — Constable, Thomas Laughlin ; supervisors, John McComb,
John Sankey ; appraisers, Henry Robinson, John Johnston; overseers, John
Anderson, John Summerville.
Salem. — Constable, Andrew Christy; supervisors, John Sims, William
McLean ; appraisers, William Lindsey, Hugh Donaldson ; overseers, John
Leech, John Caughey, William Bean.
1816.
Mercer. — Constable, James Davitt.
Springfield. — Constable, John Crill; supervisors, James Braden, Abraham
Uber; appraisers, Thomas Cummins, Alexander Black; overseers, John Crill,
James Long.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Andrew Clark; supervisors, William Zahniser,
Thomas Coulson ; appraisers, John Mustard, Thomas McEwen ; overseers,
John Mustard, Thomas McEwen.
Delaivare. — Constable, James Donaldson ; supervisors, Samuel William-
son, Matthias Zahniser ; appraisers, James Woods, John Walker ; overseers,
Richard Fruit, William Nichol.
IFoZf CreeA;. —Constable, David McDowell; supervisors, William Craig,
John White ; appraisers, John Whittaker, Robert Glenn ; overseers, Matthew
McDowell, William Daugherty, Jr.
Neshannock. — Constable, Ebenezer Byers; supervisors, Samuel McCreary,
William Fisher ; appraisers, William Painter, William Watson ; overseers,
William Painter, William Watson.
Pymatuning. — Constable, John Gillespie; supervisors, Samuel Cree, John
Johnston ; overseers, Nathan Fell, Henry Vernon.
Sandy Creek. — Constable, William Stright ; supervisors, Ezekiel Condit,
Ross Byers ; overseers, James Montgomery, Robert McCartney.
French Creek. — Constable, Rynear VanVores; supervisors, Samuel Barr,
Francis Scott ; overseers, Samuel Evans, John Moore.
Slippery Rock. — Constable, James McCracken ; supervisors, Andrew Den-
niston, James Martin; appraisers, James Gilfillan, Thomas Taylor; overseers,
Jacob Emery, Archibald McCune.
Sandy Lake. — Constable, James Gealy ; supervisors, William Egbert,
John Grace ; appraisers, Daniel Perrine, Augustus Giebner ; overseers,
Jonathan Cochran, Robert Job, William Perrine.
West Salem. — Constable, Jonathan Hoover ; supervisors, Jacob Fry, John
Gilliland ; overseers, George Fell, Richard Brown.
Lackawannock. — Constable, John McCrumb ; supervisors, Francis Scott,
Malcolm McComb ; appraisers, Matthew Dawson, James Gault ; overseers,
Archibald McNair, Hugh Means.
Shenango. — Constable, Henry Hoover ; supervisors, Nathaniel Harriott,
David Clark ; overseers, George Shilling, Benjamin Caster.
Mahoning. — Constable, ,Adam Whiting ; supervisors, James Watson,
David McBride ; appraisers, John Onstott, Henry Robinson, Joshua Bentley ;
overseers, William Cotton, John Whiting.
Salem. — Constable, David Leech ; supervisors, Robert Means, Thomas
Limber ; appraisers, William Young, William Bean ; overseers, John Leech,
Jacob Loutzenhiser.
1817.
Mercer. — Constable, Thompson Clarke.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
635
Springfield. — Constables, John Severs, Dennis Collins, John Balm; super-
visors, Joseph Carpenter, Abraham XJber ; appraisers, David Lyda, Robert
Harlin ; overseers, James Braden, James Kerr.
Cool Spring. — Constable, Robert Newell; supervisors, William Zahniser,
Thomas Coulson ; overseers, Samuel McCune, Peter Rambo.
Delaware. — Constables, John Walker, Richard Fruit; supervisors, William
Beatty, William Hirkle; appraisers, Christopher Strigle, Matthias Zahniser ;
overseers, George Moore, George Reznor.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, Richard Stephenson, Isaac Rose ; supervisors,
David Courtney, John White.
iVes/iarauock. —Constables, Ebenezer Byers, Jr., John Reynolds; super-
visors, Nathan Patton, Peter Mitchell; appraisers, Henry Falls, Francis
Gibson; overseers, Alexander R. Pinkerton, Andrew Reed.
Pyinatuning. — Constable, Matthew Young.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Ichabod Dilly, John Top; supervisors, Ross
Byers, James Montgomery; appraisers, William Sheakley, George Stright;
overseers, John E. Larimer, Andrew McClure.
French Creek. — Constables, Samuel Bane, Joshua P. McCracken; super-
visors, William Reed, Robert Cochran; overseers, William Reed, John Smith.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Enoch Perrine, John Perrine, James Gealy;
supervisors, John Carmichael, William Egbert; appraisers, John Lynch,
Enoch Perrine; overseers, John Green, Job Egbert.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, James McCracken, Samuel Anderson; super-
visors, Andrew Denniston, James Locke; appraisers, John Grace, James Gil-
fillan; overseers, William Mathers, John Emery.
West Salem. — Constables, Hugh Mossman, John Lininger, Jonathan
Hoover; supervisors, John Fell, Jacob Fry; overseers, Richard Brown, Abra-
ham Keck.
Lackawannock. — Constables, William Hooey, Asa Arnold; supervisors,
James Gault, Malcolm McComb; appraisers, Luke Irwin, William Coyle;
overseers, Samuel Marquis, John McClain.
Shenango. — Constables, John Clark, John Canon; supervisors, Nathaniel
Harriott, David Clark.
Mahoning. — Constables, Adam Whiting, John Morrison, John Onslott,
James Reed; supervisors, David McBride, James Watson; overseers, Joshua
Bentley, John Onslott.
Salem. — Constables, Francis Beatty, John Riley; supervisors, William
Bennett, Robert Moore; appraisers, James Stinson, Timothy Dumars; over-
seers, David Leech, Robert Bean.
1818.
Mercer. — Constable, Adam Forker.
Springfield. — Constables, James Nelson, James Braden; supervisors, Abra-
ham Uber, Joseph Carpenter; appraisers, Robert Reed, William Glenn; over-
seers, Samuel Glenn, Benjamin Junkin.
Cool Spring. — Constables, Charles Lucas, John White; supervisors, John
McMillan, John Alexander.
Delaware. — Constables, Matthias Zahniser, Richard Fruit; supervisors,
Christopher Strigle, John Mitchell; appraisers, John Boston, William Nichol;
overseers, George Smith, William Nichol.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, Richard Stephenson, William Gill; supervisors,
John Uber, John Gilmore; appraisers, Thomas Love, William Buchanan;
overseers, David McDowell, James Miller.
636
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Neshannock. — Constables, Ebenezer Byers, William Bailey; supervisors,
Nathan Potter, Robert McGearey; appraisers, William Painter, John Hunter;
overseei’s, William S. Rankin, Crawford White.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Walter Thompson, Samuel Clark; supervisors,
James Clark, Robert McCord; overseers, Robert McDowell, Archbald Titus.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Richard Davidson, Ezekiel Condit; supervisors,
James Montgomery, James McCracken; appraisers, Moses Sheakley, Robert
McCartney; overseers, Moses Sheakley, Robert McCartney.
French Creek. — Constables, Adam Carnahan, Joshua P. McCracken, Sam-
uel Glenn, William Reed.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, James Locke, Joseph Emery; supervisors,
Andrew Denniston, James Martin; appraisers, James Gilfillan, Alexander
Anderson; overseers, Robert Jamison, Charles Gilkey.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, John Simpson, James Gealy.
West Salem. — Constables, James H. Bean, Daniel Parker, John Fell;
supervisors, John Ferguson, Peter Klingensmith ; overseers, Jonas Fell,
George Fell.
Lackawannock. — Constables, Matthew Dawson, Asa Arnold; supervisors,
Samuel Hazlip, John Gordon; appraisers, Hugh Means, John McClain;
overseers, Malcolm McComb, James Love.
Shenango. — Constables, John Clark, John Jones; supervisors, David
Clark, Henry Hoover; appraisers, James Sample, Matthew Hartford; over-
seers, John Morford, Thomas Carmichael.
Mahoning. — Constables, Adam Whiting, Joseph Cadwallader; supervisors,
John Book, David McBride; appraisers, Alexander Thompson, John H. Mon-
teith; overseers, William Porter, John Piper.
Salem. — Constables, John Bentley, Thomas Limber; supervisors, William
McGranahan, James Stinson; appraisers, Samuel Long, James Walker; over-
seers, John Riley, Timothy Dumars.
1819.
Mercer. — Constable, Adam Forker; overseers, Presley N. Amberson, James
H. Caldwell.
Springfield. — Constables, Andrew Breckenridge, John Findley; supervi-
sors, Joseph Carpenter, Abram Uber.
Cool Spring. — Constables, Charles Lucas, John Severs; supervisors, John
Alexander, John McMillan.
Delaivare. — Constables, Hugh Donaldson, Richard Fruit; supervisors,
James Beatty, Hugh Reznor; appraisers, Andrew Bean, George Smith;
overseers, Richard Fruit, Andrew Bean.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, Richard Stephenson, William Foster.
Neshannock. — Constables, John Moore, Alexander Hawthorn; supervisors,
James Watson, George Pearson; overseers, Arthur Chenowith, Adam Fisher.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Samuel Clark, David McKnight; supervisors,
Samuel Koonce, Samuel McDowell; overseers, Samuel Cree, Samuel Hoagland.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Adam Ross, Richard Davis; supervisors Eliab
Axtell, James Brush.
French Creek. — Constables, Robert Cochran, Robert Robb; supervisors,
Thomas Robb, Hugh Evans; appraisers, Joseph Axtell, John McCartney;
overseers, Israel Tuttle, John Larimer.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, James Locke, James Smith; supervisors,
Andrew Denniston, James Martin; appraisers, George Rogers, William
Elder; overseers, David Locke, James Brown.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
637
Sandy Lake. — Constables, James McCloskey, William Carroll, John Car-
michael; supervisors, John Grace, Jared Tuttle; appraisers, Robert Job,
Augustus Giebner; overseers, Robert Fowler, William Carroll.
West Salem. — Constables, John Potter, George Fell; supervisors, Peter
Klingensmith, John Ferguson.
Lackaicannock. — Constables, Silas Cossitt, James Young; supervisors,
William McMillan, Asa Arnold; appraisers, John McClain, George Stewart;
overseers, William Gordon, James Young.
Shenango. — Constables, John Clark, Hepry Hoover; supervisors, Thomas
Carmichael, William Edeburn; overseers, John Moore, George Shilling.
Mahoning. — Constables, Andrew Kelly, Alexander Clendennin; supervis-
ors, John Book, William McFate; overseers, John Angell, Henry Robinson.
Salem. — Constables, John Mortimer, William Crawford; supervisors, John
Sims, William Kennedy; appraisers, John Christy, Samuel Long; overseers,
Joseph Lyon, John Caughey.
1820.
Mercer. — Constable, James Davitt; overseers, James Clark, Henry Ander-
son.
Springfield. — Constable.s, Andrew Breckenridge, Matthias Mounts; super-
visors, Robert Reed, Benjamin Alexander; appraisers, Robert Reed,' John
Crill; overseers, William Glenn, John Pew.
Cool Spring. — Constables, John McMillan, Fergus Hill; supervisors, John
Alexander, William Zahniser; overseers, George Mustard, James Lowry.
Delaware. — Constables, Richard Fruit, John Harmer; supervisors, Samuel
Williamson, John Donaldson; appraisers, William A. Bean, David Linn; over-
seers, William Beatty, George Reznor.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, James Stephenson, Henry Brandon ; supervisors,
John Uber, Henry Woods; appraisers, John McFee, William Buchanan; over-
seers, John McCoy, James Miller.
Neshannock. — Constables, John Moore, James Watson; supervisors, John
Hunter, Arthur Chenowith; appraisers, William. Painter, Adam Wilson; over-
seers, James Banks, John Reynolds.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Lewis Carey, William Hays; supervisors,
Nathan Fell, Azariah Dunham.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Samuel Cochran, John Thompson; supervisors,
John Robinson, Thomas Phillips; appraisers, Eliab Axtell, William Church;
overseers, Ross Byers; Moses Sheakley.
French Creek. — Constables, Aaron Holdren, Robert Robb; supervisors,
Jacob Reed, Hugh Evans; overseers, John Smith, Joseph Wallace.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, James Locke, Samuel Anderson; supervisors,
Andrew Denniston, William Locke; appraisers, John Anderson, John Greene;
overseers, David Locke, James Brown.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Enoch Perrine, Stephen Kellogg; supervisors,
James Tuttle, John Grace; appraisers, Augustus Giebner, Jonathan Carroll;
overseers, John Lynch, Eli Butler.
West Salem. — Constables, John Fell, Jacob Leech; supervisors, George
Fell, Hugh Brown; appraisers, William Fell, John Lininger; overseers,
Alexander Hunter, Peter Klingensmith.
Lackaicannock. — Constables, Silas Cossitt, N. McLaughlin; supervisors,
Asa Arnold, William McMillan; appraisers, Eber Alderman, John Livermore;
overseers, John McClain, Samuel Marquis.
Shenango. — Constables, William Sample, John Morford; supervisors,
Jacob Trout, Thomas Jewell.
36
638
HISTOKY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Mahoning. — Constables, Alexander Chadwick, Joshua Bentley; supervis-
ors, William McFate, Thomas McMillan; overseers, Walter Oliver, James
Watson.
Salem. — Constables, William Leander, Timothy Dumars; supervisors,
David Leech, William Young.
1821.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Bennett Orace, Lewis Egbert; supervisors,
John Grace, Jared Tuttle; appraisers, Martin B. Davis, James McCloskey;
overseers, John Carmichael, Jonathan Cochran.
Cool Spring. — Constables, William Hill, Thomas Coulson; supervisors, John
Alexander, William Zahniser; overseers, Thomas McCune, John Mustard.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Ichabod Dilly, Moses Sheakley; supervisors,
John C. Robinson, Thomas Phillips; appraisers, Ross Byers, George Sheakley;
overseers, James Davis, Israel Tuttle; auditors, John Larimer, Thomas Simp-
son, Ichabod Dilly, Isaac Holloway.
Springfield. — Constables, James Collins, Matthias Mounts; supervisors,
William Denniston, Benjamin Junkin; appraisers, John Crill, Robert Black;
overseers, William Denniston, Benjamin Alexander.
French Creek. — Constables, Aaron Holdren, Robert Robb; supervisors,
Lewis Dilly, Hugh Moore; appraisers, James McCracken, Robert Robb; over-
seers William Smith, Isaac Woodworth; auditors, Francis Dunn, George
Reed, Abraham Gage, Robert Cochran.
West Salem. — Constables, George Fell, Sr., Jacob Keck, Joseph Morford;
supervisors, John Potter, George Fell; appraisers, Daniel Keck, Patrick
McLaughlin; overseers, Peter Keck, John Mossman; auditors, William Fell,
Alexander Hunter, Adam Miller, Hugh Mossman.
Neshamiock. — Constables, Hugh Watson, John Moore; supervisors, Adam
Wilson, Thomas Fisher; overseers, James Watson, Philip Painter.
Delaware. — Constables, William A. Bean, John Espy; supervisors, Sam-
uel Caldwell, John Horner; appraisers, John Donaldson, Samuel Williamson;
overseers, John Clark, John L. Williamson; auditors, James Linn, George
Reznor, Robert Fruit, James Beatty.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Lewis Carey, Joseph Woods; supervisors,
Daniel Hull, Henry Venner; appraisers, John Beggs, Samuel Ferguson; over-
seers, Samuel Clark, James Williamson; auditors, Robert McCord, James
Clark, John Beggs, Bashara Hull.
Lackaivannock. — Constables, John Gordon, George Stewart; supervisors,
James Thompson, William Livingston; appraisers, Silas Cossitt, Asa Arnold;
overseers, Archibald McNair, William Gordon.
Shenango. — Constables, Nathaniel Harriott, John Morford; supervisors,
William Edeburn, William Haywood; appraisers, Samuel Sample, Joseph
Robb; overseers, George Shilling, John Moore; auditors, James Mitcheltree,
William Budd, James C. Sample, John Anderson.
Mahoning. — Constables, William Parker, James Small; supervisors, Thomas
Williams, William Cox; appraisers, Hugh Watson, Joshua Bentley; overseers,
Benjamin Sample, John Small.
Salem. — Constables, Cornelius Riley, John Bentley; supervisors, A. Thomp-
son, Matthew Ormsby; appraisez's, Samuel Long, George Sims; overseei’s,
John Leech, Alexander Dumars.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, John Galbraith, David McDowell; supervisors,
John Uber, Benjamin Woods; appraisers, Robert Glenn, John Graham;
overseers, John McConnell, Henry Brandon; auditors, Thomas Courtney,
James McCoy, Samuel Kerr, John Gilmore.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
639
Slippery Rock. — Constables, Henry Hall, John Green; supervisors,
Andrev? Denniston, James Emery; appraisers, Kobert Jamison, George Rogers ;
overseers, Hugh McKee, John Emery; auditors, William Elder, Robert Coch-
ran, James Lock, James McCalmont.
1822.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, David McDowell, John Whittaker; supervisors,
Benjamin Woods, John Uber; overseers, John McKee, John Galbraith;
appraisers, John Gilmore, Robert Glenn; auditors, James Brandon, William
Smith, John McCoy, Alexander McBride.
French CreeA;.— Constables. Adam Carnahan, John McCracken; supervis-
ors, Adam Carnahan, John McCracken; overseers, William Reed, Robert Car-
nahan; appraisers, William Reed, Robert Robb; auditors, Robert Cochran,
Andrew J. Carnahan, James DeFrance, Jacob Reed.
Cool Spring. — Supervisors, John Alexander, William Zahniser; overseers,
John Mustard, Robert Hamilton; appraisers, David Zahniser, Samuel McCune.
Delaicare. — Constables, JohnHommer, Thomas A. Bean; supervisors, Will-
iam A. Bean, George Reznor; overseers, William Nichol, Matthias Zahniser;
auditors, George Smith, Hugh Donaldson, John Clark, George Reznor.
West Salem. — Constables, George Fell, Jesse Love; supervisors, Andrew
Campbell, Alexander Hunter; overseers, Jacob Loutzenhiser, Harvey Walker;
appraisers, John Smail, John Fell; auditors, Winfield Scott, William Fell,
Jacob Hommer, Hugh Mossman.
Springfield. — Constables, Matthias Hunter, Robert Ramsey; supervisors,
William Denniston, Samuel Winds; overseers, Robert Simpson, David Lyda;
appraisers, William Reed, Solomon Horn.
Neshannock. — Constables, William Gibson, John Byers; supervisors,
George Lindsey, Thomas Fisher; overseers, Thomas Fisher, George
Lindsey; appraisers. Lot Watson, Henry Falls; auditors, John Fisher,
Joseph Justice, James Wilson, John Falls.
>Satem. —Constables, William Smith, Solomon Clyde; supervisors, William
Leech, Hugh McFetridge; overseers, John Sims, John Leech; appraisers,
Adam Thompson, Andrew Christy.
Lackawannock. — Constables, Silas Cossitt, Asa Arnold; supervisors, James
Love, James Thompson; overseers, John McClain, Samuel Marquis; apprais-
ers, Silas Cossitt, Asa Arnold.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Ezekiel Condit, John Mackin; supervisors,
William Church, John C. Robinson; overseers, Ross Byers, Charles Mont-
gomery; appraisers, Ross Byers, Richard Davis; auditors, Charles Mont-
gomery, John Thompson, John E. Larimer, Daniel Axtell.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Bennett Grace, Hugh Graham; supervisors,
John Grace, John Lynch; overseers, Augustus Giebner, Jason Barker; ap-
praisers, Enos Sandford, John Simpson; auditors, Enoch Perrine, Lewis
Egbert, Valentine Giebner, William Little.
Mercer.— Constables, Joseph McDowell, Samuel Shipler; overseers,
Thomas Templeton, John Bowman; appraisers, Jonathan Smith, Nathan Pat-
terson; auditors, Aaron Hackney, Samuel Thompson, Elias Cossitt, John
Banks.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, James Campbell, Henry Hull; supervisors,
Jacob Emery, Andrew Denniston, overseers, Edward Hanna, Robert Wallace;
appraisers, James McCracken, James Martin: auditors, James McCalmont;
David Robinson, James Locke, William Michaels.
Mahoning. — Constables, James McFarland, James Watson; supervisors,
640
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Jolin Piper, William Cox; overseers, James Waugh, Robert McConehey;
appraisers, John Robinson, John Linn; auditors, Walter Oliver, James Wat-
son, William McClurg, James Walker.
Shenango. — Constables, William Byers, Nathaniel Harriott; supervisors,
William Haywood, William Edebrnm; overseers, George Shilling, John Moore;
appraisers, John Caldwell, Thomas Carmichael; auditors, Kennedy McFar-
and, Vance Stewart, David Clark, John Canon.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Robert Carnes, John Beggs; supervisors,
Charles Vernon, David Beggs; overseers, David McKnight, James Clark;
appraisers, David Pell, Nathaniel Hazen; auditors, Godfrey Carnes, Robert
McCord, Andrew Satterfield, Nathaniel Vernon.
182B.
Cool Spring. — Constables, James Johnston, John Alexander; supervisors,
John Rambo, William Zahniser; overseers, Thomas Coulson, Joseph Alex-
ander; auditors, John Mustard, Thomas Hosack, John McMillan, John Mc-
Elwain.
Mercer. — Constables, James T. Black, William Jones; supervisors, Patrick
McCloskey, William Stephenson; overseers, Samuel Thompson, Thomas
Graham; appraisers, Joseph McDowell, Herbert Ramsey; auditors, A. Patter-
son, John Findley, Frederick Minner, T. S. Cunningham, J. K. Caldwell.
Springfield. — Constables, Nathaniel Mounts, Thomas McCoy; supervisors,
William Glenn, William Denniston; overseers, Henry Black, Andrew Uber;
appraisers, Robert Simpson, William Denniston.
Neshannock. — Constables, Samuel McCreary, John Beyan; overseers,
William Gibson, Thomas Fisher.
Salem. — Constables, Cornelius Riley, William Smith; supervisors, Smith
McGranahan, Francis Beatty; overseei’s, James Walker, John Riley.
Mahoning. — Constables, Joshua Bentley, James Watson; supervisors, John
Piper, John Carnahan; appraisers, Henry Robinson, Henry Dunberry.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, James McDowell, John Whittaker; supervisors,
Andrew Coulter, John Miller; overseers, John Galbraith, John McKee;
appraisers, John White, William Smith; auditors, John Whittaker, Henry
Brandon, John Daugherty, John McKee.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, George Sheakley, John C. Robinson; super-
visors, William Church, George Y. Stright; overseers, Thomas Philips, Thomas
Simpson; appraisers, Charles Montgomery, John Williams; auditors, Charles
Montgomery, Andrew Borland, Ross Byers, Aaron Ross.
Lackawannock. — Constables, Robert Hawthorn, Asa Arnold; supervisors,
James Love, William Young; overseers, James Young, Archibald McNair;
appraisers, John McClain, John Locke; auditors, Joseph Shannon, Francis
Scott, John Gordon, Archibald McNair.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Jonathan Carroll, William Carroll; supervisors,
John Lynch, William Young; overseers, Jonathan Carroll, Nathaniel Cole-
man; appraisers, William Giebner, John Carmichael; auditors, William Little,
Enoch Perrine, Amos Ball, Lewis Egbert.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, Henry Hull, Jacob Dean; supervisors, Jacob
Emery, William Michael; overseers, Samuel Riddle, James Thorn; appraisers,
Robert Wallace, George Rogers; auditors, James McCune, Michael Hutten-
baugh, John Emery, Zachariah Dean.
• Delaware. — Constables, Hugh Donaldson, George Smith; supervisors,
David Linn, John Clark; overseers, David Walker, John Hommer; appraisers,
George Smith, Samuel Williams; auditors, Samuel Williamson, George Smith,
Thomas Fruit, Matthew Ralston.
HISTOBY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
641
West Salem. — Constables, William McLaughlin, George Fell, John Latta;
supervisors, Alexander Hunter, Samuel Potter; overseers, James Mossman,
Thomas Mossman; appraisers, Harvey Walker, Thomas Black; auditors, Will-
iam Scott, Hugh Mossman, George Fell, Peter Klingensmith.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Robert Carnes, Joseph Keck; supervisors,
Matthew Young, Elisha Fox; overseers, Samuel Clark, Azariah Dunham; ap-
praisers, Nathaniel Hazen, Benjamin Fell; auditors, Godfrey Carnes, David
McKnight, Robert McCord, Andrew Satterfield.
Shenango. — Constables, Nathaniel Harriott, H^nry Truesdall; supervisors,
William Haywood, William Edeburn; overseers, James Mitcheltree, Thomas
Carmichael; appraisers, Moses Canon, Thomas Miles; auditors, William Byers,
George Shilling, James Gilkey, Enoch McFarland.
French Creek. — Constables, Hugh Evans, John McCracken; supervisors,
John McCracken, Adam Carnahan; overseers, Hugh Moore, Jacob Reed; ap-
praisers, Joshua P. McCracken, Andrew J. Carnahan; auditors, Samuel Glenn,
Robert Dunn, John De France, Lewis Dilley.
1824.
Mercer. — Constables, James T. Black, Frederick Minner; supervisors, John
Simpson, Patrick McCloskey; overseers, Aaron Hackney, Bevan Pearson; ap-
praisers, Thomas Templeton, Robert Patterson; auditors, Jonathan Smith,
John Banks, William Stephenson, Samuel B. Foster.
Shenango. — Constables, Samuel Byers, Nathaniel Harriott; supervisors,
Moses Canon, William Byers; overseers, James Byers, John Rankin; apprais-
ers, John Mortimer, John Amon; auditors, Thomas Miles, James B. Camp-
bell, Joseph Allen, Thomas Carmichael.
Springfield. — Constables, John McDonald, James Long; supervisors,
William Denniston, Benjamin Alexander; overseers, Joseph Carpenter, Benja-
min Alexander; appraisers, Abram Tiber, Christopher Troxel; auditors,
Thomas Paxton, John Kerr, Benjamin Johnston, Edward Hanna.
Delaware. — Constables, Joseph Reznor, William Nichol; supervisors,
Robert Fruit, George Smith; overseers, Robert Beatty, William Mitchell;
appraisers, Samuel Hunter, John Hoover; auditors, Samuel Caldwell, William
W. Pearson, Thomas Fruit, Robert Beatty.
Lackawannock. — Constables, William Gordon, William Hunter; super-
visors, James Love, John Coyle; overseers, Joshua Hazlip, Asa Arnold;
appraisers, Daniel Hawthorn, George Means; auditors, Malcomb McComb,
Joseph McClain, David Hawthorn, John Gordon.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Jared Tuttle, Patrick McClurg; supervisors,
Fergus Hill, Enoch Perrine; overseers, John Carmichael, Joshua Coleman;
appraisers, Augustus Giebner, Jared Tuttle; auditors, Valentine Giebner,
Thomas J. Brown, Jason Barker, William Carroll, Jr.
West Salem. — Constables, Robert Bean, Harvey W^alker; supervisors,
Jacob Keck, Alexander Hunter; overseers, Thomas Coulson, John Mossman;
appraisers, William H. Mossman, George Fell; auditors, William Scott, W’ill-
iam H. Mossman, Robert Bean, Jacob Kamerer.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Joseph Williams, James Montgomery; super-
visors,'John Thompson, George Stright; overseers, William Church, Martin
Carringer; appraisers, Martin Carringer, James Holloway; auditors, Samuel
Minnis, James Montgomery, George Carringer, Ezekiel Condit.
Neshannock. — Constables, George Lindsey, E. Byers; supervisors, Lott
Watson, William Hodge; overseers, Crawford White, Lott Watson; apprais-
ers, ■‘Alexander Hawthorn, James Watson; auditors, A. Chenowith, James
Banks, Joseph Junkin, Peter Mitchell.
642
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Cool Spring. — Constables, James Johnston, Jacob Forker; supervisors,
John Rambo, William Zahniser; overseers, John McMillan, John Mustard;
auditors, Robert Newell, John Mustard, William Hill, Robert Hamilton.
Mahoning. — Constables, William McClung, Alexander Miller; supervisors,
John Carnahan, James Murdock; overseers, Robert Walker, John Book;,
appraisers, Thomas Williams, William McFate; auditors, James Woods,
James McBride, William McClung, Matthias Small.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, James Brandon, John Daiigherty; supervisors,
John Miller, Andrew Coulter; overseers, John Whittaker, Andrew Rose;
appraisers, David McDowell, William Craig; auditors, Henry Brandon,
Joseph Black, David Courtney, Henry Miller.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Robert Carnes, William Hays; supervisors,
Samuel Clark, Thomas Gill; overseers, Nathaniel Vernon, William Campbell;
appraisers, John Beggs, Benjamin Fell; auditors, David McKnight, Samuel
Ferguson, Joseph Moore, James Clark.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, Henry Hull, John Hamilton; supervisors, Jacob
Emery, M. Huttenbaugh; overseers, William Mathers, Michael Brown; ap-
praisers, Samuel Burchfield, James Gillespie; auditors, John Emery, Hugh
McKee, James Thorn, John Gealy.
Salem. — Constables, Cornelius Riley, William Crawford; stiper.visors,
David White, John Stephenson; overseers, Thomas Dumars, William Ben-
nett; appraisers, James Caughey, Samuel Walker.
1825.
Mercer. — Constables, Hugh Hunter, John Bowman; supervisors, Jacob
Williamson, Samuel Scott ; overseers, Robert Patterson, Robert Hazlip; ap-
praisers, James Carnahan, David Crawford; auditors, Hugh Bingham, James
Davitt, Michael Yeager, Thomas Templeton.
Lackaivannock. — Constables, William Hunter, Victor Devine; supervisors,
Hugh Hitchcock, Joseph McClain; overseers, John Wright, John Gordon;
appraisers, Malcomb McComb, Thomas J. Gordon; auditors, John Wright,
John Gordon, Archibald McNair, Malcomb McComb.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Patrick McCloskey, Fergus Hill; supervisors,
Fergus Hill, Bennett Grace; overseers, Aaron Taylor, Jared Tuttle; appraisers,
John Carmichael, Augustus Giebner; auditors, Allen Dunn, Enoch Perrine,
Valentine Giebner, William Carroll, Jason Barker, Jonathan Ball, William
Fish.
Neshannock. — Constables, James Watson, Andrew Reed; supervisors, Rob-
ert Thompson, John Moore; overseers, John Moore, Patrick, Wilson; apprais-
ers, John Fell, Henry Gibson; auditors, John Falls, John Watson, George
Galloway, John Tidball.
Cool Spring. — Constables, Robert McKean, Hugh McKean; supervisors,
Thomas Hosack, John Rambo; overseers, John McCullough, Hugh McKean;
auditors, William Hill, John McCune, John Armstrong, Andrew Clark.
Springfield. — Constables, James Dong, William Denniston; supervisors,
Alexander Black, Thomas Bains; overseers, John Call, Alexander Tiber; ap-
praisers, John McDonald, William Glenn; auditors, Christopher Troxel,
Robert Reed, Benjamin Johnston, John Kerr.
Delaware. — Constables, John Hommer, William Crawford; supervisors,
Henry Pearson, John Donaldson; overseers, Robert Fruit, Samuel Williamson;
appraisers, John Hommer, William Glenn; auditors, Samuel Williamson, Sam-
uel Caldwell, William Pearson, William A. Bean.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Robert Carnes, David Beggs; supervisors,.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
643
Robert Hodge, Edward Campbell; overseers, William Campbell, Robert
McCord; appraisers, Joseph Cooper, Charles Gilkey; auditors, William Carnes,
Matthew Young, James Campbell.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, Joseph Emery, James Thorn; supervisors,
John Emery, Michael Huttenbaugh; overseers, John Gunn, John Gilhllan;
appraisers, Joseph Cooper, Charles Gilkey; auditors, James McCammond,
William Michaels, James Locke, John Emery.
French Creek. — Constables, James McCracken, James DeErance; super-
visors, Rynear VanVores, James McCracken; overseers, Robert Robb, Adam
Carnahan; appraisers, Jacob Reed, Adam Carnahan; auditors, Robert Coch-
ran, James Moore, Hugh Moore, Samuel Glenn.
West Salem. — Constables, Andrew Campbell, Henry Walker; supervisors,
George Lodge, Alexander Hunter ; overseers, M. L. Robinson, Richard Brown,
Samuel Parker; appraisers, Jacob Loutzenhiser, John Martin, Solomon Clyde;
auditors, Jacob Kamerer, William Scott, Robert Bean, William Mossman.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, A. M. Elliott, Ross Byers; supervisors, John
Caldwell, George Sheakley; overseers, George Y. Stright, Thomas Phillips;
appraisers, John Robb, James McCracken; auditors, Ezekiel Condit, J. C.
Robinson, D. E. Gordon, James Davidson.
Mahoning. — Constables, William Young, John Onslott; supervisors,
Michael Book, Thomas Irwin; overseers, John Book, Robert Walker; ap-
praisers, John Johnston, John Williamson; auditors, James Robinson, Will-
iam Porter, James Small, James McBride.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, Joseph Black, James Brandon; supervisors.
Chapman Rose, Andrew Coulter; overseers, John Whittaker, George Taylor;
appraisers, George Christley, John McKee; auditors, Patrick Gibson, Thomas
Courtney, James Alexander, William Craig.
Shenango. — Constables, Vance Stewart, John Canon; supervisors, William
Byers, John Rankin; overseers, Thomas Miles, George Walker; auditors,
James Byers, Joseph Allen, Robert Stewart, Joseph Budd.
Salem. — Constables, Myndert Freeland, Cornelius Riley; supervisors,
Nathan Roberts, Robert Roberts; overseers, Cornelius Riley, James Caughey;
appraisers, Thomas Limber, Jonas Fell.
1826.
Mercer. — Constables, Thomas Graham, Hugh Hunter; supervisors, James
Thompson, William Stephenson; overseers, Joel B. Curtis, Robert Stewart;
appraisers, James McKean, M. Yeager, J. K. Caldwell; auditors, John Banks,
Bevan Pearson, Thomas Templeton, John McGill.
Delaware. — Constables, John W. Brown, JohnHommer; supervisors, John
Hommer, Jacob Loutzenhiser; overseers, James Beatty, George Smith; ap-
praisers, John Hughes, John Donaldson; auditors, Samuel Caldwell, S. Will-
iamson, James Donaldson, Robert Beatty.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Fergus Hill, Bennett Grace; supervisors, Allen
Dunn, Bennett Grace; overseers, William Carroll, Jason Barker; appraisers,
Jared Tuttle, John Carmichael; auditors, E. Perrine, Allen Dunn, J. Carroll,
Jason Barker.
Springfield. — Constables, John Rose, William Albin; supervisors, Alexan-
der Black, John Crill; overseers, William Glenn, Thomas Paxton; appraisers,
Jacob Logan, Henry Black; auditors, William Junkin, John Kerr, Roderick
McCoy, William Reed.
West Salem. — Constables, James McCord, R. McLaughlin; supervisors,
Alexander Hunter, James Calvin; overseers, George W. Fell, Samuel Parker;
644
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
appraisers, A. Lininger, Danial Williams; auditors, Robert Bean, Hugh
Mossman, John Potter, James Melvin.
French Creek. — Constables, Samuel Barr, James Montgomery; supervisors,
John Montgomery, Samuel Evans; overseers, Jacob Reed, Samuel Glenn;
appraisers, Jacob Reed, Samuel Glenn; auditors, R. Austin, Charles Be France,
George Reed, J. P. McCracken.
Lackaivannock. — Constables, Alexander Thompson, William Hunter; super-
visors, Joseph Kirk, William McMillan; overseers, John Wright, John Gor-
don; appraisers, John Spangler, Robert Hawthorn; auditors, Malcomb Mc-
Comb, James Love, James Gault, R. McCrumb.
Neshannock. — Constables, Andrew Reed, Robert Neal; supervisors, Thomas
Wilson, William Painter; overseers, Abner Gibson, Peter Mitchell; appraisers,
George Lindsey, George Falls; auditors, George Lindsey, James McElwain,
Lot Watson, Hugh Watson.
Pymatuning. — Constables, David Beggs, William Carnes; supervisors,
James J. Bean, Jonathan Dunham; overseers, Nathan Fell, Edward Camp-
bell; appraisers, Andrew Satterfield, James Gillespie; auditors, Samuel Camp-
bell, Samuel Ferguson, Nathaniel Vernon.
Mahoning. — Constables, Marinus King, William Young; supervisors,
Joseph Brown, Peter Gundy; overseers, John Summervillo, Robert Walker;
appraisers, S. McBride, William George; auditors, F. McFarland, Matthew
Small, James Small.
Cool Spring. — Constables, William Zahniser, Jacob Forker; supervisors,
John Rambo, Thomas Hosack; appraisers, S. B. McCune, Hugh McKean;
auditors, Alexander Turner, John Armstrong, Robert Newell, Thomas Coulson.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, James Kerr, John Daugherty; supervisors, Chap-
man Rose, John McCoy; overseers, George Taylor, Joseph Black; appraisers,
George Christley, John Whittaker; auditors, James McCoy, David McDowell,
Ephraim Rose, John Douglass.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, James Thorn, William Hamilton; supervisors,
William Stoughton, John Berry; overseers, Thomas Boozle. John Gilfillan;
appraisers, William Buell, Charles Gilkey; auditors, David Robinson, James
Martin, William Mathers, W^illiam Elder.
Shenango. — Constables, Kennedy McFarland, James Riley; supervisors,
John Rankin, Moses Canon; overseers, James McConnell, Thomas Carmichael;
appraisers, James Ward, Andrew Robb; auditors, Robert Stewart, Joseph
Allen, John Gundy, Thomas Jewell.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, William Stright, John Robb; supervisors, George
Sheakley, John Caldwell; overseers, Moses Sheakley, William Church; apprais-
ers, John L. Stright, Aaron Ross; auditors, David Gardner, John Robb, James
Caldwell, Ira Holloway.
Salem. — Constables, Myndert Freeland, Cornelius Riley; supervisors, John
Williamson, Thomas Leech; overseers, W’illiam Crawford, Peter Roberts;
appraisers, John Water, John Sims; auditors, John G. Donaldson, Jonas Fell,
William Lindsey, Samuel Leech.
1827.
Shenango. — Constables, Henry Trussel, John Byers, Nathaniel Harriott;
supervisors, George Walker, Robert Stewart; overseers, WTlliam Edeburn,
Thomas Miller; auditors, William G. Welsh, Thomas Jewell, John Canon,
Samuel Sample.
Wolf CreeA;. —Constables, James Kerr, John Daugherty; supervisors, John
McCoy, David McDowell; overseers, Joseph Black, George Taylor; appraisers,
HISTOEY OP MERCER COUNTY.
645
John Whittaker, George Christley; auditors, William Smith, Richard McClure,
John Williams, John Miller.
Springfield. — Constables. Wdlliam Reed, John Rose; supervisors, John
Crill, James Collins; overseers, B. Alexander, Abraham Uber; appraisers,
Simeon Tiber, Thomas Simpson ; auditors, John Kerr, Thomas Paxton, William
F. Junkin, Adam Black.
Pymataning. — Constables, A. Satterfield, JohnCaimes; supervisors, Robert
McCord, James Ferguson, James Young; overseers, Edward Campbell, Nathan
Fell; appraisers, John Beggs, Benjamin Fell; auditors, James Campbell,
Charles Vernon, Thomas Ferguson.
Cool Spring. — Constables, William Amberson, Thomas Coulson; super-
visors, John Rambo, Thomas Hosack; overseers, John Rambo, Alexander
Turner; auditors, Robert Newell, James McEwen, Jacob Forker, William
Zahniser.
Mahoning. — Constables, Marinus King, John Book; supervisors, Henry
Zuver, Benjamin Sharpless; overseers, James Walker, Nathaniel Porter;
appraisers, R. Armstrong, George Book; auditors, James Watson, James
Small, WTlliam McClung, Thomas Allison.
Lackawannock. — Constables, John Young, James Marquis; supervisors,
Luke Irwin, James Sowers; overseers, George Zuver, Joseph McClain;
appraisers, David Young, WTlliam Young; auditors, William McMillan, Joseph
McClain, James Gault, John Carnahan.
Mercer. — Constables, H. R. Hunter, Charles Whistler, Jonathan Smith, A.
Patterson; overseers, James Zahniser, H. Hosack, Jonathan Smith, James
Smith.
Delaware. — Constables, Jacob Loutzenhiser, John W. Brown; supervisors,
James Linn, James Moore; overseers, John Donaldson, Joseph Porter;
appraisers, Robert Beatty, Thomas Gibson; auditors, James Donaldson, Will-
iam Beatty, S. WTlliamson, Thomas Fruit.
French Creek. — Constables, Francis Dunn, George Bole; supervisors,
Francis Dunn, John Montgomery; overseers, Jacob Reed, Rynear VanVores;
appraisers, WTlliam Reed, James Montgomery; auditors, Samuel Glenn, John
Cooper, A. J. Carnahan, Abraham Gage.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Jared Tuttle, Patrick McCloskey; supervisors,
Joel H. Sanford, John Gibson; overseers, Jonathan Ball, R. Henderson;
appraisers, Lewis Egbert, Augustus Giebner; auditors, Thomas Brown, Jona-
than Ball, David Carroll, A. S. Bagley.
West Salem. — Constables, James McCord, James Loutzenhiser; supervisors,
M. C. Johnston, Hugh Mossman; overseers, John McNeilly, David Hoover;
appraisers, John Klingensmith, John Speir; auditors, Jacob Keck, Andrew
Campbell, John Keck, Robert Bean.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, James Limber, Richard Dawson; supervisors,
Andrew Borland, Joseph Axtell; overseers, Israel Tuttle, M. Carringer; ap-
praisers, David Gardner, I. Holloway; auditors, John Robb, George Carringer,
William Stright, James Caldwell.
Neshannock. — Constables, Nathan Patton, Isaac Donaldson; supervisors,
George Galloway, William V. Bay; overseers, George Gallow'ay, William V.
Bay; appraisers, John Sampson, William Watson; auditors, James Watson,
James Banks, John Fisher, William Hodge.
Salem. — Constables, Cornelius Riley, Henry Williamson; supervisors,
Thomas Dumars, John G. Donaldson; overseers, Andrew McLean, John Riley;
appraisers, Alexander Dumars, David Kitch; auditors, Jonas Fell, William
Leech, Andrew Christy, William Young.
646
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, Henry Hull, James Locke; supervisors, James
McConnell, John Emery; overseers, George Bruce, Zach. Dean; appraisers,
A. Anderson, William Turner; auditors, William Elder, M. H. Mento, George
Carlin, Robert Wallace.
1828.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, John Offut, Noah Dean; overseers, William
Elder, William Mathers; appraisers, Henry Hull, Henry Jordan; supervisors,
John McConnell, James Locke; auditors, George Bruce, William George,
William Stoughton, George Rogers.
Mahoning. — Constables, Thomas Allen, Jacob Rose; overseers, James
W’atson, William Oliver; appraisers, D. Williamson, JohnAngell; supervisors,
John Summerville, Nathaniel Porter; auditors, James McBride, Alexander
Porter, Thomas Irvin, William Porter.
Cool Spring. — Constables, William Amberson, H. McKean; supervisors,
John Rambo. William Zahniser; auditors, I. Armstrong, Jared Forker, H.
Beckwith, I. McCune.
French Creek. — Constables, Abraham Gage, F. Dunn; overseers, Jacob
Reed, A. Carnahan; appraisers, J. Montgomery, Robert Robb; supervisors,
Francis Dunn, Abraham Gage; auditors, Lewis Dilly, J. De France, J. Mc-
Cracken, R. Cochran.
Springfield. — Constables, William Reed, H. Rose; overseers, A. Uber,
Benjamin Alexander; appraisers, James Collins, R. McCoy; supervisors, John
McDonald, John Crill; auditors, John Kerr, W. Christy, E. Hanna, J. Rose.
Shenango. — Constables, William Byers, H. Truesdall; overseers, John
Rankin, Benjamin Caster; appraisers, H. Hoover, A. De Forest; supervisors,
Joseph Thompson, Joseph Allen; auditors, W. B. Welsh, J. Budd, I. Sample,
J. Z. Allen.
Delaivare. — Constables, Jacob Loutzenhiser, H. Donaldson; overseers, J.
A. Bean, H. Donaldson; appraisers, Joseph Beatty, John Espy; supervisors,
J. \V. Brown, George Reznor; auditors, Samuel Caldwell, W. H. Bean,
Richard Fruit, George Reznor.
West Salem. — Constables, James Loutzenhiser, Joseph Brown; overseers,
William Scott, John Keep; appraisers, Hugh Brown, Jared Fry; supervisors,
Andrew Campbell, Samuel Parker; auditors, A. Hunter, Jacob Kamerer, G.
W. Fell, Hugh Brown.
Lackawannock. — Constables, A. Aindee, J. Marquis; overseers, D. Young,
James Marquis; appraisers, John Young, T. J. Gordon; supervisors, Thomas
Gordon, A. Wilkin; auditors, M. Dawson, James Gault, M. McComb, J.
Galloway.
Neshannock. — Constables, J. Donaldson, J. McCreary; overseers, S. Pear-
son, A. Thompson; appraisers, George Pearson, William Gibson; supervisors,
W. V. Bay, George Galloway; auditors, James Banks, William Hodge,
George Pearson, James Watson.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, J. Daugherty, James Kerr; overseers, William
Smith, W. W. Smith; appraisers, J. Whittaker, William Bruthon; super-
visors, H. Brandon, George Perry; auditors, J. Uber, James George, John
Cochran, J. Black.
Salem. — Constables, H. Williamson, W. Crawford; overseers, C. Riley,
M. Leech; appraisers, George McFetridge, Leon Waters; supervisors, J.
McGranahan, Noble Dumars; auditors, A. Thompson. J. Leech, Jr., William
McLean, R. Roberts.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Jared Tuttle, Samuel Walker; overseers.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
647
’William Giebner, Bennett Grace; appraisers, Dennis Job, Thomas Graham;
supervisors, Bennett Grace, Lewis Egbert; auditors, Enoch Perrine, William
Carroll, Jason Barker, David Carroll.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Joseph Mattocks, J. J. Duncan; overseers, E.
Campbell, Nathan Fell; appraisers, John Beggs, Samuel Ferguson; super-
visors, Charles Vernon, John Hays; auditors, Nathaniel Vernon, James Camp-
bell, Elihu Fox, W. Stillings.
Mercer. — Constables, James Carmon, Charles Whistler; overseers, A. Pat-
terson, M. Yeager; appraisers, John Magill, John Chambers; auditors, J. T.
Black, Joel B. Curtis, Robert Stewart.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, William Shannon, W. E. Stright; overseers,
Thomas Phillips, J. Holloway; appraisers, J. E. Larimer, C. Montgomery;
supervisors, Samuel Meney, Joseph Axtell; auditors, E. Henry, A. McCleary,
J. Larimer, J. Dilley.
1829.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Patrick McCloskey, A. D. Williams; overseers,
Lewis Egbert, Jonathan Carroll; supervisors, Lewis Egbert, Bennett Grace,
Samuel Walker, Jason Barker; appraisers, Enoch Perrine, Jared Tuttle;
auditors, Jared Tuttle, Enoch Perrine, Jonathan Carroll, A. D. Williams.
Lackawannock. — Constables, M. Dawson, John Coyle; overseers, William
Gordon, Asa Arnold; supervisors, James Love, Thomas Gordon; appraisers,
Joseph Marshall, John Coyle; auditors, M. McComb, Joseph McClain, S.
Marquis, J. Donaldson.
Cool Spring. — Constables, William Amberson, C. Wentz; overseers, Ben-
jamin Stokely, Thomas Coulson; supervisors, William Zahniser, John Rambo;
appraisers, John McCune, William Meek; auditors, W. Miller, William North,
W. Hill, Robert Shaw.
Neshahnock. — Constables, Patrick Wilson, Abraham Gilson; overseers,
James Daniels, Samuel Pearson; supervisors, James Daniels, Samuel Pear-
son; appraisers, John Wareham, James Watson; auditors, John Fisher,
George Pearson, John Falls, William Hodge.
Salem. — Constables, William Crawford, Adam Wier; overseers, John Will-
iamson, Samuel Latta; supervisors, Joseph Long, John Donaldson;
appraisers, John Leech, Alexander Dumars; auditors, D. Kitch, A. Thomp-
son, John McLean, J. Williamson.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Joseph Mattocks, Joseph T. Woods; overseers,
James Clark, William Campbell; supervisors, Nathaniel Hazen, Thomas Mor-
ford; appraisers, Luke Porter, James Campbell; auditors, John Young, C.
Koonce, W. Stillings, S. C. Clarke.
Shenango. — Constables, William Byers, William Clark; overseers, John
Rankin, Benjamin Caster; supervisors, William Franklin, Joseph Budd;
appraisers, H. Vernon, Abraham DeForest; auditors, George Shilling, M.
Canon, Thomas Jewell, Benjamin Love.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, George Carlin, Noah Dean; overseers, James
Martin, Hugh McKee; supervisors, H. Jordan, Joseph Emery; appraisers;
Thomas Boozle, George Bruce; auditors, J. C. Wallace, William Stoughton,
J. Bentley, M. Huttenbaugh.
Springfield. — Constables, Robert Lyda, James Cunningham; overseers,
John Crill, C. Troxell; supervisors, 0. Painter, Jacob Smith; appraisers,
John Crill, Robert Simpson; auditors, W. F. Junkin, John Kerr, John
McCoy, B. Alexander.
French Creek. — Constables, Abraham Gage, S. Glenn; overseers, Jacob
648
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Keed, A. Carnahan; supervisors, Abraham Gage, S. Glenn; appraisers, Jacob
Reed, A. Carnahan; auditors, A. Carnahan, A. Vores, J. McCracken, A.
Cooper.
West Salem. — Constables, Jacob Loutzenhiser, F. H. Shannon; over-
seers, George W. Fell, A. Hunter;- supervisors, H. McLaughlin, Adam
Miller, James Campbell; appraisers, William Kirby, Peter Rocky; auditors;
R. Bean, John Loutzenhiser, John Christy, J. McLaughlin.
Delaware. — Constables, C. Love, J. VV. Brown; overseers, James Moore,
Thomas Fruit; supervisors, C. Stigle, Thomas Fruit; appraisers, Samuel
Cooper, O. McDonald; auditors, R. Fruit, James Moore, R. Beatty, J. Don-
aldson.
Mercer. — Constables, W. D. Bell, J. Haney; overseers, William S.
Rankin, Hugh Bingham; auditors, John Banks, J. Thompson, R. Stewart, J.
Zahniser.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, William Amberson, D. McDowell; overseers,
John Whittaker, Joseph Black; supervisors, H. Brandon, J. Galbraith;
appraisers, N. Buchanan, J. Whittaker; auditors, J. Graham, S. Coleman,
A. Coulter, George Taylor.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, William E. Stright, William George; overseers,
Charles Montgomery, Thomas Phillips; supervisors, John Robb, Samuel
Minnis; auditors, Thomas Phillips, Ross Byers, A. Ross, Andrew Borland.
Mahoning. — Constables, Thomas Allen, John Book; overseers, Marinus
King, Matthew Small; supervisors, A. Kelly, William Phillips; auditors, R.
Armstrong, S. Rox, Thomas Allison, G. Thompson.
I
1830.
Sandy Lake. — Constables, Samuel Walker, Peter Wilson; supervisors, T.
J. Brown, Jonathan Carroll; overseers, A. D. Williams, John Wilson; apprais-
ers, Adam Hill, A. Giebner; auditors, T. J. Brown, Enoch Perrine, E. But-
ler, Jonathan Ball.
Shenango. — Constables, Job Gold, D. Byers; supervisors, Joseph Budd,
W. Mitcheltree; overseers, J. McConnell, W. D. Welsh; appraisers, William
Byers, Henry Truesdall; auditors, George Allen, George Shilling, S. Satter-
field, John Clark.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, W. Anderson, Jacob Rox; supervisors, J.
Stewart, J. Daugherty; overseers, Robert Glenn, D. McDowell; appraisers,
W. Buchanan, J. Whittaker; auditors, A. Riddle, R. McClure, H. McCutchen,
William Craig.
West Salem. — Constables, John Loutzenhiser, F. H. Shannon; supervisors,
Jacob Loutzenhiser, Irvin Kerr; overseers, H. Walker, Andrew Campbell;
appraisers, Patrick McLaughlin, Robert Mann; auditors, J. Keck, J. R. Wick,
William Scott, A. Hunter.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Joseph Mattocks, S. Ferguson; supervisors, J.
Ferguson, William Mattocks; overseers, N. Vernon, S. Clark, Jr.; appraisers,
S. Koonce, J. Adams; auditors, William Campbell, J. Beggs, S. Connelly, E.
Evans.
Delaioare. — Constables, S. Williamson, A. McDonald; supervisors, S.
Donaldson, Jonathan Kerr; overseers, C. Strigle, William Beatty; apprais-
ers, Robert Beatty, D. Galloway; auditors, D. Walker, J. McDonald, J.
Linn, J. Connelly.
Lackawannock. — Constables, M. Dawson, W. Zuver; supervisors, James
Byers, James Thompson; overseers, W. McMillan, John Wright; appraisers.
HISTOEY OF MEECER COUNTY.
649
J. McNair, William Young; auditors, M. McComb, J. Donaldson, R. Mc-
Crumb, L. Irwin.
Mahoning. — Constables, Thomas Allen, James McFate; siipervisors,
Jacob Rose, Alexander Wright; overseers, Alexander Miller, William Porter;
appraisers, J. S. Cunningham, John Bentley; auditors, J. Summerville, T.
Covert, J. Book, J. Carnahan.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, H. Hull, W. Coulter; supervisors, Joseph
Emery, Abraham Green; overseers, John Gealy, William Moore; appraisers,
John Green, E. Allen; auditors, J. Wallace, J. Bentley, G. Carlin, R. Glenn.
Neshannock. — Constables, John Rea, N. Patterson; supervisors, J.
Daniels, S. Pearson; overseers, J. Daniels, S. Pearson: appraisers, S. Wilson,
J. Donaldson; auditors, J. Falls, P. Wilson, R. Gormly, G. Pearson.
Springfield. — Constables, R. Lyda, W. Small; supervisors, William
Christly, C. Troxell; overseers, James Braden, J. Findley; appraisers, J.
Williams, J. Winger; auditors, John Kerr, Benjamin Alexander, J. Palmer,
John Rose.
Mercer. — Constables, W. D. Bell, T. Rodgers; overseers, James Thomp-
son, Jacob Forker; auditors, D. Porter, John Banks, M. Yeager, J. Zahniser.
Salem. — Constables, Adam Wier, H. Williamson; supervisors, R. Roberts,
J. Williamson; overseers, W. Crawford, R. Snodgrass; appraisers, Alexan-
der Dumars, N. Roberts; auditors, J. McGranahan, M. Bennett, S. Latta, W.
McMillen.
Cool Spring. — Constables, R. Bowman, R. Brownlee; supervisors, W.
Hill, J. Livermore; overseers, J. White, H. Beckwith; appraisers, John
Hanna, J. Alexander; auditors, R. Newell, R. Hamilton, T. Hosack, George
Smith.
French Creek. — Constables, P.VanVores, J. M. Daily; supervisors, P. Yan-
Vores, Robert Cochran; overseers, Jacob Reed, A. Carnahan; appraisers, A.
Carnahan, Jacob Reed; auditors, George Henry, J. McCracken, H. Moore, A.
S. Carnahan.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, A. McCleary, J. Couse; supervisors, G. Car-
ringer, J. Benson; appraisers, Ross Byers, W. E. Stright; auditors, W.
McNamara, F. Beatty, J. Montgomery, A. Carnahan.
1831.
Springfield. — Constables, James Lyda, William Small; supervisors, John
Crill, Thomas Armstrong; overseers, John Findley, James Braden; apprais-
ers, Jacob Wingard, John Williams; auditors, Joseph Kerr, Thomas Palmer,
John Findley.
Salem. — Constables, H. Williamson, H. McFetridge; supervisors, William
McMillen, Jonas Fell; overseers, William Bennett, Alexander Dumars;
appraisers, Samuel Latta, Andrew McLean; auditors, David Kitch, Nathan
Roberts, William Leech.
Cool Spring. — Constables, Adam Harper, R. Hamilton; supervisors, Will-
iam Hill, John Livermore; overseers, William Zahniser, Thomas Hosack; ap-
praisers, David Garvin, H. Beckwith; auditors, JohnMcEwen, Jacob Zahniser,
M. Rambo.
Mercer. — Constables, William D. Bell, James Clark; overseers, William
Amberson, Jonathan Smith; auditors, Bevan Pearson, David T. Porter, J.
Zahniser, J. Houghton.
Lackawannock. — Constables, Samuel Zuver, John Coyle; supervisors,
Samuel Bend,. Jonathan Young; overseers. William McMillan, John Wright
650
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
appi’aisers, James Bjers, A. Cotton; auditors, Francis Scott, John Wright,
Thomas Gordon.
Sandy Creek. — Constables, Alexander McCleary, Ashur Williams; Super-
visors, Amzi L. Stright, John McCracken; overseers, Griffith Bennett, Will-
liam McNamara; appraisers, Ross Byers, James Brush; auditors, David Garner,
William E. Stright, Aaron Ross.
Neshannock. — Constables, Ebn. Byers, R. McCaslin; supervisors, John
Sampson, John Romroy; overseers, John Sampson, Robert Gormly; apprais-
ers, John Graham, Andrew Buchanan; auditors, John Fisher, James Banks,
William Hodge.
West Salem. — Constables, F. Shannon, John Speir; supervisors, Irwin
Kerr, John Loutzenhiser; overseers, John Loutzenhiser, James Waugh;
appraisers, Henry Walker, Thomas W. Bean; auditors, Robert Bean, Andrew
Campbell, Alexander Hunter.
Wolf Creek. — Constables, Chapman Rose, James Riddle; supervisors,
John Daugherty, James Stewart; overseers, John Wolford, John Purry;
appraisers, Michael Tiber, Henry Kuntz; auditors, A. Riddle, J. Graham,
John Galbraith.
Pymatuning. — Constables, Joseph J. Duncan, Joseph Mattocks; supervis-
ors, Andrew White, James Ferguson; overseers, David Thompson, John Gil-
lespie; appraisers, Luke Porter, Joseph Arbuckle; auditors, John Stevens,
James Young, George Reynolds.
Delaware. — Constables, S. Williamson, Thomas H. Bean; supervisors,
Jacob Emery, Jonathan Carr; overseers, Richard Law, George Reznor;
appraisers, Adam Kamerer, William Emery; auditors, James Linn, William
Smith, John Donaldson.
Slippery Rock. — Constables, Noah Dean, John Gealy; supervisors, Samuel
Anderson, Charles Dickson; overseers, John Emery, William Stoughton;
appraisers, George Bruce, William George; auditors, J. McCamon, John
Reed, John Bentley.
Shenango. — Constables, Joel Gold, William Kerr; supervisors, Joseph
Budd, James Scott; overseers, Andrew Satterfield, John Rankin; appraisers,
Samuel McKay, Edward Means; auditors, William Budd, John Carver, John
Byers.
Sandy Lake. — Constables. John Carmichael, Samuel Walker; supervisors,
Lewis Egbert, John Carmichael; overseers, Allen Dunn, James Wilson;
appraisers, Augustus Giebner, Thomas Graham; auditors, Enoch Perrine,
Jonathan Ball, Jared Tuttle.
Mahoning. — Constables, John Kerr, R. McDonald; supervisors, C.
Flaugher, Peter Gundy; overseers, Thomas Allison, John Book; appraisers,
Francis Ward, Henry Robinson; auditors, M. Small, William Porter, Alexan-
der Miller.
French Creek. — Constables, A. J. Carnahan, Jacob Reed; supervisors, A.
J. Carnahan, Hugh Evans; overseers; Adam Carnahan, Jacob Reed; apprais-
ers, John Thompson, Cookson Long; auditors, A. Carnahan, S. Barr, John
De France.
HISTOKY OF MEECER COUNTY.
651
CHAPTER XXIX.
BIOGliAPIIlES OF MERCER.
OHN J. ALEXANDER, attorney, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, April 6,
1850, to B. W. and Mary A. (Kilby) Alexander. The father was born in
this county in October, 1809, and was the son of Joseph Alexander, one of the
earliest settlers of Mercer County, and who is mentioned in a former chapter
of this work. Joseph Alexander was the father of the following children;
B. W. , Thomas, John, Margaret. William, Joseph, Samuel and James. The
last of the children was buried March 3, 1886. B. W. Alexander was a
master mechanic, and when a young man he settled at Cincinnati, where he
followed his trade and was married. He became the father of three children:
Margaret (died in Cincinnati when small), Genetta B. (died in this county at
the home of her uncle Joseph) and John J. The parents were members
of the Presbyterian Church, and are buried at Cincinnati, Ohio. John J.
Alexander was reared by his uncle, Joseph Alexander, from his sixth year, and
was educated at the Mercer Union Schools and Kingsville Academy, Ash-
tabula County, Ohio. He read law with Griffith & Mason, of Mercer, was
admitted to the bar in 1876, and went into active practice in 1878. He married
Ruth E., daughter of McLean Thorn, and with her belongs to the First Pres-
byterian Church of Mercer. He was secretary of the borough, council three
years, and is a Democrat.
AV. C. Alexander, banker, now of Grove City, was born September 10,
1843, in this county. His parents, AVilliamH. and Mary M. (McConnell) Alex-
ander, were born, the former in this county and the latter in Ohio. The father
survives his wife, and two of his four children are living: D. H. , of Worth
Township, and AV. C. The father was elected prothonotary of Mercer County
in 1863, at the time when the business now done by the county clerk was
attached to the duty of the prothonotary. Our subject was educated in the
common schools, and taught at the age of nineteen. He was his father’ s
deputy prothonotary, and held the same position under A. B. McCartney.
Before the latter’s term expired he was chosen teller of the First National
Bank of Mercer, and after twelve years in that position he was promoted to its
cashiership. After three years in this department he served as deputy in-
ternal revenue collector under J. F. AValther, of Erie, for two years. He then
engaged with AV. B. Bard in the lime business in Butler County. He went
out with the 100 day troops. He has been a member of the borough
council one term, is a Republican, and is now connected with the Grove City
Bank, doing business, under the firm name of Graham & Alexander.
The Ambehsons. — The original Amberson that came into Mercer County
was William. He came from Pittsburgh, where he had lived prior to the Revo-
lution, and where he had been engaged in conducting a small furnace and dis-
tillery. He arrived in Mercer about 1803, and located at once on the corner
of East Market and Pitt Streets, now owned by Mrs. Dr. Temple and occupied
as a barber shop. He built a hewed log house, a portion of which still remains.
He was married to Elizabeth Smith, by whom he had ten children, nine of
whom were born prior to his coming to Mercer. Their names were as follows:
Elizabeth, born May 10, 1873, married to John Findley, who aided in laying
652
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
out Mercer ; Silas, born October 10, 1785, was a captain and recruiting officer in
the War of 1812; Clarissa, born January 7, 1788, never married; Presley N.,
born February 5, 1791, married to Sarah Cunningham, sister of Thomas Scott
Cunningham, whose sketch is found in the Bench and Bar chapter. He was the
father of Alexander C. Amberson, now a resident of Mercer; Mary, born Feb-
ruary 14, 1794, married to Robert Johnson; Nancy, born October 1, 1796,
married to George Flake, of Philadelphia, died in 1884, in Mercer; William,
born January 1, 1799, died in infancy; William, born December 25, 1799,
lived to manhood, married Margaret Hunter; Caroline, born December 24,
1802, died in infancy; Tarleton E., born in Mercer September 4, 1804; he
became a physician, and married Emaline Flake, of Philadelphia. He died at
Beaver Falls, Penn. William Amberson, the progenitor of the Ambersons in
Mercer County, was a colonel in the Revolutionary War, and served several
years. While a resident of Mercer he drew a pension until the time of his
death, which occurred January 4, 1838, in his eighty-third year. He was
associate judge of Mercer County for a number of years. His house is still
standing, one of the oldest in Mercer. The weather-boarding was not sawed,
but riven from timber and smoothed with the drawing-knife. It was fastened
by means of nails wrought by hand. It is said to be the oldest structure in
the town, eighty-five years having elapsed since it was erected.
A. C. Ambeeson, retired farmer, was born May 18, 1819, in the borough
of Mercer. His parents, P. N. and Sarah (Cunningham) Amberson, were
natives of Pittsburgh and Washington County, Penn., respectively. They had
the following children: W. Smith, late of Waynesboro, Franklin County;
Alexander died small; A. C. , Mary manled Bartram Cook, and lives in Ohio;
Clarissa married Robert E. Barnes; Elizabeth, died in 1845; Presley N. , died
in 1845, and Samuel C. , who lives in Minneapolis. The father of the above
children died April 20, 1874, and the mother March 25, 1841. Our subject was
educated in the common schools, and has always followed farming. He was
married February 5, 1845, to Miss Margaret Hosack, whose family history will
be found elsewhere. By this union he has had the following children: Presley
N. , deceased; Sarah married M. L. Calvin; B. C. , lives in Superior, Neb.;
Rebecca married S. S. Smith; Beriah lives in Salida, Col., and is an en-
gineer on the Rio Grande Railroad; W. S. lives in Leadville, Col., and is an en-
gineer; Charles E. resides in Superior, Neb. Mr. Amberson sold his farm,
and in 1882 came to Mercer, where he has lived a retired life since. He was
first lieutenant of a military company in Mercer County in 1850. He served
as a justice of the peace in Findley Township for fifteen years, and as school
director for nine years. He was a Democrat until 1856, when he joined the
Republican party because of the agitation of slavery. He and wife are members
of the United Presbyterian Church.
Anderson Brothers, grocers. This firm consists of A. E. and S. G. Ander-
son. They began business in Mercer in 1884, and by a strict attention to busi-
ness they have merited a large patronage. Their line of goods consists of gro-
ceries, tobacco, cigars, tin-ware, glass-ware and queens -ware. These gentle-
men are both natives of Mercer County, and are enterprising business men,
deserving of the lucrative trade they enjoy. In politics they are adherents to
the Republican party.
J. R. W. Baker, attorney, was born in Findley Township, Mercer Co.,
Penn., November 30, 1848, to John and Susan (Walker) Baker, natives of
Ireland, who immigrated to Pittsburgh in 1826, where the father engaged in the
hardware business. In 1840 they removed to Mercer County, and located on a farm
in what is now Findley Township. The father died in 1859, and the widow died
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
653
February 22, 1887. They were members of the Covenanter Church. Their
children were: S. E. W. and Thomas A. (these two brothers were educated in
Rome, the former holding the degree of Ph. D. from the University of Guttin-
gen; the latter was bishop of Wilmington, Del., from 1870 to 1886, when he
was transferred to the See of Savannah, Ga. , where he now lives. The for-
mer died in California in 1884); Joseph D. enlisted in Company F, Fifty-
seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, in 1861, and served in all the engagements
with the regiment until taken prisoner at the battle of Gettysburg, was con-
fined in Libby, Belle Isle and Andersonville prisons, and died in the last men-
tioned in 1864 — the family could not get the body; Lizzie married Sam-
uel Barnes, and J. R. W. The last named was educated in the common
schools until eighteen, when he entered Westminster College, New W'ilmington,
Lawrence Co., Penn., where he was graduated in 1871. He then taught in
the Dayton Academy, Armstrong County, one year. In 1872 he began read-
ing law with White & Jackson; was admitted to the bar in 1873, and practiced
until 1877, when he was appointed deputy sheriff, which position he held until
the spring of 1888. He is now giving his attention to law. He was married
September 12, 1876, to Anna Pardoe, by whom he has two children: Hunter
P. and Ruth. He is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Second
United Presbyterian Church.
W. B. Bard, jeweler, was born in Butler County to John and Isabella
(Cross) Bard, natives, the former of Huntington, and the latter of Butler
County. The father was a merchant, and ran probably the first engine that
was brought into Mercer County. He died in 1878, in Centreville, Butler
County, and his wife died many years before. They had seven children: J.
E. & H. E., merchants at Centreville; Margaret, Zelmira, Mrs. S. F. Thompson,
whose husband is an attorney at Mercer, and W. B. The others are deceased.
The father was a Democrat, and was elected prothonotary of Butler County.
He was nominated for Congress in his district. He was an elector on the Greeley
ticket for President, a delegate to the conventions that nominated Seymour
and Tilden for President, was chairman of the Democratic County Central
Committee of Butler County, and held his share of the minor offices where
pay was not considered. He was president at the time of his death of a
savings bank at Centreville, Butler County, and interested with F. H. Oliphant
in the manufacture of lime in Butler County, which business his son, W. B. ,
now conducts. He worshiped at the Episcopal Church. W. B. Bard opened
up his book business in 1878, by purchasing the stock of goods of A. B.
Filson. In January, 1882, he added the jewelry business, and employs two
experienced workmen. Mr. Bard is the owner of a farm in Butler County, on
which is a good gas well and a large vein of limestone. He has a kiln, and
made the first successful attempt to burn lime by the use of natural gas. He
is engaged largely in the manufacture of this necessary article under the
firm name of Bard, Alexander & Co. He is a stockholder in the L. M.
Ormsby Coal Company, limited, and is a director and manager of a railroad
at Stoneboro. At one time Mr. Bard was a partner in the publication of the
Western Press. He is a stockholder of the First National Bank of Mercer,
is chairman of the Democratic Central Committee, and has often served as a
delegate to State and county conventions.
D. L. Barton, of the Mercer Dispatch and Republican, was born October
13, 1841, in West Carlisle, Coshocton County, Ohio, son of Henry and Char-
lotte (Harris) Barton. D. L. Barton was educated in the common schools of
his native county. He began newspaper work in Coshocton, Ohio, some time
prior to the breaking out of the rebellion. He subsequently worked at Cairo,
37
654
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
111., Cleveland, Ohio, and for the last fifteen years he has been connected
with the Mercer Dispatch, now Dispatch and Republican. He enlisted
August 4, 1861, as sergeant of Company H, Fifty-first Ohio Volunteer In-
fantry, and served until October 17, 1864, with the Army of the Cumberland,
participating in all of its battles. He was married at Carbondale, 111., No-
vember 14, 1867, to Mary E. Dunham, daughter of L. T. and Mary Dunham.
He is a member of the G. A. K., A. O. U. W. and E. A. U. , is a stanch Repub-
lican, and at the present time is chairman of the Republican County Com-
mittee.
John W. Bell, attorney, was born in Liberty Township, this county, April
18, 1848. His father, William Bell, was born in Mercer County, and his grand-
father died in Liberty Township, and was the father of Margaret, William,
Joseph C. , Elizabeth, and Rev. J. R. Catharine Breckenridge, the mother of
John W. Bell, is a distant relative of the Breckenridge family of Kentucky,
and was one of nine children: W. W., Jane, Rebecca, James, Catharine,
Sarah A., Louisa, Mary and Joseph C. William and Catharine Bell are
living in York, York Co., Neb. Their children are: Mary, married C.
M. Cunningham, of Grove City; John W., Harriet, married A. P. Ramsay;
Elizabeth, married A. M. Craig; Robert O., James M. , editor of a paper in
York, Neb. ; Frances, William, Edwin, clerk in a national bank in York, Neb.
John W. Bell was educated in the common schools, select school at Grove
City and Edinboro Normal. He began reading law in 1873, with Hon. James
A. Stranahan, and recited to S. S. Mehard; was admitted to the bar in May,
1874, and after a short period with Mr. Stranahan, he went into practice for
himself. He was married January 17, 1871, to Hester J. Davitt, by whom he
has two children, Nellie D. and Frank B. He and wife are members of the
First Presbyterian Church, and he is a Republican.
John A. Bingham was born in a two-story brick house in Mercer, adjoining
the jail on the south side of the public square, in December, 1815, son of Hugh
Bingham, a former resident of Adams County, who came to Mercer County in
the early part of the century. He was a carpenter, and with his brother,
Thomas Bingham, built the old Whistler House, which stood on the site of the
present post-oflice and First National Bank building. Hugh held several pub-
lic trusts, notably those of prothonotary and commissioner. He was regarded
an industrious and worthy gentleman. John’s early education was obtained
in the Mercer Academy, his instructors being John Kelly and D. B. Cook.
The latter was familiarly known as “Old Doby,” and believed in the rote
method of instruction. The text had to be memorized verbatim, and a failure to
recite the exact language of the text was considered an unpardonable offense.
J ohn did not look at matters in the same light, and on one occasion was mortified
to have a younger pupil called upon to recite the declension of a Latin noun,
the forms of which had eluded his retentive grasp. When reminded that he
ought to be ashamed to allow an urchin to surpass him, he suggested that the
boy could give the language but did not comprehend it. He was good in
declamation. He had mastered the great speeches of Webster, Clay and Cal-
houn, as well as the leading orations of the ancient orators, and rendered them
with telling effect. He was an active spirit in a town debating society which
embraced such young men as William Stewart, William S. Garvin, John J.
Pearson, Joseph T. Smith and James Galloway, all of whom arose to distinc-
tion in legal, political or ecclesiastical circles. In this debating club he laid
the foundation for the power which he subsequently exhibited as a public
speaker. John had also spent considerable time and exercised a similar amount
of patience in learning the art of printing. He began in the Mercer Luminary,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
655
a strong anti- Masonic sheet. During the two years thus employed he became
an anti -Mason, and in him were developed those principles which subsequently
made him an Abolitionist, a Whig and a radical Republican, a striking illus-
tration of the influence of cardinal principles upon human life. Disliking the
printing business, young Bingham concluded to enter the legal profession.
Seeking the advice of John J. Pearson, then a prominent member of the Mer-
cer bar, he was told that he would act wisely to increase his educational outfit.
Acting upon the advice, he entered Franklin College, at New Athens, Ohio,
about 1836, and spent several sessions. Returning to Mercer with his
additional equipment, he entered the law office of Pearson & Stewart, and
applying himself diligently to study of the law, was admitted to the bar in
1840. He was an active speaker in the ensuing political campaign, espousing
thoroughly the cause of “Tippecanoe and Tyler too.” Soon afterward he
removed to Harrison County, Ohio, where he became a prominent man. He
represented his district in Congress many times, and for eleven years repre-
sented the United States at the court of Japan. He was employed as counsel
in the impeachment of Andrew Johnson, President of the United States, and
likewise in the prosecution of the conspirators in the assassination of President
Lincoln. Mr. Bingham is still a resident of Cadiz, Ohio.
C. H. Block, proprietor of a novelty and notion store, was born in Green-
ville, Penn. His father was a native of Germany, and immigrated to America
in 1853. He settled in Warren, Ohio, where he was employed as a clerk in a
clothing house for three years. In 1856 he engaged in the clothing business
at Greenville, and did the leading business in that line in the place for a
period of twenty years. In 1871 he started a store in Mercer, which is now
the property of Frankel & Wright. He was also engaged in the same at
Sheakleyville. At the present time he is a butcher at Greenville. He was
married toOrrilla Stephenson, by whom he has two children: C. H. and Julia,
who married D. P. Packard, an attorney of Greenville. The parents are mem-
bers of the Episcopal Church. C. H. Block graduated in the union schools of
Greenville, and. took the junior year at Thiel College. He had early training
in his father’s stores, and the hrst business he did for himself was at Pitts-
burgh, where he conducted a queensware store. He traveled for the queens-
ware and glassware store of J ames C. Lewis & Sons, of Pittsburgh, for four
years. He also traveled for E. M. McGillin & Co., of Cleveland, Ohio, gen-
eral dry goods merchants. In 1885 he opened a notion and novelty store at
Mercer. He began with $300, and by strict attention to business he has es-
tablished himself thoroughly among the people of Mercer and ihe surround-
ing country as a square man to deal with, who belives in ‘ ‘ live and let live. ’ ’
He carries a stock of over $4,000, of which he is the owner. He was mar-
ried in November, 1884, to Miss Ella M. Dickey, of Pittsburgh, by whom he
has two children: Claire and an infant. He is a member of Argeronia Lodge
No. 289, I. O. O. F., of Pittsburgh. In politics he is a Republican.
H B. Bowser, attorney, was born November 16, 1854, in Clarion County,
Penn., son of William and Nancy E. (Brandon) Bowser. The father was a
native of Armstrong County, Penn. , and became an early resident of Clarion
County. He was educated at Princeton, N. J., and Jefferson Medical College,
and practiced medicine for many years. His children were six: Emma, mar-
ried Samuel Shield, and resides in Iowa; Anna married G. M. Clugh, and lives
in Iowa; Mary is a maiden lady; H. B. , Ella, deceased wife of D. A. Moore,
of Dunlap, Iowa, and Alice, a maiden lady. Mrs. Bowser was born in Pine
Township, and the mothers of Q. A. Gordon, A. H. McElrath and W. B. Rose,
deputy prothonotary, are her sisters. William Bowser was a strong Abolition-
656
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
ist, one of the first advocates of Republicanism in Clarion County, and was for
many years an elder in the Lutheran Church. Our subject was educated in
the common schools and academy at Callensburgh, Clarion County, also West-
minster College, New Wilmington, Lawrence County. He began reading law
with Griffith & Mason in 1875, was admitted to the bar in 1876, and soon
afterward formed a partnership with H. H. Zeigler, and two years later the
firm changed to Mason, Zeigler & Bowser, and in 1884 he formed his present
partnership with James A. Stranahan. He was married in January, 1882, to
Mary Mason, daughter of Hon. S. R. Mason, and has two children: Janet and
Helen. Mr. Bowser was elected burgess of Mercer in 1886. He has been a
member of the borough council, and chairman of the Republican county com-
mittee, also the State committee.
Autsin S. Buewell was born February 3, 1814, in Connecticut, and came
to this county in 1848. He at once engaged in a general store. His place of
business was in the block where C. H. Block is now located. He was one of
the leading merchants of Mercer for over twenty-five years, and was succeeded
by his sons, A. P. and A. S. He was engaged extensively in the wool busi-
ness for many years. He removed to Seattle, Wash. Ter., in 1885, where he
retired from active business. He married Susan M. Peck, of Connecticut, by
whom he had the following children; Ellen S., A. P. and Anson S., who are
engaged in the general hardware business in Seattle; Charles S., Harvey, who
died small; Edward B., also with his brothers in Seattle; Ida M. and Minnie
A. The mother of the above children died in 1888. The subject of this
memoir was burgess of Mercer, and joined the Republican party at the time of
its organization. While here he was one of the most active and enterprising
citizens of the place, always lending his aid to everything that had a tend-
ency to elevate society and build up the town or surrounding country. He
was one of the organizers of the Mercer Woolen Mills, was for fourteen years
a director of the First National Bank of Mercer, and obtained his start in the
world by selling clocks over the country for four years. Charles S. , another
son, was born April 2, 1853, and was educated in the Mercer schools and at
Oberlin College for three years, in which institution all of his brothers and
sisters, except Minnie, graduated. After completing his collegiate course,
Charles S. was employed as a clerk in the First National Bank of Mercer for
seven years. He was teller for the following three years in the same bank,
and in 1883 was promoted to the position of cashier. This important position
he held until the spring of 1888, when he took a place in the City National
Bank at Denver, Col. He was an elder of the Second Presbyterian Church
at the time of leaving Mercer.
J. H. Chandlee, recorder of Mercer County, was born April 28, 1848, in
New Castle, Penn. He is a son of Henry B. , born December 5, 1810, in
Plympton, Mass., and Harriet ShurtlefP, born in Middleboro, Mass., January
20, 1812. The parents were married in their native country, and after three of
their children, Harriet M. , Emma J. , and Martha M. , were born, they, in 1845,
came to New Castle, where the father followed coopering, which avocation he
pursued for fifty-two years. In 1857 the family moved to Youngstown, Ohio,
in 1860 to Niles, the same State, and in 1862 to Sharon, where the father died
November 11, 1878, and his wife July 6, 1868. To them were born three
children while at New Castle, viz.: J. H., D. W., a minister of the Metho-
dist Episcopal Church, and Kate L. The latter died in 1868, and Harriet M.
died in 1858. Of the older children, Martha married T. M. Sweeney, man-
ager of Kimberley’s mills at New Castle, and Emma J. is a teacher in the
Soldiers’ Orphan School of Mercer. Henry B. Chandler was a member of
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
G57
the Christian Church and his wife of the Presbyterian organization. Our
subject attended school at New Castle and Sharon in Pennsylvania, and at
Youngstown and Niles in Ohio. He learned the cooper’s trade with his father,
and they made all the kegs and barrels that were manufactured in Sharon for
a period of twenty-five years. He was married in 1870 to Flora B. William-
son, daughter of T. W. Williamson, late associate judge of Lawrence County.
By her he has two children, Henry B. and Stanley W. Mr. Chandler was
burgess of Sharon in 1882, 1883 and 1884, and was elected recorder of the
county in 1887. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. , and his wife is a Pres-
byterian. He is a Republican.
His brother, D. W., was educated at the Michigan Law University at Ann
Arbor. He studied theology there, and began preaching at Deerfield, Portage
Co., Ohio, and subsequently was in charge of a congregation at Windham,
the same county. He was then sent to China as a missionary for eight years.
He finally came home on account of declining health, and in about two years
he began his ministerial labors at Kinsman, Ohio, where he continiied for three
years, and then located at Niles, where he is in charge of a church. He was
married to Mary E. Stanley, of Ann Arbor.
Charles Clawson, butcher, was born December 24, 1844, in this county.
His parents, W. H. and Melinda (Humasonj Clawson, are mentioned in the
notice of his brother, W. H. Clawson, of Sandy Lake. Charles was educated
in the common schools of Mercer County, and when only sixteen years old
he succeeded in getting into the army in the defense of his country. His
enlistment was in Company G, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
with which he remained nearly four years, and was mustered out as an
orderly sergeant. He participated in the battles of Port Royal, S. C., James’
Island, Second Bull Run, Chantilly, South Mountain, siege of Vicksburg,
Jackson, Miss., Blue Springs, Term., Candle Station, Tenn., siege of Knox-
ville, White Ford, Tenn., Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna River, Be-
thesda Church, Va. , Cold Harbor, Poplar Grove Church and Fort Steadman.
At Cold Harbor he was wounded in the foot by a minie-ball, which he has in
his possession. He was also wounded by a minie-ball in the left shoulder at
the battle of South Mountain, September 14, 1862. On his return from the
war he engaged in farming for three years, and then for the next four years he
was in the oil business. Follownng that he was engaged for four years in a gro-
cery in Mercer, having for a partner his brother, A. M. Clawson. In 1879 he
started his present meat market, and has done the leading business in that line
ever since. He was married November 22, 1871, to Melinda Truesdell, a
daughter of Joel and Jerusha Truesdell, of Trumbull County, Ohio. By her
he has three living children: Kate, Mary and Anna. He belongs to the G.
A. R., is a Republican, and he a/nd wife are members of the Second Presbyte-
rian Church.
T. A. Courtney, manager of the Mercer Woodenware Works, was born
June 9, 1848. His father, Thomas Courtney, is noted in another part of this
volume. T. A. Courtney was educated in the common schools, the Mercer
graded schools, and went to the Edinboro Normal, Erie County, for three
terms. He taught, in all, twenty-three months in this and Venango Counties,
and in Fulton County, 111. In 1873 he opened a mercantile store at Balm,
Springfield Township, in company with J. A. Painter. Two years later he
sold out to Mr. Painter, and in 1875 was elected county auditor, and served
two terms. He then resided on his farm until 1887, when he was employed as
manager of the Mercer Woodenware Works, which position he now occupies.
He was married in 1876 to Miss Laura M. Ketler, sister of Rev. I. C. Ketler,
658
HISTOllY Oi’ MEKOEE COUNTY.
president of the Grove City College. By her he has two living children,
Nellie and May. He is a member of the Boyal Arcanum, is a Republican, and
owns a farm in Wilmington Township of 126 acres. His wife is a member of
the Second Presbyterian Church, having been prior to their removal to Mer-
cer a member of the Neshannock congregation.
Hugh Donaldson Ceawfoed, one of the oldest sons in a family of four-
teen children, was born of Scotch- Irish parentage, in Allegheny County, Penn.,
November 27, 1807. Grown to manhood before the free school system of
Pennsylvania was adopted in 1834, he enjoyed but three months’ schooling
in his life. He married Matilda Reed, a most worthy helpmate, March 28,
1832, with whom he manfxdly met the trials of life more than forty-two years,
until her death at Mercer May 4, 1874. Of their eight children one son.
Rev. L. I. Crawford, of Sandy Lake; Miss M. M. Crawford, of Mercer; Mrs.
S. J. Reed, of Springfield Township, and Mrs. E. A. Amberson still survive.
Having purchased a 200 acre farm in Springfield Township, now owned and
occupied by his son-in-law, Thomas Reed, the family removed from Allegheny
County to this farm in March, 1835, where Mr. Crawford resided till the spring
of 1866, when he located in Mercer, where he still lives. Nearly all his first
neighbors in Springfield Township are dead. Shortly after coming to Mercer
County he, with his wife, joined the Associated Reformed, now Second United
Presbyterian Church, of Mercer, of which he was chosen a ruling elder in 1855.
The duties of this office he faithfully fulfilled till the infirmities of age have
retired him from active service. Distinguished for his life-long integrity, in-
dustry and temperance, generosity to the poor and sympathy with the unfor-
tunate, a cheerful, hopeful disposition has made him everybody’s friend, and
retained for him the confidence of a large circle of friends and neighbors. At
the age of eighty-one years this pioneer hopefully waits the reunion of wife
and children and Christian friends gone before to the better country.
S. S. Davidson, physician and surgeon, was born November 23, 1858, in
Lawrence County, Penn. His father, W. M. Davidson, was a native of Law-
rence County, and married Matilda Mehard, a native of Ireland, who immigrated
to Lawrence County at an early period of her life. Her union with W. M. Dav-
idson gave her six children: Alice married Philo Cunningham, a son of Judge
Cunningham, once of Lawrence County; Christie married W. H. Witherspoon,
of Lawrence County; Robert, a resident of Canton, Ohio; James and Joseph,
of Lawrence County, and S. S. Dr. Davidson received his literary education
in the Mercer high schools and Western University of Pennsylvania at Pitts-
burgh. He began the study of medicine in 1879 with Drs. J. W. and S. S.
Mehard, father and brother of Judge S. S. Mehard. He attended Jefferson
Medical College, where he was graduated in 1882. In August of that year
he went to Europe and made a study of general medicine and surgery, includ-
ing the eye and ear, with the leading physicians and surgeons of London,
Berlin and Vienna, for a period of two years. He then returned to America,
and soon after began practicing at Mercer, where he is rapidly establishing him-
self as a first-class physician and surgeon.
Jonathan Dean, ex-recorder of Mercer County, was born July 24, 1844,
in Fairview Township, this county. His father, Aaron Dean, was a native of
Butler County, Penn., and came to Mercer County while single. He married
Ellen Dean, a native of Butler County, and who died in 1845, leaving four
children: Enoch, Leah J. , married Peter Clemens; John, enlisted in a com-
pany from Missouri, was confined in Andersonville and Libby prisons, and
after having been exchanged and discharged, he re-enlisted and was killed
at the battle of Franklin, Tenn., and Jonathan, the youngest, was reared
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
659
principally by bis aunt, Leah (Dean) Wentz. He began for himself on a
farm. At the age of seventeen he succeeded in enlisting in Company F,
Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, early in 1861, and served about
three years. He was with the Army of the Potomac. At the time of the
battle of Gettysburg he was confined in a hospital. On his return from the
war he resumed farming, and in 1884 he was elected recorder of Mercer
County by the Republicans. He was married in 1864 to Susie Rea, of Fair-
view Township, and daughter of Robert Rea. She was a native of Clarion
County, and came here when two years old. By her he has five children: H.
G. , Alice S., the wife of A. H. Chew; Mary E. L., Jennie R. and Christa-
lena. He is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, in the Sabbath- school of which he is a teacher. His son,
Hollis G. , attended an academy at Sheakley ville for two years, and McElwain
Institirte at New Lebanon. He was his father’s deputy recorder for two
years. He, in partnership with S. K. Cochran, purchased, in 1887, a stock of
furniture, and continued to conduct the business under the firm name of
Cochran & Dean iintil December, 1887, when Mr. Dean became sole pro-
prietor. This is one of the oldest institutions of the kind in Mercer County,
having been established about the year 1827, by Samuel Giebner, who fol-
lowed the business continually until 1883. Hollis G. Dean was married on
January 11, 1888, to Miss Fannie McKean, a daughter of Archie J. McKean.
He is an enterprising young business man.
Charles M. Deeickson, merchant, was born in Meadville, Penn. , a son of
David V. and Mary (McDonald) Derickson, who were also born in Crawford
County, where his father survives. Charles was educated in the public
schools of Meadville. In August, 1882, at the age of eighteen, he en-
listed ih. Company K, One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
which company was commanded by his father. He served till the end of the
war, and on his return from the army in 1866, was appointed assistant inter-
nal revenue assessor. In 1867 he was appointed mail route agent on the
Atlantic & Great Western Railway, between Salamanca, N. Y., and Akron,
Ohio. In 1870 he was appointed assistant postmaster at Meadville, in which
capacity he served till 1878, when he removed to Pardoe, this county, to
engage in the mercantile business. He was appointed postmaster at Pardoe
the same year, and in 1876 formed a partnership with W. D. Keck, of Mer-
cer, in the general dry goods business, which is still continued. In the same
year, 1876, he was married to Kate S. Carter, of Mercer, who, as well as him-
self, is a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer. He is a
Republican in politics, and has served in the postal service continuously for
twenty- one years.
J. N. Donaldson, merchant, was born December 8, 1830, in Mercer
County, to William and Jane (Linn) Donaldson, natives of this county. The
father was born in 1804 to James and Elizabeth Donaldson, of Scotch-Irish
extraction, and the parents of the following children: Smith, Perry, Samuel,
Phoebe, Sarah, Elizabeth and Callie. Phoebe married William Woods and
died in this county; Sarah married William Thompson and lives in Clarks-
ville; Elizabeth married John Fidler and he is dead; Callie married a Mr.
Bixby. J ames Donaldson held during his life advanced grounds on every
subject of reform, especially on temperance, slavery, politics and tobacco.
He and his wife were active members of the Presbyterian Church. The Linn
family is mentioned in another part of this work. William Donaldson was
educated in the log cabin schools, and began for himself on a farm with a
yoke of oxen and a few farm implements. He and his wife died in 1852, she
660
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
in the evening and he in the morning of the next day. Their children were
J. N. , Susan, married Andrew Thompson, who died in 1865; Wilson, died
while confined in Andersonville prison, as a prisoner from the Union ranks;
and Elizabeth, married Thomas Limber and she is dead. The parents of our
subject were consistent members of the Presbyterian Church. J. N. Donaldson
was educated in the common schools and the old Mercer Academy. He began
teaching when eighteen years of age at |12 per month and the patrons to
board him. He followed this for five terms. The death of his father changed
materially his plans of going to college. He therefore engaged in farming,
which he continued until 1859, when he was employed as a clerk in the store
of G. W. Mustard for over one year, and was then engaged by Bnrwell &
Thompson, general merchants at Mercer, later A. P. Bnrwell & Bro.,
with whom he remained until 1885, when he was retained by F. P. James &
Co., the successors of A. P. Bnrwell & Bro., and when D. V. Stranahan
bought this enterprise he remained with him until in 1887, when the stock
of goods was burned. He soon after formed a partnership with R. J. Zah-
niser in the general dry-goods business, which he continues, and enjoys a
large patronage of the people whose confidence he obtained while laboring
for the success of his various employers. The firm of Donaldson, Zahniser
& Co. is located in the new Miller & Gordon Block with a large stock of goods.
Mr. Donaldson was married in 1869 to Amanda Fleming, a daughter of Jos-
eph and Elizabeth (Kerr) Fleming, natives of what is now Westmoreland
County, Penn. Mrs. Donaldson was one of twelve children; Aaron, Alexan-
der, Susan, Amanda, Joseph, Harvey, Elizabeth, Phoebe, Hampton, Frank
and two who died young. Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson have no children and are
active members of the Second Presbyterian Church of Mercer,' and he is a Re-
publican.
John M. Douds, physician and surgeon, was born in Beaver County, Penn.,
December 17, 1847, to E. H. and Catharine M. (Fronk) Douds, natives of
the same county, where they still reside. They are the parents of seven chil-
dren: Rebecca M. (deceased wife of Amos Keeler, of Salem, Ohio), John M.,
Mary (married William Holmes of Beaver County), Elizabeth (married James
Irons, of Beaver County), George F. (married Nannie Werghant), Minnie M.
(deceased), and Aggie (single, at home). Dr. JohnM. Douds was educated in the
common schools of New Sheffield, Beaver County, Edinboro Normal, Erie
County, and finished at Mount Union, Ohio. He taught school ten years in
Beaver County. He read medicine with J. S. Boyd, of New Sheffield, now of
New Brighton, and attended the Homoeopathic Medical College of Cleveland,
Ohio, for three years, graduating at the same in 1881. He begahhis practice at
Mercer that year, and has built up a lucrative business. He was married June
26, 1879, to Sarah E. Jackson, daughter of Thomas Jackson, of Beaver County.
By her he has two children: Thomas C. and Edward H. He is a Republican,
and he and wife are members of the First Presbyterian Church.
The Douds Family; John and Mary Douds had the following children:
Agnes, Robert, James H. , John, Benoni, Eliza, Mary, William W., Edward
H. , Margaret and Mahlon; Agnes married M. T. Stokes, by whom she had
Elizabeth, JohnD., Mary A., William H. , Joseph R. , James H., Mahlon S.
and Agnes A. ; Robert died when small; James H. was born in 1805, married
Margaret Caldwell and had Samuel C., John, Eliza, James H. , Mary and
Edward H. J. ; John married Mary McDonald and had Eliza, Mary H.,
Martha, Oliver C. , John, William, Elvy H. and Margaret D. ; Benoni D. mar-
ried Mary Irons and had James J. , Rachel, John, MaryH. , John (2), Robert
and Agnes; Eliza married James Moore and had John D., Eliza, MaryH.,
HISTORY OF BIERCER COUNTY.
661
Margaret, Jaue, Joseph and Calvin; Mary married Reason Gamel; William
married Rebecca Wyant and had Elizabeth, MaryH. , Barbara, John, Henry
William, Lehmer, Rebecca, Jane, Margaret and Maria; Edward married
Maria C. Fronk and had Rebecca, John M. , Mary H. , Elizabeth, George,
Minnie and Agnes; Margai'et married Joseph Irons and had John D., Rachel,
Dickson, Mary H. , William D. , Joseph and Mary A. ; Mahlon married Rebecca
Brotherton and had Sarah, Elizabeth, Mary H. , David, Brotherton, Margaret
and Jane. Mahlon T. and Agnes H. Stokes had Eliza, born in 1814, married
William Lehmer and had Alice, Mary H. , George, Emma, Laura, Jane and
Josephs.; John D. married Eliza B. Irvine and had James, Mahlon, Mary,
Elizabeth, Emma T. and Harriet A. ; Mary A. married Rev. W. Y. Brown and
had William; William H. , born in 1827, married Sarah J. Spear and had
Lizzie and Alfred; Joseph was born in 1830; James H. , born in 1831, married
Anna McDowell; Mahlon T., born in 1834 and married Hattie A. Criswell;
Agnes was born in 1837. Children of James H. and Margaret Douds: Samuel
C , married Caroline A. Moore and had Edward H. ; James H. , was married
twice, the second wife being Rachel C. Bryan, by whom he had Clara B. ;
John M. , married Elizabeth Lebring and had Margaret and Jane; Eliza,
married S. Moore and had Margaret. Children of Benoni D. and Mary Douds;
Mary, married James Orr and had no children.
J. G. Elliott, attorney, was born March 11, 1838, to B. F. and Mary
(George) Elliott of Worth Township, Butler Co., Penn. He was educated
in the common schools and at Jefferson College, Cannonsburg, where he was
graduated in 1859. He taught school from then until 1863, when he began
the study of law with Hon. John McMichael at New Castle. He was ad-
mitted to the bar of Lawrence County May 15, 1805, and began practice at
Petroleum Center, V'enango Co., Penn. He was in partnership with W.
W. Marshall, and in one year the firm opened an office at Franklin, where
Mr. Elliott prosecuted his profession until 1869, when he had an offer to
form a partnership with Hon. David Craig at New Castle, Penn., with whom
he practiced one year, and then located in Sharon, December 6, 1870. Iffiere
he remained until 1878, when he came to Mercer and has continued in the
work of his profession since. He was married July 7, 1870, to Eva Pearson,
daughter of Johnson Pearson, by whom he has four children: George P.,
Charles T.. Agnes M. and Prank P. Mr. Elliott is a member of the F. & A.
M. , is a Republican, and with his wife belongs to the Second Presbyterian
Church.
Hon. John Findley. — One of the prominent early settlers of Mercer
County, whose impress has been left upon its institutions, was he whose name
stands at the head of this sketch. We take great pleasure in appending an
editorial sketch of this pioneer published in the Mercer Whig of December 20,
1855: “We mourn while we chronicle the decease of Hon. John Findley. He
died at his residence in Findley Township in this county on Sunday, the 9th
inst. , at the advanced age of eighty-two years, leaving behind him a large
circle of relatives and friends to lament their irreparable loss. Mr. Findley
was a son of Hon. William Findley, of Westmoreland County, who had been
so long a member of Congress from this State that in 1815 he was called the
“ Father of the House,” and who was subsequently elected and served one
term as governor of Pennsylvania. The subject of our notice was one of the
first settlers of this county, having removed to the farm upon which he
lived and is now buried in the year 1796, and during his long life felt and
manifested a deep interest in the improvement and in the developing of the
resources of the county. At that time our county was an almost unbroken
662
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
wilderness, with only here and there, at the distance of several miles, small
clearings commenced and rough log cabins erected by the daring and hardy
pioneers, a wilderness through which the wild beasts and the remnants of
those tribes of Indians who, a few years before, had made the country sur-
rounding Pittsburgh their battle-ground, prowled and roamed, and satiated
their brutal instincts and the revenge of their savage minds; and even the
place where Mercer was located and now stands was covered with the forest.
But he has lived to behold vast changes in our country; he has seen the wil-
derness ‘ ‘ to blossom as the rose, ’ ’ the dense forests have been felled and their
places occupied by highly cultivated farms, the farm-houses and the mansions
of our citizens have taken the place of the rough log huts of the first settlers,
and the county, which then had only a few scattered inhabitants, is now among
the most populous and wealthy in Northwestern Pennsylvania, and he has at
length, in ripe old age, been “gathered to his fathers.” Judge Findley was
appointed in 1803 by Gov. McKean prothonotary and clerk of the several
courts, and register and recorder of Mercer County, the first appointment
made in the county, the duties of which offices he discharged until 1808. He
again discharged the duties of the same offices, under appointment from Gov.
Heister, from 1821 to 1824. He served for one term as one of the asso-
ciate judges of this county, by appointment from Gov. Porter. He also,
at different times, held the offices of deputy surveyor general and county sur-
veyor for this county, of deputy United States marshal, appraiser of canal dam-
ages, etc. The unflinching integrity with which he discharged his official du-
ties were in accordance with the correct principles and virtues of his private
life. His services as surveyor and his iron recollection have been of incalcula-
ble value to our citizens in settling disputes in regard to land boundaries,
which can never be replaced. Mr. Findley was during nearly his whole life
a professor of Christianity, being a member of the Associate Keformed Church
— the church of his fathers — and in the faith of Christ he lived and in that
faith he died.” John Findley was married to Elizabeth Amberson, daughter
of William Amberson. His children were: William, who became a minister
and died at New Castle a few years ago; David, whcr lived and died in Taren-
tum; John Junkin, died at Waynesboro, Franklin County, during the war.
Besides, there were two daughters who died in infancy.
Judge David Findley. — In 1796 or 1797 David Findley removed from
Westmoreland County to Cool Spring Township, Mercer County, wherfi he mar-
ried Miss Nancy Kambo. He removed subsequently to Mercer. He was a
soldier in the War of 1812, and died at Fort Adams, Miss. His children were:
Mary, never married; Nancy, married to Judge David T. Porter; John, went
to California in 1849, but returned to Mercer, where he died; William, learned
the hatter’s trade with Michael Yeager, leaving home suddenly, never returned;
David W., known as Judge Findley, was born in Mercer, January 3, 1810,
and died at his home, same place, December 30, 1887, nearly seventy-eight
years old. He was engaged for many years in merchandising, was prothono-
tary and clerk twice, and held the position of associate judge one term. He
was also justice of the peace for a number of years, and finally, by common
consent, was admitted to the Mercer County bar. He practiced law until his
impaired physical condition compelled him to cease. He was a useful public
man, thoroughly alive to questions that concerned the welfare of the people.
For more than fifty years he was an exemplary member of the Presbyterian
Church. During his earlier years he was a Whig, and then a Republican,
but the closing years of his life were identified with the Democratic party.
His name is held in great veneration in the community where his widow and
children still reside.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
663
R. T. Findley, ex-county commissioner, was born February 3, 1829, in
Sandy Creek Township, on the farm which he now owns. His father, Robert
Findley, was born in Ireland, and emigrated, with his father, two brothers
and two sisters, to America, and settled in Crawford County, Penn. Robert
subsequently located in what is now French Creek Township, this county,
and served in the War of 1812. He married Ann McCracken, and died in
1849, leaving four children : John, a resident of Perry Townshqi; R. T., Mary,
married James Brush and lives in Sheakleyville, and James, who died in the
Civil War. The father was a Whig at the time of his death, also a member
of the United Presbyterian Church. Our subject attended the common schools
until he was sixteen years old. He afterward engaged in the stock business,
w'hich he never abandoned. He was the owner at an early day of a saw mill,
with water power, manufactured lumber and shipped it down the streams to
Pittsburgh, whore he sold it. He engaged in the mercantile business in Sheak-
leyville in 1874, and after several years of successful operation, he sold out and
took an interest in the planing mill of Thorn, Byers & Co., at Mercer. He was
elected county commissioner in 1884 by the Democratic party and seTved with
entire satisfaction to all. He was married in 1851 to Maria daughter of
James and Maria (Thompson) Dunn, early settlers of the county. By this
union he has three children: Emma, Mrs. Herringer, of Chicago; Frank W.
and Hattie M. , the wife of A. M. Imbrie, an attorney of Pittsburgh. Mrs.
Findley died in 1861, a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
He was again married in 1862 to Almira Byers, daughter of James and Eliza-
beth (Piper) Byers. James Byers was a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Ram-
sey) Byers. Samuel Byers was born in 1762, in Maryland, and was the father
of the following children: Agnes, Andrew, William, Samuel, John, Daniel,
James, Ebenezer, Betsey. Samuel Byers settled in Mercer County in 1796 (now
Lawrence County) and died in 1836, and his widow died in 1847. James
Byers was born in 1800 on the old homestead near Pulaski, Lawrence County.
At the age of twenty-eight he settled in Lake Township, and eight years
later he located in Pulaski, where for ten years he kept hotel. He then pur-
chased a farm in Venango County, where he lived for twenty-one years, and
then purchased what w’as known as the “ Half-way House,” in Fairview Town-
ship, and kept hotel for a number of years. He was married December 22,
1825, to Elizabeth Piper, by whom he had fourteen children, ten of whom
grew up: Mahala, John, Zela, Rosetta, Almira, William R., James W.,
Meldo, Frances E. and Belle. He resides in Fairview Township and with his
wife belongs to the Presbyterian Church of Fredonia. Mr. Findley is an
officer of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society, is a Democrat, and one of the
enterprising citizens of Mercer County.
A. B. Filson, lumber dealer, was born February 28, 1841, in Frederick
County, Md. His parents, William and Susan (Favorite) Filson, were natives
of the same State, and came to this county in 1848, the trip being made by
wagon. The father was appointed court crier in 1856, and continued until
1883. His wife died in 1863, the mother of eight children: Sarah, A. B., F.
A., Clara, Laura, W. S., Margaret and John R., who died young. The
father was again married to Elizabeth Madden, by whom he has one child,
Onie. The father lives in Cool Spring Township, and belongs to the Meth-
odist Church. A. B. Filson was educated by his father and in the common
schools of Cool Spring Township. He also attended the Mercer High Schools
when they were taught by Congressman A. J. Warner, of Ohio. He enlisted
in the Mercer Rifle Company, known as Company G, Tenth Pennsylvania Vol-
unteers. He served until February, 1863, when he was taken with pneu-
664
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
monia, and after a period of treatment at the Odd Fellows’ Hall in Wash-
ington City he was discharged and returned home. In July of that year he
went out Avith the militia to check Morgan on his raid through Ohio. He was
first lieutenant of Company F, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia. He
re-enlisted in Capt. Tanner’s Company. He was in the Seven Hays’ Fight,
and the second battle of Bull Bun and Antietam. He was married to Emma
J., daughter of Alexander Flowers, of Pittsburgh. By this union he has two
children; Anna E. and William A. He was elected county auditor in 1869;
was appointed postmaster of Mercer in 1876 by Hayes and re-appointed by
Arthur, and by holding a short time under Cleveland he thus served under
four Presidents — Hayes, Garfield, Arthur and Cleveland. Since leaving the
post-office he has been devoting his time principally to political work. He is
a member of the G. A. R., and at present the post commander of Mercer Post,
169, also F. & A. M. ; is a Republican, and he and wife belong to the Second
United Presbyterian Church. David Filson, the grandfather of our subject,
was for some time engaged in running a transportation wagon from Baltimore
to Erie City. He enlisted at Erie and served in the War of 1812. He came
to Mercer County to live in 1861, and died in 1863. In 1888 our subject, in
partnership with M. C. Zahniser, engaged in the general purchase and sale of
lumber.
Herman Feankel, clothing merchant, was born in Germany July 22, 1844,
and immigrated to America in Alarch, 1868. He came to Greenville and was
employed in the clothing house of Nathan Block. In 1871 he opened up a
clothing house in Mercer under his own name, and in 1874 he took in R. R.
Wright, which partnership still exists. He was married in 1882 to Miss Mary
Zahniser, daughter of Rev. George W. Zahniser. He is interested in the L.
M. Ormsby Coal Company of Jackson Township, and the Soldiers’ Orphan
School, being treasurer and secretary of the former. He is a stockholder in
the First National Bank of Alercer; has been a member of the town council,
and is a Republican.
Hugh A. Gamble, clerk to the county commissioners, was born January 6,
1845, in this county, to John and Isabella (Alexander) Gamble, natives, the
former of Lancashire, England, and the latter of County Armagh, Ire-
land. They immigrated to America about the years 1830 and 1831, respect-
ively, and the father settled in Delaware, and the mother in West Salem Town-
ships, this county. Their union gave them ten children: Hugh A., C. J. , G.
W., P. R., R. H., Al. A., J. E., William, D. A. and Ida B. G. W. is dep-
uty clerk of Rock Island County, 111.; M. A. married A. R. Schadt; J. E.
married W. A. Cubbison; William is bill clerk for the Chicago, Rock Island &
Pacific R. R. , at Moline, 111.; Ida B. married W. AV. Hancox. The mother
of the above named children is living. The father died in 1875, and was Past
Grand of the I. O. O. F. at the time of his death. He served as poor director two
years. Hugh A. Gamble was educated in the common schools of Alercer Coun-
ty, enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Vol-
unteers, and served about eighteen months. He was wounded twice, the first
time at the battle of the Wilderness. His life was spared then by a small am-
brotype of his parents enclosed in a wooden case and lined with brass, which
reached him on the evening before he received the wound. He had placed this
much cherished treasure from his loved ones at home in the inside vest pocket
just over his heart, and while on his knees in the act of loading his musket, he was
struck with a rebel bullet which took effect in the picture, completely burying
itself therein. He was knocked fiat on his back and escaped with two ribs
being broken. He at once returned the picture to his parents, together with
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
665
the bullet, accompanied by a full explanation. He has no treasure on earth
■which he values more than that little historic ambrotype with its rebel bullet.
His second wound was received at Petersburg. This time he lost one of his
little Ungers. On his return from the war he engaged in farming until 1872,
when he was selected by the board of county commissioners as their clerk. He
afterward served two years as deputy prothonotary and three years as deputy
register and clerk of courts. In 1882 he was again called by the commissioners
to assist them, and has held that position continually ever since. He was
married October 20, 1870, to Rebecca J. Lundy, daughter of Samuel and
Rebecca (Wilson) Lundy. She died October 24, 1884, leaving the following
children: Ida M. , Mamie Eva (deceased), Jennie B. and Luella May. He was
again married in November, 1887, to Mrs. J ennie S. Ecker, the widow of Dr.
S. N. Ecker, late of Jacksonville, Cumberland Co., Penn. Mr. Gamble is a
member of the A. O. E. W., I. O. O. F. , S. K. , and is an earnest Republi-
can.
Hon. William Swan Gaevin, the veteran editor of the Western Press for
so many years, was born in Mercer, Penn., June 25, 1806, his parents being
John and Agnes Garvin, who had removed from Cumberland County to Mer-
cer, and occupied a tract of land along Garvin’s Run, immediately north of
Mercer, their house standing near what is now known as Griffith’s Spring.
John Garvin, the paternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was of
Scotch-Irish descent, migrating from the north of Ireland to this country prior
to the Revolutionary W ar, and taking the oath of allegiance to Pennsylvania
October 14, 1777, in Cumberland County. William’s scholastic advantages
were limited to a few months’ attendance in the village school at Mercer, and
yet his life-long work was a school. Though he knew not a noun fi’om an adjec-
tive, he wrote the most vigorous and accurate English. At the age of fourteen
he entered the IFesfem Press office, then owned by Jacob Herrington, as an
apprentice, and served faithfully nearly six years. Following this, he went to
New York, and thence to New Orleans as a printer. Returning to New York he
accepted the foremanship of the New York Albion, where he remained until
his return to Mercer in 1830 to take charge of the Western Press, which ho
had meanwhile purchased from John Hoge and others. While in New York
City Mr. Garvin was married to Miss Annie Hoyt Lockwood. From this union
the following children were born: Annie Hoyt, afterward Mrs. James Hazel-
ton; Agnes Swan, subsequently Mrs. Judge John Trunkey, wife of the late
associate justice of the State of Pennsylvania, whose biographical sketch will
be found elsewhere; Sarah Lockwood, afterward Mrs. Nesbitt, JohnG. , Edwin
Laughlin Garvin, how living near Oberlin, Ohio; Julia Olmstead, William Swan
and David Wilmot. Of this number the only ones living are Mrs. Judge
John Trunkey, Edwin L. and David Wilmot, of Florida. Mr. Garvin’s power
was shown in his career as editor of the Western Press, which he owned and
managed, with brief interruptions, for more than half a century. For the par-
ticulars as to the changes through which it passed, the reader is referred to the
chapter on ‘ ‘ The Press. ” Asa political writer he was vigorous, fearless and inci-
sive, ever maintaining to the utmost of his ability the principles of the Demo-
cratic party, with which he was identified throughout his long life. His power
was felt as a journalistic leader of his party, not only in the politics of the
county but of the State. A strict adherent of the principles of Jeffersonian-
ism, he did not hesitate to proclaim his faith everywhere and under most try-
ing circumstances. He never retreated from his foe, but fought the battle vig-
orously until it was properly ended. He was a student of the constitution,
and practically accepted and defended the political doctrine of State’s rights
6G6
HISTORY or MERCER COUNTY.
as constitutional. In 1845 he was the Democratic candidate for Congress, his
opponent being the Hon. John J. Pearson. Though the district was largely
Whig, it was carried by Mr. Garvin by a small majority. He represented his
district with ability and credit both to himself and his constituents. He was
twice postmaster of Mercer, first in 1837 during the administration of Yan
Buren, and next during the administration of Andrew Johnson, 1865-69. He
was also flour inspector of Pittsburgh under Gov. Packer. Mr. Garvin
was the close and intimate friend of Gen. Simon Cameron, Hon. Benjamin
H. Brewster and Judge Wilmot. Though separated politically in later
years from Cameron and Brewster by reason of their affiliation with the Re-
publican party, no interruption of personal friendship ever ensued. He was
conspicuous in Pennsylvania as an opponent of James Buchanan’s nomina-
tion for the Presidency, and more than once was instrumental in preventing
it by withholding a portion of the State delegation from Buchanan’s support.
Personally Mr. Garvin was a kind man, though at times he appeared to some
grufF and unsociable. Afflicted for years with disease that impaired his health
and soured his disposition, he was most kindly and lovingly appreciated by
those who best knew his natural kindness of heart and temper. As an infant
he was taken into the membership of the United Presbyterian Church, or its
antecedent, the Associate Reformed, but at the time of his death he was iden-
tified with the Protestant Episcopal Church. His death occurred on the 20th
of February, 1883, in the seventy-seventh year of his age. His remains rest
quietly in the Mercer cemetery.
John I. Gordon, of Mercer, was born in Mill Creek Township, this county,
March 3, 1845, and lived on the same farm, attending district school and the
New Lebanon Academy three terms prior to August, 1862, when he enlisted
as a private in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and was discharged from the United States service in
December, 1864, on account of a gun-shot wound received in the battle of the
Wilderness, Virginia. On returning from the army, after his health had suf-
ficiently recovered, he attended the State Normal School at Edinboro, alter-
nating with teaching until in the spring of 1868, when he began the study of
medicine in the office of Dr. Giebner, of Sandy Lake. In 1869 he was
elected recorder of deeds of this county, and assumed his official duties the
first Monday of December of that year ; following this he served three years
as prothonotary’ s clerk, and on January 1, 1876, he assumed the management
and control of the Mercer Dispatch newspaper and is still connected with that
business, although doing but little in the office since January, 1881. In 1880
he was a delegate to the Republican National Convention at Chicago. The
past seven years he has been engaged principally in farming. He is interested
in the Soldiers’ Orphan School at Mercer, is a Republican, a member of the
Second United Presbyterian Church and is superintendent of its Sabbath-
schools.
Thomas Graham died in Mercer on the 4th of April, 1833, in his sixty-
third year. His remains lie in the old graveyard back of the First Presby-
terian Church. He was born in Ireland, and married Margaret Irwin, of
Carlisle, Penn. His children, Isabella (now Mrs. Forker, of Mercer, aged
eighty-seven); Susan, wife of Charles Whistler, deceased; Margaret (Mowry)
and Thompson.
Maj. Thomas Graham, son of Thomas Graham, hotel keeper, was a prac-
tical joker — a man of the world. He was a resident of Mercer for fifty-four
years, and was, at the time of his death, which occurred on the 3d of J anuary,
1871, sixty-three years of age. In the language of Mr. Garvin, a warm per-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
667
sonal friend, be was “possessed of a vigorous mind, ready and pungent wit
and general good sense. He was a recognized leader of the Democracy of
Mercer County, firm and reliable in prosperity and adversity. ’ ’
C. J. Gregory, operator of tbe United Line of Telegraph, was born
November 4, 1850, in Warren County, Penn. He was educated in the com-
mon schools and at Siigar Grove. He spent his younger days on his father’s
farm. He began to support himself at the age of fifteen years by hiring out
to labor on a farm. He subsequently clerked in a dry goods store. At the
age of twenty-one years he entered the Iron City Business College, where he
was graduated. Soon after he purchased a saw mill in W arren County, Penn. ,
and operated it with good results for four years. He was married in 1874 to
Miss Eleanora Davis, who died in 1882. He sold his saw-mill in 1880, and in
1883 he began the study of telegraphy at Sugar Grove, on the line he is now
engaged with. In a very short time he had mastered the art sufficiently to
warrant the company to give him charge of an office at Frewsburg, N. Y.
After a period of success there he was transferred to Sugar Grove, where he
remained until 1885, when he came to Mercer and fills the position -entrusted
to him with satisfaction to all concerned. He was again married in 1887 to
Miss Sadie Wright, a niece of the Hon. George W. Wright. He is a member
of the A. O. U. W. , and is a Republican. His estimable wife is a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Samuel Griffith, attorney, was born in Merther Tydvil, in South Wales,
February 14, 1816, the son of Lewis and Jane (Parry) Griffith, and the grand-
son of Samuel Griffith. His ancestry, as will be seen, is genuine Welsh. In
1818 his parents came to America with their two children, Philip and Samuel,
and located in Butler County, where they resided until 1827, when they
removed to a farm, one and one- half miles west of Mercer. For five years
Samuel lived on the farm with his parents, assisting his father in digging coal
and hauling it to Mercer. During one of those winters he attended a country
school on “ Yankee Ridge,’’ the teacher being Theodore Newcomb. In the
spring of 1836, at the age of twenty, he left home and devoted six years to
acquiring an education, relying solely upon his own efforts for the requisite
means. He attended Allegheny College three sessions during 1836-37. He
then taught school in New Castle in the winter of 1837, and in the spring of
1838, became acquainted with Rev. John Gamble, the distinguished linguist
of his day, with whom he spent four years, two in Greenville and two in
Franklin, a part of the time as an assistant instructor. Mr. Griffith had
the reputation of being one of the best linguists Dr. Gamble ever trained.
In the fall of 1842, he took charge of the Mercer Academy, and continued in
that capacity for two years, the attendance ranging from sixty to eighty pupils,
mainly in the classics . In the autumn of 1844, he made a trip West and
South, visiting the principal cities along the Ohio and Mississq^pi Rivers. The
winter he spent in teaching a classical school in Jackson, Miss. The
following year he returned, resumed his legal studies under William Stewart
and R. C. Rankin, and was admitted to the bar in 1846. He began his legal
practice in Mercer, and has continued a member of its bar to the present
time. He has been the Gamaliel of the Mercer bar, many of its younger
attorneys having prosecuted the study of law under his directions. He him-
self has stood one of the leaders of the bar, his practice being an extensive
one. He has devoted himself assiduously to his profession, having been no
aspirant for the petty offices that often tempt waiting attorneys. Mr. Griffith
was, on August 7, 1849, married to Miss Caroline M. Foster, daughter of
Samuel B. Foster, Esq., whose sketch is given in the “Bench and Bar” chap-
668
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
ter. From tliis union sprang the following children, still living: Samuel B.,
a practicing attorney in Mercer, being at present associated with his father
in business; AYilliam Harry, at present residing at Denver, Col., practicing
law, and acting as business manager of the Times Publishing Company, a
Republican institution; and Caroline Foster, single, still residing at home.
Mr. Griffith was elected to Congress in 1870, by a majority of over 900 in a
strong Republican district. He served one term. He was also an elector on
the Hancock ticket in 1880. At present his affiliation is with the Democratic
party and the Methodist Episcopal Church. His step is firm and elastic, and
his natural force unabated.
Hon. Heney Hall, editor of the Mercer Dispatch and Republican, and
attorney, was born in England, and immigrated to this county with his parents
in 1858. He read law with the firm of Miller & Gordon, of Mercer, and was
admitted to the Mercer bar in 1886. In 1878 he was elected recorder of
this county, and served one term. Since 1881 he has been editor in charge of
the Mercer Dispatch and Republican, and part owner of the same. In 1886
he was chosen by the Republicans as their representative to the State Legis-
lature, and re-elected by them to the same position in 1888. He is an enthu-
siastic Republican, and one of the self-made, talented young men of Mercer
County.
L. Heeling, retired bank cashier, was born October 23, 1830, in Harrison
County, Ohio, son of Fielding and Sarah (Billingsley) Hefling, the parents of
seven children. Our subject remained at home until twenty years of age. He
was engaged in carpentering and cabinet-making for a few years. In 1855
he attended a mercantile college of Pittsburgh and was book-keeper at Cadiz,
Ohio, for seven years. He was married in 1860 to Mary Kennedy and has
four children; Maude I., Lula M. , Cora G. and Marcy K. Mr. Hefiing came
to Mercer in 1864 and was employed as book-keeper in the First National Bank
for two years, and the following four years held the same position in the pri-
vate banking firm of Zahniser & Co. ; formed a partnership in the Sharon
Banking Company for three years; was cashier of the Sharpsville Iron Banking
Company the following two years, and at the establishing of the Farmers and
Mechanics’ National Bank of Mercer, he became its first cashier, which posi-
tion he held until 1884, when he was succeeded by John Robinson.
Jacob Heeeington. — The subject of this memoir came from Meadville to
Mercer County in the early part of 1811, bringing with him the materials with
which the Western Press newspaper was first printed, portions of which yet
stand in its present printing office. The War of 1812 soon following, this
paper, less than a fourth the size of the present sheet, was comparatively
prosperous in obtaining a subscription list, but paying advertisements were
few and far between, and as to job printing, with the exception of a few horse
bills in the spring season, there was almost none. For the first few years Mr.
Herrington annually printed an almanac, calculated for the meridian of Pitts-
burgh (by the Rev. John Taylor, who is recollected as residing alternately in
Pittsburgh and in Mercer County, where he met his death, in 1838, in Salem
Township, from lightning, being killed by it while in his bed at night), and
also several editions of a little primer, ornamented with the engravings that
were explained in side notes, such as: “In Adam’s fall, we sinned all,”
“Xerxes the Great did die, and so must you and I,” and the always interest-
ing representation of the burning of John Rogers, with his wife and nine
children as spectators, and containing the AVestminster Shorter Catechism.
These publications were principally traded for rags, that were turned over to
the paper maker. At that time there were but two newspapers in this part of
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
669
the State, the Crawford Messenger, published by Thomas Atkinson in Mead-
Yille, and the Western Press, by Jacob Herrington in Mercer. In looking
over the files of the Press, between 1811 and 1816, we find the Franklin lists
of letters, proclamations of elections in Venango County, and the treasurer’s
sales in the counties of Venango and Warren were advertised in Mr. Herring-
ton’s paper, and where public meetings were held in Erie that the Messenger
and Press were alike furnished with copies of proceedings and requested to
publish them. In 1813 Mr. Herrington was elected to the House of Assembly.
He was re-elected in 1811, 1815 and 1816, and again in 1818 and in 1820, and
lastly in 1831; in all he served seven times as representative in the House.
In 1821 he was elected to the State Senate, and re-elected in 1823, making
thirteen years that he represented the people of Mercer County in a legislative
capacity, a longer period than that of any other citizen before or since that
time. In those days, when the people needed assistance in opening roads,
building bridges, etc., the representative that could get the most money
appropriated out of the State treasury for their benefit was, by far, the most
popular man. In this, Mr. Herrington was peculiarly fortunate. He suc-
ceeded Mr. James Montgomery in the House, who had failed to secure a $3,000
appropriation to help build the Mercer Academy, which had been asked for,
and was successful in his effort to obtain it. He afterward obtained State
assistance in opening several roads, more particularly a subscription of
$20,000 to the stock of the Mercer and Meadville Turnpike, and afterward to
a similar amount in the stock of the Butler and Mercer Turnpike Company.
These public services, along with his social qualities and kind and obliging
disposition, contributed to give him great power with the people, by whom,
for a number of years, he was almost idolized. He was enterprising, and was
the first citizen of the county that entered largely into the driving of cattle to
the eastern market; kept a very large store and gave credit to every one that
asked for it. As he never enforced collection by law, the result in the end,
about 1826, was a failure in business, when the newspaper went out of his hand
into that of John Hoge, Esq. For some years afterward he busied himself in
various ways to wring from the world a support for himself and family, when
in 1834, his party again placed him in nomination for the Legislature. The
Democrats were then in a minority, the anti-Masons holding a decided
majority of the popular vote, yet a sympathetic feeling for Mr. Herrington,
although a member of the lodge, enabled him to get a majority of six votes
over his competitor, Mr. William S. Rankin.
R. M. Hope, physician and surgeon, was born March 27, 1849, son of Hugh
and Sarah (McGeehan) Hope, natives of Lawrence County, where the Doctor
was also born. James Hope, the grandfather of our subject, was one of the
pioneers of Lawrence County, having located there in 1800. R. M. Hope was
educated in the common schools, Jackson Academy and Westminster College,
began reading medicine in 1871 with Dr. Brough, of New Wilmington, and
attended Cleveland Medical College one term, and graduated at the Cincinnati
Medical College in 1874. He began practice at North Liberty, this county,
and in 1879 left there for Mercer, where he has since remained. He was
married to Sarah J. Kirkpatrick, and has two children, Paul and Eveline.
J. P. Hosack, physician and surgeon, was born February 10, 1822, in the
borough of Mercer, and in the house where he now resides. His father,
Henry Hosack, was a native of Adams County, Penn. , whence he came to what
is now Findley Township, this county, in 1799. He subsequently came to
Mercer, and learned the shoemaker’ s trade with Henry Anderson, and followed
that business until his death, which occurred April 23, 1861. He married
38
670
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Elizabeth Paxton, by whom he had the following children: John D. , born April
12, 1813, fell from a hickory tree when eight years of age, and died three days
later; Martha, born March 14, 1815, married George Lindsey, and died March
20, 1853; James, born January 8, 1818, and died August 16, 1824; Sarah,
born June 3, 1820, married John R. Lindley, now resides in Springfield, Mo.,
a widow; John P. and William C. (twins), the latter of whom died August 12,
1824; Jane E., born July 9, 1824, married John L. SherifP, and died July 9,
1848; Gwinthlain, born February 8, 1827, and died March 7, 1827; and Eliz-
ebeth, the mother of Dr. Hosack, died December 3, 1858. The parents were
members of what is now the United Presbyterian Church. Our subject
attended a pay-school until he was twelve years of age, when he entered the
store of Judge D. T. Porter, of Mercer, as a clerk, where he continued for
some time. He was very attentive to his books at nights, and studied Latin
under instruction of William H. Scott, then an attorney at Mercer. He subse-
quently studied under D. H. A. McLean, and Greek, Latin and French under
Hon. Samuel Griffith. After a period at Cannonsburg, prosecuting his studies
in Jefferson College, he began the study of medicine in 1843 with Dr. James
Magoffin, of Mercer, and attended the Cleveland Medical College, making the
trip to that city by stage in 1845, and returning home in March, 1846, by means
of a sled. He at once entered upon the practice of his profession in Harrisville,
Butler County, and in 1848 attended lectures at Jefferson Medical College,
Philadelphia. He then came to Mercer, where he has since remained, and has
done much to help build up the town and surrounding country, having been
instrumental in helping to establish the public schools of Mercer and to
get the railroads to the county seat. After passing a satisfactory examination
at Harrisburg, under Prof. H. H. Smith, surgeon general of Pennsylvania,
he responded to the call of his country, and went out as a surgeon in the One
Hundred and First Pennsylvania Volunteers. In November, 1861, he went
with Hartranft in the Fifty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, with the promise
that he would be sent back to the One Hundred and First Regiment, but
stayed with the Fifty-first until after the surrender of Vicksburg, when he
resigned, thinking that the war was virtually ended, and came home. He
was married to Margaret G. Forker, daughter of Gen. John Forker, and by
her had the following children: John F., born September 7, 1847, superin-
tendent of Scott’s Coal Mines, of Scott Haven, Westmoreland County; Henry,
born February 28, 1850, died February 22, 1851; Jane, born January 22,
1852, now principal of the preparatory department of the female college at
Bellevue, Neb., near Omaha; Mary, born August 16, 1856; George, born July
8, 1858; Isabella, born July 4, 1864, was graduated at Mount Holyoke Sem-
inary in 1887, and is teaching at Thyne Institute, in Virginia. The Doctor
and his wife are members of the Second United Presbyterian Church of
Mercer. He was a Democrat at the breaking out of the war, when he became
a strong Republican, to which party he still lends his influence. He was one
of the early members of the Mercer County Medical Society.
A. I. Hoon, physician and surgeon, was born May 17, 1856, in But-
ler County, Penn. , to Anthony and Mary A. (Beatty) Hoon. His father was
born inLewistown, on the Susquehanna River, in August, 1817, and his parents
moved with him to Butler County when he was thirteen months old. On that
same farm he has lived for more than seventy years, and has filled various
.civil offices. His marriages gave him twelve children, seven of whom, with
his second wife, are living. The Doctor’s grandfather, Henry Hoon, was of
Pennsylvania Dutch descent, and was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Our
subject remained at home until the age of seventeen, after which he attended
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
671
school successively in Butler, Pittsburgh and Allegheny City. He then taught
school two years in Chartiers, when he decided to study a profession. He pur-
sued his classical training at Westminster College. He then read medicine in
the office of Drs. Dickson, the noted surgeons of Pittsburgh; attended his first
course of lectures in the medical department of Michigan University, and his
second course in the medical department of the University of the City of New
York, where he was graduated with honorable mention as to rank. He was also
for one year resident physician in the Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh, Penn. He
began private practice in Wilmington, Vt., where he remained over two
years, and removed to Mercer in 1883, where he has already secured a large
patronage. He was married November 30, 1882, to Miss Nettie M. Wilson,
of Allegheny City. He and his wife are members of the Second United Pres-
byterian Church of Mercer.
Samuel Hosack, livery, was born November 14, 1849, in this county, and his
parents, James and Mary (Crill) Hosack, are mentioned in another part of this
work. Samuel was educated in the common schools, and was brought up on a
farm. He engaged in the livery business, in Mercer in 1881, and is doing a good
business.
John Hutchinson, retired farmer, was born in this county. His father,
John Hutchinson, emigrated from Ireland, his native country, and settled in
East Lackawannock Township, Mercer County, in 1824. He was married in
his native country to Margaret McKelvy, who blessed him with three children
before coming to America; Jane, the wife of James Forsythe, of Jefferson
Township, whose sketch appears elsewhere; Alexander and Andrew. Alexan-
der went to California from this county in 1849, and subsequently to the
Sandwich Islands, where he established a large sugar plantation, and there
died. Andrew settled for awhile in California and is now a resident of Ore-
gon. After settling in this county there were born to John and Margaret
Hutchinson the following children: Richard lives in Oregon, and deals in cat-
tle; John, born May 1, 1827; William lives in East Lackawannock Township,
and James, who died small. John Hutchinson was an enterprising farmer in
good circumstances at the time of his death, which occurred in September, 1880.
His wife died many years before him. They were members of the Presbyterian
Church of Ireland. John whose name heads this sketch, was educated in the com-
mon schools, and was brought up on a farm. He was married in 1877 to Susan,
daughter of Samuel Shannon, one of the early settlers of what is now East
Lackawannock Township. He remained on the old homestead until 1884, when
he bought his present elegant residence and removed to Mercer, where he lives
a somewhat retired life. He has always been an ardent Democrat, and is a strict
temperance man. He and his wife are members of the Second United Presby-
terian Church of Mercer. Further mention of the family will be found in con-
nection with a sketch of William Hutchinson, of East Lackawannock Township.
W. B. IsENBEKG, dentist, was born in Huntingdon County, Penn. He was
educated in Alexandria, that county, and began the study of dentistry with
Dr. E. P. Stewart, of Sharon, with whom he remained for nine years. In
1878 he located in Mercer, and at once took the lead in his profession. By
strict attention to his business he has built up a large patronage. He was
married in 1875 to Miss Ella McGoun, a native of Sharon, and a daughter of
Nicholas McGoun, deceased. The Doctor is a member of the A. O. U. W.
and the R. T. of T. He is a Democrat in politics, and is one of the progress-
ive young men of Mercer County. He and his wife are members of the First
Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
William Jack, merchant tailor and ex- county clerk, was born in Washing-
672
HISTORY or MERCER COUNTY.
ton Coanty, Penn., February 8, 1833. His father, Eobert Jack, was a native
of the same county, and was of Irish extraction. Mary Arthur, the mother of
William Jack, came to this county with her parents in 1838. They settled
in Worth Township. Here his mother died in 1865, her husband having died in
Youngstown in 1873. Their children were: Hannah (married F. A. Filson),
Francis (died small), Jane (deceased), Eobert (deceased), Mary A. (widow of
Thomas Black), Nancy (married William M. Gibson), Eliza (married James
Such, of Youngstown, Ohio), and William. The mother was a member of the
Second United Presbyterian Church. Our subject was educated in the com-
mon schools and the Mercer Academy. His teachers in the academy were:
Anna Babcock, Catharine Hunter, Nellie Devitt, a Miss Howard and
George W. Zahniser. He began to learn the tailor’s trade when thirteen
years of age, with his brother-in-law, James Such, and finally finished his
trade with A. J. Greer. He then bought the business of A. J. Greer, and
continued to conduct it until the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted
in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served in the Sixth Corps for about three years. He participated in the
battles of Fredericksburg, Antietam, Cold Harbor, Spottsylvania and the
Wilderness. On his return from the war he resumed his trade, having his
shop at his residence. He was afterward employed by John Braden and
Thomas Conley as a cutter. He continued to hold this position with the
change of the business from these men to George Gillett. He finally bought
out the last named gentleman, and in two years purchased the interest of Byers
& Miller, with whom he had been engaged in partnership. He was elected
county clerk in 1885. He has been a member of the town council and school
director. He had always taken a deep interest in the Eepublican party,
having cast his first presidential vote for Fremont. He was married October
13, 1859, to Margaret I. Moore, daughter of Ex-Sheriff John Moore, and has
by her the following children: Belle A., Helen M. and one deceased. He is a
member of the A. O. U. W. , and with his wife and children belongs to the
Methodist Episcopal Church.
W. D. Keck, merchant, was born January 7, 1850, in Greenville, son of
John Keck, mentioned in the biographical chapter of Greenville. Our
subject was educated in the Greenville schools and brought up in his father’s
store. He attended a commercial college at Mount Union, Ohio, beginning at
the age of fifteen years, from which institution he was graduated. After
clerking a while for his father, he was employed by Lawton, Burnett & Co. ,
coal operators, and subsequently was employed in the office of Gen. McKibben,
then superintendent of the Shenango & Allegheny Eailroad, where he remained
two years. He was then engaged as agent for a railroad at Mercer, and three
years later he severed this connection, entered his present partnership, and
has built up an extensive business. He was married to Miss Eva Stewart,
daughter of James Stewart, by whom he has two children: James M. and
Louese. He has been a member of the borough council of Mercer, is chief
of the fire department, is a member of the Masonic Lodge of Greenville, is a
stanch Eepublican, and one of the enterprising business men of Mercer.
William Kile, hardware dealer, was born September 29, 1837, in what is
now Lawrence County. His father, Eobert Kile, was born in Ireland, and
immigrated to Lawrence County in 1817 with his parents, William and Nancy
Kile. Here the family settled, and the old homestead is in the possession of
John Kile, the youngest son of William Kile, who, together with his wife,
died thereon. He married Ann Eeed, a native of Ireland, who came to
America with her parents, John and Jane Eeed, and settled in North Beaver
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
673
Township, Lawrence Co., Penn., about the year 1810. Her parents located
about two miles from the Kiles, and in 1843 the parents of our subject re-
moved to what is now Jefferson Township, this county. Here Robert estab-
lished himself among his neighbors, as one of the most enterprising and
worthy citizens of the community in which he dwelt. He served as a justice
of the peace for twenty years, was deeply interested in the schools of his day,
and was school director. He was identified with the Whig party, and later
united with the Democrats. He died in 1884, a member of the United Pres-
byterian Church. His widow survives on the old farm, and is a member of the
same church. William Kile was educated in the common schools and West-
minster College, at New Wilmington, Lawrence Co. , Penn. His early life was
spent on a farm. He was married in 1861 to Harriet, a daughter of Robert
Fruit, whose sketch appears in this volume. The result of this union has
been one son, R. M. , who is engaged in the store with his father. When
stai’ting out for himself Mr. Kile engaged in farming. In 1862 he enlisted
in Company D, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served in the defense of his country for nine months. On his return
from the war he resumed farming. In l879 he formed a partnership with -I.
C. Logan in the general hardware business in Mercer. In this he has been
very successful. In 1885 they erected a large building, in which they
are now located. In 1881 he was balled on by the Republicans to serve as
sheriff of Mercer County, to which he responded, and filled the position with
credit. He was a delegate to the Republican National Convention, held at
Chicago in 1888, which nominated Gen. Benjamin Harrison for President of the
United States. He and his wife are members of the Second United Presby-
terian Church of Mercer.
George King, furniture dealer and undertaker, was born in 1845 in Mercer
County, to Robert and Hannah (Forker) King, natives, the father of England
and the mother of Mercer County. The father immigrated to this county at
the age of eighteen years. He died in 1877, and his wife died in 1876. They had
nine children: Mary married Thomas Masford; John is dead; George,
Newark, Hannah, Henry, Robert, Kate married John Runkle; Samuel and
one deceased. Our subject attended the common schools, and was brought up
at farm labor. In 1869 he and his brother, Newark, engaged in his present
business, and six years later Newark withdrew, and George has conducted the
business ever since. He gives his entire attention to his enterprise, and con-
sequently is successful. He was married August 10, 1880, to Lidia Motheral,
by whom he has three children: Lula, Walter and Paul. Mr. King is a
Democrat, and he and his wife belong to the First Presbyterian Church. He is
one of the enterprising citizens of Mercer, and merits the large patronage
accorded him.
Col. William A. Keeps, sheriff of Mercer County, was born in Franklin
County, Penn., March 27, 1846, and is a son of Jacob F. and Eliza (Turney)
Kreps, the former a native of Greencastle, Franklin Co., Penn., and the lat-
ter of Greensburg, Westmoreland Co., the same State. Jacob F. grew to
manhood in his native county, thence moved to Westmoreland County, where
he met and married Miss Eliza Turney, daughter of Adam and Hannah
(Weber) Turney, pioneers of Westmoreland County. The father of Elizabeth
Weber was the founder of the Reformed Church in Westmoreland County,
Penn., when that county comprised a large portion of the western part of the
State. Among the many churches which he assisted is a prominent one on
Smithfield Street, Pittsburgh. Col. Kreps’ father, Jacob F. Kreps, soon after
marriage returned to Greencastle, where he was in the mercantile business for
674
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
many years, and was also postmaster of tlie town. He reared eight children:
Catharine, wife of Dr. J. Q. Robinson, of West Newton, Penn.; George R. ,
of Greenville; Hannah, wife of A. E. Dravo, of Allegheny County, Penn.; John
W., of Allegheny City; Francis A. M. , a deceased business man of Allegheny
City; Adam T., of the firm of Hamblin Sons & Co., Greenville; David D., of
Greenville; William A. ; two others were deceased in early life. In 1849 the
family removed to West Newton, where Mr. Kreps went into the foundry busi-
ness, and subsequently the mercantile trade. During the war Mr. Kreps retired
from active business. His wife died in AVest Newton, Penn., March 3, 1887,
where he died in May, 1888, aged eighty-two years. He represented the Repub-
lican party in the Legislature one term, and was one of the leading men of his
county throughout his active life. Col. Kreps grew up in Westmoreland
County, and in September, 1864, when in his eighteenth year, he enlisted in
the Fifteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and served until the close of the war,
being mustered out July, 1865. In 1869 he located in Greenville, where he
had become interested in the lumber business with his brother two years
prior to his coming. The firm of Kreps Bros, carried on the leading planing-
mills and lumber yard in Greenville, up to its destruction by fire, April
1, 1887. Col. Kreps was married to Lucetta Taylor September 22, 1875.
She is a daughter of AVilliam G. Taylor, one of the deceased business men of the
town. Of this union five children have been born: George R., Corrinne S.,
Ida B., AVilliam Gregg and Thomas A. The family belongs to the Methodist
Episcopal Church. Politically Col. Kreps is a stanch Republican, and
November 8, 1887, was elected sheriff of Mercer County. May 29, 1875, Col.
Kreps organized Company K, Fifteenth Regiment Pennsylvania National
Guards, of which he was elected captain, re-elected in 1880, elected major in
1883, and colonel in July, 1884, which position he is now filling. He belongs
to the I. O. O. F. , and is one of the enterprising citizens of Mercer County.
John Logan, deceased: A Mercer paper said the following: “After a
few days of illness a life of usefulness suddenly terminated. We regret
deeply that we are called upon to chronicle the death of the subject of this
memoir, which occurred at his residence on AA" est Market Street, February 10,
1883, at 5:30 P. M. As previous mention has been made, his sufferings were
from pneumonia, he having been sick about two weeks. During last week his
condition seemed a little more hopeful, but he had become very weak and his
system proved unable to rally. Hope faded on Friday and Saturday until the
end came as stated, while surrounded by many who watched with sorrow as
the sufferer slowly yielded his life, and the spirit passed to the great unknown.
Mr. Logan was born in 1825 in Pittsburgh, and was therefore in his fifty-
eighth year. He was reared in Allegheny County, where he lived until 1858,
when he came to this county and joined his brother AA^illiam, who survives,
and who had preceded him to this locality, in the improvement of a tract of
land about two miles north of Mercer, in Cool Spring Township, owned by
James McCully, of Pittsburgh, an uncle of the deceased. In 1858 he was
married to Miss Anna Howard of this place, who with her two children sur-
vives him. In company with his good wife they industriously conducted the
farm until 1873, when, by the death of Mr. McCully, Mr. Logan inherited a
competency, consisting of the farm upon which he lived and a large quantity
of property in the city of Pittsburgh. Soon following this he purchased his
late residence and moved to Mercer, giving himself up to retirement. In early
life he connected himself with the United Presbyterian Church, and for many
years was an active member and officer of the same. At the time of his death
he was superintendent of the Sabbath-schools connected therewith. He was
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
675
also a member of om- borough school board, and proved a very valuable and
efficient officer. His early demise is greatly mourned, and his substantial
worth will be missed in every arena in which he moved. The genuineness of
his character was shown by the manner in which he received his sudden rise to
affluence, the same kind, genial spirit being found regardless of his circum-
stances. The funeral was largely attended, the schools dismissing in his
honor, and the Sabbath-schools, of which he had been a leader, attended in a
body to perform the last sad rites of friends.” His widow’s parents, William
and Mary (Glasgow) Howard, emigrated from Ireland to this county about
1829. They had eleven children: Adam, William, Hosannah, James A.,
H&vid, Samuel, Eliza J., John A., Silas S., Anna M. and Robert W. The
father was born February 27, 1781, in County Antrim, Ireland. He died at
Mercer in his ninety-third year. He was a member of the Presbyterian
Church in Ireland, and on his arrival in this country united with the United
Presbyterian Church, of which he was an upright and consistent member. Mary,
his wife, died in her eighty- sixth year, and was also an earnest worshiper at
the United Presbyterian Church.
William Logan, retired farmer, was born April 1, 1819, in Pittsburgh, to
John and Jane (McCully) Logan, natives of County Antrim, Ireland, who
immigrated to America in 1818. They settled at Pittsburgh, and in 1823 or
1824 settled on a farm in Allegheny County, where they died. They had five
children, two. of whom are living: William and Samuel. The parents were
connected with the Reformed Presbyterian Chui’ch. William Logan was edu-
cated in the country schools, walking a long distance through the woods. He
began for himself at the age of twenty-four years. In 1845 he came to Mer-
cer County, and located on a farm in Cool Spring Township, where he remained
for nearly twenty-eight years. In 1877 he moved to Mercer, where he has
lived a somewhat retired life ever since. He was elected president of the
First National Bank of Mercer in 1877, and has held the position since. He
was married in 1843 to Eliza J. Wilbe, daughter of Andrew Wilbe, of Alle-
gheny County, Penn. By her he had nine childi’en. eight of whom are living:
John C., married Sarah Roberts; William H. , married Mary Cornell; Andrew;
Mary J. ; Samuel, a jeweler of Mercer; Sarah, married P. C. Emery; Martha,
and Arminta. Mr. and Mrs. Logan are consistent members of the Second
United Presbyterian Chnrch of Mercer. Mr. Logan is a Democrat with pro-
hibition proclivities.
R. G. Madge, burgess of Mercer, was born September 3, 1843, in Lacka-
wannock Township, Mercer County, to Robert and Sarah (Gilky) Madge, the
former of whom was a native of England, who came, when twelve years old,
with his father to Northumberland County, where they stayed four years and
then moved to Mercer County. Robert’s history will be found in Lackawan-
nock Township. Our subject spent his early boyhood on the farm, attend-
ing the country schools of that time. In 1862 he enlisted in Company C,
Fifty-Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the
war, doing most gallant and effective service. He was in the Army of the
Potomac in the battles of Fredericksburg, Gettysburg and Second Bull Run,
and carried the regimental colors at the battle of the Wilderness. Twice in
that fierce and bloody fight were the colors shot from him, but each time only
to be raised again by the brave and dauntless hand that carried them. He
was taken prisoner at Richmond and confined for seventy-six days in the fol-
lowing prisons: Castle Thunder, Libby and Belle Isle. Capt. Houser, of,
Chambersburg, was his captain for over one year. Retmming home, he settled
on his father’s farm, where he remained until 1876. One year was spent in
676
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
selling fruit trees through the county. In 1870 he took the census of East
and West Lackawannock, Wilmington, Jefferson and Shenango Townships
and West Middlesex Borough, and the remainder of the time he was engaged
in farming. January 1, 1876, he began his duties as clerk for the county,
commissioners, which position he hlled very acceptably for six years, when he
resigned to accept the office of county clerk, to which he had been elected in
1881. Having served his term of three years he was retained by his successor
as deputy, which position he has continued to hold until the present time,
indisputable evidence of his ability and popularity. In 1866 he was married
to Rebecca L. Gault, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Banks) Gault. Her
parents having died when she was quite young, she was brought up by her
aunt, Mrs. A. J. Burgess. By this union there were six children; A. W.,
Laura M. , Rebecca A., Sarah E,, Fannie M. and R. F. He and his wife are
members of the First United Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and he is super-
intendent of the Sabbath-school. He is a member of the K. of H. , and a
strong Republican, by which party he was elected burgess of Mercer in 1888.
His brother, J. G. , is pastor of the United Presbyterian Church at Dalton,
Ohio.
Des. James and Beeiah Magoffin. — The subjects of this sketch were of
Scotch-Irish ancestry. Their father. Dr. James Magoffin, Sr., was a grad-
uate of medicine from the University of Edinboro, Scotland, and in his early
professional life was a surgeon in the British navy. After some years of this
service he engaged in private practice in the city of Newry, Ireland, and later
in life emigrated with his whole family to the United States. His wife, whose
maiden name was Anne Moore, was of the same stock as the British general,
Sir John Moore, who fell at Corunna, Spain, and whose memory is so beauti-
fully embalmed in Wolfe’s poem, entitled “ Burial of Sir John Moore.”
Dr. James Magoffin, Jr., their eldest son, was born in the city of Newry
in March, 1798. He received a classical education in his native city, studied
medicine under the direction of his father, and graduated as a doctor of med-
icine in 1820 from the University of Glasgow, Scotland. He immigrated to the
United States in company with his father’s family in 1821, coming over as sur-
geon of the vessel in which they sailed, intending, however, to go to the Brit-
ish West Indies to practice his profession. After landing at Quebec the family
took passage up the St. Lawrence and across Lake Ontario, visiting on their
way the falls of Niagara, and reached Mercer in July of the same year.
Their purpose in coming to Mercer was to visit Ebenezer Magoffin, Esq. , an
elder brother of Dr. James Magoffin, Sr., who had immigrated to America
near the close of the last century. The uncle persuaded the young doctor to
abandon his idea of going to the West Indies and to locate in Mercer, painting
to him in glowing colors the wonderful future that was about to open to the
town and county. Seduced from his original intention by the eloquence of his
uncle, the young doctor located in Mercer, and immediately succeeded in
acquiring a large practice. After a short stay in Mercer the rest of the family
re'sumed their journey to Kentucky to visit the twin brother of the elder doc-
tor, Beriah Magoffin, Esq. , who had immigrated to this country and settled in
Kentucky about the time his brother Ebenezer settled in Mercer. Dr. James
Magoffin, Jr., had diligently practiced his profession in Mercer for about five
years, when he married Miss Grace Elizabeth Mitcheltree, only daughter of
Dr. William Mitcheltree, late of Dublin, Ireland. The children of this union
were: W. J., now deceased; Elizabeth Anne, also deceased, wife of Rev.
W. H. French, who is now pastor of the First United Presbyterian Church,
of Cincinnati; John M. , a resident of Mercer; Sarah J. , a maiden lady of Mer-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
677
«er; Matilda Grace, deceased, wife of the late Rev. W. C. Jackson, who at the
time of his death was pastor of the Fourth United Presbyterian Church of
Philadelphia; Beriah, an attorney of Mercer; Montrose M., a physician and
surgeon practicing in Mercer; Maria, a maiden lady of Mercer; Amanda, de-
ceased, and H. M. , the youngest, who is a farmer in Findley Township. Dr.
James Magoffin practiced his profession with great energy and skill, and gave
his attention strictly to his vocation, attending all classes, the rich and the
poor alike. He never failed when any of his patients were unable to procure
necessary medicines, or were liable to suffer from lack of nourishing food, to
supply their wants. No physician in this part of the country ever practiced
over the extent of territory he did. It was no uncommon occurrence for him
to be called into all the surrounding counties, and even into the State of Ohio,
and if he had not been blessed with a line physique, indomitable will and
nerve, he never could have stood the long rides on horseback he frequently had
to undergo. He was likewise a public-spirited citizen, and always responded
liberally to every enterprise calculated to benefit the town or community. He
established the first drug store of any consequence in Mercer, and perhaps the
first in Mercer County. The three-story brick building at the northeast cor-
ner of the public square, known as the Magoffin Drug Store Block, he built in
1839, which was the first building of the kind erected in Mercer, and at the
time was regarded as quite an imposing edifice. He donated the ground and
furnished much of the means to build the First United Presbyterian Church
of Mercer, of which congregation he and his wife were long communicants.
He practiced medicine for nearly fifty years, and died November 25, 1879, at
the advanced age of eighty-two, honored and respected by the whole com-
munity in which he had so long lived. His wife, who was a lady of great re-
finement and adorned with all the virtues that define the true woman, had pre-
ceded him to the grave, having died March 2, 1873.
Dr. Beriah Magoffin was also born in the city of Newry, Ireland, about the
year 1800. He came with his father’s family to this country, as already stated,
in the year 1821, and settled first in the State of Kentucky. There he studied
medicine, graduating from the Transylvania University, located at Lexington,
when that institution had on the roll of its professors the names of such emi-
nent physicians and surgeons as Daniel Drake and Benjamin Winslow Dudley.
After receiving his degree he came to the State of Pennsylvania, and located
for the practice of his profession in the town of Harmony, Butler County. He
then succeeded in building up a large and lucrative practice, and established a
fine reputation as a physician. In 1840 he was united in marriage to Miss
Amanda Patterson, daughter of Robert Patterson, Esq., of Mercer, and shortly
after removed from Harmony to Mercer, where he continued to live until the
time of his death in August, 1877. Several children were born to him and his
wife, but only one, James, lived to attain manhood. His wife Amanda died
in 186-, and in 1867 he was again married, to Miss Maria Mitcheltree, of Pitts-
burgh, who survives him. His son James, in whom he had centered such high
hopes, died in the fall of 1876. Dr. Beriah Magoffin did not practice his pro-
fession with any great energy after he came to Mercer to live. For the first
ten or twelve years he took charge of his brother’s drug store, preferring
that kind of practice to the hardships incident to horseback riding through the
country. He was a man of generous impulses, and although not possessed,
of the same positive, robust qualities as his brother James, he always com-
manded the respect of the community as a man of sterling character.
The lives of both the Dr. Magoffins, James and Beriah, did honor to our
common humanity, and they died leaving behind them memories which their
friends will never cease to treasure as precious legacies.
678
HISTOKY OP MERCEB COUNTY.
Hon. S. R. Mason, attorney, was born March 1, 1827, in the portion of
Mercer County that is now included in Lawrence County, son of Robert
and Matilda (McKinley) Mason, natives of Ireland and Washington County,
Penn. , respectively, and were the parents of seven children, two of whom sur-
vive: S. R. and William W. Our subject was educated in the country schools,
private instructions by David Martin, a minister of the United Presbyterian
Church, and in Allegheny College, at Meadville, graduating from that institu-
tion in 1849. He read law with Hon. John Hoge, of Mercer, was admitted to
the bar in 1852, and subsequently formed a partnership with Hon. Samuel
Griffith, which firm became one of the best known in Western Pennsylvania.
He was married in 1853 to Miss Sarah J. Smith, daughter of Joseph and
Elizabeth Smith, one of the pioneer families of Mercer. Mr. Mason’s union
gave him seven children: Lizzie, Robert, MaryM. , Joseph, Samuel R. , W. C.
and Jennie A. Mr. Mason was elected district attorney for Mercer County in
1854, and was one of the commissioners who built the union schools of Mer-
cer. In 1878 he was nominated and made the race for governor of Pennsyl-
vania on the Greenback ticket. Since then he has thrown his influence with
the Republicans. He is one of the trustees of the insane asylum of Warren,
was a director of the New Castle & Franklin Railroad, and is now the attorney
for the B. , N. Y. & P. and Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroads. He
and wife are members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
G. W. McBride, the present district attorney of Mercer County, was born
May 15, 1849. His parents were David and Margaret (McCandless) McBride.
His father was born in Ireland, and immigrated to this country when a boy,
and was married to Margaret McCandless in 1842. After their marriage the
parents settled on a farm in Pine Township, this county, where they died some
years since. The subject of this sketch was one of eleven children, of whom
eight are still living. He was educated in the common schools of the neigh-
borhood where he resided, and also in Grove City Academy and Westminster
College. He taught school successfully for a number of years in Mercer and
Lawrence Counties, and, after reading law in the office of Hon. S. H. Miller,
was admitted to the Mercer County bar in 1882. He was nominated and
elected district attorney of this county, by the Republican party, in 1887. He
married Maggie J. , a daughter of W. H. and N. J. McCoy, of Grove City, by
whom he has two children: Quincy A. and Paul A. He is a member of the
A. O. U. W., of Mercer Lodge, and has been a member of the borough coun-
cil. He is a representative of a self-made man, having worked himself up
from the position of a country school-teacher to the honorable and useful posi-
tion which he now occupies.
Thomas McBdeney, stock dealer, was born March 25, 1819, in Ireland,
son of John and Mary (Frances) McBurney, natives of Ireland, and who
immigrated to Mercer County in 1828. James McBurney, a brother of John,
opened up a mercantile store in Mercer in a smoke-house which stood on the
site of John M. Magoffin’s present residence. This smoke-house was the prop-
erty of an Irishman named Samuel Thompson, who at that time was conduct-
ing a hotel near by, known as the Thompson House. He retired from the
business about 1848, and died in 1855 or 1856. He was the father of the fol-
lowing children: Mary J. , married Frank Baskin; Celia, married Thomas R.
Sheriff; Sarah A., married Rev. John Armstrong; Matilda, married David
Mourer; Rebecca, married W. J. McKean. John McBurney engaged in farm-
ing when locating in the county. He followed that business in Springfield,
Lackawannock and Jackson Townships until 1867, when he died, his wife
having preceded him to the grave about two weeks. He was the father of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
679
eight children: Ann, died in Erie while the family was on their way to this
county; Celia, married Joseph Taylor; Mary, married Kev. Miller Wallace;
Sarah, married Theopolus McDowell; Jane, married David Proudfit; Thomas,
James and John. Our subject began for himself on reaching his majority
upon a rented farm, and later became the owner of land and an extensive dealer
in cattle and sheep, buying them in Mercer County, driving and soiling them
in the eastern markets. He was married in 1841 to Rosannah, daughter of
Hugh McKean, and was blessed with four children: Nancy, married B. A.
Ride; John F., married Sarah Maskry; Mary, married Fred Squires, and Will-
iam T. Mrs. McBurneydied December 29, 1873, and he was again married, to
Sarah Moore, daughter of John and Isabella Moore. Mr. McBurney was
nominated by the Democrats for sheriff of Mercer County in 1866, and was
defeated by a small majority.
Thomas W. McClain, foreman of the Western Press, was born in Pittsburgh,
Penn., November 27, 1854. His father, David McClain, was born in County
Downe, Ireland, in 1826, was a shoemaker by trade, and died August 6, 1877,
the father of six children. His mother, Sarah (McKeown) McClain, ■was born
in County Antrim, Ireland, in 1828, and is still living in Sharon. Our sub-
ject was educated in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Sharon. He began the
printer’s trade in the office of the Sharon Times in 1868. He was the editor
of this paper at the time of its suspension in 1880. He also published a
small paper in Sharon for a few months, and was editor of the Vindicator, of
Hubbard, Ohio, for nearly one year. In 1880 he joined Capt. George R.
Guss in the publication of the Chester County Democrat at West Chester,
Penn. In 1882, a few months prior to the death of Hon. William S. Garvin,
he came to Mercer to take charge of the Western Press, which in the fall of
that year passed into other hands. He has been since then connected wdth
that paper. He was married in Sharon July 5, 1877, to Mary A. Zahniser,
born in 1857 in Hickory Township, this county, daughter of John and Ann
Zahniser. By this union he has has six children: Alice, Mary, John, Lidia,
Thomas and Robert. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., K. of P., and E.
A. U. , and is a Democrat.
S. H. McCleeey, county superintendent of schools, w^as born July 20,
1856, to James and Lucinda (Snyder) McCleery. The father was born in
Mercer County in 1834, and his father, Samuel, was a native of Ireland, and
immigrated to America, with his parents and brothers and sisters, at the age of
eighteen years. Samuel settled near Sheakleyville, where James now resides,
and is the father of the following children: S. H. ; J. S., a dentist at
Beatrice, Neb. , who taught school a number of years, read dentistry in Green-
ville, practiced at Burg Hill and Hubbard, Ohio, married Joanna Calvin and
in 1885 went to Beatrice; William E. ; Catharine; Martha; Mary E., married
Newton Vanmeter; Frank A., Hugh N. , JohnE. and Emma. S. H. McCleery
attended the common schools, academy of New Lebanon, Sheakleyville, Grove
City College and Edinboro Normal, Erie County, Penn. He graduated at the
last named in 1882. He began teaching at the age of nineteen, and followed
that vocation for six winters in country schools, one year in Utica, Venango
Co., Penn., and one year at Sheakleyville. He was elected county superin-
tendent of Mercer County in 1884, and re-elected in 1887. He was married
to Silvia J., daughter of Joseph and Mary Inffeld, of New Vernon Township.
By her he has one daughter, Mary E. He is a member of the Baptist organi-
zation of Sheakleyville. Mr. McCleery has worked himself up to the high
position he now holds by his own efforts. His father was wounded in the war
while serving in Company G, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Pennsylvania
680
HISTOKY OP MEBCER COUNTY.
Volunteers, and was always in limited circumstances. Consequently our sub-
ject was compelled to make bis own way through his educational studies.
He usually spent his vacation during the summer months in the harvest
fields, cradling wheat and pitching hay. In politics he is a Republican.
J. W. McCullough, farmer, was born March 17, 1821, one mile north of
Mercer. William McCullough, the grandfather of our subject, was a native
of the north of Scotland, and immigrated to Washington County, Penn., in
1784, where he remained until the spring of 1794, at which time he, in com-
pany with his two eldest sons, came to Mercer County and located on land
now in East Lackawannock Township, to where he, in the year 1796, brought
his entire family. In July, 1833, he died. His children were: William,
John, Alexander, Mary, Jane, Nancy and Elizabeth. John, the father of our
subject, was married to Mary Wright, who came from Cumberland County,
Penn., and his children were: Margaret, William, Mary, George, John W. and
Samuel. The father died in August, 1854, and his wife died in January,
1842. Both were original members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mer-
cer. John W. McCullough was educated principally in the old Mercer
Academy, his teacher being D. B. Cook. He was reared on a farm, and at
the age of eighteen years he began clerking in a store. He was married in
1848 to Mary Patterson, by whom he had two children: William W., married
Miss E. P. Horne, and has one child, John; the other died in infancy. Mr.
McCullough was elected a justice of the peace eight terms, was county poor
director in 1860, and was one term burgess of Mercer. His wife is a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Republican.
Arcus McBermitt, deceased, was born in what is now Findley Township,
Mercer Co. , Penn. His father died when he was very young, and his early
life was spent on the farm where he was born, attending the country schools
and the old famous Mercer Academy. Later he became a student at Colum-
bia College, Tennessee, in which State he also taught school. Returning to
Butler County, his family’s home, he read law with Charles Sullivan, a
prominent attorney of Butler, and was admitted to the bar of Butler County
in 1849. He was admitted to the bar of his native county September 1, 1851,
and in 1852 he was elected county treasurer, and served with credit for a
term of two years. From this time until he was chosen president judge he con-
tinued to prosecute his chosen profession with much energy and success. He
formed a partnership with S. H. Miller in 1872, which continued until 1874,
when he was elected to the office of president judge. The Mercer Western
Press of January 1, 1884, says: “In 1882 he was a prominent candidate
before the Democratic State Convention for the nomination for j udge of the
supreme court. The excellent record which he had made as one of the
best common pleas judges in the State was known all over the commonwealth,
and it was generally thought by the most careful politicians that he would
secure the nomination. He would have done so without a doubt had not the
complications arising from nominating Robert E. Pattison for governor
worked against his interests. He, however, stood next in the list to Judge
Clark, who received the nomination.” He was married September 28, 1865,
to Miss Elizabeth Hoge, daughter of John and Rebecca (Smith) Hoge.
John Hoge, whose father and childless uncle, John Hoge, presented to
Mercer the land upon which it is built, was born in Washington, Penn.;
graduated from Washington College; began practicing law in Mercer, and
married Rebecca, daughter of Joseph Smith, in 1835. His fine scholarly
attainments and brilliant mental endowment made him a man of mark, and it
is the pleasure of such men as Simon Cameron, Charles R. Buckalew, George
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
681
Plumer Smith and others to relate anecdotes of his wit and genins. He died
suddenly of apoplexy in 1854, and was the father of the following children:
Elizabeth (who became the wife of A. McDermitt), David L. (who resides in
Illinois), Annie (who married A. B. McCartney), and three others who are
deceased. The judge’s union blessed him with one daughter, Jane Hoge
McDermitt. He was stricken with sudden illness on Monday, November 19,
brought on by too close application to study and the duties of his profession
and position, and died November 30. 1883. His funeral took place the
following Sunday, and was the largest ever seen in Mercer, the number
present being estimated at from 3,000 to 4,000 persons. The Mercer
bar passed the following memorial, which was read by Quincy A.
Gordon at the funeral ceremonies : ‘ ‘ The members of the bar of Mercer
County, called together by the sudden death of the Hon. Arcus McDermitt,
presitlent judge of our coiirts, deem it a proper occasion to pay a suitable and
truthful tribute to the memory of our late professional and official chief.
Judge McDeimitt’s life was devoted to his profession. Endowed with
generous and varied gifts, he was above all things a lawyer. He was original
in his cast of mind. Everything he said and everything he wrote was full of
the individuality of the man. He was never commonplace. To those
qualities he added the fniits of industry, unremitting and life-long labor.
His capacity for work seemed to be withoirt limit, and continued until his life
went out. “His eye was not dim nor his natural force abated” until the
shadow of the death angel literally fell upon him. So accustomed were we
to see him vigorous and strong, grasping the duties of life with a firm hand
and a keen zest, that we were startled and shocked when we realize that he is
dead, and that it is less than a fortnight since he occupied his place on the
bench. On this sad occasion it is pleasure to be able to say that in addition to
mental gifts, such as are rarely bestowed and still more rarely improved.
Judge McDermitt possessed qualities of heart which endeared him to a large
circle of personal acquaintances. He was sternly and scrupulously honest.
No one ever suggested or suspected that he had ever touched a dollar that
was not honestly his own. He was sympathetic; he was the friend of the
unfoi'tunate, and always resolved all doubts in favor of the largest liberty of
the citizen. It is not panegyric, it is simple justice, to say that an able jurist,
a just judge and an honest man has fallen this day. And while thus giving
expression to our ajrpreciation of the high character and worth of Judge
McDermitt as a lawyer, judge and man, we desire to tender our sympathy to
his family in their sore bereavement. M e would further recommend that this
tribute to the memory of our departed chief be spread upon the minutes of
the court, that they may be read at the funeral services, that a copy be pre-
sented to his bereaved family, and be furnished the press of Mercer County
for publication.” Signed by S. Griffith, B. Magoffin, Edwin W. Jackson,
Thomas Tanner and A. F. Henlein. On the same occasion the Hon. John
Trunkey, late of the supreme court, delivered an eloquent and heartfelt
tribute to the deceased, whom he knew so well from a long and intimate
relation. He said: “I never heard while practicing beside him, or when
presiding in the courts of this county, where he was engaged during my
administration, on one side of almost every important case that was tried, that
he ever exacted an exorbitant fee, but I frequently knew that he was ready
to lend his best service for the defense of him who was poor and unable to
pay a farthing; that no poor man, as far as I knew, ever resorted to him for
counsel and assistance and was denied. I knew him to have been a true friend,
a friend without deceit, for if he ceased to be your friend you knew it, for
682
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
that was the nature of the man. I never knew of his attempting to despoil
anybody in a business transaction; I don’t think he was ever known by the
brethren of the profession to resort to a trick. Earnest as he was in behalf
of his client, making the case his own, he sought to win upon its merits. He
sympathized with the poor, the widow and the orphan, the weak in their con-
tests with the strong; neither money nor power, nor personal feeling, rested
his judgment; he was a terror of evil doers, and the hope of the innocent;
with all his mind and heart he administered justice according to the law of
the land.”
William McElheny (deceased). — William McElheny was born in Shavers
Creek, Huntingdon County, Penn., about the year 1801. He came to Mercer
County in 1831, and bought a farm in Cool Spring Township from Aaron
Hackney, who was the builder of the old Whistler Hotel. After four years
at farm life Mr. McElheny, in company with Thomas Fairman, opened up a
small store in a building on the present site of the F. & M. N. Bank. Two years
later our subject bought the stock of goods and moved- them to a room where
now stands Montgomery’s drug store. Three years later he removed to the
corner where the Western Press was issued for many years. In four years he
sold out and bought a lot, with an orchard and a small frame hut, on the site
of which is the Magoffin drug store corner. On this lot is to be found a well
sixty feet deep, the last thirty feet having been cut through solid stone. It is
not exactly known who planted the orchard or dug the well. It is thought,
however, that a Mr. Sample was the man. Mr. McElheny helped to build the
brick block that now stands on the old orchard spot, where he lived until his
death, which occurred in 1865. He married Mary Smartt, of Huntingdon
County, and brought her to this county by team. He and Andrew Patterson
used to go to Philadelphia on horseback for goods. His union gave him
seven children: Letitia, a maiden lady of Mercer; William C. , was a minister
of the Union Presbyterian Church; John S., was a farmer; Elizabeth, Mary,
Margaret and Frances, died when young. William C. married Alice Walsh, a
native of Ireland, and who came to America when twenty years old. By her
he had two children: Mary F. (married John B. Morrow) and William G.
(died December 9, 1879). Mr. McElheny served as justice of the peace, and
was interested in the schools of the county. He helped to build a church
where the water- works tank now stands. He was a member of the United
Presbyterian Church, and died in the faith of that organization. His only
daughter, Letitia, is a resident of Mercer, and a worthy Christian lady.
A. H. McEleath, ex-prothonotary and attorney, was born in Beaver Coun-
ty, Penn. His father. Dr. John McElrath, was a native of Ireland, and
immigrated to Beaver County, Penn., in 1822, with his father, Archibald.
John and his father came to Mercer County, and John subsequently returned
to Beaver County. In 1852 the Doctor settled in Jackson Township, where
he died, February 24, 1872. He married Jane Brandon, a native of Pine
Township, this county, by whom he had the following children: James B. (a
physician at Jackson Center), Archibald H. , Mary E., Ida N. (who married
A. M. Clawson). The father took his medical course at Cleveland and Jeffer-
son Medical Colleges, and practiced successfully for many years. Archibald
H. attended the common schools, Mercer Union School, Beaver Academy and
Alleghany College, at Meadville, Penn. After teaching a number of terms,
including two years in the Freeland Seminary, Montgomery County, Penn.,
and one year as principal of the public schools at W ashington, N. J. , he, in
1870, began reading law, and was admitted to the Mercer County bar in 1873,
and practiced, except when employed as clerk in public offices, until elected
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
683
prothonotary of Mercer County, which position he tilled with credit. He
was deputy under SherifP McClure, and clerk in the prothonotary office from
1879 to 1882. He enlisted in the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia,
and served until the regiment was mustered out. He was married to Miss
Mary, daughter of Josiah McJunkin, of Mercer, by whom he has one son,
Archibald H. He is a Republican, and he and his wife are members of the
First Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
James McKean (deceased). — James McKean was born in Ireland in 1794,
and immigrated to Amerca in 1818. He settled for a time in Cumberland
County, and in 1820 came to Mercer, bought property and went back for his
family, consisting of his mother, brothers and sisters, whose names were: Cath-
arine, married Henry Snowden, of Pittsburgh; Margaret, married James Mc-
Clure; Jane; William, who studied law with Hon. John Banks, was associate
judge one term, justice of the peace five years, started the independent Dem-
ocratic paper mentioned elsewhere, and died in Meadville; Samuel, who went
to Ohio soon after 1821, and there died, and John, the youngest, died recently
in Mei’cer. Archibald and Sarah McKean, the parents of the above named
children, are dead, the former passing away at Newville, Cumberland County,
and the latter in this county. They were Presbyterians and of Scotch -Irish
extraction. James, whose name heads this memoir, when he located in this
borough engaged in the manufacture of spinning-wheels, which he discontinued
in 1836, and took contracts on the construction of the Erie & Pennsylvania
Canal. He built the dam that raised Conneaut Lake and constructed many
aqueducts and locks. In 1843 he was elected treasurer of Mercer County, and
in 1848 was chosen sheriff, and served in these important offices with credit.
He was appointed postmaster of Mercer by President Grant, and served eight
years. He married Elizabeth Simpson, daughter of James Simpson, who set-
tled about the year 1796 on the farm in Cool Spring Township now owned by
S. H. Miller. By this union he had seven children : Prudence, married George
Lyon, and died in California, whither she moved in 1850; A. J., Catharine,
married John P, Sheriff, and died in 1887 ; Rebecca J. , married James R. Reed,
a jeweler of Pittsburgh; The others died in infancy. He associated himself
with the Methodist Episcopal Church in Ireland and was a member sixty-five
years. He died in 1884. His wife, Elizabeth, was received into the Enited
Presbyterian Church by Rev. Dinwiddie. He was married a second time, to
Eleanor Canon, of Columbiana County, Ohio. By her he had three children;
James, Caroline and Ella. James was first lieutenant of Company G, One
Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was killed at Cedar
Creek on the day of Sheridan’s famous ride; Caroline married A. C. Ray, of
the editorial staff of the Dispatch and Republican', Ella married Thomas
Moore, and died in Colorado.
W. J. McKean, insurance agent, was born September 3, 1834, in Lawrence
County, Penn. His father, William McKean, was a native of the same county,
and was a son of Hugh McKean, who was born in Ireland and immigrated to
what is now Lawrence County, then Mercer County, about the year 1774, and
died in his ninety-eighth year. Patrick Rice, the father of Anna Rice, the
mother of W. J. McKean, emigrated from Scotland and settled in what is
now Findley Township, this county, in 1785. He was a cabinet-maker and
died a farmer. William McKean was one of nine children: James, John,
Hugh, Furgeson, Elizabeth, Muncy, Jean, Jane and William. Patrick Rice
was the father of the following children: Robert, John, Templeton, Samuel,
Anna, Rebecca, Margaret, Maria, Esther, Eliza and Mary. William and
Anna McKean were the parents of; Hugh, a farmer in Iowa; Esther, married
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
C8i
Parker Simison, lives in Lawrence County, and W. J. The mother of our
subject is living in her eightieth year. W. J. McKean was educated in the
common schools, and at the age of twenty -five began the mercantile business
at Mercer. Prior to his embarking in the mercantile business he was employed
as a clerk by Burwell, Beach & Co. for eight years. This prepared him well
for taking the responsibility of managing an enterprise for himself. He did
business under the firm name of McKean & Porter for six years, when he with-
drew and entered into the woolen factory then in Mercer. Later he was
engaged in the lumber trade, after which he was again interested in the mer-
cantile business with a Mr. McKinney for about eighteen months. In 1870
he entered into his present business, that of real estate and fire insurance,
which he has continued and is doing a large amount of business. He was
married October 11, 1859, to Miss Bebecca McBurney, a daughter of James
and Mary A. McBurney, by whom he has four children: Benjamin S., Eva C. ,
Jennie and Matilda. He has been school director, a member of the borough
council, burgess one term, and is serving his ninth year as assessor of Mercer.
He has been secretary of the Mercer Central Agricultural Society. He enlisted
in Company P, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers in June, 1863, and served
sixty days. He is a member of the Royal Templars and E. A. U. , is a Repub-
lican, and, with his wife, belongs to the Second Lnited Presbyterian Church.
J. S. McKean, postmaster, was born in Cool Spring Township, September
28, 1840, to John and Nancy McKean. The father was born in Ireland, and
immigrated to America with his parents in 1818, and first settled in Cumberland
County. Archibald, the father of John, had the following children: James,
IVilliam, Samuel, Margaret, Catharine and Jane. John McKean came to Mer-
cer in 1820, and after learning the brick mason’s trade built the house where
Mrs. Armstrong’s boarding house is conducted. He also built many others,
and followed that business until 1869, when he retired, principally because of
ill health. He was a sufferer for many years, but was finally relieved by death
on June 9, 1888. His widow survives, and blessed him with the following
children: Archie, Anna, married David Farrell; J. S., William T., JohnH. ,
Sarah, married M. M. Veach; Agnes, married John Asper; Margaret, married
J. Wk Baird; H. N. and Kate S. The parents worshiped at the Second
United Presbyterian Church. J. S. McKean was educated in the common
schools, and from the age of fifteen to twenty-two was a clerk for A. J. McKean
in his drug store. He then enlisted in Company A, One Hundi-ed and Thirty-
ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was discharged in June, 1865. On his
return he resumed clerking until 1868, when he engaged in the grocery bus-
iness. He was appointed postmaster by President Cleveland in 1886. He mar-
ried Nancy J. Lindsey in 1869, by whom he has, Alice, his assistant postmas-
ter, Irene and Robert L. He has been a member of the town council, is a Dem-
ocrat, and with his wife belongs to the Second United Presbyterian Church. ^
Robert McKee, lumber dealer, was born January 6, 1822, in Butler
County, Penn. His parents, James and Jane McKee, were natives, the father
of Ireland and the mother of Juniata County, Penn. The father immigrated
to Mercer County in 1798, and settled in what is now Liberty Township, on
land that is now owned by the Ubers. He removed to Butler County before
the War of 1812, where he was subsequently appointed a justice of the peace
by the governor, and became thoroughly identified with the development of
that county. His death occurred in 1847, and that of his widow in 1863.
Their children were: Thomas, John, James, Hugh, David, Robert, Hiram,
Nancy, Martha, Jane and Letitia. The parents were members of the Seceder
Church. Robert was educated in the log-cabin schools of Mercer and Butler
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
686
Counties. He began to learn the carpenter’s trade in 1840 with Johnson
Smith, an old settler of Liberty Township, with whom he worked for three
years. He followed his trade for several years. He was married in 1848 to
Caroline V., a daughter of James Kobinson, of Berkley County, Va. By her
he has four children: Amanda J., E. L., S. E. and Mary. He settled in
Liberty Township in 1849, and engaged in the mercantile business until 1856,
when he moved to what was then Irishtown, now Pardoe, where he continued
in the same business until the commencement of the late war, when he moved
to a farm and kept the post-office, then known as Irishtown, for three years.
In connection with his other business he dealt extensively in cattle for about
twenty years. In 1881 he engaged in the lumber business, and in 1883 moved
to Mercer, where he still continues in the same business. While on the farm
he served a term as justice of the peace. He has been a member of the State
Board of Agriculture for eight years, and was one of the organizers of the
Mercer Central Agricultural Society, of which he has been both president and
director. For ten years he has served as a director of the Pymatuning Fire
Insurance Company, and is now its treasurer. He has always been a strong
Republican.
De. S. S. Mehaed (deceased). — The following appeared in the Mercer
Hepuhlican a few days after the death of Dr. Mehard: “ On last Sunday morn-
ing about half-past one o’clock Dr. S. S. Mehard, tired of the struggle of life,
calmly heard and answered the summons that called him from its battle. The
family were astir, but he knew the significance of the hour better than they.
As his son entered the room and raised his father from the couch, the latter
extended his hand and quietly whispered, ‘ My son, this is death. ’ As soon
as his sister was called he appeared contented, relapsing into a slumber so soft
and natural that the watchers did not know whether it was the repose of sleep
or repose of death until the breathing ceased. Dr. Mehard had been gradu-
ally declining for years. A bronchial affection induced him to lay aside the
practice of his profession a decade ago, but such was his vigor that he daily
sat in his office and refused to become an invalid. A week ago, on Monday
last, he parted from his son James, and the news of his death that followed
Tuesday evening was a greater shock than his weakness could support. He
retired to rest on Tuesday night never to rise again. Dr. S. S. Mehard was
a public man, and as such occupies a place in our local history. He was the
son of James Mehard, who emigrated from Larne, County of Antrim, Ireland,
to this State, in 1818. He was a millwright by trade, and although his edu-
cation was such as he gave himself, he had cultivated a mind that was naturally
strong and sound, to a degree that enabled him to exert a wide influence. His
son, Samuel S., was born in Harmony, Butler County, in 1822. He received
an exceptional education in those days at the old Darlington Academy, and
the Western University at Pittsburgh. Studious in his habits and ambitious,
he began the study of medicine with Dr. Mowry, of Allegheny. Thence he
went to the Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, where he was graduated
in 1847. Coming back to Butler County he practiced at Sunbury for five
years, and then again returned to take an extra course in Philadelphia. In
1853, on the decease of Dr. Baskin, Dr. Mehard came to this county. Thor-
oughly grounded in the science of his profession he gained and held a large
practice. He was a true lover of his art, kept abreast of the times and
enjoyed a superior reputation as a physician. Having secured a competence,
however, he was content to establish his son James in his position, and gradu-
ally shifted the burden of his practice to the latter’s able shoulders, until he
at length retired from practice altogether. His is the oft repeated tale of
39
686
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
liiiman existence. He lived a busy, useful life, and made himself a name.
To-day he sleeps with his fathers. Glad to sleep, for he sleeps the sleep ‘ He
giveth His beloved. ’ ’ ’
James Walkee Mehaed, M. D. , deceased, was born in Allegheny City,
Penn., April 17, 1848, and was the eldest son of Dr. Samuel S. Mehard, who
is mentioned elsewhere. In 1853 he came with his father’s family to Mercer.
He attended the Mercer public schools until 1865, when he entered Westmin-
ster College, from which institution he graduated in 1869. He began the
study of medicine under the direction of his father, and was graduated from
the Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1872. He entered upon the
practice of his profession with his father, and continued to practice medicine
until the time of his death, which occiu’red September 25, 1883. He left a
wife and three children. The Mercer Republican of September 27, 1883, con-
tained the following in referring to his death. “ Thoroughly trained, keen of
perception, sound in judgment, fertile in resource, bold in action, he knew the
course to follow and had confidence to follow it. Success attended him in all
his operations, and to-day, though only thirty-five, he leaves vacant the presiden-
tial chairs of board of pension and medical association of the county. High
strung, at times almost imperious, he had a sensitive nature and a warm heart.
He had his faults; who has not? But he had virtues that made him tenderly
beloved by those who learned to know him, and abilities that snatched his
memory from obli vion. In this short and incomplete career he has wrought a
work that will live after him. It shows the design of a master mind, and,
half done, the ruin speaks eloquently of man’s soaring ambition and the van-
ity of human aims. Neither in remembrance nor spirit will he be buried. ”
‘ ‘ For now he lives in fame though not in life. ’ ’
S. S. Mehaed, president judge of Mercer County, was born December 18,
1849, in Sunbuiy, Butler Co., Penn. His father. Dr. S. S. Mehard, is men-
tioned elsewhere. The judge received his literary education in the Mercer
schools and Westminster College, entering that institution in 1866, from
which he graduated in 1869. He then registered as a law student under
Hon. John Trunkey, late of the supreme bench of Pennsylvania. He was
under Judge Trunkey’ s tuition until September, 1872, when he was admitted
to the bar, and associated himself with Hon. J ames A. Stranahan, and re-
mained in that connection until he sailed on a tour through England, Ireland,
Scotland and Germany in May, 1874. He spent some time as a student of
jurisprudence at the University of Heidelberg, Germany, after which he con-
tinued his tour of the Continent, and returned home in the summer of 1875.
He resumed his law practice with Mr. Stranahan until December 8, 1883,
when he was appointed by Gov. Pattison president judge of Mercer County,
to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Judge A. McDermitt. He held this
position until January, 1885, when he tcok the oath of office by virtue of his
election to the same position. He was married July 1, 1880, to Ida Augusta
Brown, daughter of the late Judge George H. Brown, of Somerville, N. J.
Mrs. Mehard died May 29, 1883, leaving one son, Churchill Brown Mehard.
The Judge is a Democrat and a member of the Second United Presbyterian
Church, and one of Mercer County’s most worthy citizens.
Hon. S. H. Millee, attorney, was born in Cool Spring Township, Mercer
Co., Penn., and is a son of William Miller, one of the pioneers of this county.
He attended the common schools of his native township until he was twelve
years of age, when he entered Westminster College, New Wilmington, Penn.,
from which institution he was graduated in 1860. He became the owner of
the Mercer Dispatch in 1862, and edited and published that journal until 1870.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
687
He read law with Hon. Samuel Griffith, and was admitted to the Mercer bar
in the fall of 1870. He at once entered upon the practice of his chosen pro-
fession, and to-day ranks among the leading attorneys in Northwestern Penn-
sylvania. He was elected in 1880 as Congressman for the Twenty-sixth Penn-
sylvania District, composed of Mercer, Butler and Crawford Counties, and
served in the Forty-seventh and Forty-eight Congresses, from 1881 to March
4, 1885, with credit and ability.
J. C. Millek, attorney, was born October 27, 1855, in Wolf Creek Town-
ship, this county. His parents, James and Lodusky (Baker) Miller, were born,
the former in Findley Township and the latter in Venango County, Penn.
The father died in January, 1888. Our subject attended the common schools
until he was fourteen years of age, when he went to a select school at Grove
City. He taught in the common schools for eleven years, beginning at the
age of fifteen. In 1874 he entered Westminster College at New Wilmington,
Lawrence Co., Penn. He began reading law with James A. Stranahan in
1878. Judge Mehard was also one of his instructors in the study of his chosen
profession. In 1882 he was emjfioyed by County Prothonotary S. C. Simon-
ton, Jr., where he remained until May 1, 1885. February 14, 1884, he was
admitted to the bar of Mercer County, and has practiced ever since. During
William Jack’s term as county clerk Mr. Miller acted as second deputy clerk.
He was the Democratic nominee for the office of prothonotary of Mercer
County in 1888. He has always taken a deep interest in politics, having been
chairman and secretary of the Democratic county committee.' He is serving
as a member of the school board.
William R. Montgomeky, druggist, a son of Charles and Elizabeth (Cus-
tard) Montgomery, was born in 1836 in Mercer County, and was reared and
educated at Sheakleyville, Penn. Early in life he entered the employ of T.
G. Van Lew, a merchant of Sheakleyville. In 1862 he was appointed county
commissioner’s clerk, filling the position for some six years. He then engaged
in his present business. He was elected in 1880 a member of the State Leg-
islature. He has also filled the office of councilman of Mercer. He married
in 1858 Miss M. E. Powell, of Crawford County, Penn., who died in 1876,
leaving three children: Alexander L. R. , Charles L. and Minnie A. He mar-
ried for his second wife Miss Rebecca Nelson, and by this marriage they have
one child, Nellie. Mr. Montgomery is a Republican.
A. B. Moon, hotel keeper, wa§ born in Mercer County, January 25, 1842,
to George and Catharine (Crills) Moon, of German extraction. The father was
a stone cutter the greater part of his active life. He helped to build the old
stone jail at Mercer, and also the stone house where the Robinson family now
reside. The parents had nine children: Elizabeth, married Samuel Boston;
Lewis, married Mary Hosack; George W., married Mary Paxson; David, mar-
ried Miss Sarah Jane Black; Nancy, married William Ringer; Sarah Jane,
married Hugh Gordon; A. B. , John, married Emma C. Webb; Cyrus, mar-
ried Sarah Bestwick. The parents were Presbyterians, and the father was a
Whig. A. B. Moon attended the country schools until he was thirteen years
of age. He then began to learn the carpenter’s trade with his brother, George,
going to school each winter until twenty-one years of age. He followed his
trade for twenty-seven years. In 1876 he built his present elegant residence
and hotel. He was married in 1867 to Catharine J. Smith, of Butler County,
by whom he has one son, S. B. Moon, who was educated at the Mercer graded
or high schools, read medicine, and is now at the Homoeopathic College of
Chicago. Mr. Moon has been a member of the town couucil. and is a Demo-
crat. He and wife and son belong to the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
688
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
George A. Morris, miller for William Houston, was born November 6,
1841, in Mercer County, Penn. His parents, George and Harriet (Winton)
Morris, are mentioned in another part of this work. Mr. Morris was educated
in the common schools, and worked while a boy with his father in a mill. In
1874 he bought a half interest in a mill then owned by his father. This he
operated until 1882, when he was employed by Mr. Houston, and two years
later he was made the head miller, which position he now holds. He was
married to Mary M. Hosack, whose family history is wriiten in another part
of this work. By his union he has one daughter, Anna M. He is a Repub-
lican, and he, wife and daughter are members of the Second United Presby-
terian Church of Mercer.
J. B. Mowry, boot and shoe dealer, was born August 23, 1851, in Mercer,
to Thomas and Ellen H. (Beatty) Mowry, natives of this county. The father
was born in 1824, and was a son of John B. Mowry. Thomas Mowry had two
children, J. B. and Mary, married W. P. Ealy. Thomas was a merchant of
Mercer for some years. J. B. Mowry was educated in the Mercer schools, and
at the age of seventeen he entered the drug store of P. E. Shipler & Co. as a
clerk. In 1871 he engaged in the boot and shoe business in Mercer, under the
firm name of J. W. Bell & Co., and in the spring of 1872 R. R. Wright be-
came his partner, who sold to Mr. Mowry in 1874. Since then he has done
business in his own name, and conducts one of the largest boot and shoe houses
in Mercer. He was married to Elda E. , a daughter of Robert Logan, by whom
he has two children, Mintie and John L. He has served in the borough
council and is a director of the Mercer schools. He is also a director of the
First National Bank of Mercer, and together with his wife belongs to the First
Presbyterian Church.
Daniel Nelson, retired farmer, was born October 1, 1815, in Huntingdon
County, Penn., to John and Margaret (Graff) Nelson, natives of the same
county. The former was of Irish extraction and the latter of German. The
parents came to Mercer County in the spring of 1837, and settled in what is
now Springfield Township. Here they bought land, on which they died.
Daniel attended the country schools of his boyhood days. At the age of twenty-
three years he was married to Mary, a daughter of George W ebb, an early settler
of his county. He took his bride to a farm of 140 acres given him by his father.
After having improved his farm he, in 1 860, sold and came to Mercer, and
bought a building which stood on the present site of the Whistler House, and
there kept hotel for five years. While thus engaged five of his children died
within thirty days with diphtheria. Their names were Nancy, Mary A. , Harriet,
Charles and Frank, and they are buried side by side in the cemetery with their
graves marked with marble slabs. The remainder of Mr. Nelson’s children
were: Margaret, married William F. Thomas; Melissa, Catharine, George,
Caroline and Rebecca. He bought and improved property in Rochester, Bea-
ver County, where he lived for two years. He was engaged in the dry goods
business at West Middlesex with a Mr. Rossi er, the stock of goods having been
removed by him from Rochester, where he' had been engaged in business for
one year. In one year Mr. Nelson bought the stock and removed it to Prime’s
Corners, and after one year there he bought the store of Adam Ketler, at Lon-
don, Springfield Township, where he remained for two years. He gave the
business to his daughter Catharine, and came again to Mercer in 1873, and
bought his present residence, where he lives a somewhat retired life. His wife is
a member of the First Presbyterian Church and he is a Republican.
John W. Nickum, liveryman, was born September 3, 1854, in Mercer.
His father, Thomas J. Nickum, was born in Emmitsburg, Frederick County,
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
689
Md., and his parents, John and Elizabeth (Weaver) Nickum, -were natives of
Maryland, Elizabeth having been born in Emniitsbnrg, Md. ; their children
were: Margaret, the wife of J. G. Kline, of Mercer, Penn. ; T. J., of Mercer;
Lewis S., of New Castle, Penn., and Joseph B. , of Mercer. John died in
Emmitsbnrg. Thomas J., the father of our subject, came to Mercer in 1842
with his uncle, Lewis Weaver, for whom he clerked in a store until 1847, when
he began to learn the printer’s trade in the office of the Mercer County Whig.
In 1851 he went back to his native town, and soon after brought his mother
and family to this place. Here his mother died September 30, 1888, at the age
of eighty-nine years. Mr. T. J. Nickum, with Hon. J. H. Bobinson, bought the
Mercer County Whig, December 11, 1854, and published the paper until De-
cember, 1860, and sold to Thomas Irwin. During the war Mr. N. was appointed
United States Assessor for Division No. 5, of the Twentieth District, and
served four years. In November, 1885, he Avas elected jury commissioner for
three years, and in February, 1886, was elected constable for Mercer, and is
serving in both offices. He was married December 25, 1851, to Hannah M. ,
daughter of Thomas Rogers, by whom he reared nine children: Ella, John W.,
Thomas, Eva, Jessie, Charles F., Minnie, George M. and Flora. He served as
deputy sheriff under Flem Smith and Penrose Leech. John W. Nickum was
educated in the Mercer schools. He began for himself in running a milk wagon
in company with Pack Kerr, who lived on the farm now owned and occupied
by B. A. Williams. In 1871 he sold his interest, and with two horses and two
buggies he began a career of a liveryman and stock dealer, which has grown until
he is known all over Northwestern Pennsylvania as the possessor pf an exten-
sive business, second to none in the country. Some time after he entered business
he erected a tine stable at a cost of $7,075, which was later destroyed by tire.
He subsequently rebuilt at a cost of $6, 500. He married Ida M. Brown, daugh-
ter of D. J. Brown, the present proprietor of the St. Cloud Hotel, of Mer-
cer. By her he has the following children: Katie B. and Nellie. He is a
member of the A. O. U. W. and K. of H. , and has served as burgess and
councilman of Mercer two terms each. He is a Republican, as is also his father.
His wife is a member of the Episcopal Church.
James Oer, lumber dealer and contractor, was born August 24, 1843,
in Jackson Township, Mercer County, son of William and Nancy (McCaf-
ferty) Orr, natives of Ireland. The parents settled in Jackson Township
in 1843, where they still reside. Their children are: John, James, Will-
iam, Jane, Hannah, Nancy (deceased), Eliza, l^eed (deceased). Belle (de-
ceased), Caroline (deceased), Reed (deceased), Mamie. Our subject was edu-
cated in the country schools of Jackson Township. He began for himself in a
coal bank at small wages. During the years 1864-65 he was employed on a
farm in California. He returned in the spring of 1866, and engaged at the
carpenter’s trade with A. B. Moon, with whom he remained for eight years.
In 1872 he was operating a store at Bethel, this coiinty. One year later he
began dealing in lumber and contracting. In 1882 he established his extensive
lumber yard at Mercer. Since 1873 he has given his entire time to his present
business, and has built many excellent buildings in Mercer County, prominent
among which are the Grove City College and Orr’s Opera House at Mercer.
He was married in 1871 to Miss Alice, daughter of William Thompson, of
Sheakleyville. By this union he has two children, Harry W. and Nina M.
He is a member of the A. O. U. W., K. of H., and, with his wife, belongs to
the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer. He is a Democrat and one of the
prosperous and enterprising citizens of Mercer County.
Robert Ore, boot and shoe dealer, was born in this county to Elias and
690
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Margaret (Holliday) Orr, natives, the father of Springfield Township, Mercer
County, and the mother of what is now Lawrence County. The mother died in
Fairview Townshi^j January 1, 1886, after having blessed her husband with eight
children; Mary (married Alexander Black, of Springfield Township), Kobert,
Beriah (lives in Fairview Township), Sarah (a maidenlady), James W., Samuel
H. , John M. and Margaret, all of whom live in Mercer County. Robert, our
subject, was educated in the common schools and was taught how to farm.
Early in the beginning of the war he responded to the call for defenders
of the Union, enlisting in Com]5any K, Sixty -third Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served nearly four years. He was slightly wounded at the battle of Bull
Run, and participated in the battle of Gettysburg and many others with the
Army of the Potomac. He was married to Alary Paden, one of six living chil-
dren of John Paden, of Delaware Township: Eliza (the wife of D. AV. Webster,
of California), Margaret (the wife of Gilbert Johnson, of Wolf Creek Town-
ship), AVilliam (a merchant of Greenville), Rebecca (the wife of George E.
Tanner, of Alercer), and Maria (married C. AV. Gamble, a merchant of Fair-
view). Further mention will be found elsewhere. Mr. and Mrs. Orr have five
living children: L. AA"., John P. , Samuel J., Olive and Robert M. Air. Orr
was elected county treasurer in 1881 and served one term. In 1885 he pur-
chased a stock of boots and shoes of AV. AAA Thorn and removed them to his
present room, where he carries on a prosperous business. He gives his own
personal attention to his business, and like all who love their vocation is suc-
cessful. He is assisted in an efficient way by his sons. He and his wife
belong to the Second Presbyterian Church, and he is a stanch Republican.
Andrew J. Palm, editor and proprietor of the Mercer Western Press, was
born in Sandy Creek Township, Alercer County, June 21, 1848. His father,
AVilliam Palm, is mentioned elsewhere. Our subject was educated at the
New Lebanon Academy, Jamestown Seminary and at the Edinboro Normal,
Erie County, Penn. , graduating at the last named in 1871. He taught school a
number of terms, and from 1878 to 1884 was county superintendent of schools
for Mercer County. He began the publication of the Teachers' Advocate in
Mercer in 1879, which was afterward consolidated with the Allegheny Teacher
of Allegheny City and the Educational Voice of Pittsburgh, and a new monthly
issued in their stead called the Educational Review. This afterward passed
into the ownership of Air. Palm, who changed it to the name of Pennsylvania
Teacher. It was sold in 1884. In the last mentioned year Mr. Palm took
charge of the Western Press, of which he is the owner of seven-eighths. He
was married in 1875 to Lena Counselman, who was born in French Creek
Township, this county, in 1857. Her father, Joel Counselman, was born in
Dauphin County, Penn., in 1820, and her mother, Sarah (Clinger) Counsel-
man, was born in Venango County, Penn., in 1824. By his union Air. Palm
has four children; Charles O., Bessie, Ida B. and Lorena. In politics he is a
Democrat.
Andrew Patterson, deceased, was born in Cumberland County, Penn.,
November 15, 1792. He was one of three children: Elizabeth, Andrew and
Robert. The three came to Mercer. One Samuel Patterson came to Mercer
about the year 1800, and engaged in the tannery business near where the North
Western Hotel now stands, and when Andrew came he joined Samuel in this
tannery. The first money Andrew Patterson made in Alercer County was
S5 for tanning a bear-skin. He afterward engaged in the mercantile busi-
ness, beginning about the year 1811, in a building where is now located
Meyer's restaurant. It was a log structure, and, although somewhat demol-
ished, is still standing. His principal trade was with the numerous Indians,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
691
exchanging with them gunpowder for lead, which was to him a great wonder
as to where these red men obtained this lead. He continued in the mercantile
business in Mercer for about fifty-eight years, and was married in 1818 to
Eliza Brown, daughter of Alexander Brown, who was captured by the Indians
near Pittsburgh. Mr. Patterson settled at marriage in a frame building just
west of where the Farmers’ and Mechanics’ National Bank now stands. This
building is standing and in the possession of the family. He soon after trans-
ferred his stock of goods to a portion of his dwelling, and there did business
until a few years prior to his death, which occurred in August, 1869. His first
wife died in 1810, having blessed him with the following children: Mary, died
young; Elizabeth, married Dr. D. H. A. McLean; Imelda, married James
McGill; Eveline, married Dr. G. W. Baskin; Robert, lives in Beaver County;
Helen and Emma, both died young. He was again married on October 15,
1850, to Margaret Martin, daughter of John Martin, of Cumberland County.
By her he had one son, John A. B. His widow is living in Mercer, and is an
excellent Christian lady. Andrew Patterson, Sr. , the father of our subject,
married Elizabeth Dixon April 10, 1771. Samuel, his son, was born August
14, 1775, and Nathan, another son, was born September 15, 1773. Andrew.
Sr., was married a second time, that event being March 6, 1788, to Mary
Wilson. By this union he had three children, Elizabeth, Robert and Andrew,
mentioned above. 'Elizabeth was born March 14, 1798; Robert, born Decem-
ber 19, 1790, and Andrew, birth given above. Andrew Patterson, our sub-
ject, bought from the settlers around Mercer large quantities of home-made
linen, with which he purchased seven acres of land, on a portion of which the
residence of James A. Stranahan now stands. The Pattersons were strong
Presbyterians, and Andrew gave his assistance to everything that had a ten-
dency to build up Mercer or the surrounding country.
Geoege E. Patterson, deceased, was born January 21, 1851, in Wolf
Creek Township, this county, where his father settled in 1845. His father
died several jmars ago, but his mother still lives on the old homestead.
Besides George there were of the family three sons and one daughter, all of
whom ai-e living. After attending the common schools George went to the
academy at Grove City, then taught by Rev. Dickson and wife. He taught a
number of terms in Venango and Mercer Counties, and then entered the uni-
versity at Wooster, Ohio, where he graduated in 1876. After this he was
principal of Sandy Lake schools for a year, and the two years following con-
ducted an academy at Wurtemburg, Lawrence County. While there he regis-
tered as a law student with D. S. Morris, Esq., of New Castle, and was
admitted to the bar in 1880. Soon afterward he presented himself for admis-
sion to the Mercer bar, and after passing a highly creditable examination was
admitted. He was elected district attorney in 1884. In July, 1886, he was
married to Miss Susan Given, of Wooster, Ohio, whose father, Hon. William
Given, resigned his position as judge of Wayne County, Ohio, to enter the
Union army. The Mercer Western Press said the following editorially in giv-
ing an account of his death, which occurred December 9, 1887; “District
Attorney George E. Patterson, whose death was hourly expected when we
went to press last week, died at 3 o’clock on Friday morning. Not since the
death of Judge McDermitt has the decease of any man in the county caused
so profound and general a feeling of regret. For almost three years he had
served the county faithfully and ably as public prosecutor, and the people felt
that their interests were faithfully guarded by one whose hands were never
stained with a bribe. While he was not disposed to be severe against the
wrong-doer who was more unfortunate than wicked, yet no criminal ever came
692
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
before Mr. Patterson hoping to escape the penalty of the law by compromising
his case to the personal advantage of the district attorney. Considered in
every respect, he was, perhaps, the most promising young lawyer at our bar.
Though he had been admitted but seven years, it has been more than once
remarked in our hearing that, if he kept his health and habits of mind and
body, he would be the next Republican nominee for judge of Mercer County.
He was a diligent student, and had a mind trained to habits of study. He
was clear and logical, and the theory of his case as presented before the court
was always reasonable and consistent. In addition to his being a close stu-
dent and a good reasoner, he was a fluent speaker, using clear, strong and cor-
rect language. Socially, he was an agreeable, courteous gentleman. While
not much given to those light pleasantries, by which too many are inclined to
judge a man’s social qualities, he was a good conversationalist, and one with
whom it was a pleasure to converse. Morally, he was one whose example was
worthy of imitation.”
Bevan Peaeson, one of the prominent citizens of Mercer County, was the
fourth son of John and Anna Pearson. He was born in Darby, Delaware Co.,
Penn., on the 26th of December, 1773. His brothers and sisters were Charles,
Benjamin, Thomas and Anna B. His father having married a second time to a
Miss Johnson, he had four step-brothers and sisters, viz. : George, Hannah,
John B. and Margaret. Of these brothers and sisters Thomas, Anna B. (Gar-
rett), George and Margaret all removed to Mercer County and became the porgen-
itors of all the Pearsons living now in Mercer or 'Lawrence Counties. Bevan
Pearson enjoyed all the advantages afforded in his early days by the schools of
Eastern Pennsylvania. At the age of twenty-two he married, in 1795, Miss Anna
Warner, by whom he had the following children: William Warner, deceased;
Henry, deceased; John J.,late of Harrisburg, Penn. (see sketch in Bench and Bar
chapter); Sarah W. , born August 14, 1803, still living in Mercer; Thomas W.,
died young; Benjamin B., deceased; Thomas W. , second child by that name,
deceased; Anna B., still living at Meadville, the wife of Judge Gaylord
Church. Mr. Pearson removed to Neshannock Township, Mercer County, in
1805, and remained there till 1809, when he became a resident of Mercer. In
1808 he Avas elected a member of the Legislature, and in the following year
was appointed to the various offices connected with the court. He was burgess
of Mercer for many years, and was identified with the growth of the Mercer
Academy.
Johnson Peaeson, attorney, was born in what is now Lawrence County (then
Mercer), January 10, 1819, to George and Sarah (Reynolds) Pearson. The
father was born in Delaware County, Penn., where he learned the tanner and
currier’s trade. He came to this county in 1803, and in 1806 he went down
the Ohio River, working at his trade, as far aS New Orleans. Thence to Char-
leston, S. C. , and there followed his trade for some time; returned to his
native county, and in 1810 he located on a farm in what is now Lawrence
County. He married Sarah Reynolds, daughter of James Reynolds, Avho was
connected with an old forge situated in the present limits of Lawrence County,
which was one of the first forges west of Pittsburgh. In 1854 the father of
Johnson Pearson removed with his family to New Castle, where he principally
retired from labor. He was reared in the Quaker faith, and was one of the
earliest advocates of the Whig party. When eighty years old he marched
on double quick with a militia company, organized as home guards during
the Rebellion, much to the amusement and delight of the by-standers. He
was the father of eight children: James, died in 1857; Thomas, Charles,
George, Hannah R., married to James R. Shaw; Johnson, John and another, of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
693
■whom the last two died in in fancy. The original Pearsons immigrated to America
fi’om the west of England with William Penn. Johnson Pearson was educated in
the log cabin schools and acquired the knowledge of geography and English
grammar by his own efforts, his early teachers being unqualified to teach
those branches. His boyhood days were spent on a farm, and at the age of
eighteen j^ears he entered Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn., where he
graduated in 1840 with the degree of A. B. , followed by the degree of A. M.
a few years afterward. September 4, 1840, he came to Mercer and began
reading law with the firm of Pearson & Stewart, and was admitted to the bar
in 1848. He has practiced at Mercer ever since. He was married March 2,
1846, to Miss Sarah J. Templeton, daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Hezlep)
Templeton, of Scotch and Irish extraction, respectively. Mrs. Pearson died in
1860, leaving four children: George, graduated at Harvard University, read
law with his father, and was admitted to the bar in 1872, elected clerk of the
Pennsylvania Senate, and later recording clerk in the Pennsylvania House,
afterward elected chief clerk of the same, and is now private secretary to Gov.
James A. Beaver; James, is a miner in Colorado; Eva, married J. G. Elliott,
an attorney of Mercer, and Charles, engaged “in the hardware firm of Fruit,
Ohl & Co., Sharon. Johnson Pearson was appointed deputy attorney-general
of Pennsylvania by Gov. Johnston, and served two years. When the office
of district attorney was established he was elected to that position, and served
for three years. He was at one time the regular nominee by the Republicans
for president judge of Mercer County, or rather the Mercer district, and was
defeated because of an independent ticket being put in the held. As Mr.
Pearson figures largely in the historical chapters of Mercer County, it is un-
necessary to repeat it here.
Albert C. Ray. local editor of the Mercer Dispatch and Republican, was
born in Clarion County, Penn., February 6, 1847. He was reared on the
farm and received a good education. He began teaching school at the age of
seventeen years. He began learning the printer’ s trade in 1869 under the
direction of Ray & Morrison, of Sharon, serving three years. He served as
clerk in the Mercer post-office for four years, and held the same position at
Sharon post-office three years. Since June, 1882, he has been engaged in
editorial work, a year and a half as editor and proprietor of the Grove City
Telephotie, and the remainder of the time has been with the Mercer Repub-
lican and Dispatch aiid Republican. He married Miss Caroline G. McKean,
of Mercer. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and is a
Republican.
James Henry Robinson, deceased attorney, was born in Hubbard, Trum-
bull Co., Ohio, May 29, 1826. His father, Thomas Robinson, was born in
Ireland, and died in Perry Township, Mercer County, in 1851, and his mother,
Mary (Mayers) Robinson, was also a native of Ireland, and died in Findley
Township, this county, in 1870, the mother of seven sons. Our subject was
educated in the old Mercer Academy, and was graduated from Washington
College in 1849 with high honors. He taught school during his early days
and clerked in a store. He studied law under instructions of Hon. William
Stewart, and was admitted to the bar in 1852. He served as district attorney
two terms, and was State senator fi-om 1859 to 1863. He was a member of
the United Presbyterian Church, a Whig and Republican. A further men-
tion is made of his business career, official positions and abilities in the chapter
on the Mercer Bar. He was married July 5, 1853,. to Miss Eliza Mills, born
in County Tyrone, Ireland, July 12, 1827, daughter of Robert and Mary
(Moon) Mills, both natives of Ireland. By this union the deceased was blessed
with the following children; John, Mary, Robert, Heniy and William J.
694
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
William G. Rose. — The subject of this sketch was born in Mercer County,
September 23, 1829, the youngest of eleven children. His parents were
James and Martha (McKinley) Rose, the former of English and the latter of
Scotch Irish descent. The family has been a patriotic one, the father and four
of his brothers serving in the War of 1812, while ten of his grandsons aided
in suppressing the rebellion of 1861-65. The subject of our sketch served
three months as a private in West Virginia. His early education was secured
in the country school, he working on the farm in summer and attending school
in winter. At the age of seventeen he taught his first school, and continued
the occupation for several years, meantime attending an academy, where he en-
larged his educational outfit by mastering the rudiments of English and giving
some attention to Latin, Greek and the higher mathematics. At the age of
twenty-three he was able to accomplish his cherished purpose of entering upon
the study of the law. Entering the office of Hon. William Stewart, of Mercer,
he prosecuted his studies vigorously, and was admitted to the bar April 7, 1855.
He entered upon practice in Mercer, but soon became interested as one of the
editors and proprietors of the Independent Democrat. He was soon led into
the Republican party, which elected him for two terms to the State Legisla
ture, commencing in 1857. In 1860 he was chosen a delegate to the National
Republican Convention, which nominated Abraham Lincoln for the presidency.
In 1865 he removed to Cleveland, and gave his attention to the purchase and sale
of real estate. He made friends rapidly. In 1877 he was elected mayor of the
city, the duties of which he performed with great efficiency and acceptance for
two years. In 1883 he was unanimously nominated as lieutenant-governor of
Ohio on the ticket with Judge J. B. Foraker,the present governor. Owing to the
complications growing out of prohibitory and license amendments the ticket was
defeated by 13,000 votes, but he came nigh being elected. In Cuyahoga
County his vote exceeded that of the party by 3,000 votes. He is a coura-
geous, conscientious, public-spirited citizen, loved and respected by all.
Thomas R. Sheriff, clothing merchant, was born June 17, 1825. His
father, James Sheriff, was born April 3, 1800, in Allegheny County, Penn.
He married Christina M. Rodgers, born July 29, 1803, to Thomas and Chris-
tina (Morrison) Rodgers. The Morrisons were natives of Scotland, and while
Thomas Rodgers, who was born in Pennsylvania, was in Scotland settling
some estate he became acquainted with his future wife, whom he brought back
with him. and settled in Virginia, and when Ohio became a State they located
in Galia County, that State. They were the parents of nine children: Chris-
tina; James R. ; Elizabeth, married Samuel Maxon; John A.; Margaret, mar-
ried Thomas Pearson; Mary Jane, Romaine and Isabella. Thomas Rodgers
served as associate judge of Galia County, Ohio, for over thirty years, and
with his consort was connected with the Presbyterian Church. James Sheriff
was married June 18, 1824, in Gallipolis, Ohio, and came to Mercer July 15,
1825, and with his brother, John Sheriff, opened up a store in the old Amber-
son corner, and soon after moved to a building where the Farmers’ and Me-
chanics’ National Bank now stands. About the year 1827 they located
their store on the site of Thomas R. Sheriff’s clothing house, where he re-
mained, engaged in business for many years. He died August 16, 1870.
His widow survives, and blessed her husband with three children : Thomas R. ,
infant, died unnamed, and John J., died at the age of two years. James
Sheriff was a tinner and coppersmith, and many of the old distillery “tills ”
that were used in this county were made by him. He made the last one
in 1840, and gave his son, Thomas R. , $10 to defray his expenses to Erie
City to attend the convention that nominated 'William Henry Harrison for
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
695
President. This was the beginning of the quiet political career of Thomas R.
Sheriff. Thomas was educated in the old Mercer Academy, and worked in his
father’s store, and at the age of seventeen years he entered business for him-
self, it being a grocery and bakery stand, located near Dr. Yeager’s present
office. He then, after selling that business, located where his present clothing
house stands, and for years was engaged in the general dry goods business,
from which he drifted into the clothing trade. From 1861 to 1865 he had
James W. Braden, now deceased, as a partner. He was married May 28,
1846, to Celia M. McBurney, daughter of James McBurney, by whom he has
three children; Christina, married John K. Lindsey; Mary, married William
M. Burwell, and Eva C. He is one of the original directors of the First
National Bank of Mercer, is a Republican, and he and family belong to the
Second United Presbyterian Church.
Capt. P. E. Shiplee was born December 7, 1840, in Mercer, son of Joseph
and Mary (Stewart) Shipler, natives of Westmoreland and Mercer Counties,
respectively, and the parents of two children who grew up : P. E. and H. N. ;
the latter became the wife of William M. Dight. Our subject was educated
in the Mercer Academy and Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio. He enlisted in
Company G, Tenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, as a private, and was soon
promoted to captain, and served as such for three years with the Army of the
Potomac. On his return from the war he engaged in the drug business under
the firm name of P. E. Shipler & Co. This he sold to W. R. Montgomery &
Sons, and for awhile engaged in the coal business. In 1884 he was elected
justice of the peace by the citizens of Mercer. He was married in 1861 to
Mary Hirst, by whom he has two children: W. H. and Joseph S. Capt.
Shipler is a Republican, a member of the F. & A. M. and the G. A. R., and,
with his wife, belongs to the Presbyterian Church.
Rev. Edwaed Small (deceased) was born December 24, 1811, in Washing-
ton County, N. Y. He was one of seven, the children of George and Jennet
(Lourie) Small. Edward attended the common schools, academies at Salem
and Cambridge, in his native county, and graduated at Fnion College, Sche-
nectady, in l833. During the four years following he attended the Associate
Theological Seminary at Canonsburg, Penn. In 1887 he was licensed to
preach, and in June of that year started on a missionary tour through the West
on horseback. He held meetings at Mohegan, Mansfield, Bucyrus, Renolds-
burg, Columbus, Massier’s Creek, all in Ohio; Bloomington, Princeton, Burn-
ett’s Creek, all in Indiana, and on his return trip at Massier’s Creek, Kenton,
Zanesville, Cambridge, in Ohio, and thence to Pittsburgh. He left his horse
at Carlisle, Penn., and subsequently preached at Newark, N. J., various places
in Upper and Lower Canada and Philadelphia. In October, 1838, he came
to Mercer County, and in January, 1839, accepted calls to the pastorate of
Springfield and Rocky Springs congregations; these he resigned April 3, 1861,
and retired, after which time he- did no ministerial work except to preach
occasional sermons and conduct funerals. Mr. Small was a man of strong
convictions, and earnest in the support of his views. Religiously he was edu-
cated in the faith of the United Presbyterian Church, and was exceedingly
strict in adherence to his teaching. Though somewhat characteristic in man-
ner, yet he was a citizen of high esteem, strictly honest and upright in all his
transactions. He lived full of faith, and his death is but a passing to a reali-
zation of that which it was his life work to teach. He was married in 1839 to
Miss Mary A. Hanna, of Cadiz, Ohio, who survives him, with four children,
viz. : Mary, the wife of W. H. Adams, Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Dr. E. H. ; Nellie, the
wife of John Robinson, Esq., cashier of the Farmers’ and Mechanics’ National
Bank, and Emma, the wife of John F. Davitt, of McKeesport.
696
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Gteoege Kline Smith, mercliant, was born in Mercer, February 10, 1841.
He and his son are the only male descendants of Col. James Smith, one of
the early Indian pioneers, whose history may be found in “ The Indian Wars
of the United States,” by John Frost, LL. D., published by Derby &
Miller, and also in No. 5, Ohio Valley Historical Series, by William Darling-
ton, of Pittsburgh, published by Robert Clark & Co., of Cincinnati, Ohio.
James was George K. Smith’s great-grandfather. Jonathan Smith was his
grandfather and William M. Smith, the father of G. K. Smith, born Septem-
ber ‘29, 1806, was the first child born in Mercer. William M. Smith married
Catharine Kline, who was born in Washington County, and brought to Mercer
County by her father, George Kline, in 1828. By her he had five children:
Harriet Patterson Smith (deceased, married William Forrest), Elizabeth
Pettitt, Jonathan Parker (who was captain of Company G, Tenth Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, and led his company through the seven days’ fighting
before Richmond, Sharpsburg, South Mountain, and the regiment at Antie-
tam [see Bates’ History, Volume I], was mortally wounded at the second
battle of Fredericksburg, January 0, 1863, and died at Seminary Hospital,
Georgetown); George K. and Theodore W. (deceased). The father was a
tanner, followed that business for thirty years, and then opened the first
leather store in Mercer. G. K. Smith was educated in the Mercer Academy
and public schools. He learned the trade of a tanner, and was a clerk for
three years in the store of Maj. T. Graham, in Mercer. In 1863 he went to
California, and mined in that State and Arizona Territory until 1865, when he
returned home, and, after serving one year as constable, clerked until 1869,
when he entered the general dry goods business, which he still continues.
He married Emma F. , a daughter of Irwin Sampson, of Wilmington, Penn. By
her he has two children, Helen E. and George Irwin. He is interested in the
gas and water works companies and the Mercer Creamery. In 1887 he was a
candidate for county treasurer on the Prohibition ticket. He and his wife are
members of the Second Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
John E. Smith, agricultural implement dealer, was born in 1864, in
Lawrence County, Penn. His parents, H. P. and Harriet (McDowell) Smith,
were natives, the former of Lawrence and the latter of Mercer County.
The parents had three children: Alva (married Miss Clara Whitney), John E.
(unmarried) and Laura (married Albert Peters). The parents are living in
West Middlesex. Our subject came to Mercer County when eighteen years of
age, engaged in the implement business for W. R. Packard, and in 1885
formed a partnership with W. G. Jones in the general agricultural and farm
implement business. Jones died in 1887, and Mr. Smith has conducted the
business ever since. He began to learn his trade at the age of thirteen years
with Davidson Bros, at West Middlesex. He worked awhile with W. O.
Leslie at Sharon. It will thus be seen that Mr. Smith thoroughly understands
his business. He is engaged in the manufacture of bed springs, is a first-
class tinner, a good telegraph operator, follows plumbing, gas fitting, manu-
factures tin-ware, and sells all kinds of implements, general hardware, buggies,
robes, harness, etc. He is a member of the Second United Presbyterian
Church, is a Republican, and a thorough-going business man who attends
strictly to his business, and, like all who love their vocation, is successful.
Joseph Sykes, manufacturer of wagons, was born March 28, 1807, in Eng-
land, to Joseph Sykes. Our subject came to Mercer in 1829. He learned
his trade in his native country, and upon locating here opened up a shop on
the very lot where his shop now stands. He has continued at the same busi-
ness all this time. Silvanus Perkins, of Meadville, was in partnership with him
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
697
from 1835 to 1837. Many of tlie old wagons used in hauling goods from
eastern cities to this part of the State were manufactured by him. He was
married in 1831 to Mary A. McCullough, daughter of John and Mary (Wright)
McCullough, who lived in what is now Cool Spring Township. Mr. and Mrs.
Sykes had the following children: John, died at theage of five years; Thomas
B., machinist, married Elizabeth Spearman; Mary, single; Jane, married John
Wigstaff; Caroline, married Marion J. Rich, lives in the State of New A^ork;
Florence, married Rev. W. H. Wilson, who died in 1886, a minister of the
Methodist Episcopal Church; Gerrett S., married Anna Gooding, of Massa-
chusetts, and is conducting a preparatory school in Cincinnati, Ohio, having
been graduated from Harvard College in 1877, and George T., learned the
trade of his father, enlisted in Company G, Tenth Pennsylvania Volunteer In-
fantry, and served three years, married Sarah E. Shipler, a daughter of Peter
Shipler, a native of Westmoreland County, who came to this county in 1820,
is now engaged with his father in the manufacture of wagons, and is also
engaged in the undertaking business. Joseph Sykes, whose name heads this
brief notice, is one of the most respected citizens of Mercer, and is an earnest
Christian.
R. A. Stewakt, attorney, was born December 30, 1852 His father, Hon.
William Stewart, was born in Mercer County in 1810 Robert Stewart, the
father of William, was a native of Westmoreland County, Penn., and came to
this county at an early day, and here died, the father of ten children: Eliza-
beth, married James Kilgore; William, Mary, married Joseph Shipler; John,
Jane, married John Wright; Hannah, married Dr. Henderson; Robert, Mar-
garet, married Maj. A. H. Snyder; Sarah, married Joseph Barnum, and Benja-
min. The lastnamedwas a class-mate with the Hon. James G. Blaine, at Wash-
ington and Jefferson College, and after studying law died in the West. Hon.
William Stewart experienced many of the hardships that fell on the early set-
tlers, such as hauling goods from Pittsburgh by team for his father, w’ho was
an early merchant at Mercer. He entered Washington and Jefferson College
before reaching his majority, and walked many times from that institution
to Rochester, where he was met by his brother, John, with a horse on which
to ride the remainder of the way home. He was admitted to the bar of Mer-
cer County, the date of which is mentioned in another part of this work, but
it was about the time he was twenty-one years of age. He began the practice
of his chosen profession in Warren, Penn., where he remained for two years.
One day, after having paid all of his little debts, and with $40 left, he
made up his mind, just as the hack was leaving for Franklin, to try his for-
tune in another field. He accordingly took the hack and was soon located in
an office at Franklin, where he succeeded in doing considerable business for
two years. He then came to Mercer and formed a partnership with Judge
John J. Pearson, late of Harrisburg, which continued until Pearson was
appointed to the position of judge at the capital of the State. He subsequently
had Robert C. Rankin, a Mr. Snyder and J. H. Robinson as respective part-
ners. At the time of his death, which occurred October 17, 1876, he had no
partner. He served two terms in the State Senate and two terms in Congress
immediately preceding the breaking out of the Rebellion. He stumped the
State of Pennsylvania, or rather the western portion, during his latter years,
in the interest of the organization of the Republican party. He w'as some-
what independent in his politics during a few' years prior to his demise, be-
cause of the natural jobbery complications that will be worked into any party
with a large majority in a county or district. He was one of the tw'o candi-
dates on the Republican ticket for president judge of his judicial district when
698
HISTOKY OF MEllOEK COUNTY.
John Trunkey, the regular Democratic nominee, was elected. In 1874 John-
son Pearson was the regular nominee of the Republican party, and Mr. Stewart
was brought out as an independent candidate, and A. McDermit, another Demo-
crat, was elected. He was a member of the F. & A. M. , and was instrumental
in the organization of the Know-nothing party in this section of the State. He
married Alletta G. Gaston, born in New Jersey, July 3, 1826, who survives,
and by whom he had the following children: Evelina, married A. S. Gillette;
Mary, married D. T. Gilman; R. A., William G., deceased; Ida M. , deceased;
Alletta Y. and George B.
His son Robert was educated in the Mercer schools, and spent one year at
Elizabeth, N. J. He then took instructions under an Episcopal minister at Con-
neautville, and in 1871 he entered the freshman class in Princeton College,
where he remained nearly two years, and at the request of his father he left
and entered Lafayette College, at Easton, Penn. There he graduated in the
classical department in 1874. He at once began reading law with his father and
in the office of the Hon. Samuel Griffith and S. R. Mason. He was admitted
to the Mercer County bar in 1876, and has siy^ce practiced. He married,
November 22, 1882, Alice I. Bogle, of Philadelphia, and has three children:
Alletta B. , Elizabeth H. and William G. He was the projector of the Mercer
Republican, which was merged into the Dispatch and Republican. He and
his wife are membbers of the First Presbyterian Church, and he is a stanch
Republican.
Hon. James A. Stranahan, attorney, was born in Philadelphia, March 7,
1839. His father, Andrew Stranahan, was born in County Down, Ireland.
Our subject was educated in the Mercer Union Schools and Westminster College,
New Wilmington, Penn. His early life was spent on a farm. He was admitted
to the Mercer bar in April, 1864, and has continued to practice his chosen pro-
fession since. He entered the service of his country as first lieutenant of Com-
pany B, United States Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served six months, and was
detailed as post adjutant at Cumberland, Md. He was a member of the State
Legislature during the winter of 1883-84. He is a Democrat and a member of
the Presbyterian Church.
Mrs. Mary Templeton, at this time (November, 1888) a resident of Mercer,
is the second oldest person in the county. She was born January 1, 1794, at
Redstone Fort, on the Monongahela, now called Brownsville, Fayette Co.,
Penn., the daughter of James Hezlep and Sarah (Bell) Hezlep. She is of
Scotch-Irish descent, her ancestors having come from Belfast. In 1796 she
came with her parents to what is now New Wilmington, Lawrence (then Mer-
cer) County, where, on June 10, 1819, she married James Williamson. Three
children blessed this marriage : Hezlep, George and Sarah. Mr. Williamson
dying, she was married a second time, on December 15, 1826, to Thomas
Templeton, by whom she had two daughters: Sarah, afterward Mrs. Johnson
Pearson, and Mary, at present engaged in millinery business in Mercer. Mrs.
Templeton’s second husband, Thomas Templeton, was a merchant in Mercer,
a justice of the peace at the time of his death, and at one time a candidate for
the Legislature. He died comparatively a young man, the date being Septem-
ber 21, 1829, at which time he was but forty-four years of age. Mrs. Tem-
pleton and her family have all been identified with the Presbyterian Church.
A. B. Thompson, attorney, was born in Lackawannock Township August
27, 1845, and was educated in the common schools and at Westminster Col-
lege, New Wilmington, Penn., being graduated in 1870. He taught school in
Shenango and Lackawannock Townships and Greenville; began reading law
with Johnson Pearson in 1871; was admitted to the bar February 17, 1873,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
699
and lias practiced ever since. He was elected district attorney in 1875, and
served one term. He was married June 15, 1875, to Eliza M. , daughter of
Alvin Martin, of Sugar Grove, Warren Co., Penn., and by her has had four
children: Grace, Leigh (deceased), Loyd and Harold. He is a Republican,
and he and wife are members of the Second United Presbyterian Church of
Mercer. His father, Alexander Thompson, was born near Steubenville, Ohio,
in 1806, and he, with his parents, Alexander Thompson, Sr., and Margaret
(Stett, nee Burgess) Thompson, settled on a farm in Lackawannock Township
in 1812, on which both died, senior in 1851 and junior in 1865, and which is
still in the possession of the Thompson heirs. The senior Alexander was a
native of Ireland and emigrated from County Antrim about 1790, living one
year near Philadelphia and in W ashington County, Penn. , and the balance of
the time near Steubenville, Ohio, until he came to this county as stated. He
was the father of the following children: James, Elizabeth McMaster, Mar
garet McNair, Joseph, John, Jane (married John Thompson), Alexander, Jr.,
and Mary A. Brooks. Alexander Thompson, Jr., and Ann (Love) Thompson
were married in 1831, and were blessed with fourteen children; four- died in
childhood, and those growing up are: Thomas (deceased), Mary A. (married
R. W. Clarke), Alex. L. (died in 1872 of disease contracted in army as a mem-
ber of Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers),
Sarah (on homestead), James W. (killed at battle of Gettysburg while serving
as sergeant major of the Fifty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers), A.
B. , Gordon E. (stock and real estate dealer. Big Springs, Neb.), Nancy (a
teacher in Union Schools of Mercer), Robert S. (a dealer in coal and farm
implements, Atlantic, Iowa), and Samuel J. (on the old homestead). The
parents were members of the Lebanon United Presbyterian Church, with
which the surviving widow is still connected. Ann Love was born in 1811.
Her parents were Thomas Love and Margaret (Gilkey) Love, natives, the
former of County Derry, Ireland, settled in Pine Township in 1796, and the
latter of Franklin County, Penn. Margaret was reared principally by an
uncle in Virginia, who lived at the forks of the James River, and came to
Mercer County in 1804 to visit her brothers, James and John Gilkey, and
other relatives, and married Thomas Love in 1805. Their children were:
Rebecca (married Robert Miller, now a widow in Venango County), Ann.
Margaret (married John Dawson, and after his death Joseph Douglass, now
deceased), Nancy (married Samuel Lusk), Sarah (a maiden lady) and Matthew.
Thomas Love died in August, 1825, and Margaret (Gilkey) Love in June,
1864. John Gilkey was the originator of the Neshannock Irish potatoes, and
died near Leesburg, in this county. James Gilkey reared a large family
and died in Shenango Township.
J. C. Weidman, physician and surgeon, was born in Juniata County,
Penn. He was educated in the common schools, Randolph, N. Y. , and Kisho-
quillis Seminary, Mifflin County, Penn., and read medicine under Dr. H. A.
Fisher, of McAllisterville, Juniata County, attended lectures at Jefferson Med-
ical College, and, after five years’ practice at McAllistersville, he came to Mer-
cer, where he is building up a good practice. He married Mary, a daughter
of the late J ohn Logan, of Mercer.
George Wharton, deceased, was born in Philadelphia, and came to this
county about 1816. He married in his native city Hannah Jones, daughter of
Cadwalader Jones, who came to Mercer County at an early day and settled in
what is now Jackson Township. Mr. Jones had the following children: John,
Jacob, David, Charles, George, Mary, Rachel, Deborah, Hannah, Elizabeth,
Susan, Rebecca and Margaret. George Wharton settled in Jackson Township
700
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
on land that is in now in possession of some of his heirs. He died July 4, 1852,
and his widow died October 17, 1868. Their children were: Robert, died
small; John, died October 17, 1882; Mary, married Jacob Mower; Deborah,
married Nicholas Mourer; Jacob, married Dora Boyd; Rebecca; Margaret,
married Peter Shipler; Hannah, George, married Catherine Hunter, and
Susan, married Thomas Vernon. Miss Hannah Wharton began the millinery
business in Mercer in 1857 in a small room on Pitt Street. In 1858 she located
near where she now carries on an extensive business. She has been very suc-
cessful, and in 1882 she erected a fine brick block. Her father was a Demo
crat.
J. G. White, attorney, was born July 15, 1841, in what is now Grove
City, to Hiram C. and Martha (Alexander) White, natives of Pine and Wolf
Creek Townships, Mercer County, respectively. His mother was a daughter
of James Alexander, who came from Scotland at a very early date and located
on a farm in Pine Township, where he died. The children of James Alexander
were: Mary, single, and now nearly ninety years old; Rebecca, married Archie
McCormick, both of whom are dead; Susan, died when seventy- four years old;
Margaret, married Luke Voghan; Elizabeth, married Cornelius Graham; Mar-
tha, Sarah, died young; Hamilton, died on the old place; Isabella, married
William Morrison, and after his death G. W. Brandon. The father of James
Alexander was in the War of 1812, and was a Democrat. John White, the
grandfather of our subject, was born in Washington County, Penn., and came
to this county about 1800, where he settled in Pine Township on the farm
where he afterward died. His children were John, James, Samuel, George
W'ashington, Hiram C., Henderson, Rachel, Jane and Elizabeth, all of whom
are deceased except Hiram. Grandfather White was in the War of 1812, and
had three brothers and one sister: Alexander, Samuel, James (a preacher in
the Seceder Church) and Hannah. Our subject was educated in the common
schools, at Westminster College and at Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn.
He enlisted in Company I, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserves, in April, 1861, was
mustered into service in June, and served a short time. Returning from the
war he resumed teaching, taught at Harlansburg, Lawrence County, one year,
and then served as principal of the Union schools at Mercer for two years. In
1865 he married Nancy A. McKinney, daughter of John M. McKinney, ex-
sherifF of this county, and went to St. Louis, where he engaged in the real
estate business for two years, 1865-66. Returning to Mercer early in 1867 he
engaged in starting the Soldiers’ Orphan School, putting $70,000 into the
institution. This he sold in 1874 to S. F. Thompson, J. I. Gordon, G. W.
Wright and R. R. Wright. He read law with the late Judge McDermitt, and
was admitted to the bar in February, 1870. From 1870 to 1875 he practiced
here with E. W. Jackson, now of Harrisburg, under the firm name of White
& Jackson. From 1877 to 1879 or 1880 he was associated with B. Magoffin.
Since then he has practiced by himself. He has three living children: Bertha
B., Grace and John A. He is a member of the A. Y. M. and I. O. O. F., and
has frequently been connected with the schools. In 1874 he was a candidate
for Congress from this district, and was defeated by seventy votes. He was a
member of the convention of the U. L. P. at Cincinnati in January, 1887, and
helped to form that party. He was one of Democratic candidates for the
Assembly in 1888.
Geoege M. Williams, livery, was born in Owego, Tioga County, N. Y. ,
and came to Mercer County in 1874. He married Maria, a daughter of
Joseph Cubbison, who settled in a log cabin in Fairview Township, where he
lived for over fifty years. Mr. Williams, after marriage, went to Talbot
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
701
County, Md., and farmed for two years. He then returned to this county,
bought a farm, which he sold in one year, and went into the oil business
in Venango, Warren, Butler, Armstrong and Clarion Counties for three
years. He then bought a farm in Fairview Township, and after farming two
years sold and bought another in Jefferson Township, where he remained until
April 1, 1887, when he engaged in the livery business at Mercer. He is a
member of the present town council, is a Republican, and with his wife belongs
to the Second Presbyterian Church. Their children are: Mary, Harry, Edwin,
Edna and Ida. He served as school director while in Jefferson Township.
Hon. Geoege W. Weight, superintendent of the Soldiers’ Orphan School,
was born in Worth Township, Mercer County, July 19, 1841. His parents,
Thomas and Sarah (Fowler) Wright, were natives of England, and immigrated
to America while single. The father died, a farmer, in Worth Township, in
1851, and his widow died in 1883. They were the parents of the following
children: Mary, married William Trivett; Alexander, a resident of Venango
County; G. W., Richard R., John S., a merchant at Hendersonville, and
Thomas J., resides on the old homestead. The parents were members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. George W. IVright was educated in the com-
mon schools, Mercer Academy and Thickson Academy, of Meadville, Penn.
He began teaching at the age of sixteen years, by which he obtained the means
to defray his expenses in the academies. He taught in Tennessee and Ken-
tucky in 1859 and 1860, thus being in the South when John Brown made his
famous raid at Harper's Ferry. He enlisted in Company I, Tenth Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and remained in service for two years. On his return
from the war he engaged in the oil business at Petroleum Center, Venango
County. He then helped to establish the Sandy Lake Car Manufacturing
Company. While there he was appointed clerk to the county commissioners,
and held that position until 1873. when he was elected county recorder.
While in that office he was appointed superintendent of the Mercer Soldiers’
Orphan School. He was elected to the State Senate in 1876, and served one
term. In 1877 he was appointed superintendent of the Mount Joy, Penn.,
Soldiers’ Orphan School, and in 1883 was chosen superintendent of the Sol-
diers’ Orphan School at both McAllisterville and Chester Springs. He was
married in 1864 to Rozetta M. Carroll, and are rearing Mamie McKnight, a
niece of Mrs. Wright. They are Methodists, and he is a Republican.
Geoege W. Yeagee, physician and surgeon, was born in 1824, in the
borough of Mercer. His father, Michael Yeager, was a native of Montgomery
County, Penn., and came to this county in time to serve in the War of 1812,
under Capt. Clark. Cynthia Fell, the mother of Dr. Yeager, came to Mercer
County when a child with her father, Nathan Fell, who is mentioned in the
history of West Salem Township. She was a native of Bucks County, Penn.
By her union with Michael Yeager she had the following children: Mary A.
(married Dunlap McLaughlin), Elizabeth (married B. F. Baskin, Esq.),
George W., Emeline (married James C. Eyster, of Chambersburg), Imelda
(married Josiah McJunkin); Jane A. and Agnes are dead. Michael Yeager
was once a trustee of the old Mercer Academy, and was appointed a marshal
to take the census of 1850. He was identihed with the Whig party during its
existence, and drifted into the Republican party. During his latter days he
and his wife worshiped at the Methodist Church, of which he was for many
years a trustee. Our subject was educated in the Mercer Academy, under the
instructions of D. B. Cook, William Stephenson, D. H. A. McLean, Samuel
Griffith and others. He was employed, for many years, as a clerk for his
father and others in Mercer. He began the study of medicine in 1847, with
40
702
HISTOBY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
Drs. James and Beriah Magoffin, and attended a course of medical lectures
at Cleveland, Ohio, in 1848. In 1849 he went to California, and two years
later returned and resumed his studies, and in 1852 he graduated from the
medical department of the ITniversity of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia. He
at once began the practice of his chosen profession at Mercer, which he has
continued ever since. He was appointed the first physician to the county
poor-house. He was married to Miss Sarah E. Amberson, daughter of Dr.
T. B. Amberson, who practiced here for many years. She was a native of
Butler County, Penn. By her he has been blessed with eight children:
Cynthia (married Dr. F. M. Temple), Emeline (married William V. Galbraith),
Margaret (married James Miller), Mary A. S. (married R. Robinson), Sadie
{died in infancy), Caroline and Nancy F. (twins) and Michael George. Dr.
Yeager was early identified with the medical society of Mercer County. He
was a surgeon, in 1864, in the Union army, being located at the Soldiers’
Rest Hospital, at Alexandria, Va. , and the King Street Hospital, at the same
city. He afterwai’d had charge at Forts Whipple, Cass and Tillinghast, of the
defenses of Washington.
Rev. George W. Zahniser was born March 19, 1823, in the borough of
Mercer. His parents were Jacob and Catharine (Wright) Zahniser. The
father was reared on a farm, and at an early period in his life was employed
as a clerk in a store. He operated a mercantile store in Mercer for some time,
and died in 1852. He was superintendent of the Sabbath-school of the
First Presbyterian Church of Mercer for over thirty-five years, and was an
elder. He was the father of the following children: Margaret, William,
George W. , Mary (died when small), Jacob and Michael. The mother 'of the
above children died in I860, and was a consistent member of the Presbyterian
Church. A very complete sketch of the Zahniser family appears in connection
with that of Jacob Zahniser, of Jackson Township. Our subject was educated
in the old Mercer Academy and Washington and Jefferson College, graduat-
ing at the latter in 1846. The year following he was a tutor in that institu-
tion. At that time Dr. R. J. Breckenridge was president of this college, and
finally resigned to accept the pastorate of a Presbyterian Church of Lexington,
Ky. It was through Mr. Breckenridge’ s influence that Mr. Zahniser was
induced to take charge of a classical school at Lexington, which grew so rap-
idly under his efficient management that he induced Judge Lawrence, the now
famous blind orator of Bellefontaine, Ohio, to associate himself with him in
this institution, which connection lasted for about one year. After closing
his term in Lexington he entered a theological seminary at Princeton, N. J. ,
where he remained for two years, and then came to his home; was soon after-
ward licensed by the Erie Presbytery, and began his ministerial labors at
Conneautville, Crawford Co. , Penn. Here he continued with good results for
eight years. He was then called to Huntingdon County, and preached in
Huntingdon City from 1859 to 1876. At the latter date he returned to Con-
neautville and had charge of that congregation for one more year, when he
withdrew from regular pastorates, and has since been a supply minister for
various congregations of his faith. He began the career of a school teacher
when sixteen years of age, teaching his first term in the Cranberry District,
in the neighborhood of what is now Grove City. Later he taught in the pub-
lic schools of Mercer, and still later he was associated with Rev. Vincent and
James L. Rodgers, respectively, giving instructions in the old Mercer Acad-
emy. He also taught for two years in Conneautville, while in charge of his
Presbyterian congregation at that place. He was married in 1854 to Jane
iForker, by whom he had one daughter, Mary, the wife of Herman Frankel.
HISTOEY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
703
Mrs. Zahniser died ia 1859, and in 1864 he was again married, to Miss Kate
Gaston, of New Jersey, who died soon after marriage, and he selected a third
wife in the person of Mrs. Lizzie McGill, this marriage occurring in 1866.
She was born in Somerville, N. J. , and by her he had the following children :
George (now a student at a college in Bethlehem, Penn.), Kate G. and Albert.
Rev. Zahniser is a Republican, and one of the most respected and worthy
citizens of Mercer County.
R. J. Zahnisek, of the firm of Donaldson, Zahniser & Co., general mer-
chants, was born April 14, 1854, in Jackson Township, and is a son of John
L. Zahniser, whose family sketch appears in connection with the Zahniser
family history, as furnished by Jacob Zahniser, of Jackson Township. Our
subject was educated in the common schools of Jackson Township and was
brought up at farm labor. He attended and was graduated from the Iron City
Business College in 1872; from 1872 to 1879 he clerked for Zahniser, Bell &
Co. , Mercer, Penn. , and from 1879 to 1882 was book-keeper for the Pinkerton
Lumber Company in Somerset County, Penn. In 1882 he was elected re-
corder of Mercer County by the Democrats against a large Republican major-
ity. He engaged in the grocery business in 1886, which he continued until
1887, when he formed a partnership with J. N. Donaldson in the general mer-
cantile business, further mention of which is made in connection with the
sketch of Mr. Donaldson.
H. H. Zeiglee, attorney, was born August 17, 1849, son of J. R. and
Margaret A. (Bell) Zeigler, natives of Montgomery and Mercer Counties, re-
spectively, and the parents of four children: Emma A., H. H. , Frances E. and
one who died before maturity. Our subject was educated in the common
schools. Grove City Academy, New Wilmington College and Edinboro Nor-
mal; began reading law in 1870 with James A. Stranahan, and was admitted
to the bar in 1873, and has since continued practice. He was married in 1874
to Lizzie Mason and has three children: Samuel, Jesse and Lizzie. He was
appointed United States commissioner in 1878 and still serves. He and wife
are members of the First Presbyterian Church and he is a Republican.
CHAPTEK XXX.
BIOGRAPHIES OF SHARON
Augustus alderman, tobacco merchant and coal operator, was born in
Brookfield Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, September 19, 1831. He is
a son of Aruna and Eunice (Munson) Alderman, natives of Hartford, Conn.,
and who removed to Brookfield Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, with their re-
spective parents in 1805. Both spent the remainder of their lives in that part
of Ohio. Augustus grew to manhood in his native township, and in 1852
went to California via Cape Horn, where he worked in the mines nearly three
years. Returning to his home he lived in Brookfield Township till 1859. He
subsequently spent one year each in Missouri and Michigan. About 1870 he
located in Hickory Township, this county, and since 1877 he has resided in
Sharon and carried on his business. He was married June 10, 1857, to Miss
Elizabeth Hassan, daughter of Robert and Sarah (Lysle) Hassan, of Hubbard,
Ohio, and natives of Pennsylvania. She bore him one son, Fred H., who has
704
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
charge of the store. Mrs. Alderman died in 1888, after a lingering illness.
Mr. Alderman is a Democrat, and in 1886 was elected a member of the borough
council, which position he is now filling.
Abnek Applegate, notary public, was born in Hubbard Township, Trum-
bull Co., Ohio, October 26, 1826, and is a son of William and Mary (Huff)
Applegate, the former a native of New Jersey, born October 25, 1767, and the
latter of Bath, Va. , born September 7, 1787. William Applegate and family
settled in Hubbard Township, Ohio, June 8, 1808, where he spent his life,
dying June 14, 1839. Abner grew up in his native township, and on the 18th
of May, 1841, located in Sharon. He clerked for some years, and on May 1,
1856, he began merchandising, in which he was engaged till August, 1878.
He was married February 12, 1854, to Miss Marilla Hibler, of Hubbard
Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio. They have three children: Mary E., wife of
H. F. Dickson; William C. and Jennie, wife of G. W. Lycett, of Tiltonville,
Ohio. He and his wife are Disciples. Politically he has been a life-long
Democrat, and has been justice of the peace twenty years, postmaster of
Sharon six and one- half years under Pierce and Buchanan, and notary public
since April 17, 1881. He was once the Democratic candidate for associate
judge, and also the General Assembly, and in both instances he ran ahead of
his ticket.
Feedeeick T. Aschman, chemist, was born in Hudson City (now Jersey City
Heights), N. J., September 26, 1858, and is a son of Frederick T. and Mar-
tha E. (Davis) Aschman. The f6rmer was a native of Switzerland, who immi-
grated to New York, where he met and married Martha E. Davis, of Ann
Arbor, Mich., a daughter of Gen. Martin Davis, one of the pioneers of Ann
Arbor. Mr. Aschman, Sr., was head of the silk importing house of F. T.
Aschman & Co. , of New York, and died at Hudson City, September 4, 1867,
leaving four children, Frederick T. being the eldest of the family. On his
death-bed Mr. Aschman requested his wife to educate the children in Europe,
and in the spring of 1868 she crossed the Atlantic with her family, and our
subject spent eight years in the schools of France and German Switzerland.
He returned to New York in 1876 with the intention of entering his father’s
old firm. His mind, however, had a scientific bent, and in the fall of 1877 he
entered the School of Mines of Columbia College, and graduated in May, 1881.
In the meantime he had made a trip to Europe, in 1880, where the balance of
the family still were. He worked in New York during the summer of 1881,
and the following autumn accepted the position of chemist for the Wheeler
Iron Company, at West Middlesex, Penn. In the spring of 1882 he made a
second trip to Europe, and there married Marie Zolikofer, of St. Gall, Switz-
erland, and returned with his wife to West Middlesex, where she died June
17, 1883. He remained in West Middlesex till the spring of 1884, when he
came to Sharon and- opened an office as general analytical chemist, and has
since done a large and successful business, being the only general chemist in
the Shenango Valley. Mr. Aschman was again married, April 15, 1866, to
Mary D. , daughter of William C. Bell, one of the pioneers of Sharon. A
daughter, Dorothy B. , is the issue of this union. Mr. Aschman and wife are
members of the Presbyterian Church of Sharon, in which body he fills the
office of deacon. He is a Republican in politics, and belongs to the Masonic
fraternity.
John Ashton, retired manufacturer and merchant, was born in Stafford-
shire, England, January 13, 1811, and is a son of Richard and Esther (Skid-
more) Ashton, both of whom lived and died in England. John there grew to
manhood, and attended a select school of his neighborhood. He afterward
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
705
worked in a rolling-mill, and in June, 1832, immigrated to the United States,
and found employment in an iron-mill in New Jersey about two years. He
then removed to Pittsburgh, Penn., and continued to work at the iron busi-
ness there until the fall of 1850, when he came to Sharon with a number of
other mill-men to form a stock company with Joel B. Curtis, George Boyce,
Peter Shoenberger and David Agnew, under the name of the Sharon Iron Com-
pany. This company built the first plant, and Mr. Ashton was connected with
it till the mill shut down. Ho subsequently followed farming a few years,
and then worked for the Westerman Iron Company. Mr. Ashton was one of
the company who erected and put in operation the Atlantic Iron Mills, the
firm being Alexander, Ashton & Co. P. L. Kimberly subsequently bought
Alexander’s interest, and the firm became Kimberly, Ashton & Co. In 1871
Mr. Ashton sold out to Col. J ames Carnes, whose name succeeded his in the
firm. He next went into the grocery business, and soon afterward engaged in
developing the coal fields of Trumbull County, Ohio. For the past seventeen
years Mr. Ashton has not been engaged in active business, except looking after
his real estate and other property. He was married May 28, 1835, to Miss
Frances, daughter of Stephen and Rebecca Manfull, natives of England, where
Mrs. Ashton was born. Ten sons and three daughters were the fruits of this
union: Richard (deceased), Mary Esther (deceased), William A. (deceased),
Joseph, Stephen M., John, C. A., David (deceased), Frank, James (deceased),
George W. (deceased) and Alice (deceased); five sons and one daughter sur-
viving. Mrs. Ashton died February 16, 1881, a member of the Christian
Church, to which denomination most of her children adhere. Politically Mr.
Ashton is a Republican, has served in the borough council several terms, and
one term as burgess. Coming to the United States comparatively a poor man,
he has accumulated through the passing years a large estate, and is not only
recognized as one of the wealthiest retired business men of Sharon, but also
one of its honest, enterprising and respected citizens.
C. A. Ashton, grocery dealer, was born in Pittsburgh, Penn. , April 24,
1849, and is a son of John Ashton, one of the retired manufacturers and
merchants of the borough. In 1850 Mr. Ashton’s parents came to Sharon,
where he grew to manhood, receiving his primary education in the public
schools, subsequently taking a commercial course in Iron City College, Pitts-
burgh, Penn. He clerked for several years, and in 1870 purchased the
grocery house of C. N. Prindle & Son, which he has since carried on, and is
to-day one of the leading grocers of Sharon. Mr. Ashton was married May
21, 1871, to Miss Emma E. Bown, of Sharon, who bore him two daughters,
Lizzie and Lucy. Mrs. Ashton died June 17, 1878, and March 23, 1882, he
was again married, to Miss Mary Morrison, of Sharon. Mr. Ashton is a
Republican, a member of the Masonic fraternity, I. O. O. F. , K. of P. , and
K. of G. E. He is agent for the Erie Express Company at Sharon, and is one
of the progressive, enterprising young business men of the town.
Rev. John A. Bailev, pastor of the United Presbyterian Church of Sharon,
was born in Washington County, Penn., May 22, 1835, and is a son of Matthew
and Ann Bailey, natives of the same county, and of Scotch ancestry. Mr.
Bailey was reared on the old homestead in Washington County, and received
his primary education in the district schools. At the age of nineteen he
attended Westminster College, New Wilmington, Penn., and was graduated
July 7, 1859. In the fall of the same year he entered the Allegheny Sem-
inary of the United Presbyterian Church, at Allegheny, Penn. , where he took
a full theological course of four years, and was licensed to preach the gospel
September 3, 1862, by Lake Presbytery of the United Presbyterian Church.
706
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
He was ordained and installed pastor of the united charge of Sheakleyville,
Penn., and New Vernon, Penn., June 23, 1863, which position he filled for
six years. For the next thirteen years he was pastor of churches in Sidney,
Shelby County, and Wellsville, Columbiana Co., Ohio. On January 1, 1883, he
became pastor of the United Presbyterian Church of Sharon, which has since
doubled its membership. Mr. Bailey was married October 19, 1860, to Miss
Bella, daughter of John M. and Isabella Porter, of Pymatuning Township,
Mercer Co., Penn. She is a native of Lowellville. Ohio, but removed to
Mercer County with her parents in girlhood. Mr. Bailey was originally an
Abolitionist, and on the formation of the Republican party he enlisted in its
ranks, and remained therein till 1879, when he became a Prohibitionist. He
has since worked in harmony with the Prohibition party, and done all in his
power against the liquor traffic.
Joseph Baebek, retired machinist, was born in Derbyshire, England,
January 15, 1821, and is a son of John and Sarah (Morrel) Barber, both of
whom lived and died in England. Mr. Barber grew to manhood in his native
country, and there learned the carpenter trade. In the fall of 1845 he immi-
grated to Allegheny, Penn., where he worked in the iron mill till the fall of
1850. He then came to Sharon as a stockholder of the Sharon Iron Company,
with which he was connected until 1855, when the works closed. Since then
he has worked most of the time for the successors of the same mill, though
now comparatively retired from active life. He was married in England,
June 22, 1845, to Sarah "Wigley, by whom he has had three children: Martha
A. (widow of Frederick Overfield), Anna (wife of Frederick Myers) and
Elizabeth (wife of John W. Mason), all of the vicinity of Sharon. Politically
Mr. Barber is a Republican, and has served as councilman and school director.
He is a member of the I. O. O. F. , and has always tried to do his share
toward the moral and material development of the town.
Addison L. Beck, druggist, was born near Curllsville, Clarion Co., Penn.,
February 5, 1859, and is a son of Dr. J. N. and Ella (Boyles) Beck, the former
a native of Centre County, and his wife of Clarion County, Penn. Dr. Beck
practiced medicine in Curllsville till 1873, when he removed to Sligo in the
same county, where he continued practice until 1881, being actively engaged
in his profession for a period of twenty- two years. In December, 1874, Addi-
son L. went into the drug business in Sligo and carried on the same until 1882,
when he sold out and came to Sharon in August of that year. He purchased
his present store and has since done a successful business, devoting a portion
of his time to chemical analysis. His parents joined him in the spring of
1884, his father assisting in the drug store until his death in June, 1888. In
1885-86 our subject attended the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, taking a
special course in chemistry, in addition to the regular studies, and was gradu-
ated in the class of 1886-87. In a class numbering 148 Mr. Beck was awarded
three of nine prizes given for merit, and was named as distinguished in the
contest for the Proctor prize of a gold medal. He was awarded half of the
H. C. Lea prize of 1100 for the best thesis; the chemistry prize of an analyt-
ical balance for original quantitative analysis; and the theoretical pharmacy
prize of a fine prescription balance and certificate for the best examination in
theoretical pharmacy. Mr. Beck was married January 30, 1884, to Miss
Julia E. Lowe, of Sligo, Penn., of which union one son, Harold, has been
born. Mr. Beck is a Republican, a member of the P. H. C. and N. U. , and
with his wife belongs to the Presbyterian Church.
Thomas B. Beil, insurance agent, was born in Delaware Township, Mercer
Co., Penn., October 27, 1843. His father, Peter Beil, was a native of North-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
707
ampton County, Penn., and located in Delaware Township early in the
thirties, where he married Fannie, daughter of Peter Rickard, who came to
the township about the same time as the Beil family. Six sons and four
daughters were born of this union, all of whom grew to maturity, and nine of
whom are yet living and heads of families. Peter Beil died August 29, 1885,
in the Lutheran faith, to which church his widow belongs. She resides on
the old homestead in Delaware Township, Mr. Beil was a quiet, unassuming,
practical farmer, and by judicious investments in real estate became quite
well off. Our subject was the eldest son, and grew up in his native township.
In February, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, Sixty-third Pennsylvania Vol-
unteers, and served three years, and was discharged from the service in March,
1865. For a year and a half afterward he was engaged in merchandising at
Hamburg, and for the next hve years was in the employ of James Pierce, Son
& Co., of Sharpsville, in general merchandising. He then carried on a store
in Sharpsville for about two years, spent a year in the west, and in November,
1874, located in Sharon, where he has since been engaged in the general
insui’ance business. He has built up a large trade, and ranks to-day among
the leading insurance men of the county. Mr. Beil was married March 18,
1875, to Miss Flora V. Guthrie, of Hempfield Township. Both are members
of the Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Beil belongs to the Masonic order and
K. of P. Politically he is a Republican, has served one term in the borough
council, and for the past six years has been secretary of the board.
William C. Bell, retired merchant, was born in Washington County,
Penn., January 20, 1812, and there grew to manhood. On the 4th of Novem-
ber, 1840, he was married in Pittsburgh to Susan Evans, a native of Worcester-
shire, England, born October 12, 1812. They came to Greenville, Penn., in
November, 1840, where William C. spent a year and a half in mercantile
luisiness, thence removed to Clarksville, and in August, 1844, located in
Sharon. He carried on the mercantile business till 1860, and in 1866 went
into the coal business, from which he retired in 1870, after several years suc-
cessful operations. He was afterward interested with his sons, Richard E.
and Robert A., for a few years in the hardware business. To William C. aad
Susan Bell have been born eight children: W. Dwight, assistant cashier of the
People’s National Bank, Pittsburgh; Richard E., deceased; Alice A., Emma
I., William B., of Leadville, Colo.; Robert A., of Youngstown, Ohio; Mary
B. , wife of F. T. Aschman, of Sharon, and Henderson D. , of Sharon. Polit-
ically Mr. BpII was an anti- slavery man, then a Republican, and is now a Pro-
hibitionist, and has served as burgess of Sharon one term. Both he and wife
are members of the Presbyterian Chui'ch. Mr. Bell is one of the oldest sur-
viving retired business men of Sharon, and has seen the town grow from a vil-
lage of a few stores to its present flourishing prosperity.
James Bentley, P. O. Sharon, Penn., son of Benjamin and Mary (Bald-
win) Bentley, was born May 23, 1798, upon the 'site of Sharon, and was the
flrst white child born within the borough limits. The father of our subject
made his claim for his property in 1795, and made his permanent settlement
in 1796. In 1806 he sold his farm to Samuel Quinby and inoved across the
line into Ohio, where both he and wife died. The family of Mr. Bentley con-
sisted of the following children: Robert, Adamson, George, Benjamin, Eliza-
beth, James, Martin, Sheshbazar, Mary and Aholiab. James and Aholiab are
the only survivors. Our subject was married in 1822 to Miss Temperance But-
tles, and by this marriage they had seven childi’en: Amos B., Anson, Caroline
(wife of Samuel Woodbridge, of Iowa), Evaline (who married C. F. De Voll),
Martin, Joel and B. F. The mother died July 25, 1887. Mr. Bentley was
708
HISTOBY OF MEBCEK COUNTY.
for many years connected with the Ohio State Militia with the rank of captain.
In 1845 he was elected justice of the peace, which office he held for two terms.
In 1840 he was appointed United States marshal, and filled that position for a
number of years. He is a member of the Masonic order, having been initi-
ated in 1819, and in politics he is a Democrat. Mr. Bentley has lived in
Trumbull County, Ohio, for over eighty years, and is one of its oldest and
most respected citizens.
CoENELius Bowden was born in Hickory Township, Mercer Co., Penn.,
December, 12, 1820, and is a son of Daniel and Mary (Wasey) Bowden. The
former was a native of Bucks County, Penn., of English parentage. His wife
was of Scotch parentage. They were married in Bucks County, and with three
children moved to Gustavus, Ohio. About 1822 they settled in Hickory Town-
ship, Mercer County, where five children were born, making a family of four
daughters and four sons. The youngest son, J ames G. , was killed at the
battle of Fort Wagner. In 1835 the family removed to Mercer, where they
resided about twenty years and then located in Sharon, where the parents spent
the balance of their days, the mother dying January 22, 1866, and the father
July 12, 1872, both being members of the Baptist Church. Cornelius began
business in Sharon in 1846, and afterward moved to Orangeville, Penn., where
he remained for nearly two years. He then returned to Sharon, where he has
ever since been in business, having a large carriage and wagon factory, which
a few years ago was destroyed by fire. Mr. Bowden was married June 1, 1850,
to Abigail Ray, of Brookfield, Trum'bull Co. , Ohio, daughter of David and
Abigail Ray, pioneers of that county. Four daughters have been born to them.
Politically Mr. Bowden is a Prohibitionist, and he and his family are members
of the Presbyterian Church.
Geoege Boyce (deceased) was born in England in May, 1805, and after
reaching manhood immigrated to London, Ontario, Canada. He received a
thorough classical and scientific education in Paris, France, and learned the
civil engineer’s profession in his native land. Soon after coming to Canada
he removed to Beaver, Penn., where he became one of the engineers in the
survey of the Beaver & Erie Canal. He was connected with this enterprise
till its completion, and in 1837 took up his residence in Sharon. In 1839 he
was there married to Miss Satira A. , daughter of Linus and Margaret Curtis,
and sister of Gen. Joel B. Curtis, a prominent citizen of Sharon. Mrs. Boyce
was born in Charlestown Township, Portage Co., Ohio, February 20, 1815.
After his marriage Mr. Boyce went to St. Catharines, Ontario, and was a con-
tractor in the construction of the Welland Canal, on which enterprise he was
engaged about four years. Returning to Sharon he entered into partnership
with his brother-in-law, Mr. Curtis, in the development of the coal fields
adjacent to Sharon, in which business he was engaged for many years, and
accumulated a large fortune. Soon after forming the partnership with Mr. Curtis
our subject removed to Erie, Penn. , to look after the interest of their business at
that point, where he resided until after the death of Gen. Curtis, in 1862, when
he returned to Sharon and continued in the coal business until the mines would
no longer pay for working. He was a leading member of the firm of Boyce,
Rawle & Co. , which operated the furnace between Sharon and Sharpsville for
many years, and he was also interested in the iron business at West Middlesex.
Mr. Boyce took a prominent and active interest in having the Sharon Railroad
built from Sharon to Sharon Junction, and from Sharon to West Middlesex.
He was also largely interested in the Emmit Mining Company, in its iron ore
lands in Michigan. For several years preceding his death he was a director
of the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, and vice-president of the
HTSTOBY OP MERCER COUNTY.
709
Sharon National Bank. Politically a Whig in early life, on the dissolution of
that party he became a Democrat, and was ever afterward a stanch advocate of
the principles of that party. He died December 28, 1885, at the ripe old age
of nearly eighty-one years. He was a life-long member of the Episcopal
Church. Throughout his career he commanded the respect and confidence of
the best citizens of the Shenango Valley, wherein he had spent the greater
portion of his life. Of wide information, sterling integrity and scrupulous
honesty in all his dealings, his death was recognized as a deep loss to the
social and material interests of Sharon, where his memory will long be held in
kindly remembrance. His widow resides in the beautiful home, on the west
hill, which he erected and beautified.
John J. Boyle, general grocer, was born in the County Mayo, Ireland,
November 27, 1853, and is a son of John and Bridget (Thornton) Boyle, na-
tives of Ireland, and who immigrated to the Sharon Furnace in Hickory Town-
ship in the fall of 1865. The father died in Sharon in November, 1884, and
the widow still resides in this town. John began working in the Sharon Iron
Works, and continued till 1879, as a roller, and in the fall of that year opened
his present grocery store and has since done a highly successful trade. He
was married May 13, 1885, to Miss Ann Fitzmaurice of Sharpsville, but a na-
tive of New York State, and daughter of Thomas and Ann Fitzmaurice, natives
of Ireland. Of this union two children have been born, Thomas and Florence.
The family are Catholics, and politically Mr. Boyle is an independent Re-
publican.
Patrick Beady, jeweler, was born in Dublin, Ireland, March 17, 1837,
and is a son of Paul and Martha (Hamilton) Brady, natives of Ireland! Pat-
rick learned the jeweler’s trade in Dublin, and subsequently took a full course
of instructions in the manufacture of watches in Liverpool, England. He then
returned to Dublin, where he became foreman of one of the leading jewelry
houses of that city. During the war he immigrated to Sharon and opened a
jewelry store, which has grown to be the foremost house in its line in that
borough. Mr. Brady married Ellen Cooke, a native of Ireland. Of this union
seven children survive: Martha, Ella, Lucy, Lillie, Emma, Alice and Albert.
Politically he is a Republican, and the family belong to the Episcopal Church.
He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the A. O. U. W. Beginning on
a small capital he has, by close attention to his business, accumulated con-
siderable property, and is one of the oldest business men of Sharon.
Phcebe Brooks, physician and surgeon, was born in Crawford County,
Penn. She received her primary education in the district public schools, af-
terward attending and graduating at the State Normal School at Edinboro,
Penn. She taught for several years, devoting her spare moments to the study
of medicine. In 1876 she entered the medical department of the University
of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and graduated in June, 1878. She afterward
spent one year at the New England Hospital for women and children, Boston,
Mass. In December, 1879, Dr. Brooks opened an office in Sharon, and has
since built up a good practice. She belongs to the Presbyterian Church, and
is one of the well-known physicians of the borough.
Louis Buchholz, general clothier, was born in Prussia, Germany, Decem-
ber 29, 1837, and is a son of Joseph and Rebecca (Loewenstein) Buchholz,
natives of Germany. The former died there in 1867, and his widow is a res-
ident of Berlin. Louis was educated in his native land, and in the fall of
1856 immigrated to Warren, Ohio, where he clerked three years. In the
autumn of 1859 he started in the clothing business in Ravenna, Ohio, in part-
nership with the late Jacob Goldstein. In the spring of 1863 he located in
710
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Sharon, and has since been one of the leading business naen of the borough.
Jacob Goldstein continued in partnership with him up to his death, in August,
1882, at which time Mr. Buchholz became sole owner of the business, though
still retaining the old hrm name of J. Goldstein & Co. Mr. Buchholz was
married, July 7, 1864, to Miss Lizzie^ daughter of the late William McGil-
vray, of Sharon. Three children were born of this union; William, Joseph
and Edward. His wife died May 14, 1877, and he was again married, June
25, 1884, to Miss Mary, daughter of the late Thomas Clark, one of the early
settlers of the ■valley, whose widow, Mrs. Nancy Clark, resides on the old-
homestead near Sharon. Politically Mr. Buchholz is an unswerving Demo-
crat, and one of the well-known enterprising citizens of the borough, where
he has lived twenty-five years.
The Budd Family. — In 1796 William Budd, a native of New Jersey, born
October 19, 1773, whence he had removed to Washington County, Penn.,
was sent out to the Shenango Valley by his father, William, for the purpose
of selecting lands for settlement. After exploring the country embraced in
Mercer County he selected a tract lying on each side of the Shenango River,
built a cabin, and passed the winter of 1796-97 in hunting and trapping, and
the following year in the same way. In 1798 he returned to Washington
County, Penn. , where he married Drucilla Hulse, and again came out to his
settlement on the Shenango. He was afterward joined by his parents, Will-
iam and Sichy Budd, brothers, Daniel and John, and sisters. Patience, Nancy,
Sallie, Elizabeth and Mary. He built a cabin for his parents not far from his
own, where both died at an early day. To William and Drucilla Budd were
born the following children, all upon the site of Sharon: Joseph, March 1,
1801; Elizabeth, January 7, 1803; Sichy and William (twins), September 26,
1807; Edward Scofield, Feliruary 1, 1809; Henry H., January 30, 1811, and
Daniel Upson, March 2, 1813, the last mentioned, now a resident of Sharon,
being the only survivor of the family. The mother died at Sharon June 10,
1815, aged thirty-three, and he was again married October 11, 1821, to Han-
nah Riggs, born in New Jersey September 5, 1779, whom he survived. He
died May 23, 1849. He laid out the original town of Sharon on his land, and
lived to see it quite a flourishing place. He was a justice of the peace about
thirty years.
Daniel Budd was born in New Jersey in 1775, and inherited fifty acres of
the land entered by his brother William. He subsequently bought his brother
John’s fifty acres, and the farm is still owned by his descendants. He after-
ward purchased land east of the Shenango and laid it out into town lots. He
married Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel and Achsah Quinby, pioneers of the
valley. Daniel reared a family of four children; William, Sarah, Emily and
Lafayette. Sarah (the widow of W. C. Malin) and Lafayette survive and
reside in Sharon. Mr. Budd built one of the first frame houses in the village.
In early life Mr. Budd was a Democrat, but afterward joined the Whig party,
and both he and wife were members of the Baptist Church. Daniel died
October 8, 1841, his widow surviving him till February 22, 1880, dying in the
ninety-third year of her age.
John Budd, youngest son of William, Sr., married Unice Riggs, and lived
in Hickory Township till his removal to the west many years ago.
Of the daughters of William Budd, Sr., Patience married a Mr. McMullen,
and moved to Ohio; Nancy married Amos Hazen, and went west; Sallie mar-
ried Nathaniel Hazen, and both died near Sheakleyville; Elizabeth married
Thomas McMurren, and removed to Brookfield, Ohio, where they died, and
Mary married Edward Scofield, a civil engineer sent out to survey the West-
HISTOllY OF MEBCEK COUNTY.
711
ern Reserve, who afterward served in the War of 1812, and was a member of
the Legislature from Trumbull County, Ohio.
William Bunn (deceased) was born in Sharon, Penn., September 26, 1807,
was a son of William and Drucilla Budd previously spoken of, and spent his
whole life in the vicinity of Sharon. He was married, October 26, 1829, to
Miss Catharine, daughter of John and Patience (Elliott) Hull, who was born
immediately north of Sharon September 19, 1812. Mr. Budd was a carpenter
by trade, and followed that business many years. Politically he was a Demo-
crat, and a life long member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and died
November 9, 1867. He was recognized as an upright, honest man and a good
Christian citizen. His widow resides in Greenville, enjoying the competence
which his industry and judicious management accumulated.
Edward Scofield Budd (deceased) was born in Sharon February 1, 1809,
and was a son of William and Drucilla Budd. He grew up and married,
December 29, 1829, Mary Willson, a native of Brookfield, Ohio, born December
3, 1814. Soon after marriage they removed to Hickory Township, and in
1841 to Brookfield, Ohio. In 1857 they went to Edina, Knox Go., Mo.,
returning to Sharon in 1863, On the breaking out of the Rebellion Mr. Budd
raised an independent regiment of volunteer cavalry for service as militia in
the State of Missouri, which he commanded until early in 1863, when sickness
compelled him to retire from active duty. After his return to Sharon he
remained there until his death, which occurred October 21, 1886. His widow
is still a resident of the borough. While living in Trumbull County, Ohio,
Mr. Budd served as justice of the peace nine years, and one term as sheriff.
He also served as justice of the peace in Sharon one term. Politically he was
a Republican, and a member of the Baptist Church, to which denomination
his widow also belongs. They were the parents of the following children:
James D. , William, Jane (deceased), Mary A. (deceased), Edward W., Eliza
(deceased), Samuel (deceased), Warren (deceased), John, Sarah E. and Ben-
jamin F.
Daniel Upson Budd, retired farmer, was born March 2, 1813, and is the
youngest son of William and Drucilla Budd. He has spent his whole life in
Sharon, and resides on a part of the land entered by his father. He has been
twice married, first to Lucy Ann Hull, of Trumbull County, Ohio, December
29, 1836. Two daughters were born of this marriage: Sarah E. (wife of
William Matthews, of Kansas City, Mo. ), and Emma V. , wife of A. S. Serv-
ice, of Sharon. Mrs. Budd died January 19, 1883, and he was again married,
October 8, 1886, to Mrs. Sophronia Waldorf, daughter of William and Lucre-
tia Chew, of Brookfield, Ohio. Mr. Budd has followed farming all his life,
and is the oldest continuous resident of Sharon, which borough he has seen
grow from a small hamlet to its present fiourishing dimensions. Since attain-
ing his majority he has never missed casting his vote for the national nominee
of the Democratic party.
Lafayette Budd, farmer and real estate dealer, was born in that town
April 21, 1824, and is a son of Daniel and Elizabeth Budd previously spoken
of. He grew to manhood in Sharon and obtained his education in the village
schools of the borough. In February, 1850, he went to California, where he
spent twenty years in the gold regions. He returned to his early home in 1870,
and has since been engaged in farming and dealing in real estate. Mr. Budd
was married December 18, 1871, to Mrs. May Strawbridge, daughter of Ros-
well and Mary (Scofield) Abell, pioneers of Trumbull County, Ohio. Mrs.
Budd is a member of the Episcopal Church. Our subject is a Democrat in
politics, and a member of one of the oldest families of this section of the
State.
712
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Frank H. Buhl, manager of the Sharon Iron Works, now the property of
Buhl, Sons & Co., is a native of Detroit, Mich., in which city his parents re-
side. He received a first-class education and is a graduate of Yale College.
In 1809 Mr. Buhl located in Sharon, and in 1874 became manager of the ex-
tensive iron works previously spoken of. He filled that position four years
and then returned to Detroit. In August, 1887, he again took charge of the
works, and has since remained in that capacity. Mr. Buhl was married Feb-
ruary 8, 1888, to Miss Julia Forker, daughter of the late Henry Forker and
granddaughter of the venerable T. J. Porter, Esq., of Sharon. He is a Re-
publican in politics, and one of the most prominent iron manufacturers of
Pennsylvania.
Charles E. Bundel, druggist, was born in Lancaster, Penn., November 14,
1844, and is a son of Michael and Charlotte (Spurier) Bundel, the former a
native of Lancaster, Penn., and the latter of England, both of whom died in
Lancaster many years ago. Our subject grew to manhood and received his
education in his native town. He there learned the drug business, came to
Cleveland, Ohio, in the fall of 1867, and in the spring of 1869 located in
Sharon, where he began clerking for Viall & Carnes. In 1870 he succeeded
Mr. Carnes, and the firm of Viall & Bundel was organized. In 1874 Mr.
Bundel withdrew from the firm and opened his present drug store, where he
has since conducted a successful business. In June, 1864, he enlisted in the
Seventy-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served till the close of the war,
participating in the Atlanta campaign and Sherman’s march to the sea. He
was married October 20, 1870, to Miss Sarah E. Murphy, of Lancaster, Penn.,
who has borne him four children; Mary C. , Grace, Charles M. and Kate H.
Politically he is a Republican, and has been a member of the borough council
one term. Mr. Bundel was one of the organizers of the Sharon Engine and
Hose Co. , now the Sharon Fire Department, has been chief of the depart-
ment since 1881, and has done a great deal toward building up that institu-
tion to its present high state of efficiency.
George W. Burnett, proprietor of livery stables, was born in Brookfield,
Ohio, November 14, 1843, and is a son of David C. and Rhoda (French)
Burnett, the former a native of Trumbull County, Ohio, and the latter of
Georgia. They were married in Texas, and afterward settled in Brookfield,
Ohio, where David C. engaged in the manufacture of machinery, engines,
stoves, etc., which he followed up to his death in 1869. His wife having died
September 24, 1854, he married again, and reared four children by his second
marriage. By his first marriage he reared five sons and four daughters, all of
whom are living except one son, who died while serving in the late war.
George W. grew up in Brookfield, and in January, 1862, enlisted in the Third
Ohio Independent Batterjq raised at Canton, Ohio, and served till the close of
the war. Before the war he learned the engineer’ s trade, and at its close re-
sumed that business. In the fall of 1871 he came to Sharon and ran the
locomotive engine for the Stewart Iron Co. about ten years. Shortly before
quitting this position he bought an interest in a livery stable, which business
he has since followed, locating in his present stand in 1881. Mr. Burnett
was married May 9, 1866, to Felicia E., daughter of James and Mary J. Cope,
of Youngstown, Ohio, and natives of England. One son, David C., is the
fruit of this marriage. In politics he is a Republican, is a member of the
Masonic fraternity, K. of P. , K. of L. and G. A. R. societies.
J OHN W. Canon, superintendent of the Sharon public schools, was born in
Mill Creek Township, Mercer Co., Penn., February 11, 1844, and is a son of
Robert and Catharine (Steele) Canon, of that township. His grandfather,
HISTOEY OF MERGER COUNTY.
713
John Canon, was born near Canonsburgh, Penn., and married Jane McFar-
land, whose home was near Orangeville, Ohio. They settled in Shenango
Township, near Middlesex, in the last decade of the eighteenth century, where
both spent the remaining years of their lives, dying on their farm near West Mid-
dlesex. They left a family of four sons and two daughters, all of whom grew
to maturity in this county, Robert, of Mill Creek Township, and Mrs. Joseph
Clark, of Russell County, Kas., being the only survivors. Our subject grew
up in Mill Creek Township, obtaining his primary education in the public
schools, subsequently attended New Lebanon Academy, and in 1866 entered
the Edinboro Normal School, where he graduated in November, 1868. He,
however, had begun teaching in the winter of 1864-65, and thus obtained the
means to prosecute his studies till graduation. He then taught in Cambridge-
boi’ough two years, and in 1870 became a member of the faculty of the Edin-
boro Normal School, where he taught seven years, mainly the departments of
mathematics and United States history. While teaching in the Edinboro
school he pursued a regular course of study, adding much to the normal
course. In 1877 he resigned his position and accepted the principalship of
the Franklin High-school, where he taught two years. In August, 1879, he
was elected principal of the Sharon public schools, and in 1882 was elected
superintendent, under the law of 1881 allowing boroughs of 5,000 inhabitants
to elect a superintendent with the same powers and duties in the borough as
the county superintendent has in the balance of the county. Mr. Canon has
since filled the position of superintendent of the Sharon schools, and is one
of the best known educators in the Shenango Valley. He w'as married March
10, 1875, to Mrs. Lizzie Reeder, nee McClaughrey, of Edinboro, Erie Co.,
Penn. , of which union one son, Robert, has been born to them. Mr. Canon
is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Presbyterian Church.
John Caeley, of the firm of Wallis & Carley, contractors and builders, and
manufacturers of builders’ materials, was born near Brockville, Ontario, Febru-
ary 28, 1844, and is a son of John and Sarah (Green) Carley, natives of that
place, where both died. Our subject grew to manhood in his native county,
and in the fall of 1865 came to Youngstown, Ohio, locating in Sharon the fol-
lowing year. He learned the carpenter’s trade after coming to Sharon, and in
company with Jacob Faas, William Wallis and A. Kanengeiser, under the firm
name of Faas, Kanengeiser & Co., began contracting and building, Faas and
Kanengeiser retiring from the firm in 1876. In March, 1876, Wallis & Car-
ley purchased the Carver & Trout planing mill and lumber yard, which was
burned down the following October. They soon afterward built their present
mill, which they have since operated. The firrh of Wallis & Carley have built
up an extensive trade and operate one of the largest institutions of its kind in
the Shenango Valley, which they carry on with their usual energy and business
sagacity. Mr. Carley was married in 1873 to Miss Maggie Armstrong, of
Guelph, Ontario, of which union two children have been born to them : Ethel
and Glenn. Politically he is a Prohibitionist, and a member of the Masonic
and I. O. O. F. societies. He is one of the most progressive and enterprising
citizens of the valley.
Joseph Chamberlain, baker and confectioner, was born in Cheltenham,
Gloucestershire, England, January 8, 1826, and is a son of Joseph and Mary
(Cleveley) Chamberlain, both of whom spent their lives in England. Joseph
learned his trade in his native land, and in 1850 immigrated to Pittsburgh,
Penn., where he soon afterward started a bakery and confectionery, which he
conducted seven years. About 1858 he purchased a farm north of Sharon,
upon which he settled and lived a few years. In 1863-64 he erected the
714
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
building at present occupied by the Herald office, where he established a
bakery, confectionery and grocery business. This was the pioneer institution,
in that line, in Sharon. Several years afterward Mr. Chamberlain erected
another bakery and steam cracker factory on Silver Street, where he manufac-
tured his goods, though still conducting his store, and also ran peddling
wagons. He subsequently removed to the corner of State and Shenango
Streets, and in 1883 he erected his present store-room, where he has since car-
ried on his business. Mr. Chamberlain was married in England in 1847, to
Miss Elizabeth Morris, and both he and wife belong to the Episcopal Church.
He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and politically is a Republican.
Albert W. Chase, general grocer, was born in Jefferson Township, Mercer
Co., Penn., May 24, 1858, and is a son of John and Ellen (Luce) Chase, the
former a native of Potter County, Penn., and the latter of Vermont. John
Chase came here when a child, with his parents, Chester and Esther Chase.
The father died in Jefferson Township, and his widow still resides there.
John grew to manhood in Jefferson Township, and married Ellen Luce, whose
parents emigrated from Vermont to this county when she was a child. John
Chase and wife have been residents of Sharon for twenty-five years. Albert
H. has spent his whole life in this county, and twenty-five years of it in Shai’on.
He was in the livery business seven years, and in September, 1885, he opened
his present store, and has since done a good business. Mr. Chase was married
J anuary 10, 1882, to Miss Anna M. Donlin, of Sharon. Politically Mr. Chase
is a Prohibitionist, and a member of the Protected Home Circle.
Samuel Clark, deceased, a soldier of the War of 1812, was born
in Sussex County, N. J., August 13, 3 796, and in 1804 his parents,
Samuel and Mary Clark, settled in Pymatuning Township. They were
natives of Northampton County, Penn. Samuel grew up in this county, and
learned the carpenter and millwright trade. He was twice married, first to
Mary McDowell, of Pymatuning Township, who bore him three children:
John, deceased; Mary, deceased, and Samuel B. , a resident of Sharon; all
born on the farm at Clarksville. The mother died there in 1841, in the faith
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Clark was again married in 1844, to
Mrs. Susan Reno, nee Patterson, of Sharon, widow of Joseph Reno, and
daughter of Isaac and Margaret Patterson, natives of Adams County, Penn.,
who settled on the site of Sharon about 1803, moving across the line into
Ohio in 1814 or 1815. Mrs. Clark was born on the site of Sharon October 7,
1811, and had three children by her first marriage: Isaac, of Sharon; Malissa,
deceased, and Jane, deceased. Three children were born of her marriage to
Samuel Clark: James, Jennette and Corinthia V., all residents of Sharon.
Mr. Clark and wife removed to Sharon from Clarksville about two years after
their marriage, and he spent the balance of his life in this town, dying October
6, 1878. He was a contractor on the Sandy & Beaver Canal, was one of the
pioneer boatsmen on the Beaver & Erie Canal, and is said to have brought the
first load of Lake Superior ore to Sharpsville. Mr. Clark was a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. In early life he was a Whig and afterward
a Republican. He was one of the well-known pioneers of the Shenango
Valley. His widow resides on the old homestead in Sharon, at the ripe old
age of seventy- seven years.
Frank H. Clark, general grocer, was born in Delaware Township, Mercer
County, Penn., January 29, 1846, and is a son of Daniel G. and Susan (Big-
gart) Clark. The former was born near Lancaster, Penn., of German parent-
age, while the latter was a native of this State, of Irish ancestry. John
Clark, wife Rosanna and family settled in Delaware Township when Daniel
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
715
G. was a boy, and both he and wife died in that part of the county. On the
maternal side John Biggart, wife Eliza and family located near Sheakleyville,
Penn. , when Susan was quite small, and both died in that township. Daniel
G. Clark and Susan Biggart grew to maturity in Mercer County, and were
here married. Daniel learned the blacksmith’s trade, and opened a shop in
Delaware Township, subsequently removing to Jamestown, Penn., and thence
to Clarion County, where he died, and where his widow now resides. Our
subject grew up in this county, and began clerking in Jamestown, Penn. In
1868 he came to Sharon and followed clerking, principally, till opening his
present grocery house, April 1, 1887. Mr. Clark was married May 6, 1869,
to Miss Maggie Allbright, of Jamestown, Penn., of which union two children
have been born, Jennie C. and Charles A. Politically Mr. Clark is a Repub
lican, a member of the E. A. U., and the family belong to the Baptist
Church.
Maek Cohen, deceased merchant, was born in London, England, July 9,
1843, and was a son of Henry Cohen, who died when Mark was nine years
old, throwing our subject upon his own resources. At the age of sixteen he
crossed the Atlantic to Wilmington, Del., where he followed clerking in that
city, and afterward in Philadelphia. He then opened a clothing store in Wil-
mington, Del., which he conducted until the spring of 1867, when he located
in Sharon, in the clothing busine'ss. He was married January 6, 1867, to
Miss Julia Weinburg, of Philadelphia, who bore him six children; Henry M. ,
Reuben W., Emanuel, Julia, Rose and Marquis, deceased. Mr. Cohen was
a Republican in politics, a member of the Jewish faith, and belonged to the
Masonic fraternity. He served two years as vice-president of the fire depart-
ment, and held that position at the time of his death, which occurred May 12,
1878. He was also a member of the I. O. O. F. and I. O. R. M. , of Wilming-
ton, Del. He was a man of strict integrity and generous principles, and took a
deep interest in the growth and prosperity of Sharon, and was one of its pro-
gressing and enterprising citizens. Soon after his death his widow took charge
of the business, established a cloak and millinery department, has made
Sharon the leading cloak market between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, and has
one of the largest retail trades in the Shenango Valley.
Isaac D. Cole, retired farmer, was born in Washington County, Penn.,
June 10, 1813, and is a son of Moses Cole, a soldier of the Revolution, and
Judah (Yanness) Cole, natives of New Jersey, of Dutch ancestry. They re-
moved to Trumbull County, Ohio, late in the eighteenth century, where they
lived several years, thence removed to W^ashington County, Penn., and there
died in the faith of the Presbyterian Church. Isaac D. grew to manhood in
W'^ashington County, and attended school in the primitive log school-house of
the pioneer days. In 1831 he was married to Elizabeth Taylor, of Washing-
ton County, who bore him eleven children, eight of whom are living: John, of
Perry Township; Sarah A., Mary C., wife of Sylvester Cook, of Shenango
Township; Hannah L., deceased wife of Hugh Robison, of Hartford, Ohio;
Nancy J. , deceased; Martin V., of Perry Township; Judah, wife of Gibson
Minner, of Jackson Township; Isaac, deceased; Caroline, wife of W^illiam
Minner, of Hickory Township; Samuel, of Hickory Township, and Franklin P. ,
deceased. In 1834 Mr. Cole settled in Shenango Township, with his wife and
three eldest children, and all the balance were born upon the old homestead.
Mrs. Cole died in 1863, and he was again married August 12, 1865, to Mrs.
Catharine Hughes, a native of England and a member of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church. Mr. Cole is a Democrat, and was closely identified with the
school interests of Shenango Township during his residence therein. Coming
710
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
to Mercer County a poor man, he has accumulated through the passing years a
large estate. He has always been energetic and economical in his habits, and
upright and honest in his business affairs.
John Cook, contractor and builder, was born in Allegheny County, Penn.,
September 14, 1844, and is a son of Conrad and Elizabeth (Benter) Cook, both
natives of Germany. They removed from Allegheny County to Deer Creek
Township, Mercer Co., Penn., about 1850, where the mother died in 1853.
The family afterward removed to Michigan, where the father died in 1886.
After his mother’s death John returned to Allegheny County, where he learned
the carpenter’s trade. He worked in the oil region about one year, and located
in Sharon in July, 1866, where he has since resided. For the past sixteen
years he has been engaged in contracting and building. Mr. Cook was mar-
ried September 21, 1868, to Miss Clara Lawhead, of Sharon, who has borne
him three children: Ida M., Harry B. and Mattie R. In politics Mr. Cook is
a Democrat.
Eenest Cope, proprietor of livery stables, was born in Staffordshire, Eng-
land, September 18, 1833, and is a son of James and Mary (Fryer) Cope, both
of whom lived and died in England. Erne.«t grew to manhood in his native
land, and there followed coal mining. In 1856 he immigrated to Lowellville,
Ohio, where he lived two years. He then spent a short time in the West,
whence he returned to Youngstown, Ohio, where he followed mining, and sub-
sequently engaged in the same business in Brookfield, Ohio. In 1870 he went
into the mercantile business in Brookfield, but soon sold out and engaged in
shipping coal. In March, 1873, he came to Sharon, and formed a partnership
with W. E. Hall, under the firm name of Hall & Cope, in the livery business,
which they have since carried on successfully. Mr. Cope was married July 5,
1861, to Mary E. Groezinger, of Warren, Ohio, who has borne him four chil-
dren, all of whom died in infancy. He is a Republican in politics, belongs to
the Masonic order, A. O. U. W. and P. H. C. , and both he and wife are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
William H. Covee, undertaker, was born near Edenburgh, Lawrence
Co., Penn., November 18, 1848, and is a son of Jacob and Lydia (Robb)
Cover, the former a native of Eastern Pennsylvania and the latter of Indiana,
and early settlers of Lawrence County, Penn. They reared a family of four-
teen children, nine sons and five daughters, all of whom grew to maturity, and
seven are now living. Four of the sons served in the Union army during the
late war. In 1868 the parents removed to Poland, Ohio, where the father died
in the Methodist Episcopal faith, in January, 1881. The widow is still a
resident of Poland in her eighty- second year, and is an ardent Methodist.
Our subject grew to manhood in Lawrence County, attended the public schools
of his neighborhood, and when his parents removed to Poland, Ohio, entered the
seminary in that town, where he spent three years. In 1871 he came to Sharon
and learned the cabinet and undertaker’s trade, which he followed for several
years. In the spring of 1876 he opened a furniture and undertaking store in
Bedford, which he conducted two years. He then returned to Sharon, where
he carried on a picture framing and sewing machine business till August, 1885,
when he opened his present undertakiog establishment, and has since built up
a large trade. Mr. Cover was married July 6, 1875, to Miss Emma V.,
daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Hanson, natives of England. Mr. Hanson
immigrated with his family to Sharon in 1850, and was one of the leading car-
penters and builders of the town for many years. He erected and owned the
Carver House and many other buildings, and resided here till his death. His
widow lives in Sharon, where they reared two sons and five daughters, one of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
717
the sons dying in Libby Prison during the war. One son and four daughters
survive. Politically Mr. Cover is one of the leading Prohibitionists of this
section of the State, and both he and wife are members of the Sharon Methodist
Episcopal Church, where he has been teacher of the young men’s bible class in
the Sabbath-school for ten years. He belongs to the E,. T. of T. and the P. H.
C. , and is grand councilor of the K. T. of T. of Pennsylvania, the highest office
in the order in the State.
Heney Ceosthwaite, deceased cigar manufacturer, was born in the County
Kildare, Ireland, and immigrated to the United States when a boy of thirteen,
subsequently locating in Pittsburgh, where he learned his trade, afterward
working in Blairsville, Penn. In 1851 he came to Sharon, where he followed
cigar making up to his death, March 17, 1881. He was married March 9,
1863, by Kev. J. J. Gallagher, to Miss Ellen, daughter of Patrick and Catha-
rine Griffin, a pioneer family of the Catholic settlement near Mercer. Mrs.
Crosthwaite was born in Iowa, and the whole family belong to the Catholic
Church. Politically Mr. Crosthwaite was a Democrat, and served in the
borough council. He was one of the oldest and best known business- men of
the town, was upright and honest in his dealings, and was thoroughly re-
spected by all who knew him. Since her husband’s death Mrs. Crosthwaite
has carried on the business quite successfully.
Gen. Joel Bakee Cuetis, deceased, was born in Granville, Mass., June 21,
1797, and was a son of Linus and Margaret (Peck) Curtis, the former
a native of Granville, Mass., and the latter of Lyme, Conn. In 1809 a com-
pany was formed of citizens of Granville and Blanford, Mass., to settle the
lands now embraced in Charlestown Township, Portage Co. , Ohio, then owned
by Samuel Hinckley, of Northampton, Mass. Linus and Charles Curtis were
members of this company, and in the summer of 1810 the former came west
with his family and settled in that township, whither he was followed the next
summer by his brother, who settled on an adjoining tract. The township was
named Charlestown in honor of his brother, Charles. To Linus and Margaret
Curtis were born the following children: Olive, Joel B., Malissa, Harris P. ,
Prudence, Saxton, Satira and Charles. Satira married the late George Boyce,
Esq., of Sharon, Penn., and is the only survivor of the family. The parents
died on the old homestead in Charlestown, Ohio. Joel B. was a boy of four-
teen when the family removed to that State, and received his education in
Granville, Mass. , and Charlestown, Ohio, being one of the pupils in the hrst
school opened, in 1811, in Charlestown. He married Miss Clarissa, daughter
of Ozias Norton, also an early settler of Portage County, and one of the first
township officers in the organization of Charlestown Township in 1814. Mrs.
Curtis was born in Durham, Conn., August 15, 1794. Mr. Curtis came to
Mercer prior to his marriage, and engaged in merchandising. He was after-
ward connected with a stage line beweenErie and Pittsburgh for several years,
whence he cam(e to Sharon in 1836. Mr. Curtis and wife were the parents of
several children, all born in Mercer, but only two of whom grew to maturity,
Alfred Norton and Frederick. The latter died before his father, but Alfred
survived his parents, and succeeded his father in the management of the large
business interests built up by the latter, which he skillfully controlled up to
his death. Gen. Curtis, in partnership with his brother-in-law, George
Boyce, was early interested in the development of the coal fields in the vicinity
of Sharon, in which business he was engaged for many years. In 1850 he
was the leading spirit in the organization of a stock company which built the
original plant of the Sharon Iron Works, and was president of the company,
and its principal financial support from 1850 until 1855, when the mill was
Al
718
HISTOKY OF MEKCEB COUNTY.
closed. In 1856 it was fitted up by another company to manufacture steel
from raw ore, but that experiment finally proved a failure, and in the fall of
1857 the mill was again shut down. It remained idle until 1861, when the
plant was sold, and bid in by Gen. Curtis, who then sold it to William Cole-
man, James Westerman, C. B. Wick and P. W. Keller, who again opened it
as an iron mill. Gen. Curtis was prominently identified with the leading
interests of the Shenango Valley up to his sudden death at Mecca, Ohio, August
27, 1862, at which point he was then engaged in developing the oil fields.
Throughout his long residence in Sharon no man of his day did so much
toward building up that town, and to him is largely due its present prosperity.
He was one of the leading Democrats of this portion of the State, and was as
firm as a rock in Tipholding the principles of his party. His widow survived
him until May 20, 1875. Gen. Curtis was a man of unbounded energy and
enterprise, and was well known and highly respected throughout the Shenango
Valley. Possessing fine social qualities and an affable disposition, he was
nevertheless a man of dignified manners, broad views and great natural
endowments.
Alfred Norton Curtis was a son of Gen. Joel B. Curtis, who was inti-
mately connected with the early prosperity of Sharon. He was born in Mercer
on the 30th of September, 1827, and came with his parents to Sharon in 1836,
and resided here from that time up to his death, December 28, 1884. Acquir-
ing a good education in his boyhood days he afterward entered the mercantile
business in which his father was interested, and of which he gradually assumed
entire and successful direction. On the death of Gen. Curtis, in 1862, the
control of the large and valuable estate, of coal and other interests, devolved
upon him, and largely increased in size and value under his correct and care-
ful business management and judicious investments. His charity, his gener-
osity, his benevolence, were his distinguishing characteristics, however.
Hunger and wretchedness never appealed to him in vain, and his Christian
charities and beneficent deeds were without number. His tender heart was
constantly devising means of promoting the happiness of those around him,
and he has left a name fragrant with tenderest affection for those to whom he
was attached by the bonds of friendship or the ties of blood. The following
tributes to his memory from two of his old friends illustrate the deep esteem
in which he was held;
‘ ‘ Mr. Curtis died just at the holiday season of the year, a time when he
especially devoted himself to making all those around and in any way con-
nected with him to feel happy and thankful for Christmas. No poor person,
however obscure, in the neighborhood who could not claim him for a friend,
and the well-to-do were the better for having him as a neighbor. Blessed
with abundant wealth he had the rare gift of bestowing it liberally — in a way
that the recipient was thankful without feeling it was given in charity. His
name and memory will long be held in grateful remembrance lay his friends
everywhere, and especially by his friends in Sharon.”
‘ ‘ If the good which men do live after them — and there can be no doubt of
that fact — then this community has reason to be thankful, not only that Alfred
Norton Curtis has lived amongst them, but that his bright and beautiful
example will continue to be an incentive for others to follow. Who is it that
knew him that was not benefitted by that acquaintance, by being made better
men, women and children ? Honored and respected by the people amongst whom
he has lived almost his whole life, his death is most sincerely regretted, whilst
to very many, outside of his home ties, his practical advice, good judgment
and kind words, were of no ordinary value. May the sod rest lightly on his
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
719
pillow, and the cold embrace of death transfer him to another and a better
world. ’ ’
CoNEAD Gansefokt Oaevee, deceased merchant, was born in Richfield,
Otsego County, N. Y., March 31, 1800, and was a son of Joseph and Abigail
(Rounds) Carver. The former was born in Otsego County, N. Y. , April 16,
1769, and married Abigail Rounds, October 5, 1788. She was born in Maine,
July 4, 1768, and reared a family of several children. They died, respectively,
June 8, 1815, and August 1, 1847. Conrad G. grew to manhood in his
native county, came to Sharon in 1829 and began merchandising and milling,
and subsequently followed contracting on the canal. He was one of the
pioneers in the development of the coal fields of the Shenango Valley, being
a contemporary of Gen. Curtis and George Boyce in that business, and was
among the first to ship coal by canal to Erie. He was also engaged for a time
in manufacturing, and continued in the coal business until a few years prior
to his death, which occurred September 2, 1874. He was the third post-
master of Sharon, and served from 1841 to 1845. He was married in Sharon,
August 6, 1833, to Miss Terressa, daughter of Samuel Quinby, one of the
pioneers of Sharon. Mrs. Carver was born in Warren, Ohio, April 7, 1808,
and is the mother of two childi’en, Joseph L. and Conrad Q., both residents
of Sharon. Politically Mr. Carver was an old line Whig, and afterward a
Republican. He was one of the most enterprising citizens of the town, and
did a great deal toward its growth and prosperity. He laid out Carver’s
Addition to Sharon on the East Hill, and was known and recognized as an
energetic, pushing business man. He came to Sharon when it was in its
infancy and lived to see it developed into one of the most flourishing towns of
the valley. He was a man of undoubted integrity, straightforward princi-
ples and unsullied reputation, and none stood higher in the respect and con-
fidence of his fellow citizens.
Conrad Q. Carver, the youngest son, was born in Sharon, December 17,
1836, was educated in the public schools of the borough, and subsequently
attended Hiram Institute, Portage County, Ohio, and the academy at Fre-
donia, N. Y. From early manhood until within a few years ago he was
engaged in mercantile pursuits in Sharon, from which he retired and entered
the coal business, which he yet follows. He was married December 17, 1868,
to Miss Mary, daughter of the late James Westerman, for many years one of
the leading manufacturers of the Shenango Valley. Three children are the
fruits of this union; Mary, James and Conrad. Politically Mr. Carver is a
Democrat, and one of the well-known citizens of the borough.
Ludwig Dach, proprietor of meat market, was born in Bavaria, Germany,
November 24, 1843, and is a son of Clemens and Elizabeth (Hengle) Dach,
who immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn., in 1847. In 1852 they came to Mercer
County and settled at Hickory Corners, two miles east of Sharon, where the
father carried on the butcher’s trade. He there donated the ground for a
Catholic church and cemetery. Several years later he removed to Sharpsville,
where his wife died, December 26, 1883, and where he still lives. Ludwig
lived with his parents until twenty-two years old and learned the butcher’s
trade with his father. He then opened a shop in West Middlesex, but after
one year returned to Hickory Corners and succeeded to his father’s business,
the latter going to Sharpsville. In October, 1883, he opened a shop in Sharon,
where he has since carried on business, besides conducting the old shop at
Hickory Corners, where he resides. He was married September 26, 1876, to
Miss Margaret Sigler, of Hickory Corners, a native of Germany and daughter
of Franz and Margaret Sigler, who both died at Hickory Corners in the
720
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Catholic faith. Eight children have been born to them: Elizabeth, Mary,
Clemens, Annie, Franz, Catherine, Margaret and Theresa. Mr. Each is a
Democrat, and the family belong to the Catholic Church. He is a member of
St. Peter’s Society and the C. M. B. A.
Chaeles Dahringee, proprietor of meat market, was born in Lowell-
ville, Mahoning County, Ohio, February 22, 1850, and is a son of Ignatz and
Lucy (Roup) Dahringer, natives of Germany, who immigrated to New Castle,
Penn., in 1848. They subsequently removed to Lowellville, Ohio, where the
mother died, leaving a family of five children; Louisa (wife of Jacob Hoelzle),
Frank (deceased), Frederick, Charles and Lizzie (wife of N. Knapp, of Sharon).
The father married again and is now living in Sharon. Our subject came to
Sharon in 1866, and learned his trade with Jacob Hoelzle. In April, 1879,
he went into business for himself, and has since been quite successful. He
was married May 27, 1873, to Miss Josephine, daughter of Matthias and Susan
Steiner, of Sharon, but natives of Germany. Mrs. Dahringer was born in
New York State, and came to Sharon with her parents when quite small. Six
children have been born of this union: Lizzie, Charles, Henry, Edward,
Emmett (deceased) and Ada. The family belong to the Methodist Church,,
and in politics Mr. Dahringer is a Democrat, and a member of the A. O. F.
Philip F. Davis, proprietor of the Carver House, was born in Warren
County, Penn., December 24, 1825, and is a son of Abraham and Ruth
(Mead) Davis, both natives of Pennsylvania. Philip F. grew to maturity in
his native county, and in 1849 removed to Muncie, Ind. , and the following
year went overland to California, where he remained about two years. Re-
turning to Muncie, Ind., he resided in that State till the fall of 1882, when
he located in the hotel business in Warren, Penn. In May, 1883, betook
charge of the Carver House, and has since built up its trade till it is regarded
as one of the leading hotels in the Shenango Valley. While in Indiana he was
principally engaged in the hotel, livery and mail route business. Mr. Davis
was married May 1, 1855, to Elmira Davis, of Muncie, Ind., who was the
mother of four children: May (wife of Prof. F. R. Webb, of Staunton, Va.),
Fred. W. (of San Diego, Cal.), Lucy A. (wife of Charles Bowers, of Indian-
apolis) and John F. (of Erie, Penn). Mrs. Davis died August 1, 1872, and
he was again married June 16, 1879, to Mrs. Mary C. Davis, nee Webber, of
Cincinnati, Ohio, who is the mother of one son, Horace W. Politically Mr.
Davis is a Republican, and a K. T. in the Masonic fraternity.
Solomon Dillinger (deceased) was born in Westmoreland County, Penn.,
December 14, 1805, and was a son of Jacob and Catharine Dillinger. The
former immigrated from Germany with his parents to Westmoreland County,
Penn., when a small boy, where he grew up and married. About 1807, they
removed to Jefferson Township, Mercer Co., Penn., with a large family, of
whom six sons and one daughter grew to maturity: John, Jacob, George,
William, Henry, Solomon and Elizabeth. Henry, who resides on the old home-
stead in Jefferson Township, is the only survivor. Jacob, Sr., was a soldier
in the War of 1812, and both he and wife died on the old homestead, in the
faith of the Lutheran Church. Our subject grew to manhood on the home farm,
and about 1831 came to Sharon and entered the employ of Elias Jones, who
then owned all of the lands now included in the northwest portion of the
borough. On January 7, 1833, he was married to Miss Jane, daughter of Elias
and Jane (Smith) Jones, the former a native of Wales, and the latter of Vir-
ginia. They were married in that State, and in 1803-04 came from Winches-
ter, Va. , to Hickory Township, Mercer County, and settled on the M.
C. Trout farm, where Mrs. Dillinger was born, December 10, 1807. There
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
721
were six children in the family of Elias Jones: Betsy, Smith, Sarah, Hannah,
Jane and Elias, the two last mentioned being twins. Mrs. Dillinger is the
only survivor. Mr. Jones removed with his family to the site of Sharon a few
years after the birth of Mrs. Dillinger, where he kept hotel, and was also the
first postmaster of the village, as well as its first merchant. Both he and wife
died in Sharon. One child, Elizabeth J. (wife of Septimus Marsden, of Sharon),
was born to Solomon and Jane Dillinger. Mr. Dillinger was a Democrat, and
followed farming up to his death, which occured October 10, 1853. His widow
now resides with her daughter, Mrs. Marsden.
George Deesch, wholesale liquor dealer, was born in Hickory Township,
Mercer Co., Penn., June 5, 1857, and is a son of Jacob and Margaret (Hossel)
Dresch, natives of Breidenbach, Rhine Pfaltz, Bavaria, Germany, born December
2, 1828, and January 13, 1839, respectively. Jacob Dresch immigrated to Sharon
in December, 1853, and was here married April 10, 1855, to Miss Margaret Hos-
sel, of Hickory Township. He first followed coal mining, but subsequently
engaged in the saloon business, and in 1863-64 went into the clothing and
dry goods trade, which, after three or four years, he sold out and established
the first exclusive wholesale liquor store in Sharon, which he conducted suc-
cessfully up to his death, November 16, 1883. Politically he was a Republi-
can, a member of the I. O. O. F. , and the German Reformed Church. The
widow still resides in the town, and is the mother of the following chil-
dren: George, Caroline (widow of Rev. F. P. Hartmetz, late Reformed min-
ister of Archibald, Ohio), Annie (wife of Fred P. Miller, of Sharon), Cath-
erine, Charles F., Jacob (deceased), Emma S., Alice, Clara, Francis and Lida.
George grew to manhood in Sharon and attended the public schools, subse-
quently spending one year at Calvin Institute, Cleveland, Ohio, and one year
at Heidelberg College, Tiffin, Ohio, which completed his education. He was
a commercial traveler two years, and also followed clerking up to his father’s
death, when he took charge of the store and has conducted the business ever
since. Mr. Dresch was married April 13, 1880, to Miss Jane A. Green, of
Sharon. Politically he is a stanch Democrat, is a member of the German
Reformed Church, and belongs to the K. of P.
Daniel Eagan, of the Shenango Machine Company and manager of the
Sharon Steel Casting Company, was born in Ireland, December 21, 1845, and
is a son of John and Mary Eagan, who immigrated to Galt, Ontario, in June,
1846, where both died. Our subject grew up in that city, and in 1863 came
to the United States, locating in Greenville in 1864. The following year he
came to Sharon, and for four years was connected with the mining interests of
Kimberly, Forker & Co., in Hickory Township. In 1869 he located in Sharps-
ville, where he was subsequently engaged in the foundry business for fourteen
years. In 1879, in partnership with Samuel McClure, he leased a shop in
Sharon and opened a branch of the Sharpsville works, whjch they operated one
year. In March, 1881, he purchased the old portion of the present shops of
the Shenango Machine Company, and in 1883 Mr. Eagan sold his interest in
the Sharpsville works and removed to Sharon. In 1885 the new additions
were erected, and Mr Eagan has had sole control of the Sharon works since
1881. In February, 1887, he was one of the main spirits in the organization
of the Sharon Steel Casting Company, superintended the erection of the plant,
and has since been manager of the works, which so far have been highly suc-
cessful and rank second to none in the quality of the work produced. Mr.
Eagan was married September 24, 1874, to Miss Mary G. Foster, of
Canada. Of this union eight children have been born: John H., Elizabeth,
Veronica, Mary, Frances, Daniel, Bernard and Helena, and the whole family
722
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
belong to tbe Catholic Church. Politically Mr. Eagan is a Republican, and
is one of the best known and most successful iron men of this portion of the
State.
Solomon Eckstein, proprietor of the Excelsior Furnishing Store, was bom
in Gottingen, Germany, January 8, 1849, and is a son of Emanuel Eckstein,
deceased, who immigrated to Philadelphia in 1855, where our subject grew up
and received his education. Mr. Eckstein carried on business in Philadelphia,
and in 1871 removed to Pittsburgh, where he conducted business till April,
1887, when he located in Sharon in the Stambaugh Block. During the past
year the Excelsior Block, now occupied by him, was erected, and he has now
the finest and most extensive clothing establishment in this section of the
Shenango Valley. Mr. Eckstein was married March 22, 1882, to Miss Fannie
Simon, of Philadelphia, of which union one daughter, Goldina, has been bom.
Politically he is independent, and is one of the most prominent merchants of
Sharon.
James Edmunds, sheet roller in the Sharon Iron Works, was born in Mon-
mouthshire, South Wales, May 1, 1821. His parents were Edward and Ann
Edmunds, both of whom spent their lives in Monmouthshire. James grew up
in his native town, and learned his trade in Pontypool, South Wales. In 1856
he immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn., where he worked till 1859, and then went
to Newport, Ky. In 1866 he located in New Castle, Penn., and in the spring
of 1884 came to Sharon. He has since had charge of the sheet-rolls in the
Sharon Iron W^orks. Mr. Edmunds was married in October, 1848, to Mary A.
Cordell, of Monmouthshire, who has reared three children, James, Edward
and Mollie, all residents of Sharon. Politically Mr. Edmunds is a Republi-
can, and both he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church. He is a
member of the Equitable Aid Union and the Amalgamated Association of Iron
and Steel Workers. Mr. Edmunds is one of the oldest and most successful
sheet rollers of the United States.
John H. Elliott, attorney at law, was born in Worth Township, Butler
Co., Penn., February 4, 1847, and is a son of Benjamin F. and Mary (George)
Elliott. The former was born and reared in Lawrence County, Penn., and,
January 5, 1836, married Miss Mary George, a native of Liberty Township,
Mercer County, whose family were pioneers of that township. Immediately
after marriage they settled in Butler County, on the farm where Mrs. Elliott
died in September, 1886, and her husband July 23, 1888. They reared eleven
children, seven of whom are living. Mr. Elliott’s mother belonged to the
Perry family, the same which produced the celebrated commodore of that
name. Our subject was the fourth son, and, after receiving a good education
in the schools of his district, taught two terms, and then spent one session at
the Edinboro Normal, and one year at Grove City College. He afterward
finished his education at Westminster College, New Wilmington, Penn. He
commenced reading law in the spring of 1874, at Sharon, and was admitted to
the bar at Mercer in January, 1877. After a short visit to his old home he
formed a partnership with his brother, James G. , at Sharon, which continued
until the spring of 1878, when the latter removed to Mercer, and John H. has
since continued practice alone. Mr. Elliott was married June 19, 1879, to
Miss Jennie S. Bell, of Sharon, of which union one child, Sarah F., survives.
Politically he is a Republican, and a member of the Masonic fraternity.
Malin Ewing, dealer in dry goods, notions and millinery, is a native of
New Lisbon, Ohio, born April 13, 1843, and is a son of Jacob and Sarah A.
(Malin) Ewing of that town. The grandfather was a native of Ireland, who
immigrated to Ohio, where Jacob was born and reared. Jacob married Sarah
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
723
A. Malin, a native of Pennsylvania, whose paternal ancestors were of Puritan
stock, and, on the maternal side, of Quaker origin. In the fall of 1847 they
removed to Georgetown, Beaver Co., Penn., where our subject was reared and
educated. In July, 1861, he enlisted in Company L, Twenty-eighth Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, and served until April, 1865, when he was discharged
with the rank of second lieutenant. This regiment was afterward divided,
Company L, Twenty-eighth, then becoming Company A, One Hundred and
Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers. He participated in the many battles
and campaigns of his regiment, and was wounded at Lost Mountain, in the
Atlanta campaign, but recovered sufficiently to serve in Sherman’s march to
the sea. He was in command of his company from May, 1863, until dis-
charged, except the interval while wounded. He followed steamboating on
the Ohio and Mississippi Eivers till 1870, when he came to Sharon, and clerked
until 1883, in which year he and B. R. Williams succeeded to the old estab-
lished house of Mrs. L. Williams. He subsequently purchased his partner’s
interest, and has since continued alone. His parents came to Sharon about
eight years ago, where they died in 1881 and 1882, respectively, in the faith
of the Disciple Church. Mr. Ewing was married October 1, 1868, to Miss
Lizzie, daughter of Reese and Leah Williams (deceased), one of the old fam-
ilies of Sharon. Of this union four sons survive: Charles S., Benjamin S. ,
Malin R. and Ralph W. Mr. Ewing is a trustee and stockholder in the Hall
Institute, a member of the G. A. R. , and the family belong to the Baptist
Church.
Enoch Filer, coal dealer and operator, was born in England January 15,
1833, and is a son of Thomas and Ann (Barber) Filer, who lived and died in
England. Enoch came from England to Mercer County, Penn., in March,
1852, and began working at the coal business, which he had followed in his
native land. In 1859 he sank the first large shaft on the farm of John Hofius,
Hickory Township, this being the introduction of that class of mining in Mer-
cer County, and the first in which machinery was used for hoisting the coal.
He subsequently sank a shaft for Kimberly, Forker & Co., and also one for
Pierce, Scott & Allen. He afterward spent a couple of years in the oil region,
where he was engaged in the coal business for himself. In 1866 he returned
to Mercer County, purchased an interest in the original shaft on the Hofius
farm, and soon after went into partnership with Samuel Kimberly, as Kim-
berly & Filer. He was afterward connected in the coal business with James
Westerman, whose estate is still a part of the company. Mr. Filer is, to-day,
the oldest and most prominent coal operator in Mercer County, and has been
very successful in business. He was married May 21, 1853, to Elizabeth Law-
ton, a native of England, by whom he has five sons and one daughter: JohnF.,
Enoch L. , Frank P., Henry J. , Walter G. and Clara. He is a Democrat, a K.
T. of the Masonic fraternity, and is one of the enterprising, progressive busi-
ness men of the Shenango Valley. The family belongs to the Episcopal
Church.
Henry Forker (deceased) was born in Mercer, Penn., in August, 1823,
and was a son of Gen. John and Isabella (Graham) Forker, of that borough.
He grew up and received his education in Mercer, and there carried on the
mercantile business up to 1857, when he sold his interest to his brother Joseph
and Mr. Zahniser, and removed to Sharon, where he entered the coal business
in partnership with his father-in-law, T. J. Porter, Esq. In company with
Samuel Kimberly, under the firm name of Kimberly & Forker, he opened Keel
Ridge coal mine in 1863. He was successfully engaged in coal operations un-
til his sudden death by a railroad accident at Altoona, Penn., May 20, 1865.
724
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
He was married February 22, 1849, to Miss Salina J., daughter of the vener-
able T. J. Porter, Esq. , of Sharon. Of this union three sons and two daugh-
ters survive: John, teller of the Sharon National Bank; Thomas J., dry goods
merchant of Sharon; Harry P. , Julia A., wife of Frank H. Buhl, of Sharon,
and Bella G. Mr. Forker was a stanch Republican, but took no active inter-
est in political affairs. He was deputy sheriff under his father one term. He
was a regular attendant at the United Presbyterian Church, and did a great
deal toward building up that denomination in Sharon.
Thomas J. Foekee, dry goods merchant, was born in Mercer, May 27,
1856, and was the second son of Henry Forker. He was educated in the pub-
lic schools of Sharon, clerked two years, and in 1877 formed a partnership
with C. S. Quinby, under the firm name of Forker & Quinby. They began
business in the old room previously occupied by Porter & Forker, and have
increased their business annually till they are now one of the leading dry goods
houses of the town. Politically Mr. Forker is a Democrat, but devotes his
attention solely to his business affairs.
Joseph Foekee, president of the Sharon National Bank, was born in Mer-
cer, Penn., June 6, 1829, and is a son of Gen. John and Isabella (Graham)
Forker, the latter of whom is still a resident of Mercer. Adam Forker,
grandfather of our subject, with his wife and family, located in Cool Spring
Township early in the present century, afterward removing to Mercer, where
Adam and wife died. Gen. Forker was a gunsmith by trade, and in the War
of 1812 followed that business for the army at Erie, Penn. He was afterward
prominently identified with the militia of the county, holding therein the rank
of brigadier- general. He was an ardent Democrat, served one term as sheriff
of Mercer County, and was one of the leading men of his day. He died in
1865, in the faith of the United Presbyterian Church, and his widow still
survives him. They reared five children, three of whom are living. Joseph
was the third eldest in the family, and grew to manhood in Mercer. At the
age of sixteen he began learning the gunsmith’s trade in his father’s shop, at
which business he spent five years. In 1853 he began clerking in his
brother Henry’s drug store, and in 1857 formed a partnership with R. M. J.
Zahniser and C. W. Whistler, under the firm of Forker, Zahniser & Co., and
bought out his brother’s store. In 1864 Mr. Forker sold out to his partners,
and went into the coal busiuess in Hickory Township, and for the past twen
tj -four years has been actively identified with the development of the Mercer
County coal fields. In 1868 he became interested in the furnace of Henderson,
Allen & Co., and since 1872 has been connected with the Spearman Iron Com-
pany. Mr. Forker was one of the organizers of the Sharon National Bank,
in 1875, and was chosen its first president. He served until 1878, and was
succeeded by James Westerman, who served until his death, July 20, 1884,
when Mr. Forker was again chosen president, and still occupies that position.
He was married in 1857 to Miss Mary Mathews, who died in 1861, leaving
two children: Frances (wife of Victor Delamater, of Meadville, Penn.) and
David M. (of Birmingham, Ala.). Mr. Forker was again married in 1877, to
Mrs. Ruth Harrington, of Sharon. He is a Republican in politics, and the
family belong to the Episcopal Church.
James Satteefield Fruit, hardware merchant, is a native of Jefferson
Township, Mercer Co., Penn., where he was born October 17, 1849. His
parents were Thomas and Anna (Campbell) Fruit, the former a native of East-
ern Pennsylvania, and the latter of Mercer County, and a member of a pioneer
a mily of Hickory Township. Both died in this county, the mother January
26, 1888, surviving her husband many years. Our subject left home at the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
725
age of fourteen, and entered a store in Clarksville, Penn. At the age of six-
teen he attended the Edinboro Normal School, where he spent three terms.
He subsequently clerked in Wheatland, and thence removed to Trumbull
County, Ohio, where he conducted a general store for about eleven years. In
January, 1879, Mr. Fruit formed a partnership with J. J. Spearman, and as
J. S. Fruit & Co. purchased the hardware store of A. E. Carter & Co. The
following month they bought out Ohl, Vile & Co., and the firm of Fruit, Ohl
& Co. was then organized. For the past nine years this firm has conducted
one of the leading hardware houses of the Shenango Valley. Mr. Fruit was
married December 4, 1884, to Miss Callie Semple, of Hermitage, and a native of
Mercer County, of which union one son, Fred, has been born. Mr. Fruit was
a delegate to the Republican State Convention in 1884, and was a member of
the State Committee in 1885. In 1880 he was elected to the Legislature from
Mercer County, and served in the session of 1887. In the spring of 1888 he
was renominated at the convention held at Mercer, and re-elected in Novem-
ber. Mr. Fruit is a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities, and
is one of the best known citizens of his native county.
Thomas J. Gillespie, leather merchant, was born in Clarksville, Mercer
Co., Penn., July 14, 1840, and is a son of John and Sarah (Clark) Gillespie.
The former was born in Fayette County, Penn., July 19, 1806, and was a son
of Samuel and Martha (Luckey) Gillespie, natives of Pennsylvania, of Irish
ancestry. They were married in Fayette County, Penn., and removed to
Pymatuning Township, Mercer County, where both spent the balance of their
lives, dying March 7, 1850, and August 9, 1855, respectively. They reared
the following children: John, Mary (who married John Duncan), Harriet (who
married John Fell), Anna (who became the wife of a Mr. McDowell, and after-
ward of a Mr. Rutledge), James, Sarah J. (who married John Woods), David
and Samuel L., all of whom became the heads of families, and only one, Mrs.
Sarah J. Woods, of Iowa, survives. John, the father of our subject, married
Sarah, daughter of Samuel Clark, a pioneer of Clarksville. He was a cabinet-
maker by trade, and carried on the manufacture of furniture in Clarksville
until his death, September 25, 1846, in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. John and Sarah Gillespie reared the following children: Samuel
(deceased), Martha (deceased), William, James D. (deceased), John, Jacob,
Thomas J. and Mary (deceased). The mother died in Clarksville, January
26, 1883, in her eighty-second year, and throughout her life she was a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject grew up in Clarksville, and
at the age of seventeen went west, where he spent two years. He then
returned home and learned the blacksmith’s trade, at which he worked a few
years. In June, 1867, Mr. Gillespie opened a boot and shoe store in Sharon,
which he gradually gave up for the more successful business of a dealer in
hides, leather, etc., in which he has built up a large and lucrative trade. He
was married May 27, 1867, to Miss Almira, eldest daughter of Henry and
Zula Clark, pioneers of Pymatuning Township. Mr. Gillespie enlisted in
Company B, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Militia, to repel Lee’s invasion of Penn-
sylvania. His brother, John, was captain of Company B, Fifty- seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three years. Jacob served three years in
an Illinois regiment. William went South in 1852 and served in the Twentieth
Mississippi, was captured at Port Donelson, and subsequently exchanged
and returned to his home. Mr. Gillespie is a Republican, and has served two
terms in the council and two years as burgess of Sharon. He is a member of
the Masonic fraternity, I. O. O. F. and N. IT.
Elisha Griswold, physician and surgeon, was born in Chester, Penn.,
726
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
March 14, 1828, and is a son of Jesse and Susanna (Mancill) Griswold, th
former a native of Chester County, and the latter of Delaware County, Penn.
In 1833 the family removed to Trambull County, Ohio, where the mother died
in 1846. The father again married, and, on the death of his second wife, re-
moved to Gardner, 111., and died there in 1873. His first wife bore him seven
children and the second three; eight of the ten are living. Our subject was the
eldest of the family, received his primary education in the public schools of
Trumbull County, Ohio, and then attended a private school of higher grade,
afterward teaching in that county. In 1848 he returned to his early home in
Eastern Pennsylvania, where, under private tutors, he spent three years in
improving his education. Before returning to the east he had spent two
years in studying medicine, but not being satisfied with his preparatory educa-
tion, he concluded to improve it by a more thorough course of study. After
having done so he resumed his medical studies, and graduated at Jefferson
Medical College, Philadelphia, March 9, 1853. Having met Dr. S. S. Me-
hard, late of Mercer, who was attending some special studies at Jefferson
College, he learned of a desirable field in Mercer County for qualified young
physicians, and soon afterward located at Sheakleyville. In the spring of
1854, having formed a partnership with Dr. John M. Irvine, of Sharon, he
moved to that place. Dr. Irvine retired two years afterward and left Dr.
Griswold the field. In October, 1861, the Doctor was appointed by Gov.
Curtin surgeon of the One Hundred and Twelfth Pennsylvania Volunteers, bat
was soon made acting brigade and afterward acting division surgeon, which
positions he occupied up to July 30, 1864, when he resigned his position as sur-
geon of the regiment for the purpose of accepting an appointment by President
Lincoln in the corps of United States surgeons. This appointment was accepted
while on the Petersburg front, and he was ordered to Washington and placed
in charge of the Giesboi’o United States Army General Hospital, having a
capacity of 500 beds. He filled this position till December 14, 1864, when the
hospital was closed, and Dr. Griswold was transferred to the charge of Judi-
ciary Square Hospital, of like capacity, which occupied the grounds whereon the
pension office now stands, Washington, D. C. He remained in charge of the
same until it was closed, July 8, 1865, after which he was engaged for a few
weeks on a medical board for examining candidates for the United States
colored regiments. He was then sent to New Orleans as chief medical officer
for the Freedman’s Bureau for the State of Louisiana, in which capacity he
served till March 15, 1867, when, having resigned, and received commissions
as lieutenant- colonel and colonel by brevet for long and faithful services, from
the President, he finally returned to Sharon, where he has since continued in
the active duties of his profession. Dr. Griswold was married in 1856 to Miss
Mary A. Cook, of Vermont, who died without issue April 22, 1871. He was
again married April 8, 1874, to Miss Nannie Green Heywood, of Wooster,
Mass., of which union five children have been born, two of whom survive:
Arthur H. and Ralph M. Politically the Doctor is a Republican, and a mem-
ber of the three bodies of the Masonic fraternity, viz. : The blue lodge, the
chapter and 'the commandery. He is a. member of the Mercer County Medical
Society, of the Trumbull County Medical Society, of Ohio, of the Pennsylvania
State Medical Society, and of the American Medical Association. He was a
member and officer of Section 3, of the Ninth International Medical Congress,
which met at Washington, D. C., in September, 1887, and is also a member
of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States Comman-
dery of Pennsylvania.
Walter E. Hall, proprietor of livery stables, was born in Brookfield,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
727
Ohio, June 7, 1846, and is a son of Ira D. and Laura M. (Griffin) Hall, he a
native of Connecticut and she of Ohio. They were married in the latter
State, and were the parents of two children: Walter E. and Florence, deceased.
The mother died January 21, 1884, and the father is still a resident of Brook-
field. Our subject grew to manhood in Trumbull County, and was educated
in the Johnston public schools. He learned the blacksmith trade in Vienna,
Ohio, and in 1866 came to Sharon. In 1870 he started a general blacksmith
and wagon shop, which he carried on five years. In the meantime he pur-
chased, in 1871, a half interest in the livery stable of Emanuel Struble, and
in March, 1873, his present partner, Ernest Cope, bought out Mr. Struble,
and the firm of Hall & Cope was formed. This firm has since been engaged
in the same business, and is the oldest livery firm of the borough. Mr. Hall
was married, December 24, 1868, to Miss Flora A. Hazleton, of Sharon, of
which union seven children have been born: Maud D., Edward H. , Bertha M.,
Edith L. , Aurie D. , Bessie G. and Charles H. The family belong to the Dis-
ciples’ Church, and Mr. Hall is independent in politics, and a member of the
P. H. C. and E. A. U.
Key. Horace Chandler Hall, pastor of the First Baptist Church of
Sharon, was born in Courtland County, N. Y., March 24, 1853, and is a son
of Joseph B. Hall, a native of Susquehanna County, Penn. Our subject grew
to maturity in his native county, and received his primary education in the
public schools of that county and Crawford County, Penn. He prepared for
his collegiate course at Beid Institute, Eeidsburg, Penn., entered Bucknell
University at Lewisburg, Penn., in the fall of 1878, and was graduated June
28, 1882. Before his graduation he received a call from the First Baptist Church
of Sliaron, assumed charge of that church in July, 1882, and was ordained
August 3 of that year. Since coming to Sharon the membership of his church
has doubled, while the handsome church edifice and pastoral residence have both
been erected under his administration. Rev. Hall was married, August 26,
1872, to Miss Dora E. Post, of Centreville, Ci-awford Co., Penn., of which
union two children, Lola E. and Leroy H., have been born. Politically Mr.
Hall is independent. He is the originator of the P. H. C. , and has been its
supreme president since its organization. He is also a member of the E. A.
U. Mr. Hall has recently established a preparatory institute in Sharon, which
bears his name. The building is erected and equipped, and school was opened
September 18, 1888, with nearly 100 students in attendance, and is daily
increasing in numbers and popularity.
Jacob B. Hann, farmer, was born in Susses County, N. J., July 24, 1822,
and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Roof) Hann, natives of New Jersey,
born in 1783 and 1782, respectively. They were married in August, 1810,
and in 1827 removed with a family of six children to Brookfield Township,
Trumbull Co., Ohio. In 1830 they settled on the old Hann homestead in
Hickory Township, Mercer Co., Penn., where the remaining years of their
lives were spent. The father died October 8 and the mother October 24,
1874, each being in their ninety-second year. They were life-long members
of the Baptist Church, and in the August preceding their death celebrated
the sixty-fourth anniversary of their marriage. They reared the following
children: Sarah A. (deceased wife of William Applegate), Christopher (de-
ceased), Mary (deceased wife of Henry Shilling, deceased), James, Jacob
B. and Elizabeth J. (widow of Lemuel Troutman). Our subject grew to man-
hood on the old homestead, where he resided up to the spring of 1884, when
he removed to Sharon. He was married, in October, 1854, to Miss Nancy,
daughter of William Titus, of Hickory Township. She died in the Baptist
728
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
faith in September, 1863. He was again married, January 30, 1868, to Miss
Jennie, daughter of John and Kate (Groves) Cauffield, of Brookfield Town-
ship, Trumbull Co. , Ohio. Her parents were natives of Ireland, who immi-
grated to Ohio in 1825, where both spent the remaining years of their lives.
Mrs. Hann is the mother of one daughter by this marriage — Drusie. She is
a member of the Disciple Church. Politically Mr. Hann is a Democrat, and
belongs to the Masonic fraternity.
W. P. Hanna, piano and organ dealer, was born in New Castle, Penn.,
May 29, 1856, and is a son of J. C. Hanna, jeweler of that city. William P.
grew to manhood in New Castle, and received his musical education at the
Boston Conservatory of Music. In 1875 he established the New Castle Con-
servatory of Music, which he conducted about two years. In December, 1877,
he located in Sharon and established a jewelry and musical instrument store.
He carried on this business till the spring of 1887, when he disposed of the
jewelry department, and has since devoted his sole attention to the piano and
organ trade. He is one of the leading dealers in that line in Mercer County
and does a large business. Politically he is a Democrat, and is a member of
the Masonic fraternity. In the spring of 1888 he went to Australia as the
representative of several leading musical instrument manufacturers, and took
charge of their exhibit at the great Melbourne exposition.
Hugh C. Harshaw, grocer, was born in the County Tyrone, Ireland, June
9, 1839, and is a son of James and Jane (Rafferty) Harshaw, who immigrated to
Elgin County, Ontario, in 1845, subsequently removing into Middlesex County,
where both spent the balance of their lives, dying at the ages of ninety-six and
seventy-seven years, respectively. Our subject grew to manhood in Canada,
followed farming and also taught school four years, and sold goods in St.
Thomas, Ontario, about three years. In May, 1869, he came to Charleston,
Mercer Co., Penn., where he remained until 1871, and then located in Sharps-
ville, where he was successfully engaged in the mercantile trade fourteen
years, and one year in farming. In February, 1886, he came to Sharon,
where he has since carried on a general grocery business. Mr. Harshaw was
married June 27, 1872, to Miss Margaret T. , daughter of John and Margaret
McCallen, of Hickory Township. Three children survive this marriage: Jen-
nie May, Edward Clark and Mary Evelyn. Mr. Harshaw is a Republican,
and both he and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church.
William C. Haus, attorney at law, was born in Boalsburg, Centre Co.,
Penn., February 6, 1852, and is a son of Jacob and Sarah (Crozier) Haus, na-
tives of Union and Juniata Counties, Penn., respectively. Jacob Haus was
a prominent Republican politician of Union County, and served as deputy
sheriff and also prothonotary of that county two terms. He afterward removed
to Boalsburg, Penn., and in 1854 to New Castle, Penn., where he has since
resided. In 1855 he was elected justice of the peace, and excepting the period
from 1867 to 1869, when he was prothonotary of Lawrence County, has served
continuously in that office up to the present. Our subject grew to manhood
in Lawrence County, and was educated in the public schools of New Castle.
He spent considerable time in his father’s office during his term as prothono-
tary, and thus became familiar with the duties thereof. In January, 1870,
Mr. Haus came to Mercer and clerked in the prothonotary’ s office nearly two
years, devoting his spare moments to reading law. In October, 1871, he be-
gan reading in the office of McClure & Anderson, of Sharon, with whom he
remained nearly two years. In August, 1873, he entered the Albany Law
School of the Union University, Albany, N. Y. , and graduated May 5, 1874.
He was at once admitted to the Mercer bar, and began practice in Sharon,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
729'
where he has since followed the duties of his profession. He was admitted to
the United States courts May 8, 1876, and is the local solicitor for the Penn-
sylvania Company. Mr. Haus was married February 11, 1875, to Miss Mary,
daughter of Cornelius Bowden, of Sharon, of which union two children, Will-
iam B. and Emma R., have been born. Politically he is a Republican.
Salem Heilman, physician and surgeon, was born in Kittanning, Arm-
strong County, Penn., June 10, 1847, and is a son of Isaac and Hannah
(Briney) Heilman, the former a native of Armstrong and the latter of West-
moreland County, Penn. , and both residents of the former county. The Doctor
was the second eldest in a family of eight sons and four daughters, and re-
ceived his education in the public schools and academies of Armstrong County.
In the fall of 1868 he began reading medicine at Cochran’s Mills, in that
county, and in the fall of 1869 entered Jefferson Medical College, Philadel-
phia, Penn., where he was graduated March 12, 1871. On the 6th of the fol-
lowing month he opened an office in Sharon, where he has been engaged in
active practice for over seventeen years, and has built up one of the largest
practices in this portion of the county. Dr. Heilman was married March 23,
1871, to Miss Bella McKee, of Cochran’s Mills, Penn., of ^which union two
children survive, Elmo Pearl and Ralph Salem. Dr. Heilman is a stanch
Democrat, and the family adhere to the Lutheran Church. He is a member
of the Masonic fraternity and is a K. T. in that society, also belongs to
A. O. U. W. and is supreme medical examiner of the P. H. C. Dr. Heil-
man spent five months in Europe during the winter of 1886-87, and took
special courses in general surgery and gynecology in the medical colleges of
Berlin, Vienna, Paris and London. For the past thirteen years he has been
surgeon of the Fifteenth Regiment of the National Guard of Pennsylvania, and
ranks as major of that regiment. He is an ex-president and member of the
Mercer County Medical Society, and belongs to the State Medical Society and
the American Medical Association.
Beanton H. Hendeeson, vice-president of the First National Bank, was
born in Norristown, Montgomery County, Penn., December 24, 1823, and is a
son of John and Elizabeth (Branton) Henderson, of that town. His father was
a lawyer of the Montgomery County bar, and died when our subject was a
small child. In 1827 his mother, with her two sons, Samuel and Branton H. ,
came from Norristown to Mercer, Penn., accompanied by her brother, Samuel
Holstein. The latter was for many years one of the prominent attorneys of
the Mercer County bar, where he resided until 1854. He then removed
to Neshannock Falls, Lawrence County, Penn., where he owned a mill prop-
erty, and lived at the Falls until his sudden death at New Castle, in 1869.
Our subject was educated in the common schools of Mercer, and Allegheny
College, Meadville. He early engaged in mercantile pursuits in Mercer, and
in 1858 removed to New Castle with his mother, leaving his brother Samuel
in Mercer, where the latter followed merchandising up to within a few years
of his death, which occurred at Mercer in 1862. Samuel’s first wife was a
daughter of Judge Thomas S. Cunningham, a pioneer lawyer of the Mercer
bar, and left one son, Matthias H. , now vice-president of the Sharon National
Bank. By his second wife he left three children, who, with the widow, re-
side in Philadelphia. Mrs. Elizabeth B. Henderson died in New Castle in
1871, and in 1872 Branton H. and his nephew, Matthias H. , removed to
Sharon, where both have since resided. Mr. Henderson became interested in
the development of the coal fields in 1865, and has been largely interested in
the iron interests of the valley during the past twenty years. In 1868 he or-
ganized the firm of Henderson, Allen & Co. , who built the Allen furnace, later
730
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
known as the Henderson furnace, at Sharpsville, in that year. In 1872 he was
one of a company who established the Spearman furnaces of Sharpsville, and
is still interested in that enterprise. He has been connected with the First
National Bank of Sharon since 1873, and vice-president for the past two years,
while his nephew has been interested in the Sharon National Bank since its
organization in 1875. The Henderson family are Episcopalians in religious
faith, and both Branton H. and Matthias H. are prominent members of the
Masonic order.
William Henlan, proprietor of meat market, was born in Meadville, Penn.,
November 8, 1829, and is a son of John and Mary A. (Williams) Henlan. His
father was a native of Newfoundland, of Irish ancestry, and came to Mead-
ville in early manhood, where he married Mary A. Williams, who was born in
that city in 1813. Her parents, Isaac and Margaret Williams, removed from
Carlisle, Penn., to Meadville, Penn., late in the last or early in the present
century. Isaac Williams was a shoemaker, and both he and wife died in Mead-
ville. John and Mary Henlan reared two sons and four daughters, all of whom
are living. The father was a tailor by trade, and served in the War of 1812.
He died ten years ago, and his widow is still a resident of Meadville. Our
subject left Meadville at the age of sixteen, and going to Warren, Ohio, served
an apprenticeship of three years to the tin and coppersmith trade. In April,
1849, he came to Sharon, and for the next twelve years worked in the tin-shop
of E. A. Wheeler, in the meantime engaging in business in Sharon on his own
account for about three years. After leaving the employ of Mr. Wheeler he
began working for C. G. Carver, Esq. , with whom he remained nearly eighteen
years. In December, 1878, he bought an interest in his brother John’s meat
market, some four years afterward purchased his brother’ s remaining interest,
and has since continued the business alone. Mr. Henlan was married in 1851
to Miss Mary J., daughter of William and Julia A. (Reno) Trotter. The lat-
ter was born in Sharon, and is living with Mr. Henlan at the ripe old age of
nearly eighty- four years. Five children have been born of this marriage, three
of whom survive: Julia E., wife of William Dickson, of Sharon; Conrad C. and
Gaylord L. Mr. Henlan is a Democrat in politics, and a leading gospel tem-
perance worker. He has been burgess of Sharon two terms, served in the
council several years, and has also been a director on the public school board.
He was once the Democratic candidate for the Legislature, and cut down the
Republican majority from 1, 200 to sixty-eight votes. The family belong to the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Henlan is a member of the Masonic or-
der, A. O. U. W. and the E. A. U. , and is one of the oldest and most re-
spected citizens of Sharon.
Sebastian Herrmann, proprietor of the National Hotel, was born in Sim-
mershausen, Bavaria, Germany, August 14, 1835, and is a son of Fabian and
Magdalena (Dach) Herrmann, also natives of Bavaria, where the father died
in 1879, and where the widow still lives. In June, 1854, Sebastian immi-
grated to Sharon, and began working in the coal mines of Hickory Township.
He remained in that township and business principally till 1880, when he
purchased his present hotel property in Sharon, where he has since carried on
business. Mr. Herrmann was married in Greenville, Penn., by Rev. Andrew
Schweiger, August 17, 1858, to Anna Kirch, daughter of Peter and Magda-
linda Kirch, deceased, natives of Luxemburgh, Germany, who has borne him
eight children, seven of whom survive: Magdalena (wife of Conrad Watson, of
Sharon), Elizabeth (wife of James Claffey, of Sharon), Margaret (wife of
Albert Wengler, of Sharon), John C., Atilia, Mary and Albert. The family
belong to the Catholic Church, and in politics Mr. Herrmann is a Democrat.
HLSTOHY or MERCER COUNTY.
731
Frederick Hoelzle, wholesale and retail dealer in meats, was born in
Baden, Germany, November 6, 1836, and is a son of Stephen and Fred-
ericka (Scheible) Hoelzle, who lived and died in their native land. Frederick
served an apprenticeship at the butcher trade in Germany, and in April, 1854,
immigrated to the United States, and spent two years at his trade in Phila-
delphia. In April, 1856, he came to Sharon, and the following spring opened
a butcher-shop on State Street. He has since been successfully engaged in
that business, being to-day one of the wealthiest citizens of the town. Mr.
Hoelzle was married in March, 1857, to Miss Sophia Doerr, of Sharon, but a
native of Germany. Of this union ten children were born, five of whom are
living: Charles, Frederick, Henry, Nora and Eva, while Elizabeth died at the
age of fourteen and the remaining four in infancy. Both he and wife belong
to the Reformed Church. He is a Republican, and has filled the office of
councilman two terms, and is a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F.
fraternities.
Jacob Hoelzle, proprietor of meat market, was born in Baden, Germany,
March 15, 1841. His parents were Stephen and Fredericka (Sdheible)
Hoelzle, who spent their lives in Germany. Our subject learned the butcher’s
trade in his father’s shop, and in October, 1860, he immigrated to Sharon. In
the spring of 1863 he opened a meat market, in which business he has ever
since been engaged. Mr. Hoelzle was married March 3, 1864, to Miss
Louisa, daughter of Ignatz Dahringer, a native of Baden, Germany, who
immigrated to New Castle, Penn., in 1848, moving from there to Lowellville,
Ohio, and from there to Sharon, where he now resides. Mrs. Hoelzle was
born in Germany, and is the mother of ten children, six of whom are living:
Emma, wife of John Wagner, of Sharon; Mary, Frank, Geoi’ge, Elizabeth and
Elmer. William died aged fourteen years, and the three others in infancy.
Mr. Hoelzle is a Republican, and a member of the Masonic fraternity, I. O.
O. F. and P. H. C. , and his family belong to the German Reformed Church.
Peter Hoffmann, dealer in stoves, tin-ware and hardware, was born in
Bavaria, Germany, February 3, 1831, and is a son of Frederick and Margaret
(Waltzer) HofPmann, of that country. Peter grew up in his native land, and
in December, 1854, immigrated to Mercer County, Penn. , and began working
in the coal mines of Hickory Township. One year afterward he brought out
his parents, both of whom spent the balance of their days in Hickory Town-
ship. He followed coal mining for twenty years, then opened a bank for him-
self, which he operated successfully six years, and then retired from the busi-
ness. In 1884 he opened the store now managed by his sons. Mr. HofPmann
was married January 4, 1856, to Miss Charlotta Gimbel, a native of Bavaria,
who immigrated to Mercer County with her parents. They reared nine chil-
dren, seven sons and two daughters: Peter, Charlotta, wife of Jacob Hassel,
of Sharon; Frederick, Karl, Katherine, wife of Jacob Hassel, of Sharon; Cal-
vin, Edward, Albert and Wilhelm. The family belong to the German Re-
formed Church, of Sharon, and in politics Mr. HofPmann is a Republican.
Charles W. Hoyt, physician and surgeon, was born June 11, 1839, in
Chautauqua County, N. Y. , and is a son of Joseph and Sarah (Boyce) Hoyt,
of that county. The Hoyts were among the first settlers of Massachusetts,
being there as early as 1620, from which time they trace their genealogy.
The ancestors of this branch removed from Amesburg, Mass. , to New Hamp-
shire, where the father of our subject was born March 9, 1809. In early man-
hood he removed to Chautauqua County, N. Y. , where he has since resided.
Charles W. received his education in his native town, in the high-school, and
subsequently attended Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn. He began the
732
HISTOllY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
study of medicine in 1866, under the instruction of Drs. Glidden and Rice, of
Panama, N. Y. , receiving his degree from Cleveland Homoeopathic Hospital
College in 1870. Dr. Hoyt began the practice of his chosen profession at
Panama, N. Y., removing to Sharon, Penn., in 1870, where he has since been
engaged in active practice. He was the first announced homoeopathic physi-
cian in the county, has built up a large and lucrative practice, and is recog-
nized as one of the leading physicians of the Shenango Valley. He was mar-
ried in 1861 to Miss Emeline Polley, of Panama, N. Y. , of which union four
children survive: Prank H. (a practicing physician associated with his father),
Emma, Josephine and Myrtle. Dr. Hoyt went into the army in 1862, as
lieutenant in Company F, One Hundred and Twelfth New York Volunteers,
serving six months. He is a Republican, and one of the best known and most
popular physicians of Mercer County.
Oelando a. Jones, physician and surgeon, was born in Youngstown, Ohio,
August 19, 1863, and is a son of David A. and Cecelia (Armstrong) Jones,
natives of Wales. The parents immigrated to Johnstown, Penn. , about thirty-six
years ago, and a few years afterward removed to Ohio, thence to the vicinity
of Mercer, Penn. , in 1868. They resided in this county several years, and
then removed to Coalburg, Ohio, where the mother died in December, 1879,
and where the father is still living. Dr. Jones grew up under the parental
roof, and began reading medicine in 1880. He attended lectures at the Col-
lege of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore, Md. , and was graduated in March,
1886. He soon afterward located in Sharon, where he has built up a good
practice. He is now in his second term as county physician of Sharon. Dr.
Jones was married March 6, 1887, to Miss Matilda J. Herbert, of Coalburg,
Ohio. The Doctor is a member of the Mercer County Medical Society, the
I. O. R. M., is a Republican, and with his wife belongs to the Methodist Epis-
copal Church.
Jones Bros., grocers, are one of the younger firms of Sharon. Con C.
Jones, the senior member, was born in Hickory Township, Mercer Co.,
Penn., October 30, 1861, and is a son of Seth and Margaret (Smith) Jones,
residents of Hickory Township. He grew up on the old homestead, and
began clerking in Sharon in 1886. In July, 1887, the firm of Jones Bros., was
formed. They piirchased the grocery store of D. A. Clepper, and have since
done a fair business. Con C. was married August 1, 1888, to Marie Struble,
of Sharon. He is a Republican, a member of the Equitable Aid Union, K. of
G. E., and Jr. O. United A. M. Wade B. Jones, the junior member of the
firm, was born on the old homestead, August 20, 1865, and remained there
until the present partnership was formed. He is a Republican, and was
married June 29, 1887, to Sadie Martin, of Sharon, who is a member of the
Baptist Church. Though a new firm, Jones Bros, have been doing their
full share of the business in their line.
Matthias Kahl, general grocer, was born in Prussia, Germany, November
6, 1846, and is a son of John and Mary Kahl, natives of Germany, who immi-
grated to Madison, Ind., in December, 1853, and in 1855 removed to Hickory
Township, Mercer Co., Penn. Here they resided until the fall of 1870, when
they removed to a farm about three miles east of Greenville, where they are
now living. Our subject grew to manhood in Mercer County, and in his early
boyhood began working in the coal mines of Hickory Township, which he fol-
lowed until the spring of 1884, a period of twenty-five years. In April, 1884,
he opened his present grocery store in Sharon, and has since built up a good
business. He was married, April 26, 1870, to Miss Rosa Connor, of Hickory
Township. Of this union seven children have been born to them, six of whom-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
733
survive: Mary, Catharine (deceased), Kosa, Annie, John, Martha and William.
Mr. Kahl is a stanch Democrat, and in 1870 was one of Ihe Democratic can-
didates for the Legislature. The family are members of the Catholic Church,
and he is one of the enterprising business men of Sharon. Mr. Kahl was one
of the organizers of the Merchants’ Protective Association in the spring of
1887, and has been president of the society since its organization.
Samuel Kimbeely, deceased manufacturer, was born near Salem, Ohio,
November 25, 1817, and was a son of Amos E. Kimberly, also a native of the
Western Reserve. Samuel was reared in Columbiana County, and spent his
early manhood near Austintown, Ohio. About 1801-62 he became interested
in the development of the coal fields near Sharon, removing to that town in
1862, and at once becoming one of its most prominent business men. With
the late Henry Forker, of Sharon, and Myron Arms, of Youngstown, Ohio, he
opened the Keel Ridge Bank in 1863, one of the most successful mines ever oper-
ated in Hickory Township. He was afterward interested with Enoch Filer
and others in the Mount Pleasant, Hickory, Lackawannock and other mines.
About 1865 he bought an interest in the Westerman Iron Company, which he
retained several years. In 1869 he built the Keel Ridge Furnace, now owned
by his son, P. L. Kimberly. He also had large interests at New Castle,
where, in 1872, he purchased the Etna Furnace, which he operated success-
fully for several years. At different times he was interested in the Wampttm
Furnace, the Eagle Furnace, at Youngstown, Ohio, and other enterprises.
The great depreciation of property and securities following the panic of 1873
compelled him to close out his interests here in 1878, and a year later he removed
to the West, finally locating at Geneva, 111. After leaving Sharon he gave his
attention mostly to iron ore mining, and at the time of his death was presi-
dent of the Emmett Mining Company, whose offices are in Sharon. Mr. Kim-
berly was twice married, first to Miss Minerva Lanterman, of Austintown,
Ohio, who left at her death a family of three sons and one daughter: Amos E.,
German A., Peter L. and Mrs. Kate E. Murdock. He died February 25.
1885, at his home in Geneva, 111., in his sixty-eighth year, where his widow
still resides. Mr. Kimberly was a man of most active business habits, readily
grasping at once the scope and details of large transactions, often involving
.many thousands of dollars. In politics he was an ardent Republican, and
took a deep interest in the success of that party.
John S. King, deceased merchant, son of Phillip and Susanna King, was
born in Charlestown Township, Chester Co., Penn., April 26, 1813, and
died at Sharon, Penn., December 4, 1864. In early life he held responsible
positions as a salesman in mercantile establishments in his native county, and
prior to reaching manhood he became proprietor of a general store at
Port Providence, Montgomery Co., Penn. While thus in business he was
joined in marriage January 30, 1834, to Catharine, daughter of Peter and
Rachael Young, of his native township. She was born February 18, 1812,
and died April 11, 1835, leaving one son, Ambrose M. , who died four months
afterward. Soon after the death of his wife Mr. King disposed of his busi-
ness and engaged in superintending the building of bridges, etc. , on the P.
& R. R. R., and at Petersburg, Va. After building one lock and bridge on
the James River Canal, near Lynchburg, Ya. , he returned to Chester County,
Penn., during the fall of 1838. Mr. King was again married, at Norristown,
Penn., September 16, 1841, to Mary C. McFarland, a native of Montgomery
County, Penn., born November 26, 1813. He again engaged in the mercan-
cantile business at Milford Mills, Chester Co., Penn., which he continued
until 1846, when, in company with James McFarland, he removed to Mercer
• 42
734
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
County, locating at the Big Bend, on the Beaver ^ Erie Canal. He here en-
gaged in the manufacture of iron from the native ores, and as a consignor of
merchandise. This enterprise having resulted in financial loss to its owners,
he engaged in superintending an iron furnace near New Wilmington, Penn.,
and continued in this business about one year. He then removed to Sharon,
and in partnership with A. L. and George Cochran, of New Castle, engaged
in mining and shipping coal from their mines in Hickory Township, which he
continued up to the time of his death. By his second marriage the following
children were born to him: KateY. , wife of W. O. Leslie, of Sharon; Mrs.
Myra S. McMartin, of Raton, N. M. ; Arthur M. , of Arkansas; Mary W. , wife
of G. D. Davitt, of Sharpsville; one daughter, deceased, and one died in in-
fancy. His wife died December 1, 1854, and he survived her ten years, dying
December 4, 1864. Mr. King was a prominent and active Republican politi-
cian during his residence in Mercer County, and was a candidate for congres-
sional nomination once or twice in the Republican district convention.
Joseph King, justice of the peace, was born in Chester County, Penn.,
October 26, 1817, and is a son of Philip and Susanna (Slonaker) King, natives
of j.hat county, of German descent. Joseph grew up in that county, and
received the usual advantages which the district schools afforded. He learned
the blacksmith’s trade, and followed it for many years, then went into farm-
ing, which he continued until the spring of 1859. In November, 1860, he
came to Sharon, and, in partnership with his brother, John S., and Wheeler
& Irwin, started a stove foundry. He remained in the foundry business about
twelve years, and then opened a stove and hardware store in partnership with
his niece, Mrs. W. O. Leslie, in which he remained until 1874, when he sold
out to Mr. Leslie. In 1876 Mr. King was appointed a justice of the peace, has
been elected to the same office three times, and has filled it continuously up to
the present, each term being for five years. The present term will not expire
till May 1, 1892. He was married January 14, 1847, to Miss Barbara Strough,
of CUester County, Penn., of which union two children grew to maturity:
Elnora, wife of S. M. Dalzell, of Erie, Penn. , and Addison S. , born February
2, 1853, and died November 2, 1875. Politically Mr. King is a Republican,
of strong temperance proclivities; has served in the council one term and nine
years on the school board, and both he and wife are members of the Presby.-
terian Church, in which organization Mr. King fills the office of elder.
Arthur and Marian (Smith) Kirk are among the oldest living citizens of
Sharon. The former was born in Scotland July 5, 1804, there grew to man-
hood, and married Marian Smith, also a native of Scotland, born December
13, 1803. In 1839 they immigrated to Allegheny City, Penn., being then the
parents of eight children. Four were born in this State, and a fact worthy
of mention is that the whole twelve are living. Mr. Kirk learned the weaver’s
trade in his native land, and came out to take charge of a cotton-mill in Alle-
gheny City, which position he held about ten years. He afterward erected a
cotton factory near Saxonburg, Butler Co., Penn., which he operated a few
years. About 1855 he came to Sharon, and went into the grocery business,
which he followed successfully until his declining years compelled him to give
up the active duties of a business life. He and wife are still residents of
Sharon, and are in their eighty-fifth and eighty-sixth years, respectively.
Both enjoy the blessing of good health, have been life long Presbyterians, and
in politics he is a Republican. George S. Kirk, harness and collar manufact-
urer, and youngest son of Arthur and Marian Kirk, was born in Butler Coun-
ty, Penn. , and learned his trade in Sharon, at which he worked till entering
business for himself in 1869. He devotes his time to the manufacture of
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
735
harness, collars and carriage trimmings. In January, 1865, at the age of
fifteen, he enlisted in Company G, Seventy-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served till the close of the war, three of his brothers also serving in the
army. Mr. Kirk is a Republican, and stanch in his devotion to the principles
of that party.
John S. Kissinger, manufacturer and bottler of mineral waters, was born
in Clarion County, Penn., January 7, 1854, and is a son of David and Siniah
(Cochran) Kissinger, of the same county. Upon the death of his mother,
which took place when John was about six years old, his father moved to Law-
rence County, Penn., where John grew to manhood and received a common
school education. He learned his present business in New Castle, and in
January, 1885, came to Sharon and established a factory for the manufacture
of all kinds of mineral water. He has since built up a lucrative trade, and is
recognized as one of the young progressive men of the town. Mr. Kissinger
was married June 15, 1879, to Miss Sarah Hunt, of Lawrence County,' Penn. ,
and daughter of Abraham Hunt, now a resident of Grove City, Penn. One
son has been born to them, Walter C. Politically Mr. Kissinger is a Demo-
crat, and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Harry Kline, contractor and builder, was born in New Castle, Lawrence
Co. , Penn. , August 8, 1854, and is a son of Henry and Anna J. (Bell) Kline,
both natives of Eastern Pennsylvania; he of German and she of Irish
ancestry. Henry died in New Castle in 1861, and his widow came to Sharon
with the children in 1865. Here Harry grew to manhood and learned the car-
penter trade, at which he worked several years. He then began contracting
and building, and in 1882 built a planing- mill on the N. Y. , P. & O. R. R. ,
which he has since operated. In 1886 he purchased his present lumber yard,
corner of Railroad and Silver Streets, and in connection with his plahing-
mill does a good business in the contracting and building line. Mr. Kline
was married in February, 1884, to Miss Mary Stickle, of Lawrence County,
of which union two children, Henry and Mary, have been born. Politically
he is independent, and is a K. of P. , and one of the young progressive men of
Sharon. He adheres to the Methodist Episcopal Church, while his wife is a
Presbyterian.
Laeeerty Bros., druggists, is one of the new firms of Sharon. John H.
Lafferty was born in Jefferson Township, Mercer Co., Penn., June 14, 1863,
and was principally educated in Sharon. He began clerking here in 1880, and
has since followed that business. He is a son of James and Mary (Todd) Laf-
ferty, the former a native of Ireland, and the latter of Bruce County, Ontario,
Canada. The parents were married in Canada, and soon afterward removed to
Mercer County, where the father died August 26, 1883. The widow resides
on the homestead in Jefferson Township. Mr. Lafferty is a member of the
United Presbyterian Church, and of the E. A. U., and in politics is a Demo-
crat. He is a dealer in fine stock, and does considerable business in that line.
Archie I. Lafferty, was born in Jefferson Township March 10, 1867, and
received his education in this county. He learned the drug business with Dr.
B. Love, of Sharon. After Dr. Love’s death the business was conducted by
our subject till April, 1887, when he purchased a onmhalf interest, and in
December following, his brother, John H. , purchased the remaining half.
The firm of Lafferty Bros, has since carried on a successful business. In
politics Archie I. is a Republican, and belongs to the E. A. U.
John Lee, retired merchant, was born in Lancashire, England, May 6,
1828, and is a son of Jeremiah and Nancy (Jackson) Lee, both of whom spent
their lives in England. Our subject grew up in his native land, and learned
736
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
the hatter’s trade, and subsequently the weaver’s trade, at which he worked
till September, 1854, when he immigrated to Sharon. He went to work for
the Sharon Iron Company, and continued in their employ until February,
1856, when he began working in the coal mines of Hickory Township, which
he followed till 1864. He then embarked in the grocery business in Sharon,
in partnership with James Beveridge, as Lee & Beveridge, but soon purchased
his partner’ s interest, and became sole proprietor. He continued to do a very
successful business until 1874, when he sold out to his son and retired from
active life. Since that time Mr. Lee has devoted his attention to looking
after his real estate in Sharon and vicinity. He was married to Ann Martin,
who is the mother of four children: Edwin, William, Nancy and Mary. Mr.
Lee is a Republican, a member of the I. O. O. F. , and the family adhere to
the Episcopal Church. He is an ardent supporter of education, and his
daughters are graduates of the Sharon High-school and the Edinboro Normal
School, the youngest being now a teacher in the latter institution.
William Lee, general grocer, was born in England, September 14, 1850,
and is a son of John Lee, whose sketch appears in this chapter. In 1854 the
family immigrated to Sharon, where William grew to manhood. In early
boyhood he began working in the coal mines of Hickory Township. In 1862
his father started a grocery store in Sharon, and our subject assisted him as
clerk until 1873, when he started in business for himself. In 1877 he sold
out, and visited his native land. He returned in 1878, and lived in Sharon
till 1882, when he spent one year clerking in Philadelphia. Coming back to
Sharon, he continued to clerk till the spring of 1887. In August, of that
year, a partnership was formed with D. A. Clepper, under the firm name of
Lee & Clepper, and a wholesale grocery house was opened in the Carver House
Block. This partnership continued until March 1, 1888, when the firm was
dissolved, and Mr. Lee opened his present store in Lee’s Block, on East State
Street. Mr. Lee was married October 16, 1881, to Miss Isabella H. Jewett,
of Pittsburgh, a native of Providence, R. I., of which union two children
survive: Milly H. and Herbert M. The family attend the Presbyterian
Church. Mr. Lee is a Republican and a member of the K. of P. , and is one
of the well-known business men of the town.
Philip A. Leonaed, foreman and manager of the nail department of the
Sharon Iron Co. ’ s factory, was born in Allegheny City, Penn. , November 13,
1838. His parents were Philip and Mary (Crook) Leonard, natives of Glou-
cestershire, England, who were married in Allegheny City. The former was
an iron mechanic, and worked in Pittsburgh until his death. His widow married
Edward Higgs, of New Castle, Penn., and is now a resident of Sharon.
Philip A. was reared in New Castle, Penn., and learned the nailer’s trade at
Niles, Ohio. In the fall of 1862 he came to Sharon, and has since been con-
nected with the old mills, being for twenty-three years foreman and manager
of the nail factory. Mr. Leonard was married June 22, 1858, to Miss Anna
Leah Kelly, of New Castle, Penn., of which union six children survive: John
A., Mary F., Ollie (wife of Elias Gething, of Sharon), Martha A., Anna B.
and Philip C. Our subject is a Republican in politics, and a member of the
I. O. O. F., K. of P. and G. A. R. In the spring of 1862 he enlisted in Com-
pany C, Eighty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served three months. He
is the inventor and patentee of a scraper or turner for grindstones, and of an
attachment for a cut nail machine for the manufacture of iron nails, and is
one of the leading representative iron workers of the Shenango Valley.
W. O. Leslie, hardware merchant, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio,
May 9, 1846. His father, Robert Leslie, was born June 25, 1794, on a farm where
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
737
now stands the town of Tarentum, Allegheny Co., Penn., and was the son of
Janies Leslie, born in Cumberland County, Penn., in 1764. The latter was a
civil engineer by profession, and married Mary, daughter of Robert Galbreath,
a Scotchman, and a prominent lawyer of Pittsburgh. James died in Pitts-
burgh September 1, 1830, and his widow April 1, 1849. Robert Leslie re-
moved from Pittsburgh, Penn., to Youngstown, Ohio, when eighteen years of
age, where he afterward carried on the mercantile business. He there
married Betsy, daughter of Henry and Hannah Wick, who died without issue
about one year afterward. He was again married, to Eliza Scott, of Allegheny
County, Penn. He removed from Youngstown to Brookfield, Ohio, and was
engaged in running a line of stages to Warren, Ohio. In 1846 he removed
from Brookfield to Sharon, where he died June 21, 1855, his widow surviving
him till March 20, 1865. They were the parents of seven children; Mary
(deceased), Belinda M., Hemy (deceased), Lucretia W., Lovica H., W. O. and
Kate S. Our subject grew up in Sharon, and received his education in the
public shools of that borough. He began clerking for A. L. Crawford & Co. ,
coal operators, and in 1865 the firm of Williams & Leslie was organized and a
hardware store opened. Since that time Mr. Leslie has been successfully
engaged in the same line of business. He was married March 9, 1865, to Miss
KateY. , daughter of John S. King, deceased. She was born in Chester
County, Penn., and is the mother of three children: Frank K., John S. and
Grace S. Mr. Leslie and wife are members of the Episcopal Church, and he
is a Republican in politics.
Samuel S. Liddle, proprietor of livery stable, was born in Mahoning
County, Ohio, May 24, 1844, and is a son of Carnes and Julia A. (Gilbert)
Liddle, the former a native of England, of Irish parentage, and the latter of
Eastern Pennsylvania, of German descent. They were married in Mahoning
County, Ohio, and settled on a farm in that county. They were the parents
of the following children: Joseph (deceased), Mrs. Mary Fletcher (of Wheel-
ing, Va.), John (who served nearly four years in the Rebellion and died of
wounds received in the service), Samuel S. (of Sharon), Juliet (deceased) and
Henry (of Wheeling, Va). Samuel S. grew up in his native county, and in
1861 enlisted in Company D, Sixty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for three
years, but in the latter part of 1862 he was discharged from the regiment
on account of sickness contracted in the service. Returning home he soon
after went to Youngstown, Ohio, and learned the blacksmith’s trade. In 1865
he came to Sharon, where he was employed in the rolling mills about one year
and learned the puddler’ s art, but then went back to his old trade, entering
into partnership with Cornelius Bowden. He subsequently sold his interest
to his partner and opened a shop for himself, which he carried on till 1868-69,
when he went into the livery business with Mr. Boise. After a few years he
bought out his partner and continued the business for several years, when
business reverses necessitated his returning to his trade, at which he worked
till October, 1878, when* the present partnership of Liddle & Dougherty was
formed. Mr. Liddle was married July 8, 1868, to Miss Julia Quinby,
daughter of Samuel Quinby, one of the pioneers of Sharon. Three children
were born to them: Carl C., William W. and Essie E. Politically he is a
Prohibitionist, and a member of the A. O. U. W. The family belong to the
Presbyterian Church.
De. Benjamin Love, deceased, was born in Mercer County, Penn., July 1,
1828, and was a son of Benjamin and Sarah Love, who came from Eastern
Pennsylvania, and died in -this county, aged ninety-one and eighty, respectively.
Dr. Love grew to manhood in Mercer County, and studied medicine with his
738
HISTOEY OP MEBCEE COUNTY.
brother, Dr. James Love, of Greenfield, Mercer County. In February, 1857,
he removed to Girard, Ohio, but returned in the spring of 1858 and located in
Sharon, ■where he continued in the active duties of his profession up to his
death, which took place at the old Byers homestead in Lackawannock Town-
ship, where he was visiting at the time, July 26, 1886. He also carried on a
drxig store in Sharon for many years. He was married March 26, 1857, to
Miss Julia A., daughter of Daniel C. and Maria Byers, of Lackawannock
Township, the former a well-known hotel keeper of Greenfield. Of this union
three children, Charles J., Elmer P. andEffie J. , were born to them, all of whom
died after reaching maturity. Dr. Love was an attendant of the United Pres-
byterian Church, to which denomination his widow belongs. Politically a Be-
publican, he filled the offices of councilman and school director of Sharon, and
for nearly thirty years was one of the leading physicians of the Shenango
Valley. He was well known and respected by the people of his native county,
and stood high among his professional brethren.
Alexander Macaulay, liveryman, was born in Scotland April 20, 1858,
and is a son of Francis and Jannett (Ray) Macaulay, natives of Scotland. In
1863 the family immigrated to Honeybrook, Penn. , and in 1868 the father re-
moved to Bethel, Hickory Township, Mercer Co., Penn., where the family
joined him aboiit one year later. Francis Macaulay carried on a store about
twelve years. In the summer of 1885 they located in Sharon, where the
father died in September, and where the mother still resides. In June, 1885,
our subject bought a half interest in his present livery stables, and with John
T. Pew, under the firm name of Pew & Macaulay, carried on the business up
to March 23, 1888, when Charles A. Polley bought out Mr. Pew, and the firm
became Macaulay & Polley. Mr. Macaulay was married January 20, 1884, to
Miss Susan Rhind, of Sharon, of which union two children survive: Francis
and William. The family belong to the Episcopal Church, and politically
Mr. Macaulay is a Republican.
Septimus Maesden, retired steel operator, was born in Sheffield, Yorkshire,
England, December 7, 1832, and is a son of Jonathan and Jane (Allride)
Marsden, who spent their lives in England. Our subject began working in a
steel works at ten years of age, and continued working at that business until
January 1, 1853, when he immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn. He there worked
at his trade till June, 1856, when he came to Sharon to superintend the con-
struction of the furnace portions of the steel works then being fitted up in the
Sharon Iron Works for the manufacture of steel from raw ore. This experi-
ment continued until the fall of 1857, when it was given up as a failure, which
Mr. Marsden had predicted from the beginning would be the final result. In
the spring of 1859 Mr. Marsden returned to his old employer, Samuel Mc-
Kelvy, of Pittsburgh, and worked in that establishment under the successsors,
Hussy & Wells, till the spring of 1861, when he left and helped to establish
the steel works of Parks Bro. & Co., of Pittsburgh. He worked there neatly
six years, and for one year worked with Bailey & Brown, of the Wayne Iron
& Steel Works. In 1867 he returned to Sharon, and in the fall of 1868 set-
tled on his farm near Transfer. In the autumn of 1869 he sold out and
removed to Philadelphia, where for nearly ten years he had charge of William
& Harvey Rowland’s Steel Works. In April, 1879, he resigned this posi-
tion and again came to Sharon, and settled on a farm in Jefferson Township,
where he resided until September, 1886, since which time he has devoted his
attention to looking after his property in Sharon, whither he removed that fall.
He was married April 22, 1857, to Elizabeth, only child of Solomon and Jane
Dillinger. One son, Charles (deceased), was born of this union. Mr. Mars-
HISTOEY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
739
den and wife are members of the Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Dem-
ocrat, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity.
William B. Makshall, manager of the Sharon Iron Works Store, is a
native of Washington County, Penn. His parents removed from that county
to Lawrence County, Penn., when William B. was but six years old, and he
there grew to manhood and received a good English education. He came to
Sharon in 1868, and for about eight years was engaged in the mercantile bus-
iness. In 1876, soon after the Sharon Iron Works Store was established,
he took charge of it, and, excepting a period of about two .years, has since
continued in that capacity. Under his vigorous and judicious management
the Sharon Iron Works Store has been highly prosperous, and is one of the
leading mercantile houses of Mercer County. Mr. Marshall is married and
the father of three children: Kate B. , .Clifford C. and Ettie O. Politically he
is a Democrat, and both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.
Jacob Messeesmith, proprietor of the Messer House, was born in Dauphin
County, Penn., April 19, 1818, to Andrew and Catherine (Seburne) Messer-
smith, natives of that county. In 1824 the parents moved to Hartford, Trum-
bull Co., Ohio, where Jacob was reared and educated. He learned the black-
smith’s trade with his father, and followed it seven years. He then located at
Vienna, Ohio, and was engaged in the cattle business for twelve years. In
1865 he came to Sharon, and began the hotel business in the old Exchange
Hotel, which he ran very successfully for six years. He bought his present
business site in 1873, erected a building, and has remained there ever since.
He was married April 9, 1838, to Mary Ann, daughter of Henry Fry, by whom
he has eight living children: Belinda (wife of Robert Mackey, of Sharon),
Ransom and Julia (of Sharon), Edward (superintendent of the New York,
Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad eating houses), Allie (wife of Joseph Hamler, of
Cleveland, Ohio), Frank (of Sharon), Mary (wife of Prof. Rumsey, of Cleve-
land) and Barney. Mrs. Messersmith died March 13, 1887. He is a Mason,
being a member of Erie Lodge, of W arren, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, and one of
Sharon’s respected citizens.
Joseph McCleeey was born in Hickory Township March 25, 1823. His
father. Rev. George McCleery, was a native of Ireland, who immigrated to
Coitsville, Mahoning Co., Ohio, in 1817-18, where he married Mary Beggs, a
native of Washington County, Penn. , whose parents removed to Coitsville
when she was an infant. After their marriage they located in Hubbard, Ohio,
and in 1820 settled on the farm where our subject now lives. During the
early portion of his life Rev. McCleery preached the gospel for the Baptists
through this valley. He also preached two years in Butler County, besides
devoting his time to school teaching. In 1828 he united with the Disciples,
and preached for that church, more or less, the balance of his days. About
1830 he commenced the practice of medicine, and continued in that profession
up to November 13, 1843, when he died, aged fifty-four years. Rev. Mc-
Cleery reared nine children: James, Nancy (widow of Henry Dunham), Joseph
J. , Rainey, Mary S. (deceased), Lorinda (wife of Jesse Dunlap, of Washing-
ton Territory,) Adaline, Corydon and Sarah (wife of David Hopkins, of Illi-
nois). Mrs. McCleery died September 13, 1877, in the faith of the Disciple
Church, aged eighty-three years. Our subject was reared on the old home-
stead, and was educated in the pioneer schools. He was married March 28,
1854, to Caroline W. Baker, of Bloomfield, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, and settled
in Sharon in the present residence of T. J. Porter. In early life he followed
farming, and in 1848 went into the coal business, which he continued up to
a recent date. He was also engaged in merchandising about four years.
740
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mrs. McCleery died April 30, 1884, aged fifty-two years, in full communion,
with the Disciple Church. She left two children, Charles J. and Jessie A.
Politically Mr. McCleery was a Democrat up to the organization of the Prohi-
bition party of Mercer County, since which time he has been an ardent advo-
cate of Prohibition principles. He has served on the school board of Sharon
sixteen years, and in the borough council two years.
Samuel McClure, agent, superintendent and manager of the Stewart Iron
Company, limited, was born in Little Beaver, Beaver Co., Penn., January 3,
1839, and is the eldest son of Joseph and Nancy McClure, of Clarksville,
Penn. Samuel grew to manhood under the parental roof, working on a farm
and clerking in his father’s store during his boyhood days. After receiving the
usual common school education he entered Girard Academy, Girard, Penn.,
where he spent several years. In 1861 he began clerking in Clarksville, and
in 1802 he entered the employ of James Wood & Co., proprietors of Home-
wood Furnace, Lawrence County, Penn. In June, 1863, he came to Wheat-
land, Mercer County, in connection with the same firm, and remained with
them till their failure in 1873, at which time he was assistant superintendent of
the works. For a few months succeeding this event he had charge of the blast
furnace in West Middlesex. In January, 1874, he became connected with the
Stewart Iron Company, limited, of Sharon, and has since been manager of the
business of that firm in the Shenango Valley, as well as the coke plant in Fay-
ette County, Penn., which was constructed under his direction. Under Mr.
McClure’s able management the business of this firm has grown prosperous,
and stands second to none in the valley. Our subject was married July 1,
1863, to Miss Augusta E. Dickson, of Clarksville, of which union three daugh
ters have been born: Mary, wife of Charles F. Phillips, of Shai'on; Anna D.
and Jennie. Mr. McClure is a leading Republican, and in 1884 was elected
State senator for the Forty-seventh District, composed of the counties of Mer-
cer and Lawrence, for the term ending in December, 1888. He was also the
choice of his party in Mercer County for renomination. He is a member of
the Masonic fraternity, and also of the A. O. U. W. Mr. McClure is a stock-
holder in, and one of the managers of, the Shenango Machine Company, lim-
ited, and vice-president of the Sharon Steel Casting Company, two of the
leading manufacturing institutions of Sharon.
Joseph N. McClure, attorney at law, was born January 1, 1843, in Clarks-
Aulle, Mercer Co., Penn., and is a son of Joseph and Nancy McClure, of that
borough. He grew to maturity on his father’s farm at Clarksville, and at the
age of sixteen entered Girard Academy, Girard, Penn. , where he spent over one
year, and then went to Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn. , where he remained
four terms. During this period he clerked, and in spare moments studied law
with the intention of entering that profession, registering under the law firm
of Griffith & Trunkey, of Mercer. He then entered the Ohio Law School,
Cleveland, Ohio, graduated November 16, 1865, and stood his examination,
admitting him to all the courts of Ohio, including the United States Court. In
January, 1866, Mr. McClure was admitted to the bar at Mercer, but did not
commence practice until April, 1867, when he opened an office in Sharon,
where he has since continued in the active duties of his profession. He has been
for some years the legal representative of several of the leading manufactur-
ing institutions of the valley, and also the attorney for several of its prom-
inent manufacturing and financial interests. Mr. McClure is president of the
S. V. Railroad, of the Stewart Railroad, and the State Line & Middlesex
Railroad, and is the local solicitor for the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern
Railroad. He is a Republican in politics, and a member of the Masonic and
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
741
I. O. O. F. societies. Mr. McClure was married December 12, 1865, to Miss
Minerva R. , daughter of Samuel Madge, of Mercer County. Two children are
the fruits of this union; Charles N. and Frank M.
John McClure, attorney at law, was born in Clarksville, Penn., April 22,
1852, and is a son of Joseph and Nancy McClure, of that town. He grew up
and was educated in the public schools of his native village, and in the fall of
1868 entered Westminster College, New Wilmington, Penn., where he gradu-
ated in June, 1873. During the summer he began reading law at home, and
afterward read in his brother Joseph’s office for a short time. In January,
1874, he went to Cleveland, Ohio, and attended one term of lectures at the
law school of that city. He spent the following summer reading law, and was
admitted at Mercer in September, 1874. Soon afterward he began practice
with Griffith & Mason, with whom he remained till January, 1876. He then
located in Sharon, where he has been engaged in active practice up to the
present. Mr. McClure was married December 27, 1880, to Miss Emma Kunser,
of Sharon, who died October 4, 1881 . Politically he is a Democrat, and a member
of the Masonic and K. of P. societies.
Robert McFarland, retired harness maker, was born in Hartford Town-
ship, Trumbull Co., Ohio, March 10, 1815. His grandparents, Robert McFar-
land and wife, immigrated from Ireland to the vicinity of Harrisburg, Penn.,
whence they removed to Washington County, Penn., and settled near Steuben-
ville, Ohio. In 1806 they removed to Hartford Township, Trumbull Co.,
Ohio, where Robert died May 1, 1815, and his widow several years after-
ward. They reared three sons and four daughters: Thomas, Archibald, John,
Martha, Polly, Jane and Peggy. The sons lived and died in Hartford Town-
ship; Martha married Willian Dugan, and after his death Azariah Dunham;
Polly married Hugh McDowell, and Jane married John Canon, and subse-
quently George Shilling. Thomas, the father of our subject, was born near
Harrisburg, Penn., in 1794, and grew up under the parental roof. He married
Martha, daughter of Nathan Fell, of Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co.,
Penn., who bore him live children: Nathan, Robert, Smith, George and Cynthia,
wife of Lewis Holland, of Trumbull County, Ohio. The mother died in 1827,
and he again married, Mrs. Nancy McKnight, and reared three children by
this union: Thomas F., Amelia and Phoebe. He and his brother, Archibald,
served under Harrison in the War of 1812, and he survived until 1862, dying
on the old homestead in Trumbull County. Our subject left home at the age
of seventeen, and went to learn the harness business, at which he served a full
apprenticeship, and then spent eighteen months in a jouring tour through the
Eastern States and Canada, reaching Sharon in February, 1838. The follow-
ing month he went to Pittsburgh in a one-horse sleigh, purchased a small stock
of leather and hardware, and, returning to Sharon, opened a harness shop on
the north side of State Street, west of the river. He began business on a
capital of $18, but by steady industry and rigid economy he accumulated
through the passing years a handsome estate. Mr. McFarland was married
May 29, 1838, to Chloe Fuller, of Hartford Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio,
who bore him one son, Thomas D., of Sharon. Our subject has been a life-
long Democrat, filled the office of burgess four years, and has been a member
of the council and school board several terms. He is one of the two living
charter members of Sharon Lodge No. 347, I. O. O. F. , J. J. Spearman, Esq. ,
being the other, and is also a member of the Masonic fraternity. He has lived
in Sharon over half a century, and is one of the successful pioneer fathers of
■the town.
Winfield Scott McFarland, physician and surgeon, was born in Pymatu-
742
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
ning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., January 1, 1848, and is a son of Smith
and Sarah (Varnes) McFarland, residents of Orangeville. Our subject grew
to manhood on the homestead in Pymatuning Township, and attended the dis-
trict schools. He learned telegraphy, which he followed about thirteen years,
and in the meantime devoted his spare moments to reading medicine. ■ He
attended lectures at the medical department of the University of Wooster,
Cleveland, Ohio, and graduated therefrom July 22, 1885. He immediately
opened an office in Hendersonville, Mercer Co. , Penn. , removing to Sharps-
ville the following November, where he remained until locating in Sharon in
August, 1887, where he has since built up a very good practice. Dr. McFar-
land was married to Miss Lorindia Seaton, of Pymatuning Township, Decem-
ber 29, 1868, who died November 20, 1884, leaving three childi’en: Lucius
Robert, Maud and Plummer Scott. He was again married, July 29, 1885, to
Miss Ida Shull, of Hartford, Trumbull Co., Ohio. The Doctor is a member
of the K. of P., E. A. U. and P. H. C., and in politics is a Democrat.
William McGilveay, deceased, was born within the limits of Allegheny
City, Penn., December 15, 1824, and was a son of Alexander and Elizabeth
(Cameron) McGilvray. The parents were natives of the highlands of Scot-
land, and immigrated to the United States in 1808. After reaching Pitts-
burgh the father entered the employ of the late Bishop Hopkins, as gardener,
and subsequently served the Hon. H. Denny in the same capacity. The latter
became so much interested in his employee’s advancement and success that he
sent his son William to the Western Theological Seminary, where he passed
two years in study. His friends designed him for the law, but young McGil-
vray’s tastes did not accord with their choice. Having a decided inclination for
mechanical pui’suits he learned the blacksmith trade in Allegheny City, and
to better his condition went to Sharon in 1850, where, as a stockholder and
director of the Jackson Iron Company, he remained until 1854, when he pur-
chased and remodeled the works which bore his name up to his death, July 5,
1877. Both in this establishment as well as in other enterprises with which
he was connected he was very successful, for he possessed in a large measure
the perseverance and determination of purpose that overcame all obstacles.
Starting in the battle of life devoid of pecuniary means, by his indomitable
energy and industry he won a competence. Though not of the wealthiest, he
exerted himself to foster the business interests of Sharon, and always took an
active part in every worthy public enterprise. He was a large stockholder in the
Sharon Gas Company and the Sharon Savings Bank. Mr. McGihTay was
married May 3, 1844, to Miss Rebecca Ewing, of Pittsburgh, a native of West-
moreland County, Penn., who reared the following children: Elizabeth C.,
deceased wife of L. Buchholz; Lydia, wife of D. R. Shiras; Mary J., wife
of C. W. Ray; Rebecca V., wife of James Carnes, and Catharine C. , wife of
Samuel C. Iddings. In politics Mr. McGilvray was a Democrat, but took no
active interest in political affairs.
William A. McKnight, druggist, was born in Wisconsin, November 26,.
1859, and is a son of Jonas F. and Mary J. (Ferguson) McKnight, of Clarks-
ville, Penn. His great-grandfather, William McKnight, was born in Washing-
ton County, Penn. , and was a son of David and Hannah (Gaylor) McKnight,
of that county, who located in Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., in
1804. They had then nine children: Robert, Polly, Anna, Elizabeth, William
G., David, John, Margaret and Hanna; while Andrew, James and Joseph
were born after the settlement of the parents in this county. Andrew and
Joseph are the only survivors of the family. The parents both died in Pyma-
tuning Township, the father November 16, 1839, and the mother some years-
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
743
afterward. The paternal grandpai'ents of oiu’ subject were William G. and
Agnes (Fell) McKnight, also pioneers pf Mercer County. The maternal
grandparents, Thomas and Experience (Dunham) Ferguson, were pioneers of
Pymatuning Township. William A. grew up in Clarksville, and was educated
in the public schools of this county. In 1880 he entered the di'Ug store of Dr.
B. Love, in Sharon, and learned the dimggist’s profession. In October, 1885,
Mr. McKnight purchased the drug store of W. V. Byard, one of the oldest
drug houses of Shai’on, where he has since conducted a good business. He was
married December 28, 1887, to Miss Nannie L. , daughter of William Bailey,
of Pymatuning Township. Mr. McKnight is a Democrat, a member of the
E. A. IJ. and N. U. , and is one of the well-known druggists of Sharon.
Patrick McManus, proprietor of the McManus House, was born in County
Mayo, Ireland, March 1, 1844, and is a son of Patrick and Margaret (Burke)
McManus, the former of whom died in Ireland, where his widow still lives.
In May, 1869, Mr. McManus immigrated to Chicago, 111., and afterward spent
a few years in Michigan. In February, 1870, he came to Sharon, where he
has since made his home. In 1871 he opened a grocery store, and in 1880
his present hotel, which he has since carried on. Mr. McManus was married
January 16, 1871, to Ann, daughter of Terence O’Hare, of Sharon, who
died November 5, 1877, leaving one son, Patrick J. He was again married,
May 13, 1879, to Ellen E. , daughter of John Muldoon, of Sharon, of which
union three children have been born: Catherine, John and Margaret. The
family belong to the Catholic Church. Politically he is a Democrat, and has
served one term in the borough council. He was one of the main organizers
of Branch No. 6, C. M. B. A., of Sharon, and since coming to this town has
succeeded in life beyond his expectations.
Frederick P. Miller, general grocery dealer, was born near Hermitage,
Hickory Township, December 8, 1860, and is a son of Matthias and Catherine
(Foltz) Miller, natives of Bavaria, Germany, mention of whom will be found
among the sketches of Hickory Township. Our subject grew up on the old
homestead and received a district school education. He worked on the farm
and subsequently looked after his father’s store at Hermitage. From 1877 to
the spring of 1886 he assisted his father in the store and post-office at that
point. In September, 1886, he opened his present grocery, which he has
since operated. Mr. Miller was married June 8, 1886, to Miss Maggie,
daughter of Jacob Dresch, deceased, of Sharon. She has borne him one son,
Arthur J. He is a Republican and a member of the P. H. C., and both he
and wife belong to the German Reformed Church.
David Morgan, head of the puddle mill of the Sharon Iron Works, was
born in Monmouthshire, South Wales, November 2, 1828, and is a son of
David and Mary (Leonard) Morgan, both of whom spent their lives in that
country. David learned the iron business in his native shh’e, and in the fall
of 1856 immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn., and for about thirty years was
manager of iron mills in that city and other points. In 1872-73 ]\L-. Morgan
built at Wellsville, Ohio, the first mill for the manufacture of tin, and rolled
the first tin-plate in the United States. In April, 1887, he came to Sharon,
and has since had charge of the puddling department of the Sharon Ron
Works. Mr. Morgan was married in 1848, to Elizabeth Thomas, of South
Wales, of which union five children grew to maturity: James, Theo. D.,
Charles, David and Elizabeth. His wife died November 15, 1869, and he was
again married, in 1870, to Mrs. Julia Russell, who had three children by her
first marriage: Matilda, deceased; Elizabeth and Katie. Mrs. Morgan had
no children by her second man’iage, and died January 16, 1887. In 1888 Mr.
744
HISTOKY OP MEECER COUNTY.
Morgan was again married, to Mrs. Jannett Macaulay, who had borne two chil-
di’en to her first husband: Alexander and Marian. Our subject is a Repub-
lican, and in the summer of 1861 enlisted as second lieutenant of Company
K. First Virginia Volunteers, and served about one year. He is a member of
the Masonic fraternity and K. of P. , and belongs to the Methodist Episcopal
Church.
William G. Morgan, foreman of the blacksmith department in the mills
of P. L. Kimberly & Co., was born in Llannaganch, Carmarthenshire, South
Wales, June 3, 1842, and is a son of Griffith and Ann Morgan, the former of
whom is dead, and the latter a resident of Wales. At the age of seventeen
William G. went to the great iron town of Merthyr-Tydfil, Glanmorganshire,
South Wales, where he learned the blacksmith’s trade. He worked there till
the spring of 1869, when he immigrated to Mineral Ridge, Trumbull Co. ,
Ohio, removing to Girard, Ohio, the next fall. In the spring of 1870 he
came to Sharon, where he has since resided, and has been connected with P.
L. Kimberly & Co. over seventeen years, twelve of which he has been foreman
of the blacksmith department. Mr. Morgan was married December 25, 1865,
to Miss Mary, daughter of Robert Davis, of Merthyr-Tydfil, Wales, of which
union seven children have been born, three of whom are living: Robert,
Thomas and Annie. He and wife belong to the Congregational Church, and
he is a charter member of Sharon Lodge K. of P., K. of G. E. and I. O. R.
M. Politically he is a Republican, and has served three years in the borough
council. He has recently invented a machine for the manufacture of staples,
which is highly praised by expert iron workers as a very important addition to
the many inventions of the country.
Theo. D. Morgan, superintendent of the Sharon Iron Works, was born
in New Castle-on-Tyne, England, February 24, 1853, and is a son of David
and Elizabeth Morgan, natives of Wales. In 1856 the family immigrated to
Pittsburgh, where David was a manager of iron mills about thirty years. He
is now a resident of Sharon, and connected with the Sharon Iron Works. Our
subject grew up in Pittsburgh, and learned the iron business in that city. He
took a scientific course and was graduated in chemistry from Mount Union Col-
lege, Ohio, in 1874. For one year he was one of the writers on the American
Manufacturer of Pittsburgh. Mr. Morgan was assistant superintendent of
the Baugh Rolling Mills of Detroit three years; superintendent of the Judson
Rolling Mill, Oakland, Cal., one year; had charge of the steel department
of the Pennsylvania Iron & Steel Works one year, and was manager of the
Chess, Cook & Co. steel mill of the same city a short time. In April, 1887,
he came to Sharon to accept the position of superintendent of the Sharon
Iron Works, which he has since filled. He is one of the inventors and patent-
ees of an improved machine for the manufacture of wire nails on a cut- nail
machine, and also of an improved reversing valve for regenerative gas fur-
naces and several other improvements on gas furnaces. Mr. Morgan was
married August 21, 1875, to Miss Jennie M. White, of Glenwood, Pitts-
burgh, Penn. , who is the mother of two children, Minnie and Lottie. He is
a Republican in politics, a member of the Masonic order and A. O. U. W. , and
the family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Richard Graham Morrison, secretary and manager of the Sharon Boiler
Works, was born in Delaware Township, Mercer Co., Penn., July 25, 1844.
His father, William, was born in Huntingdon County, Penn., April 1, 1800,
of Irish ancestry, and married Sarah Graham, a native of Armstrong County,
Penn., of Scotch descent. About 1842 they located in Pymatuning Township,
on a tract of land extending across the line of Delaware Township, whence
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
745
they removed to Brookfield, Ohio, where the mother died in 1856. Her hus-
band then returned to Mercer County, and died upon a part of the old home-
stead, in 1864. They reared a family of four childi’en: Richard Graham and
John L. , both of Sharon; R. Woodward, of Pittsburgh, and Mary C., wife of
C. A. Ashton, of Sharon. With the exception of the five years which the
family spent in Brookfield, Ohio, our subject has always lived in Mercer
County. His business life in Sharon since 1867 has been spent in connection
with the iron interests of the borough, being book-keeper and afterward man-
ager of the William McGilvray & Co. Foundry and Machine Shops, up to their
purchase by the present company. In 1878 Mr. Morrison was one of the firm
who organized the Sharon Boiler Works Company, and has since been its sec-
retary and manager. He was married December 17, 1874, to Miss Elizabeth
Egbert, of Sandy Lake, Penn., whose parents were early settlers of that part
of the county. Three children have been born of this union: Sarah G. , Egbert
R. and Gertrude. Politically he is a Republican, a member of the Masonic
fraternity, and both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.
John L. Morrison, editor and proprietor of the Sharon Herald, was born
in Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., September 6, 1846, and is a
son of William and Sarah Morrison, previously spoken of. Our subject
received his primary education in the public schools, and at the age of sixteen,
in July, 1863, he enlisted in the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Militia, and served
in the 100 days’ service. In February, 1864, he again enlisted, in Company
A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served in all
the battles of his regiment up to the close of the war. Returning to his home
he attended Oberlin College and Edinboro Normal School, for the purpose of
completing his education, and subsequently taught one term. In January,
1868, he entered the Argus office, at Greenville, where he spent one year.
On the 1st of January, 1869, he purchased one half interest in the Sharon
Herald, and was connected with that paper until January, 1876, when, having
been elected recorder of Mercer County, he sold his interest in the paper. At
the expiration of his term in the recorder’s office he returned to Sharon, and
in March, 1879, purchased the Herald, and has since been its editor and
proprietor. Mr. Morrison was married October 12, 1880, to Miss Eleanor B.
Serrill, of Darby, Delaware Co. , Penn. Politically he is a Republican, and a
member of the Masonic fraternity and the P. H. C.
Thomas Moses, proprietor of the City Roller Mills, was born in Sunderland,
England, August 13, 1846, and is a son of Matthew and Elizabeth Moses,
natives of England. In 1857 the family immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn.,
and two years afterward removed to Johnstown, Penn., wherp the parents
now reside. Oui- subject removed to Portage County, Ohio, in 1872, and
carried on a general store at Nelson and Wyndham, and for three years oper-
ated a mill, in connection with the store, at the latter place. In January,
1882, he came to Sharon, leased the Stambaugh Mill for one year, and in
1883 erected his present brick flouring mill, on the corner of Pitt and Rail-
road Streets, fitted it up with all the latest improvements, of the full roller
process, and has since conducted one of the leading mills of Mercer County,
having a capacity of 125 barrels every twenty- four hours. The grade of
flour turned out by the City Roller Mills is second to none. Mr. Moses was
married June 10, 1872, to Miss Perlina Bosley, of Johnstown, Penn., of
which union five children have been born: Maud, Myrtle, Bessie, Arthur and
Florence. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Chm’ch, and Mr.
Moses is a trustee of the Sharon congregation. Politically he is a Republi-
can of strong temperance proclivities, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity.
He is recognized as one of the progressive business men of the borough.
746
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
David E. Moses, grocer, was born in Monmouthshire, England, October
23, 1823, and is a son of Edward and Rachel (Phillips) Moses, the former a
native of England and the latter of Wales; both died in the old country.’
David E. learned the puddler’s trade in Tradegar, England, and followed
that business in his native land till he immigrated to Wheeling, Va. , in 1857,
where he continued at his trade until the breaking out of the Rebellion. In
May, 1861, he enlisted in Company A, First Virginia Volunteers, and served
in the three months’ service. He then returned to his trade in Wheeling. In
the spring of 1864 he came to New Castle, Penn., and the following Novem-
ber located in Sharon. He worked here a few years and then went to New-
burg, Ohio, and thence back to Wheeling, Va. In 1870 he again came to
Sharon, and worked a few months. He then opened a small grocery store,
which he has since conducted. Mr. Moses was married June 10, 1850, to
Miss Sarah, daughter of David Davis, a native of Monmouthshire, England,
and has seven children; David S., William H. , Edward, Mary J., Sarah A.,
Thomas J. and Susanna. He is a member of the Baptist and his wife of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics he is a Republican.
John P. Neilek, photographer, was born in Phoenixville, Chester County,
Penn., February 26, 1841, and is a son of John G. and Catherine (Strough)
Neiler, both natives of Pennsylvania. The former was a blacksmith, and died
about nine years ago in Chester County, where his widow still lives. J ohn P.
grew up in his native town, and there began to learn the carpenter trade, and
was working at that business when the war commenced. In June, 1861, he
enlisted in Company G, First Pennsylvania Reserves, and after the battle of
Bull Run the Reserves were sworn into the United States service at Balti-
more for three years. Mr. Neiler took part in all the battles and campaigns
of his regiment until mustered out in June, 1864. In 1865 became to Sharon,
Penn. , where he worked at the carpenter trade until embarking in the photo-
graph business in 1870. He carried on that business here till 1883, when he
sold his interest, and for three years conducted the same business at Sharps-
ville, though residing in Sharon. In the summer of 1886 he established his
present gallery, and is the oldest photographer in Sharon. Mr. Neiler was
married December 18, 1874, to Miss Lizzie Clair, of Sharon, daughter of the
late John Clair. He is a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities,
and politically is a Republican.
John Newton, proprietor of livery stable, was born in Norfolk, England,
April 15, 1848, and is a son of Charles and Maria Newton, both of whom are
still residents of England. In the spring of 1869 he immigrated to Pennsyl-
vania, wherejae worked at coal mining about one year, and then went to work
in the Allentown Iron Mills, and learned the puddler’s trade. He continued
working in Allentown until October, 1872, when he came to Sharon and entered
Kimberly’s Iron Mills, where he worked until the close of 1885. In the mean-
time, in May, 1880, he purchased the livery stable of Frank Porter, and has
continued at that business up to the present. He was married in Pittsburgh
November 29, 1870, to Mrs. Sarah Briggs, a native of England, and the mother
of two sons at the time of her second marriage. She has borne Mr. Newton
two sons; Charles and John. The family are attendants of the Episcopal
Church. In politics he is a Republican, a member of the K. of P. , K. of
G. E. and the K. of L.
Haeky Oechaed, saddlery, hardware and harness dealer, was born in Som-
ersetshire, England, April 24, 1844, and is a son of James and Elizabeth
‘(Howe) Orchard, who spent their lives in England. Our subject immigrated
to New York, where he continued to work at his trade, which he learned in
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
747
England, till August, 1867, when he went to Hamilton, Ontario, and lived
there one year. Returning to New York, he remained there till the spring of
1871, then came to Cleveland, Ohio, and soon afterward located in Sharon,
where he obtained an interest in the harness store of C. E. Tribby. In 1875
Mr. Orchard became sole owner, and has since continued to carry on the lead-
ing harness business of the town. He was married in the fall of 1866, to
Miss Mary J. , daughter of John and Elizabeth Bailey, of Plymouth, England.
Two daughters have been born to them: Maud B. and Nellie. Politically
Mr. Orchard is a Republican, and was elected burgess of Sharon in 1887, and
re-elected in 1888. Since his first election large additions in territory and
population have been made to the town, and it is confidently believed that the
next census will entitle Sharon to a city charter. The family belong to the
Episcopal Church. Our subject is the division commander of Division No.
7, of the Masonic K. T. of Penn., and one of the State officers of the Grand
Chapter H. R. A. Masons, and is also a member of the I. O. O. F. Mr.
Orchard is one of the most popular and enterprising citizens of Sharon.
Jerome Patterson, deceased undertaker, was born in Sharon March 12,
1840, and was a son of Isaac and Lorena (Hull) Patterson, of that Borough.
His father was one of the first undertakers of the town, learned the cabinet-
maker’s trade with Joseph Reno, and began business in the thirties. Jerome
grew to manhood in Sharon, received his education in the public schools, and
learned his business in his father’s establishment. After his marriage he
went into partnership with his father, and on the death of the latter, January
18, 1878, Jerome succeeded to the sole control of the business, and carried on
the same up to his sudden death, August 4, 1885. Mr. Patterson was mar-
ried September 16, 1866, to Miss Sarah, daughter of David and Margaret
(Sloss*) Anderson. The Andersons were one of the pioneer families of Jeffer-
son Township, and Mrs. Patterson’s parents died in this county. Three
children were born to J erome and Sarah Patterson : Bertha M. , Carrie H. and
Harry R. Mr. Patterson was a stanch Democrat, was tax collector of the
borough several years, and one of its most progressive and enterprising cit-
izens.
John T. Pew was born at Big Bend, Mercer Co., Penn., October 17,
1835. His father, William, was born in Jackson Township, Mercer County,
May 25, 1798, and was a son of John Pew, who came from Washington Coun-
ty, Penn., to Mercer County, in May, 1797. The latter grew to manhood on
the homestead farm, subsequently resided about three years in Mercer, and then
purchased a farm at the Big Bend, in Jefferson Township, upon which he spent
the balance of his life. He married Elizabeth, daughter of John Thompson,
an early settler of Pymatuning Township. They reared eleven children:
Jane, Emeline (deceased), David (who married Emily Ann Caldwell, of Jeffer-
son Township), Mary (wife of Thomas Blackstone, of Lackawannock Town-
ship), John T., Rebecca, Elizabeth (wife of Frank Booth, of Sharon), Lydia
(wife of Samuel Pew, of Mercer), Martha (wife of John Gordon, of Lackawan-
nock Township), Albert (who married Lydia McMillan) and Horace (who
married Minnie Jewell), both of Jefferson Township. The parents died upon
the old homestead, and were life-long Presbyterians. John T. grew up on
the home farm, and was married April 9, 1859, to Mary, daughter of Andrew
Snyder, of Delaware Township. In 1861 he enlisted in the Fifty-seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and did good service for his country. In March,
1872, our subject located in Sharon, and went into the livery business, which
he followed up to the spring of 1888, when he sold out. Politically he is a
Republican, and a strong temperance man.
748
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
John Phillips, manufacturer, was born in Union County, Penn., October
1, 1829. His father, Samuel, was a native of Northampton County, Penn.,
born April 5, 1805, and married Susanna Winey, of Union County, Penn.
In 1836 the family removed from Union County to the farm in Hickory Town-
ship, Mercer Co., Penn., whereon Samuel resided till his death, September 1,
1888, and where his wife died July 2, 1884, aged seventy- seven years and
seven months. Our subj ect grew up on the old homestead, and on reaching
maturity entered the employ of the late Gen. Pierce, with whom he remained
about three years, principally engaged in attending to the coal shipping inter-
ests of that gentleman. He then spent a couple of years in farming, and in 1854
formed a partnership with Gen. Pierce, under the firm name of J. Phillips &
Co., and developed the coal beds on his father’s farm, and in 1855 opened
the mines. He managed the business of the firm until 1861-62, when he
sold out to his partner. In 1863 he leased coal lands on the farms of the late
John Eberhart and Samuel Fry, and developed the same. The firm of Phillips,
McMaster & Co. , later J. Phillips & Co. , mined coal on these farms and vicin-
ity until 1887, when they retired from the business. From 1864 up to 1883
he was interested in the Sharpsville Railroad. He was one of the organizers
of the Spearman Iron Company at Sharpsville, and has since been connected
with that institution. Mr. Phillips has been a stockholder and director in the
Sharon National Bank since its organization in 1875. He was married May
13, 1858, to Miss Emma, daughter of John and Susanna (Berlin) Eberhart,
early settlers of Hickory Township. Mrs. Phillips was a native of this county,
and the mother of three children: Florence E. (wife of W. G. Henderson, of
Sharon), Sadie M. and Charles F. (of Sharon). She died October 20, 1885,
aged forty-nine years and three months. Though a life-long member of the
Lutheran Church, she united with the Methodist Episcopal Church shortly
before her death. Mr. Phillips is a Democrat, a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity.
Chaeles a. Polley, liveryman, was born in Pymatuning Township, Mer-
cer Co. , Penn. , November 4, 1860, and is a son of Henry and Helen, (Diefen-
derfer) Polley, deceased, pioneers of that township. Charles A. grew to
manhood in his native township, and attended the district schools of his neigh-
borhood. He worked at farming till February, 1887, when he came to Sharon
and purchased the dray line of Samuel Tolman. He carried on that business
one year, and on March 23, 1888, bought out the livery interest of John Pew,
of Pew & Macaulay, and under the firm name of Macaulay & Polley has since
been engaged in the livery business. Mr. Polley was married September 4,
1885, to Miss Mary E. McDowell, of Delaware Township, who is the mother
of one child, Leonore. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.
He is a Democrat, and a member of the Protected Home Circle.
Thomas J. Poetek, retired, was born in Chambersburg, Franklin Co. , Penn. ,
December 29, 1800. His father, Washington Porter, was a son of David Por-
ter, and was born in Shippensburg, Penn., July 13, 1778. He there grew to
manhood, and December 17, 1799, was married at Chambersburg, Penn., to
Miss Rachel Shannon, a native of that town, born April 25, 1778. They
reared three sons : Thomas J. , David T. (deceased) and Alexander W. The
first and last mentioned are residents of Sharon, where David T. died February
21, 1876. In 1802 the family removed to Butler County, Penn. , and in 1804 to
the borough of Mercer, where Thomas J. grew to manhood and attended the
pioneer schools. In April, 1825, Mr. Porter located in Sharon, and was the
second postmaster of the town, and one of its early hotel-keepers. He was
also one of the pioneer merchants of Sharon, and among the first to go into the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
749
coal business, and for many years was engaged in developing the coal fields of
the Shenango Valley. His parents moved to Sharon many years after our sub-
ject, where the mother died June 14, 1852, in her seventy- fourth year, and the
father August 26, 1860, in the eighty -third year of his age. Mr. Porter was
married August 14, 1827, in Sharon, to Miss Julia A., daughter of Samuel
and Achsah (Parks) Quinby, natives of New Jersey, who settled here in 1808
or 1809. Mrs. Porter was born in Warren, Ohio, March 15, 1807, and was
the mother of four children: Salina, widow of Henry Forker; Samuel Quinby,
who died in Sharon, in 1874, and for several years one of the prominent busi-
ness men of the borough; Julia, and Anna (deceased). Mrs. Porter died iu
the faith of the Baptist Church, October 13, 1849, and her husband has since
remained unmarried. Politically Mr. Porter has always been a Democrat,
though he has never taken an active interest in political affairs. He cast his
first presidential vote for Andrew Jackson in 1824, and has never since missed
casting his vote for the presidential nominee of the Democratic party. Since
early manhood Mr. Porter has been a member of the Masonic fraternity, and
is one of the few living links connecting the historic past with the ever event-
ful and changing present.
David T. Poetee, deceased merchant, was born in Chambersburg, Penn.,
May 26, 1802, son of Washington and Rachel Porter, previously spoken of.
The family removed to Butler County soon after the birth of our subject, and
in 1804 settled at Mercer. Here David T. grew to manhood, and was married
February 24, 1824, to Nancy, daughter of William and Polly (Rambo) Find-
ley, pioneers of Mercer County. She was born September 25, 1802, and three
sons, David Findley (deceased), George W. (deceased), William, and one daugh-
ter, Rachel (deceased), were the fruits of this union. The mother died Sep-
tember 2, 1834, and Mr. Porter was again married, October 16, 1837, to Miss
Sarah Satterfield, born February 5, 1808. Three children survive this marriage:
James S., Nancy F. and Sarah S. Mrs. Porter died February 13, 1845, and
he was again married, November 16, 1845, to Ann Hazleton, of Pittsburgh,
born November 16, 1816, of which union three children survive: Thomas H.,
Ann E. and Mary T. Our subject resided in Mercer till the spring of 1845,
when he located in Sharon, and for many years was engaged in merchandising
under the firm name of Carver & Porters, the firm being C. G. Carver, T. J.
Porter and David T. Porter. He and his brother subsequently carried on the
mercantile business, and were also engaged in the coal trade. He was after-
ward connected with his sons in the mercantile line up to his death, which
occurred February 21, 1876. His wife survived him, and died September 22,
1883. Both were members of the United Presbyterian Church. Mr. Porter
was originally a Democrat, one of the pioneer Abolitionists of Mercer County,
and finally a Republican. He served several terms as county treasurer; was
also associate judge of the county, and subsequently filled the office of justice
of the peace in Sharon.
Geoege Washington Poetee (deceased) was born in Mercer, Penn., May
26, 1826, and was a son of David T. Porter, previously mentioned in this
chapter. He grew up in his native borough, where he followed clerking, and
subsequently clerked in Pittsburgh. In the spring of 1850 he went to Cali
fornia and spent one year in the gold mines, returning tb Sharon in August,
1851. He clerked in that borough for several years; in 1864 went into busi-
ness with his father and brother William, and was engaged in the mercantile
trade for many years in Sharon. In 1875 he was elected book-keeper of the
First National Bank of Sharon, and was soon afterward chosen assistant
cashier, which position he filled up to his death, November 28, 1885. Mr.
43
750
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Porter was married, June 1, 1856, to Miss Sarah Ann, daughter of Rev. San-
ford Parker, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which union
five children were born: William F., Sanford C. , Harry S., Mattie and George
W. (deceased). Politically he was a stanch Republican, was a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and an upright, honest and respected citizen.
Charles L . Powers, of Powers & W illiams, general grocers, was born in
Coalburg, Trumbull Co., Ohio, July 31, 1861, and is a son of James M. and
Charlotte E. (McCoy) Powers, natives of Ohio and residents of Ashtabula
County. Our subject grew up in his native county, first clerked in his father’s
store in Coalburg, and then went to Youngstown, Ohio. He afterward worked
for his father in his store in Brookfield, Ohio. In September, 1886, he came
to Sharon, and in June, 1887, the present partnership was. formed. Mr.
Powers was married to Miss Dora Hart, of Brookfield, Ohio, of which union
two daughters. Pearl and Annis, have been born. Politically he is a Repub-
lican.
Chauncy N. Prindle (deceased) was born in Connecticut February 10,
1820, and was a son of Linus and Nancy (Pope) Prindle, also natives of that
State. When our subject was a small boy his parents removed to Medina
County, Ohio, where he grew to maturity. They subsequently removed to
Vienna, Trumbull Co., Ohio, where they died. Mr. Prindle was married June
10, 1843, to Miss Mary Bike, of Liberty Township, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, who
bore him four children : William L., of Cleveland, Ohio; Margaret A., wife of
E. Fair, of Wheatland, Penn. ; Cornelia, deceased wife of J. J. Young, of
Sharon, and Alice (deceased). In 1851 Mr. Prindle located in Sharon, where
he followed butchering a few years, and afterward engaged in merchandising,
which he continued up to sixteen years ago, when he retired from active busi-
ness, and devoted his attention to looking after his property. His wife died
in March, 1852, and he was again married February 3, 1853, to Miss Amanda
Bike, a sister of his first wife, and daughter of Matthias and Catharine Bike,
natives of Pennsylvania, and pioneers of Trumbull County, Ohio. Four chil-
dren were born of this union, two of whom grew to maturity : Clara, wife of
T. B. Boyd, of Sharon, and Minnie G. , deceased wife of S. H. Sisson, of
Erie County, Penn. Mr. Prindle was a life-long Democrat, and filled several
of the local offices of the borough. Coming to Sharon a poor man, he accumu-
lated through the passing years a large estate, and at his death, February 2,
1888, was recognized as one of the solid, substantial and upright citizens of
the town.
Bert H. Printz, merchant tailor and clothier, was born in Hungary, No-
vember 29, 1859, and is a son of A. and Rosa (Wohlgamuth) Printz, the latter
deceased, and the former a resident of Sharon. In October, 1864, the family
immigrated to Youngstown, Ohio, where the mother died. Bert H. grew to
manhood in Youngstown, and received his education in the public schools of
that city. In February, 1878, he came to Sharon, and clerked here until
April, 1886, when he. opened his present establishment, and has since won and
retained a large trade. In August, 1888, he opened a branch store at Frank-
lin, Penn. Politically he is a Republican, and a member of the K. of P. and
also of the National Union. The family are members of the Jewish faith, and
Mr. Printz is one of the progressive young business men of Sharon.
Samuel Quinsy, deceased pioneer of Sharon, was a native of New Jersey,
served through the Revolutionary War, and came out with the rank of captain.
He was reared on a farm, and after the close of the Revolution he married
Achsah Parks, of New Jersey, and settled on the Monongahela River, near
Pittsburgh, Penn. He subsequently removed to the site of Warren, Ohio,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
751
and in 1808 or 1809 located on the site of Sharon, where he purchased a farm
and grist-mill from Benj. Bentley. He there died Septembr 9, 1842, in his
eighty-sixth year, in the faith of the Baptist Church, and was buried with
military honors on the anniversary of Perry’s victory. He left a widow and
ten children, only two of whom are living: Mrs. C. G. Carver, of Sharon,
and Parks. Mrs. Quinby survived her husband several years, and both are
biiried in Oakwood Cemetery. They reared the following children: Samuel,
Charles, Ephriam, Parks, Terressa, who married C. G. Carver; Nancy, who
married Isaac DeForest; Elizabeth, who married Daniel Budd; Julia A., who
became the wife of T. J. Porter; Rebecca, who married Louis Reno, and
Sarah, who married John Reeves, all of whom left children. The sons are
well remembered by the citizens of Sharon.
De. Epheiam Quinby, who died in Clarksville, Penn., in October, 1872, was
a native of Mercer County, and a son of Samuel Quinby, ancestor of one of
the oldest families of the Shenango Valley. In early manhood he read medi-
cine, and followed the medical profession the balance of his life. He was
twice married, first to Miss Julia Guittau, of Washington County, Ohio, who
bore him five children, two daughters of whom are living. His second wife
was Miss Angeline, daughter of Charles Stewart, of Trumbull County, Ohio.
Of this union one son, Charles S., was born in Marietta, Ohio, June 7, 1855.
The widow is now a resident of Sharon. Charles S. grew up and was educated
in Mercer County, and in the spring of 1872 began clerking in Sharon. In
the fall of 1877 he formed a partnership with T. J. Forker, under the firm
name of Forker & Quinby, which is to-day one of the leading mercantile
establishments of the town. Mr. Quinby was married in 1877 to Miss Estella
Knighton, of Sharon, of which union three children have been born: Susie,
Arthur and Anna. Politically he is a Republican, and is one of the enterpris-
ing business men of Sharon.
Calvin W. Ray, editor of the Sharon Eagle, was born in Clarion County,
Penn., December 25, 1844, and is a son of Franklin and Mary J. (Potter) Ray,
natives of the same county, and now residents of JefPerson Township, Mercer
Co., Penn., whither they removed about fifteen years ago. Our subject began
learning the printer’s trade in Brookville, Penn., in the spring of 1861, and
completed it in Meadville, Penn., where he worked till the fall of 1866, and
then came to Sharon. On the 1st of November of that year he purchased a
half interest in the Sharon Herald, and was one of the editors and owners of
that sheet for ten years. In January, 1876, he bought the remaining interest,
and was sole editor and proprietor up to March, 1879. Having been appointed
by President Hayes postmaster of Sharon, he sold the Herald, and filled the
postmastership eight years, receiving his second appointment from Presi-
dent Arthur. Retiring from the office in March, 1887, the following October
he purchased an interest in the Sharon Eagle, and has since been editor of that
paper. Mr. Ray was married March 18, 1869, to Miss Mary J. , daughter of
William McGilvray, Esq., of Sharon, who is the mother of three children:
William S. , Bessie C. and Frederick E. Our subject is a stanch Republican,
and served in Company B, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Militia, in the 100-days’
service. He is a member of the Masonic order, I. O. O. F., A. O. H. W. and
N. U. , and both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
James L. Ray, of the Eagle Printing Company, was born in Clarion
County, Penn., February 17, 1854, and is a son of James and Jaly (Hensley)
Ray, the former a native of Clarion County and the latter of Missouri. The
mother died in Clarion County in January, 1857, and the family removed to
Iowa in 1863, where the father died June 1, 1888. In 1869 our subject began
752
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
learning the printer’s trade in Chariton, Iowa, completing his trade in Mead-
ville and Sharon, coming to the latter place in 1871. He followed his trade
in Sharon, Mercer, Erie and Clarion, and again returned to Sharon in 1880.
On the 1st of April, 1886, in partnership with Walter Whitehead, he pur-
chased the Eagle, and has since been connected with that paper. Mr. Ray was
married September 26, 1877, to Miss Edith N. Porter, of Sharon, who has
borne him four children: Leroy P., Lydia J., Nellie and William J. Politi-
cally he is a Republican and a member of the P. H. C.
Joseph H. Reed, physician and surgeon, was born in Lawrence County,
Penn., May 31, 1856, and is a son of John C. Reed, a farmer of that county.
Our subject received a good education in the puplic schools of his native
county, and in the spring of 1874 began the study of medicine under Dr.
James J. Wallace, of New Castle, Penn. He attended lectures at Miami Med-
ical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, in the sessions of 1875-76 and 1877-78, and
was graduated in the spring of the latter year. On the 1st of April, 1878,
Dr. Reed located at Sharon, where he has since built up a lucrative practice.
He was married April 26, 1880, to Miss Kate Bowman, of New Castle, Penn.,
of which union one child, Helen, is the issue. Politically Dr. Reed is a stanch
Republican, and_ takes a deep interest in the success of his party. He has
been a member of the school board six years, and belongs to the K. of P. and
A. O. F. He is a member of the Mercer County Medical Society and the
Pennsylvania State Medical Society, and stands well among the medical fra-
ternity of Mercer County.
C. M. Rice, dealer in books, stationery, etc., was born in Erie County,
Penn., November 8, 1838, and is a son of Erwin and Diadama Rice, natives
of Vermont, who located near North East, and about 1841 removed to the
vicinity of Sandy Lake, Mercer County. His mother died there about 1845,
and his father afterward removed to Findley Township, where he died in J une,
1860. They reared ten children, all of whom are yet living. Our subject
grew up and received his education in this county. He began clerking in Par-
doe, and in December, 1862, came to Sharon, and opened a book-store on the
site of his present establishment, and except a few years has ever since contin-
ued to conduct the leading book-store of Sharon. Mr. Rice was married May
8, 1862, to Miss Caroline, daughter of John Offutt, a pioneer of Plain Grove
Township, Lawrence Co., Penn. Five children have been born of this union:
James E., Charles B. , Corydon V., Laura G. and Frank M. Mr. Rice has
been a life-long Republican, but not an office- seeker. He is a member of the
I. O. O. F. and P. H. C., and both he and family belong to the Presbyte-
rian Church, Mr. Rice being an elder in the First Presbyterian Church of
Sharon. He is one of the oldest, most enterprising and energetic business
men of the borough.
William B. Roberts, nailer in the works of P. L. Kimberly & Co., was
born in Plattsburg, Clinton Co., N. Y. , September 13, 1830, and is a son of
Peter J. and Merril (Bemis) Roberts, the former a native of New York State,
and the latter of Maryland, both of whom died in Clinton County, N. Y.
Peter J. was an extensive land owner, and for many years a justice of the
peace. His father, John, was a veteran of the War of 1812. William B. left
home at the age of seventeen, and learned the nailer’ s trade in Boquet, Essex,
Co., N. Y. He worked at his trade in several eastern towns, and in 1869 came
west to Cleveland, Ohio, and afterward worked in Niles, Ohio. In 1871 he
located in Sharon and worked for the Sharon Iron Company two years. Since
then he has been one of the leading nailers in the works of P. L. Kimberly &
Co. Mr. Roberts was married April 8, 1852, to Miss Louisa Smith, of Essex
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
753
County, N. Y., who has borne him seven children: Helen L., wife of Riddle
Jones, of Sharon; Julia E., wife of S. S. Leonard, of Sharon; Lucy S., wife
of C. L. Brundige, of Sharon; Fannie E., deceased; William A., Frank B. and
Charles H. The family are attendants of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
and politically he is a Republican. He is a member of the K. of P. and Amal-
gamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers.
William S. Roberts, roll turner in the mills of P. L. Kimberly & Co., was
born in Youngstown, Ohio, November 19, 1858, and is a son of William
and Eliza (Graham) Roberts, natives of Pittsburgh, Penn., and Nova
Scotia, respectively, and now residents of Sharon. William S. grew up
in Sharon, and learned the trade of a roll turner with P. L. Kimberly & Co.,
for which firm he has always worked. He was married May 6, 1880, to Miss
Jennie, daughter of John R. McCleery, *a member of one of the pioneer fami-
lies of Mercer County. Foui’ children have been born of this union; Stanley
A., Willie R., Frederick D. and Ralph. The family belong to the Protestant
Episcopal Church, and in politics Mr. Roberts is a Republican. He is a mem-
ber of the I. O. O. F. and the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel
Workers.
E. J. Robinson, superintendent of the Sharon Water Works Company,
was born in London, England, in 1864. In 1884 he immigrated to the United
States, and since the establishment of the Sharon water works in 1885 he has
been connected with that improvement. He is one of the well-known and
respected young business men of the borough.
Charles L. Robison, proprietor of livery stable, was born in Lawrence
County, Penn., March 22, 1848. He is a son of John and Kesiah (Seconcost)
Robison, natives of the same county and residents of Sharon, whither they
came a few years after our subject. Charles L. was reared in New Wilming-
ton, Penn., and learned the plasterer’s trade. In the spring of 1870 he
located in Sharon, where he followed his trade as a contractor till September,
1887, when he built and equipped his present livery stable, and has since car-
ried on that business. Mr. Robison was married, January 23, 1869, to Miss
Elizabeth, daughter of Hugh and Mary Means, of New Wilmington, Penn.
Two children are the fruits of this marriage: Nellie and Charles H. Mr.
Robison is a Republican, and has served in the borough council one term.
He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the Equitable Aid Union.
James Y. Rose, manufacturer of fire brick, was born in New Castle, Penn.,
August 2, 1851, and is a son of Isaac P. and Margaret (Gibson) Rose. The
former was born in Mercer, Penn., January 17, 1812, and his father, Isaac P.,
was proprietor of a small pottery works near that town, where he had located
in the last decade of the eighteenth century. Isaac P. , Sr. , was a son of
Isaac Rose, a captain in the Revolutionary War, who was one of the earliest
settlers of Pennsylvania. About the year 1 824 Isaac P. Rose, Sr. , removed
with his family to New Castle, Penn. , and there died. He was a soldier in
the War of 1812, and fought under Perry on Lake Erie, and his son was named
Isaac Perry after that celebrated officer. At the age of sixteen years Isaac P. ,
Jr., went westward, and for seven years lived in the Rocky Mountains, fol-
lowing hunting and trapping in the employment of the Hudson Bay Fur Com-
pany. Throughout this period he traveled all over the far West and the
Pacific slope, continually encountering the dangers and trials of Indian treach-
ery, being once a prisoner for sixty days in the hands of the savages. Upon
his return to New Castle he went to school for several years, fitting himself for
the teacher’s profession, and for forty years he followed school-teaching in
Lawrence County. He is the author of ‘ ‘ Four Years in the Rockies, ’ ’ an
754
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
account of the most thrilling period of his life in the W est. He married Miss-
Margaret, daughter of George Gibson, of New Castle, a pioneer of Lawrence
County. She bore him nine children, eight of whom are living. The parents
reside near New Castle, and for twenty-five years have been members of the
United Presbyterian Church, and the greater part of that time Mr. Rose has
filled the office of elder. Our subject grew up in New Castle, and received bis
education in the high-schools of that town. He learned the fire brick busi-
ness, and subsequently began contracting and equipping with furnaces, blast
furnaces and rolling mills in the Shenango Valley. In 1877 he removed from
New Castle to Erie, Penn., and in the spring of 1883 located in Sharon, where
he purchased the fire brick works. He operated these till August, 1887, when
they were burned, and soon afterward began the erection of his present works,
which are far more substantial and of a larger capacity. Mr. Rose was mar-
ried, April 23, 1874, to Miss S. E., daughter of William and Elizabeth Geddes,
of Sharpsville, but natives of Scotland. One son, William Geddes, is the
fruit of this union. Mr. Rose and wife are members of the First Baptist
Church of Sharon. He is vice-president of the Supreme Circle of the P. H..
C. , also a member of the N. U. , and in politics is a Republican.
Gkoege a. Saul, baker and confectioner, was born in Greenville, Penn.,
May 1, 1858. His parents were Frederick and Elizabeth (Hossell) Saul,
natives of Germany, who immigrated to Mercer County about thirty-two years
ago. The father died near Sharon, where the widow now resides. George A.
grew up principally in Mercer County, and learned his trade in Greenville.
He followed his business in Pittsburgh, Penn. , and Cleveland, Ohio, and in
April, 1884, opened his present confectionery, where he has since carried on a
large and successful trade. Mr. Saul was married September 4, 1884, to Miss
Laura E., daughter of Simon Kamerer, of Greenville. One son, Simon Carl,
was born of this union, and died March 30, 1887. Politically Mr. Saul is a
Republican, and one of the energetic business men of the borough.
E. E. Seavy, of the firm of Seavy & Fowler, photographers, was born in
Portage County, Wis., April 29, 1859, and is a son of E. and Mary Seavy, he a
native of Vermont, and she of Crawford County, Penn., where the father died
and the mother still lives. Mr. Seavy grew up in Crawford County, Penn., and
learned photography in Meadville. In May, 1886, he located in Sharon, where
the firm purchased the gallery of Mr. Dodd. Mr. Seavy has charge of’ the
Sharon gallery, while his partner conducts a gallery in Meadville. Politically
Mr. Seavy is a Republican, and a member of the National Union. Since locat-
ing in Sharon he has built up a large trade, and turns out a fine class of
work.
William W. Service, insurance agent, was born in what is now Lake Town-
ship, Mercer Co., Penn., May 5, 1833. His parents were William and Jane
A. (Stuart) Service. The former was born near Belfast, Ireland, September 27,
1798, and the latter in Allegheny County, Penn., July 9, 1807, of Scotch
ancestry. In the year 1800 William Service emigrated from Ireland with his
mother, Mary, to Huntingdon County, Penn. , whither the father, Thomas, had
preceded them, and in 1805 they settled in what was then Cool Spring Town-
ship, but since organized as Lake. The parents both died in this county,
and are buried in Cool Spring Cemetery. Thomas Service was a patriot,
who served in the Irish rebellion of 1798, and was taken prisoner, but
escaped to America, whither his family followed him. William, the father of
our subject, grew up in this county, and married Jane A. Stuart, who reared
a family of nine children: Mary Ann, Caroline, William W., Adeline R.,
Ansley S., Susan E. , Emily M., John (deceased) and Eva. The parents both
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
755
died on the old homestead, the mother February 5, 1862, and the father June
9, 1868. Our subject was reared in Jackson Township, received a good com-
mon-school education, and taught in his home district school about thirteen
years; also followed farming during this period. In 1872 he came to Sharon,
and went into the insurance business, the firm of Service Brothers & Co. being
one of the oldest insurance agencies in this section of the State. Mr. Service
was married April 16, 1866, to Miss Annie Murray, of Lawrence County, Penn.
Three children have been born to them: Eva L. (deceased), William M. and
Etta M. Politically he is a Democrat, and a member of the I. O. O. F. , E. A. U. ,
N. U. and P. H. C.
Ansley S. Service, cashier of the First National Bank of Sharon, was
born in Jackson Township, Mercer Co., Penn., June 5, 1845, and is a son
of William and Jane A. (Stuart) Service, of that township. Our subject grew
up there, and after receiving a good education in the district schools spent
one term at the Edinboro Normal, and graduated at Iron City Commercial
College, Pittsburgh, Penn., in December 1865. He came to Sharon in Janu-
ary, 1866, and began clerking for D. T. Porter & Sons, dry goods merchants.
In the fall of 1866 he entered the private bank of Porter & Perkins, and one
year afterward the bank of D. C. Strawbridge. In March, 1870, he was
elected book-keeper of the First National Bank, which had been organized the
previous fall, and held that position until July, 1875, when he was elected
cashier, which position he has since filled. Since the fall of 1875 he has
been a stockholder of the bank, and a director thereof since January, 1886.
He was married September 5, 1871, to Miss Emma V., daughter of Daniel
Upson Budd, a pioneer of Sharon. Two children have been born to them:
Charles and Eva. Politically Mr. Service is an ardent Democrat, a K. T. of
the Masonic order, and has served as W. M. of the Masonic lodge, and E. C.
of the K. T. of Sharon Commandery. He also belongs to the A. O. U. W.,
and is a member of the Supreme Circle of the P. H. C.
George W. Shilling, physician and surgeon, was born in Brookfield,
Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, July 28, 1842, and is a son of Samuel
and Mary (Welch) Shilling, of Sharon. Our subject grew up in Ohio, and
came to Sharon with his parents in 1862. He received a good English educa-
tion in the public schools of Ohio and Pennsylvania. In 1 870 he began read-
ing medicine, and studied under Drs. Jesse Y. , James and John Barber, of
Sharon. lie commenced attending lectures at the Medical University of
Pennsylvania in 1872, and was graduated from that institution March 12.
1875. He remained with Dr. Barber two years, and then went to the oil
country, returning to Sharon in 1880, since which time he has been engaged
in the active duties of his profession and has built up a good practice. Politi-
cally, the Doctor is a Democrat, and a member of the Mercer County Medical
Society and the American Medical Association.
W. W. Shilling, attorney at law, was born on the site of Wheatland,
Penn., October 24, 1856, and is a son of Henry and Mary Shilling, deceased
pioneers of Hickory Township. Our subject grew up on the old homestead,
attended the public schools at Wheatland, and spent two terms at the Edinboro
Normal School. He took a full course in Eastman’s College, of Poughkeep-
sie, N. Y. , and in January, 1876, entered Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn.,
and graduated in the class of 1880. In the fall of that year he began reading
law in the office of Stranahan & Mehard, of Mercer, was admitted to the bar
in June, 1882, and the following October began practice in Sharon. In Octo-
ber, 1884, he formed a partnership with Thomas Tanner, and the firm of Tan-
ner & Shilling has since been one of the best known law firms of the county.
756
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mr. Shilling is a director in the Sharon National Bank, is a Republican in
politics, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity.
David R. Shieas, local manager of the Columbia Gas Light & Fuel Com-
pany, was born in Pittsburgh, Penn. , April 8, 1844, and is a son of Oliver P.
and Jessie R. (Smith) Shiras, now residents of Florida. David R. was reared
in Pittsburgh and received his education in the public schools of that city and
New Castle, and afterward took a commercial course in the latter city. In
1857 the family removed to New Castle, Penn., where he was connected with
the gas works until his coming to Sharon in July, 1866. For a few years he
carried on a photograph establishment, and afterward was superintendent in
the erection of the works of the Sharon Gas Light Company. He remained
successfully manager of these works until 1886, when he took charge of lay-
ing the plant of the Columbia Gas Light & Fuel Company, which he has
since had full charge of in this toMn. Mr. Shiras was married December 25,
1867, to Miss Lydia, daughter of the late William McGilvray. Five children
have been born of this union: Russell (deceased), Rebecca, William Me,
Oliver C. and Donald Scaife (who died of diphtheria November 21, 1887).
Politically he is a Republican, and has taken a deep interest in the develop-
ment and growth of the public schools since coming to Sharon. The family
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Shiras is one of the
best known citizens of the borough.
Samuel Smith, nailer, born in Pittsburgh, Penn., March 5, 1837, is a son
of Samuel and Mary (Potts) Smith, the former a native of England, and the
latter of Pennsylvania. Samuel, Sr. , learned the trade of an engine builder in
England, and immigrated with his father to Pittsburgh, where he married
Mary Potts, a native of Allegheny County, Penn. He built the first Neptune
fire-engine in Pittsburgh, and our subject has now in his possession a cane
made from the wood of that engine and presented to his father after the engine
was worn out. The parents both died in Pittsburgh. Our siibjectggrew up in
that city, and learned his trade in Sharpsburg, Penn. He subsequently worked
at Apollo, Penn., Wheeling, Va. , and Pittsburgh, Penn. In 1873 he came to
Sharon and went to work for P. L. Kimberly & Co., with whom he has ever
since been connected as the spike nailer of those mills. Mr. Smith was
married February 14, 1861, to Miss Annie E. Freetly, daughter of Jacob and
Fannie M. (B.oggs) Freetly, of Apollo, Penn. She is the mother of one
daughter, Mamie M. , a teacher in the Sharon public schools. ' The family are
attendants of the Presbyterian Church. Politically Mr. Smith is independent,
and is a member of the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers.
Geoege Smith, proprietor of the White House, was born near Noblestown,
Allegheny County, Penn., July 28, 1842, and is a son of Samuel and Mary
(Potts) Smith. George grew to manhood in Pittsburgh, and learned the
heater’s trade in the Sharpsburgh Rolling Mills. He worked at his trade in
Pittsburgh till April, 1872, when he came to Sharon and continued his trade
in the Westerman Iron Works and P. L. Kimberly & Co.’s Mills. In July,
1875, he started his present establishment, which he has ever since conducted.
Mr. Smith was married February 13, 1863, to Miss Margaret C. Grant, of
Etna, Penn., who has borne him five children: George, Alice, Maud, May
(deceased) and Charles C. Politically he is independent, and a member of K.
of P. , National Union and B. P. O. E., Youngstown lodge.
John J. Speaeman, iron manufacturer and president of the First National
Bank of Sharon, is a son of Francis and Elizabeth (Ambrose) Spearman. He
wms born at McKee’s Gap, in what is known as Blair County, Penn., December
17, 1824. His early advantages for obtaining an education were very limited.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
757
He attended the common schools of Bedford County, and at the age of fourteen
he was employed as a clerk in the store of David Puterbaugh, at Woodbury,
Bedford County, where he remained for three years. He then found employ-
ment with Dr. Peter Shoenberger, a prominent manufacturer of iron in those
days, at the Rebecca and Maria Furnaces, in Blair County, and remained there
for six years. In January, 1847, Mr. Spearman was given charge of the busi-
ness of the Sharon Furnace, which was operated at that time by Shoenberger,
Agnew & Co. He filled that position for six years, and in 1853 purchased
the Mazep2ia Furnace near Mercer, Penn., which he operated until 1859, when
he accepted the position of manager of the Sharpsville Furnace, for the late
Gen. James Pierce, where he remained until 1862. He then located at Wheat-
land, as general manager for James Wood & Sons, and the following year he
entered into partnership with them, under the firm name of James Wood, Sons
& Co. In August, 1870, he severed his connection with this firm and removed
to Sharon. In 1872 he organized the Spearman Iron Company, and built the
Spearman Furnaces at Sharpsville, Penn., and has ever since been general man-
ager of these furnaces. Mr. Spearman was prominent in the organization of
the First National Bank, as one of the original stockholders, and subsequently
as director, and in 1872 was elected president, which position he has since con-
tinued to fill. He was marified, March 12, 1851, to Miss Cordelia, daughter of
Jabish Breed, of Sharon. They have five children: Celeste, wife of David
Adams, of Sharon; Eva, Chloe, wife of W. D. McKeefrey, of Sharon; Francis
and Benjamin. Mr. Spearman is a member of the Masonic order, and con-
nected with Sharon Lodge, 250. He is also a member of the I. O. O. F., Lodge
347, of Sharon, being one of its two surviving charter members. Politically
he is an unswerving Re^iublican. and one of the solid, substantial citizens of the
Shenango Valley. His name is the synonym of integrity, enterprise and jmblic
spirit, and he is highly respected wherever known.
Uriah Spencer, dry goods and grocery dealer, was born in Lancashire,
England, June 11, 1836, and is a son of Samuel and Hannah Spencer, natives
of the same shire. Uriah learned the engineer’s trade in England, and in 1863
immigrated to Sharon. He followed coal mining in Hickory Township, and sub-
sequently ran an engine till 1877. He then entered into partnership with his
nephew, J. S. Spencer, in the grocery business, in his present store-room,
under the firm name U. & J. S. Spencer, which continued four years. Since
that time Mr. Spencer has conducted a general mercantile trade. He was mar-
ried March 3, 1861, to Eliza, daughter of Robert and Betsy Jaques, of Lan-
cashire, England, in which shire Mrs. Spencer was born and reared. Ten chil-
dren have been born of this marriage, five of whom died in infancy. The sur-
vivors are Mary A., Sarah, Esther, John L. and William, all residents of
Sharon. Mr. Spencer is a Republican, and is now a member of the borough
council. He belongs to the I. O. O. F. and the K. of G. E., and is one of
the well-known business men of Sharon.
Samuel F. Stambaugh, proprietor of the Sharon Flouring Mills, was born
in Hickory Township, Mercer Co., Penn., April 20, 1835. His father, Sam-
uel, was a native of Perry County, Penn. , and at the age of sixteen removed
to Trumbull County, Ohio. For seven years he was engaged in hauling goods
from the eastern markets to the Western Reserve, and during the War of 1812
served in the wagon train for a short time, in hauling supplies from Detroit.
He was married in Ohio to Miss Rebecca Ritter, who bore him six children,
three of whom survive, and two are residents of Mercer County: Daniel, of
Pymatuning Township, and Maria, widow of George Palmer, of Sharon. In
1824 Samuel removed with his family to Mercer County and purchased what
758
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
is known as the Hickman farm, in Hickory Township. About 1843 he sold
this property and bought 350 acres adjoining Sharon on the east. Samuel
Stokely, a lawyer of Steubenville, Ohio, laid a settlement claim to twenty- four
tracts, of 400 acres each, lying in Mercer County, the land which Mr. Stam-
baugh purchased being included in this claim. Stokely frightened many of
the pioneers into paying him for the lands upon which they were living, but
Mr. Stambaugh refused to be swindled, declaring, ‘ ‘ I will law him to h — 1 and
back again before paying one cent. ’ ’ He fought the case through the courts
to a successful issue, and after ten years’ litigation beat Stokely, and though
suffering a great deal of expense he nevertheless demonstrated the justice of
his cause and saved many of his neighbors from being similarly annoyed and
swindled by Stokely. This was one of the most celebrated land suits in the
history of Northwestern Pennsylvania. His wife died December 24, 1827,
and in 1829 he was again married, to Margaret, daughter of Robert Hodge, of
Pymatuning Township, who reared nine children, eight of whom are living,
Martin being killed while serving in the Union army. Politically Mr. Stam-
baugh was a Democrat, and died February 28, 1860. His widow was a mem-
ber of the United Presbyterian Church, and died in 1881. Our subject grew
up in the vicinity of Sharon and followed farming until 1879, when he went
into the milling business in the borough, which business he has since contin-
ued. He does a merchant and custom milling trade, and his mill has a capac-
ity of eighty barrels of first- class gradual reduction flour every twenty-four
hours. Mr. Stambaugh was married to Margaret J. Carkuff, of Hickory
Township, in November, 1857, who has borne him three sons and three daugh-
ters: Michael C. , Newton E., Wilmetta J. , Charles E., Sarah and Etta May.
He is a stanch Democrat, has served two terms in the borough council, and is
a member of the Masonic order, I. O. O. F. and N. U.
David C. Stambaugh, farmer, was born on the old homestead in Hickory
Township, Mercer Co. , Penn. , September 8, 1841, and is a son of Samuel and
Margaret Stambaugh, previously spoken of in this chapter. David was reared
on the old homestead, and received a common-school education. In April,
1861, he enlisted in Company B, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserves, and partici-
pated in all of the battles and campaigns in which his regiment was engaged
up to the seven days’ fight before Richmond. He was there severely wounded
in the left arm, June 30, 1862, on the fifth day’s fight, and remained in hos-
pital till the following November, when, being incapacitated for further duty,
he was discharged, and returned to his home. In the fall of 1863 he went to
California, where he remained over one year, and then returned to Sharon.
Mr. Stambaugh was married, April 9, 1865, to Miss Betty A., daughter of
James and Eliza Blaney, pioneers of Butler County, Penn., where Mrs. Stam-
baugh was born. The Blaney s removed to the vicinity of Clarksville, Penn.,
in 1872, where the father died in April, 1877, and where his widow still lives.
To David C. and Betty A. Stambaugh have been born eight children: Earl W.,
Jesse M. , William B., Mary E., James (deceased), Isabella (deceased), Della
U. and Fannie J. From 1866 till 1873 Mr. Stambaugh operated a coal bank
quite successfully, and, excepting these seven years, followed farming up to
February, 1878, when he sold his farm and purchased a woolen mill in New
Castle, Penn., in partnership with L. B. Gibson, William Blaney and his
brother Daniel. He operated this mill up to 1882, when he sold out and
located in Sharon, where he has since resided. Politically Mr. Stambaugh is
a Republican, and his wife is a member of the United Presbyterian Church.
Thomas Tannee, attorney at law, was born in Mercer, Penn., April 13,
1843, and is a son of Richard and Catharine (Hurley) Tanner, natives of Ire-
HISTOBY OP MEECEB COUNTY.
759
land, who reared two sous, Thomas and William, the latter a resident of Michi-
gan. Richard died in Mercer in 1850, his widow surviving him till 1864. Our
subject was reared in Mercer, and received his education in the public schools
and the Mercer Academy. He began reading law under Judge Trunkey, of
Mercer, in 1861. In the summer of 1862 he enlisted in Company A, One
Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served till the close
of the war, participating in all of the campaigns of his regiment till the battle
of Cold Harbor, where he was wounded. In June, 1865, he went to Philadel-
phia, and read law with I. Newton Brown, and attended the law department
of the Pennsylvania University, and was admitted to the bar of Philadelphia
in November, 1868. He remained in Philadelphia until the spring of 1870.
In the fall of that year he opened an office in Sharon, in partnership with B.
Magoffin, which continued till 1876, when the firm of Magoffin & Tanner was
dissolved, the former returning to Mercer. Mr. Tanner practiced alone until
October, 1884, when he formed a partnership with W. W. Shilling, and Tan-
ner & Shilling has since been one of the well-known legal firms of the Mercer
bar. Mr. Tanner was married November 13, 1873, to Miss Elma Adams, of
Louisville, Ky. , of which union one son has been born. Politically Mr. Tan-
ner is a Republican, and a member of the Masonic fraternity.
Henry Tavloe, coal operator, was born in England April 30, 1837, and is
a son of John and Betty Taylor, both of whom lived and died in England.
Henry followed coal mining in his native land, and, in the spring of 1857,
immigrated to Sharon, where he has followed coal mining and quarrying for
the last thirty-one years. He was married December 25, 1860, to Abigail
Urmson, of Sharon. Nine children were born of this union: John E. ; Fred,
James, killed at the age of seventeen; William, Esther, Elizabeth, Mary,
Annabell and Bessie. Mr. Taylor is a Republican, and the family are attend-
ants of the Baptist Church. He is now serving in the borough council, and is
one of the respected citizens of Sharon.
Thomas R. Thomas, general grocer and queensware dealer, was born in
Carmarthen, Wales, June 14, 1851, and is a son of David P. and Harriet
Thomas, natives of Wales. In 1854 the family immigrated to Youngstown,
Ohio, and the parents now reside at Brookfield, Ohio. Our subject was edu-
cated in the public schools of Youngstown, and there learned the grocery busi-
ness. In 1876 he came to Sharon, and for eight years was employed in the
Sharon Iron Works Store. In September, 1884, he purchased the Central
Pacific Tea Store, and dealt exclusively in teas. Subsequently he added a
general grocery stock, and has since conducted a very successful trade. Mr.
Thomas was married October 23, 1878, to Miss Rose, daughter of Thomas
Campbell, of Sharon, of which union five children have been born: Frederick
R. , Harriet, Charles, Edna and Harry. The last mentioned died August 15,
1888, aged five months. Politically Mr. Thomas is independent, and a mem-
ber of the P. H. C.
George Thomas, general grocer, was born in Tenby, Pembrookshire, Eng-
land, December 26, 1855, and is a son of James and Anne (James) Thomas,
natives of Wales. In 1874 the parents immigrated to Danville, Penn., and in
1877 came to Sharon, where the father died in October, 1880, and where the
widow now lives. George came with his parents from Wales, and worked in
the iron mill in Danville, and afterward in the mills of Sharon, till sickness
compelled him to give up that business. In April, 1887, he opened a grocery
store, which he has since conducted. Mr. Thomas was married April 21,
1879, to Miss Sarah A., daughter of John and Margaret Jarrett, of Pitts-
burgh. Mrs. Thomas was a native of Wales, and is the mother of three
760
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
daughters: Mary, Della and Margaret. Mr. Thomas is a Republican, a
member of the K. of P. and the I. O. R. M. , and belongs to the Methodist
Episcopal Church, while his wife is a member of the Congregational denom-
ination.
Thomas Bros. , proprietors of the People’s Tea Store, is one of the well-
known grocery firms of Sharon. William T., senior member of the firm, was
bora in Monmouthshire, Wales, November 20, 1855, and is a son of Thomas
and Margaret Thomas, natives of that country. In 1863 the family emigrated
from Wales to Trumbull County, Ohio, where the mother died in 1880, and
where the father still resides. In 1876 William T. came to Sharon and began
clerking in the Iron Works Store, where he remained until the summer of
1884, when he opened a grocery store. In March, 1886, his brother, Evan
T. , joined him, and the firm of Thomas Bros, was organized and their present
business house opened. Mr. Thomas was married May 9, 1876, to Miss Ellen
Jones, of Brookfield, Ohio, of which union three children survive: John,
Lizzie and Arthur. The family belongs to the Congregational Church, and
Mr. Thomas is a Republican and a member of the N. U. Evan T. , junior
member of the firm, was born in Monmouthshire, Wales, May 8, 1859. He
grew up in Trumbull County, Ohio, commenced clerking in Brookfield, and
afterward engaged in merchandising at that place, where he continued in
business till March, 1886, when he came to Sharon and joined his brother in
business. Mr. Thomas was married May 14, 1881, to Miss Mattie Jones, of
Brookfield, Ohio. One son, Fred, survives this union. The family are
Presbyterians, and Mr. Thomas is a Republican and a member of the K. of P.
and N. IJ.
Jacob Teaxlee, clothing merchant, was born in the Kingdom of Hungary,
February 15, 1841, and is a son of Joseph and Mary (Schiffer) Traxler, both
of whom lived and died in Hungary. Jacob grew up in his native land, and
served eight years in the Austrian army, participating in the war between
Austria, France and Italy, being slightly wounded in the the battle of Solfer-
ino, June 24, 1859. In November, 1865, he left the army on a furlough, and
in the spring of 1866 immigrated to Cleveland, Ohio. In the fall of 1867 he
located in Sharon, and in the spring of 1877 bought out the clothing store of
L. Bash. Mr. Traxler has since done his share of the trade in his line. Mr.
Traxler was married to Fannie Schiffer, a native of Hungary, whom he sent for
and married in Cleveland, Ohio. Three sons and three daughters have been
born of this marriage: Joseph, Jennie, David, Aaron, Rose and Bertha. The
family belong to the Jewish faith, and he is a Republican. He is a member of
the National Union, the B. B. Society, and the Hungarian ’Aid Society, of
Cleveland.
Henry Teesise wire nail manufacturer and coal dealer, was born in Glan-
morganshire, England, August 31, 1838. His parents, John and Rebecca
(Jones) Tresise, lived and died in England. Henry there grew to manhood,
and learned the blacksmith’s trade. In the spring of 1864 he immigrated to
New Castle, Penn., and soon after went to Youngstown, Ohio, where he car-
ried on a blacksmith shop till the spring of 1868. He then came to Sharon
and entered the employ of the Westerman Iron Company. About one year
afterward he went to Pardoe, Penn. , to superintend the blacksmith work in the
erection of the works of the Mercer Mining and Manufacturing Company, where
he remained two years. Returning to Sharon he started a wrought iron blast
furnace tuyere manufactory on the site of his present works, which he continued
to operate till the business was recently superseded by the bronze tuyere. He
built up a successful trade, and supplied blast furnaces in every State where
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
761
there were any. He is now taking up the manufacture of wire nails, and carries
on a coal yard in connection therewith. Mr. Tresise was married August 26,
1861, to Miss Charlotte Nurse, of Monmouthshire, England, who is the mother
of four sons: Henry G., Francis J., Charles (deceased) and Fred. Mr. Tresise
is a Republican in politics, a member of the Masonic fraternity, and the family
belong to the Episcopal Church .
George Tribby, undertaker, was born in Brookfield Township, Trumbull
Co., Ohio, August 30, 1831, and is a son of John and Fanny (Patton) Tribby,
the former a native of Rhode Island, and the latter of Mercer County, Penn. ,
her family being among the pioneers of the Shenango Valley. John Tribby
removed with his parents, John and Abigail (Morey) Tribby, to Trumbull
County, Ohio, about 1810, being then in his fifteenth year. The parents died
in Ohio, and John grew up and married Fanny, daughter of Thomas and Nancy
Patton, of Mercer County. Eight children out of a family of ten grew up
and are still living. The mother died in 1849, a Baptist, and the father died
in 1867, in the Methodist faith. George left home at the age of eleven years,
to make his own living, and attended the district schools. He afterward be-
gan working around the coal mines of Trumbull County, Ohio. In 1849 he
came to Sharon in the employ of Irvine & Conover, who established the first
livery stable in the town. In the summer of 1850 he began learning the
carriage maker’s trade in Sharon, and, after serving two years’ apprenticeship,
he was employed as journeyman three years. In August, 1855, he purchased
the shop of his employer, Elias Cozad, and commenced business for himself,
which he carried on until 1861, when he began working for S. Runser & Co.,
carriage makers, and worked at his trade till 1863, when failing health com-
pelled him to give up the business. In 1865 he went into the harness business
with his brother, Calvin F. , which he followed three years, and then sold to
his brother. For the next few years he followed carpentering and the lumber
business. In 1872 he and Mr. Weaver purchased the carriage shop of McLean
& McKnight, and operated the same for over two years. In 1874 the shops
were burned. In the spring of 1875 he was elected collector of the borough
and went into the real estate business, which he has since followed. In 1884
he engaged in the undertaking business, and continues the same. Mr. Tribby
was married October 25, 1855, to Anna J. Blong, of Sharon, a native of Pitts-
burgh, of which union two children survive: Charlie J. and Jennie, wife of
Francis Spearman, of Steubenville, Ohio. Mr. Tribby belongs to the Baptist
Church, while his wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Politically
he is a stanch Democrat, and has filled the offices of borough collector and
councilman. He is a member of the Masonic and I; O. O. F. fraternities, and
one of the pioneers of the latter organization.
Joseph Tyler, iron roller in the Sharon Iron Works, was born in Warwick-
shire, England, March 24, 1831, and is a son of John T. and Elizabeth
(Taylor) Tyler, natives of England. In 1847 the family immigrated to Pitts-
burgh, Penn., where the father now resides. Joseph grew to manhood in
Pittsburgh, and learned the iron business in several towns and cities along the
Ohio River. In 1871 he came to Sharon, but in September, 1872, removed to
Louisville, Ky. , returning to Sharon May 1, 1873. He has ever since had
charge of a train of rolls in the Sharon Iron Works. Mr. Tyler was married
March 4, 1854, to Miss Mary A. Phillips, of Portsmouth, Ohio, of which
union one daughter survives, Elizabeth A. Politically Mr. Tyler is a Demo-
crat, and has served two terms in the borough council. He is a member of the
Masonic fraternity, I. O. O. F., K. of P. , and belongs to the Amalgamated
Association of Iron and Steel Workers.
762
HISTOEY OF MEEOEE COUNTY.
Henry Tyler, iron roller in the works of P. L. Kimberly & Co., was born
in Birmingham, England, September 25, 1835, and is a brother of Joseph
Tyler previously spoken of. He immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn., with the
family in 1849, where he grew to manhood. He learned the trade of a roller,
and subsequently worked in several towns along the Ohio River. In April,
1873, he located in New Castle, Penn., and in the spring of 1875 came to
Sharon. He worked two years with the Sharon Iron Company, and in 1877
took charge of a train of rolls in the works of P. L. Kimberly & Co. , where
he has since been employed. Mr. Tyler was married December 25, 1858, to
Miss Charlotte Burford, of Pittsburgh, Penn. , who has borne him seven chil-
dren: Alvira L., wife of William Shaffer, of Sharon; Albert J. , Ann E. , de-
ceased; Frank H., deceased; Cora B., Alice M. and Lottie M. The family
belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and politically Mr. Tyler is a
Republican. He is a member of the K. of P. , R. T. of T. and Amalgamated
Association of Iron and Steel Workers.
William E. Van Orsdbl, D. D. S. , was born September 23, 1841, in
Allegheny City, Penn., and is a son of Russel and Mary (Callen) Van Orsdel,
the former a native of Gettysburg, and the latter of what is now Lawrence
County. The father resides in New Wilmington, Penn., where his wife died
a few years ago. They removed to Beaver from Allegheny City about 1850,
and in 1860 to New Wilmington. Our subject was reared in his native town
and in Beaver, Penn., and was principally educated in the Beaver Academy,
also spending one year in Westminster College. In August, 1861, he en-
listed in Company B, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served
three years, pai’ticipating in the principal battles and campaigns of his regi-
ment. In August, 1864, he was mustered out of service and for six months
was in the government employ at Philadelphia. He then went into the drug
business at New Castle, Penn., but soon afterward removed to Philadelphia,
where he continued that business until 1880. In Febi’uary of the latter year
he graduated at the Pennsylvania College of Dental Surgery, and located in
practice at New Wilmington, Penn. In June, 1882, became to Sharon, where
he has since continued in that profession. Dr. Van Orsdel was married in
August, 1867, to Miss Elizabeth V. Barber, of Philadelphia, who died in
March, 1870, leaving one child, Annie. He was again married in April, 1874,
to Miss Maggie Voke, of Philadelphia, of which union five children have been
born: Carrie, William E., Mamie, Laura and Russel. Politically he is a
Republican, and the family belong to the Presbyterian Church. He is a mem-
ber of the Union Veteran Legion, the Masonic fraternity, A. O. U. W. and P.
H. C. Dr. Van Orsdel also belongs to the Lake Erie Dental Society, theOdon-
tological Society of Western Pennsylvania, and is one of the State Board of
Examiners called for by the dental laws of this State.
William L. Wallis, of the firm of Wallis & Carley, contractors and
builders, was born in Markham, York Co., Ontario, July 25, 1842, and is a
son of William and Nancy (Cresap) Wallis, natives of Cumberland, England,
who immigrated to Toronto, Ontario, in 1832, thence removed to Markham.
When William was a small boy his parents removed to Ingersoll, and subse-
quently to the vicinity of Woodstock, Ontario, where both died. At the age
of fifteen years our subject returned to Toronto, and spent nearly four years
learning the carpenter’s trade. In the fall of 1861 he went to Buffalo, N. Y.,
and in 1863 located in the oil regions of Venango County, Penn., where he
continued working at his trade till the summer of 1864. He then enlisted in
Company K, One Hundred and Sixty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. After
four months’ service he was discharged. He then joined the Engineer Corps
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
763
at Nashville, Tenn., and served till near the close of the war. Returning to
Venango Count}*' he remained there till the spring of 1867, when he came to
Sharon, where he subsequently became a member of the firm of Faas, Kanen-
giser & Co., which lasted till 1876. In that year Faas and Kanengiser retired
and John Carley and Mr‘. Wallis formed their present firm. In October, 1876,
their mill was burned, and they then erected their present mills, and have
ever since been the leading institution of the kind in the Shenango Valley.
Mr. Wallis was married July 3, 1870, to Miss Nancy Ricketts, of Ashtabula
County, Ohio. Two children have been born to them: Thomas J. and Laura
May. Politically Mr. Wallis is a Republican, and has been a member of the
borough council three years. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is one of
the enterprising, progressive business men of the town.
B. F. Watkins, superintendent of the Sharon Steel Casting Company’s
works, was born in Myrther-Tydfil, Glanmorganshire, Wales, March 29, 1840.
His parents were John and Mary (Reese) Watkins, both of whom spent their
lives in Wales. Our subject immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn., in 1851,
and in the fall of that year removed to Johnstown, Penn., where he -learned
the moulder’s trade in the Cambria Iron Works. In 1859 he went south, and,
returning to Pittsburgh in 1861, enlisted, in October of that year, in the Fif-
ty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served in the band of that regiment.
All of the regimental bands were mustered out in September, 1862, and Mr.
Watkins was then discharged from the service. He worked in Johnstown till
1869, when he went to La Salle, 111., and carried on business till 1872. He
then returned to take charge of the iron and steel foundries of the Cambria
Iron Company, which position he filled for eleven years. In April, 1883, he
went to Alliance, Ohio, to superintend the iron foundry of Morgan, Williams
& Co. , and the steel foundry of the Solid Steel Company, where he remained
till April, 1887. He then became interested in the establishment of the plant
of the Sharon Steel Casting Company, of which works he has since been super-
intendent. Mr. Watkins was married September 13, 1862, to Miss Sarah,
daughter of Job and Margaret Reese, of Pittsburgh, of which union four
children survive: William J. , Benjamin F. , Lizzie T. and J. Reno. Politically
he is a Republican; a member of the Masonic order, I. O. O. F. and K. of P.,
and both he and wife are members of the Baptist Church.
Geehaed Wenglee, retired merchant, was born in Prussia, Germany, Jan-
uary 24, 1828, and is a son of Christopher and Elizabeth (Herz) Wengler, both
of whom died on the old homestead in Germany. Gerhard learned the shoe-
maker’s trade in his native land. He served three years in the Prussian army,
and has medals granted him from Prussia, which were hung on his breast by
the Emperor William of Germany, now dead, and also from Baden. In May,
1854, he immigrated to the United States, first settling at New Castle, Penn.
The following December he came to Sharon and started one of the first shoe-
shops in the town, which he operated over twenty years quite successfully.
He then retired from active business, and has since resided on the East Hill.
Mr. Wengler was married February 5, 1856, to Miss Mary Shearman, of Sharon,
a native of Germany, of which union two sons survive: Albert and John G.
Mrs. Wengler died March 8, 1878, aged fifty-eight years. He was again
married, to Miss Walburga, daughter of John B. and Frances (Sonntag) Heilig,
both of whom died in Germany. Mr. Wengler and family belong to the
Catholic Church. Politically he is a Democrat and one of the well-known
citizens of Sharon, where he has lived for thirty-four years. Albert, the oldest
son, was born November 18, 1859, and was educated in the public schools of
Sharon. After coming of sufficient age to work he entered the iron mills of
764
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Sharon, and worked there till 1880, when he engaged in the restaurant busi-
ness which he now conducts. He married Miss Margaret, daughter of
Sebastian and Annie Herrmann, of Sharon, and by this union two children have
been born: Ferdinand A. and Francis. Mr. A. Wengler is a Democrat, and
a member of Branch No. 6, C. M. B. A. , of Sharon. •
James Westerman, deceased manufacturer, whose name was connected with
the prosperity and progress of the borough for more than twenty years, was
born in Paris, France, November 26, 1819, of English parentage, of Alsatian
descent. His father was an extensive cotton manufacturer in Paris, but the
French Revolution of 1830 ruining him, he immigrated to the United States,
aud located in Pittsburgh, Penn. , where he again engaged in cotton manu-
facturing. He retired from business in 1837, and died in Sharon in 1869.
Our subject received his early education in Paris, France, and subsequently
attended the public schools of Pittsburgh, where, in 1838, he entered the
Kensington Iron Works as an operative. Four years later he assisted in
building the Onondaga Iron Works, at New Castle, Penn., and in 1846 super-
intended the construction of the iron works of Reis, Brown & Berger, of the
same town. In 1855, in connection with Joseph Brown, William Bonnell and
others, he purchased the Mahoning Iron Works, at Youngstown, Ohio, remain-
ing there until 1861, when, in company with William Coleman, C. B. Wick
and P. W. Keller, he bought the Sharon Iron Works of Gen. Curtis. From
1865 until he withdrew from them, in March, 1874, these works, then known
as the Westerman Iron Company, were under his efficient management. In
1872 he became vice-president of the First National Bank, but subsequently
withdrew from that institution, and in 1875 helped to organize the Sharon
National Bank, of which he was chosen vice-president. He filled that position
till 1878, when he was elected president, and annually re-elected until his
death, July 20, 1884. A few years prior to his death Mr. Westerman became
largely interested in developing the coal fields of the eastern part of the
county, and was a partner in five coal firms operating mines in Mercer County,
besides having valuable interests elsewhere. He was married in Pittsburgh,
Penn., July 7, 1842, to Mary, daughter of John and Elizabeth Leonard, who
died in June, 1884, leaving two daughters: Mrs. C. Q. Carver, of Sharon, and
Mrs. C. G. Sutliff, of Lockport, N. Y. One son, Edward, died prior to his
parents, at the age of twenty-three years. Politically Mr,. Westerman was a
stanch Republican, and the elector from this district on the Grant and Colfax
ticket in 1872. Mr. Westerman was the inventor and patentee of several in-
ventions important in the manufacture of iron, including a boat spike machine,
a puddling furnace, a smoke consuming apparatus, a coal cutting machine,
etc. He was a man of indefatigable and determined character, enterprising to
a remarkable degree and usually carried through whatever he undertook. He
accumulated through the passing years a large estate, which his children in-
herited at his death.
Earl A. Wheeler, manager of the Wheeler Furnace Company, was born
in Brookfield Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, September 28, 1828, and is a
son of Alfred and Sabra (Andrews) Wheeler, both natives of Connecticut.
Alfred Wheeler removed with his parents, Simeon Wheeler, a Revolutionary
soldier, and his wife, Anna (Sanford) Wheeler, to Trumbull County, Ohio,
in 1801, where he grew up and married Sabra Andrews, who came from Con-
necticut with her parents, Daniel and Polly (Hotchkiss) Andrews, to Trumbull
County in 1814. Alfred Wheeler died in that county in 1884, and his widow
still resides there. Our subject grew to manhood in his native county, and
received the meagre advantages which the pioneer schools of that vicinity
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
765
afforded. He worked on a farm until fifteen years of age, and then began
learning the tinner’s trade in Warren, Ohio. In September, 1848, he came to
Sharon and opened the pioneer tin and stove store of the borough. He con-
tinued that business till 1862, in the meantime extending the business by
adding general hardware and the manufacture of stoves thereto. Beginning
on a small scale, he yearly increased his sales, until he finally had one of the
largest establishments in Sharon. In 1862 he sold out, and went into the
coal business, which he followed successfully for ten years. He then organized
a company and built the Wheeler Iron Company Furnace, which began busi-
ness in 1873. The panic of 1873 crippled the company, and, though it kept
the furnace and rolling mill which they had afterward attained, and struggled
along for twelve years, they finally closed up the business by a dissolution of
partnership. Mr. Lloyd G. Reed, of Erie, took the plant and became respon-
sible for all liabilities of the company, which have been paid or fully secured.
In the fall of 1885 Mr. Wheeler leased the furnace, and has since been oper-
ating it very successfully. He was married September 10, 1849, to Miss Mary
Fuller, of Trumbull County, Ohio. One daughter was born of this -union,
Frances M. , wife of Maj. James L. Paul, of California. Mrs. Wheeler died
in 1852, and he was again married December 15, 1854, to Mrs. Sally Gates,
nee Hill. Before the war Mr. Wheeler was a Democrat, but at that time
united with the Republican party. In the fall of 1869 he was elected to the
Legislature, and re-elected in 1870. During his last term he introduced the
first high license law, known as the ‘‘Mercer County Iron Clad,” which,
though then unpopular, was the entering wedge to the present temperance
agitation, which is now making overwhelming progress all over the State.
Mr. Wheeler is a man of strong temperance views, and was once the Prohibi-
tion candidate for surveyor-general of the State. He has filled the office of
councilman several terms, and has also been a director on the school board
twelve years. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and A. O. U. W.
Walter Whitehead, of the Eagle Printing Company, was born in Oldham,
Lancashire, England, July 16, 1861, and is a son of Abraham and Lydia
Whitehead, natives of England. The mother died while Walter was quite
small, and his father immigrated to the United States, and is now a resident
of Kansas. In July, 1870, Walter came from England to Hickory Township,
this county, and in the fall of 1880 began to learn his trade in the office of the
Sharon Herald. In 1882 he went to Salina, Kas. , and was connected with
the Salina Herald one year. He subsequently worked in Kansas City, and in
March, 1886, returned to Sharon, and with James L. Ray purchased the
Mercer County Eagle, changing the title to Sharon Eagle, and has since been
connected with that paper. He was married June 16, 1884, to Miss Milda
Davis, of Sharon, and has one child, Francis E. Politically he is a Republi-
can. and is a member of the Protected Home Circle.
James B. Wilkes, merchant, was born in Tredegar, Monmouthshire, Eng-
land, December 8, 1833, and is a son of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Jones)
Wilkes, the former a native of England, and the latter of Wales, both of whom
died in Monmouthshire, England. James B. grew to manhood in his native
land, and worked in the iron mills of Tredegar, one of the great iron towns
of that portion of England. In the spring of 1861 he immigrated to Scran-
ton, Penn. , from there he moved to Duncansville, and then to Pittsburgh.
In September, 1863, he located in Sharon and found employment in the iron
mills of Coleman, Westerman & Co., afterward the Westerman Iron Co. He
continued as one of the trusted men of the company as long as it existed, and
for three years was assistant manager of the mill. He was one of a company
44
706
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
of thirty who erected the iron mill at Canal Dover, Ohio, in 1865-66, and was
interested in that mill till 1874, when they sold it. In 1877 he opened his
present store on Penn Avenue, which he has since carried on. Mr. Wilkes
was married December 23, 1855, to Miss Margaret Davis, daughter of Daniel
and Mary Davis, natives of Wales. She has borne him eleven children, seven
of whom survive: Elizabeth, wife of John O. Davis, of Sharon; Mary, wife of
William Foxall, of Sharon; Samuel, William, Isabella, Benjamin and John.
The family belong to the Welsh Baptist Church, and politically he is a Re-
publican.
Pekey L. Williams, deceased, was born February 18, 1821, in Hartford
Township, Trumbull Co. , Ohio. His parents. Hector and Mary (Marvin) Will-
iams, were natives, the former of W aterbury. Conn. , and the latter of North
East, Erie Co., Penn. They were married in Sandy Lake Township, Mercer
County, where Miss Marvin had settled with Jared Tuttle, because of the
death of her parents when she was small. The father removed with his parents
to Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1808. His union with Miss Marvin occurred in
1819, and they located in Trumbull County and lived there until 1840, when
he settled on a farm near Sharon. He retired to Sharon five years before his
death, which took place July 20, 1864. His widow died December 18, 1880.
Their children were: Perry L., deceased; Laura, widow of James Kennedy;
Lester M. , Riley, deceased; Alfred, Matilda, deceased, and Nelson L. The
parents were Presbyterians. Our subject was educated in the common schools,
and was brought up at farm labor. At the age of twenty-one he began for
himself by entering upon the arduous labor of a shoemaker’s trade. This he
continued for many years. He was married April 6, 1843, to Miss Frances,
daughter of Samuel and Mary (Jennings) Buck, and the following month came
to Sharon, where he opened a shoe-shop. In 1864 he began dealing in ready-
made boots and shoes. In 1880 his son George became a partner and has
since continued in the business. His children are Lester, Albert, George L. ,
Samuel, Martin and Della, married to B. F. Price, of Hubbard, Ohio. Mr.
Williams was elected sheriff of Mercer County in 1884, and served a full term.
He belonged to the Disciple Church, was a Republican, and a member of the
school board of Sharon for sixteen years and also of the town council several
lerms. He died October 26, 1888, from the effect of a fall from an apple
tree.
Alfred Williams, of the firm of Powers & Williams, general grocers, was
born in Trumbull County, Ohio, January 31, 1834, and is a son of Hector and
Mary (Marvin) Williams, previously spoken of in the sketch of his brother.
Perry L. Our subject grew up in Brookfield, Ohio, and principally resided in
that village until January, 1865, when he came to Sharon, and for the greater
portion of his residence here has been engaged in the boot and shoe business.
In June, 1887, he went into the grocery trade, forming a partnership with Charles
L. Powers, in which he is yet engaged. Mr. Williams was married October
9, 1852, to Sarah A. Drury, of Hartford, Ohio. Three children survive this
union: Mary, wife of W. T. May, of Sharon; Emma, wife of F. J. Smith, of
Sharon, and Frank H. Politically Mr. Williams is a Republican, and has
been borough assessor three years and collector four years. He is a member
of the Masonic fraternity and A. O. U. W. , and the family belong to the
Methodist Episcopal Church.
A. W. Williams, attorney at law, was born in Brookfield, Ohio, December
22, 1851, and is a son of Riley and Rachel (Porter) Williams. ' The Williams
family were from Connecticut, and settled in the W estern Reserve, while the
Porters were pioneers of Mercer County, Penn. To Riley and Rachel
HISTOBY OF MEROEE COUNTY.
767
Williams were born two sons and two daughters, Alfred W., of Sharon; Wil-
bert M., of Cleveland, Ohio; Ella, widow of John Service, and Julia, wife of
W. K. Naylor, of Bellaire, Ohio. Riley Williams died in Sharon, October
26, 1865, and his widow is still a resident of the borough. He was one of
the pioneers in the development of the Pennsylvania oil country, and was
postmaster of Pitthole Centre when that decayed town was at the height of
its prosperity. Our subject came to Sharon with his parents, and here grew
to manhood. On the death of his father he was thrown upon his own resources,
and worked in one of the rolling mills in Sharon for several years. At the
age of eighteen he began learning the carpenter’s trade and architectural
drafting, and worked as a carpenter and builder from 1870 up to the close of
1881. In December, 1881, he received an appointment from Hon. S. H.
Miller, of Mercer, as paster and folder in the folding department of the
House of Representatives, but was soon afterward promoted to a clerkship,
which he filled till January, 1884, and was then appointed to a position in the
architect’s office of the United States Treasury Department. For a number
of years he had a desire to enter the legal profession, and accepted his first
appointment at Washington with the intention of studying law. In February,
1882, he entered the Columbian University, Washington, D. C., where he
took his degree of B. L. in June, 1883. In June, 1884, he took the degree
of M. L. , having taken the post-graduate course, and on the fourth of the
same month was admitted to the supreme court of the district. He at once
returned to Sharon, and on June 10, 1884, was admitted at Mercer, and
opened an office in Sharon, where he has since practiced his profession. He
has since been admitted to practice in the supreme court of Pennsylvania.
For the past two years he has been borough solicitor, and is also the attorney
of the Supreme Circle of the P. H. C. Mr. Williams was married March 29,
1876, to Miss Louisa Hull, who died May 26, 1877, leaving one daughter,
Louisa. He was again married December 7, 1886, to Miss Ida Boyce, of
Sharon. Politically Mr. Williams is a Republican, and a member of the
Masonic fraternity and the P. H. C.
Frank L. Williams, agent of the Adams Express Company, was born in
Lowellville, Ohio, April 23, 1861, and is a son of JohnW. and E. J. Williams,
the former deceased and the latter a resident of Jamestown, Penn. Frank L.
grew up in Jamestown, and in 1879 located in Sharon. Since that time he
has been connected with the Adams express office, and for the past two years
has been their local agent. Mr. Williams was married April 11, 1883, to
Miss Rannie Linn, of Sharon. He is a Republican, and a member of the
Masonic fraternity and National Union.
Reuben Williamson was born in England, January 20, 1836, and in 1853
came to America, and to Sharon in 1864, where, under the auspices of
William Coleman, he became connected with the Sharon Iron Mills. He re-
mained with that company and its successors about ten years, when he became
interested in the Greenville Rolling Mills. In 1879 Mr. W^illiamson was
elected to his present position, as secretary and treasurer of the Emmitt Min-
ing Company, and later the Hamilton Ore Company. He is a member of the
Keel Ridge Coal Company and treasurer of the Black Diamond Coal Company,
well known enterprises of the Shenango Valley. Mr. Williamson was married
in Pittsburgh, in 1856, to Miss R. E. Eaton, who is the mother of seven
children, four of whom are living. The family are members of the Episcopal
Church. Politically Mr. Williamson is a Democrat; was the first E. C. of
Rebecca Commandery No. 50, and a Thirty-second Degree Mason, and is also
a member of the I. O. O. F.
768
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
James M. Willson, furniture dealer, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio,
August 7, 1820. His father, James A., was a native of Ligioner Valley, West-
moreland County, Penn., and removed in boyhood with his father, Col. Samuel
Willson, an officer of the Pennsylvania Line in the Revolutionary War, to
Washington County, Penn., where he grew to maturity. He went to Beaver
County, Penn., and learned the wheelwright trade, with Thomas Kennedy, of
Brady’s Run. He was there married to James Kennedy, a sister of his em-
ployer, and in 1806 removed to Brookfield Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio,
where he was afterward joined by his parents. Col. Samuel and Jane (Vance)
Willson, both of whom resided with him the balance of their lives. He served
under Harrison in the War of 1812. He reared a family of nine children, four
of whom are living, and three are residents of Sharon. In 1834 the family
removed to Greene County, Ohio, where the mother died in the Presbyterian
faith in 1842. After her death he spent his days among his children, and died
at the home of his son, James M. , in January, 1865, aged eighty-one years.
Our subject grew to manhood in Ohio, and in the fall of 1842 came to Harts-
town, Penn., where he learned the furniture business with his brother Samuel.
In February, 1845, he located in Sharon, and, in partnership with Joseph
Partridge and William Logan, under the firm name of Willson, Logan &
Partridge, engaged in manufacturing furniture. For the past forty-three
years Mr. Willson has carried on that business in Sharon, and is to-day the
oldest business man in active business in the borough. He was married
December 4, 1849, to Miss Mary, daughter of Samuel Quinby, whose father
was a pioneer of Sharon, of which union nine children have been born, six of
whom survive: Anna, wife of Edwin D. Echols, of Sharon; John R. , of
Youngstown, Ohio; Clarence A., of Willson & Son, Sharon; Ollie M. , Herbert
M. and Mary T. Mr. Willson was an original anti-slavery man, was after-
ward a Republican, and is now a Prohibitionist. He has served in the council
and as school director, and both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian
Church.
John W. Wilson was born in Lancashire, England, June 24, 1823, and
is a son of Edward and Mary Wilson, both of whom spent their lives in
England. John W. grew up in his native land, and followed the trade of a
cotton spinner. In July, 1847, he immigrated with his wife and one son to
Sharon, where he has resided continuously for more than forty-one years. He
followed coal mining in the Curtis bank up to 1871, when he retired from act-
ive life. For several years past he has been occasionally engaged by the bor-
ough of Sharon. He was married in England, November 19, 1843, to Han-
nah Tidswell, of which union five sons and one daughter survive: Richard,
Edward S., John, William H. , Alfred and Hannah. Seven childi’en died in
infancy, and Mary died at the age of twenty. Mrs. Wilson died June 23,
1881, and he was again married January 1, 1883, to Mrs. Rebecca E. Ormond,
daughter of Robert Campbell, of Butler, Penn. , and widow of A. P. Ormond,
of Pittsburgh, Penn., by whom she had four sons: John I., George K. , Alfred
C. and Thomas. She is a Presbyterian, and her husband is an attendant of
the Protestant Episcopal Church. Mr. Wilson is a Democrat, and has
served one term in the borough council. He is one of the few living citizens
of Sharon who have watched the growth of the town from a small hamlet to
its present flourishing proportions.
Edward Wilson was born in Lancashire, England, December 18, 1827,
and is a brother of John W. , previously mentioned in this chapter. Edward
grew up in his native land and worked in a cotton factory till immigrating to
.Sharon, Penn., in March, 1854. He began working at the coal mines and
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
769
was continuously connected with the Curtis coal bank till 1881. Since that
time he has had a small greenhouse at his home on the west hill. He started
his sons, James S. and Fred, in a meat market on State Street, in September,
1886, which they have since carried on. Mr. Wilson was married in England,
in August, 1851, to Elizabeth Booth. Eight children of this union survive:
George, Edward, James S., Annie, Clara, Fred, Laura and Willie. The fam-
ily belong to the Episcopal Church. In politics he is a Democrat, and has
served three terms in the borough council. He is a member of the I. O. O.
F. , and one of the oldest citizens of Sharon, where he has lived over thirty-
four years.
James J. Wilson, street commissioner, was born in Westmoreland County,
Penn., January 5, 1831, and is a son of John and Mary (Lynch) Wilson,
natives of Pennsylvania. The parents removed to Jennyberg Hill, Sharon,
in 1845, and a few years after went to Lawrence County, Penn. , where the
father resided till his death. His widow is a resident of West Middlesex.
Our subject has made Sharon his home ever since coming here, forty-three
years ago. For many years he was engaged in the coal business, was super-
intendent of the construction of the Greenfield Railroad, and was one of the
well-known coal men of the past. He has been married twice, but has no
children. Politically he is a stanch Republican, and has voted for every
presidential candidate of that party from Fremont to Harrison. He has been
twice burgess of Sharon, and has served three terms in the borough council.
He has been street commissioner for seven years, and has given better satis-
faction to the people than any of his predecessors.
Archibald Wishaet, carpenter and builder, was born near Guelph, Ontario,
Canada, February 13, 1844, and is a son of John and Jessie (McKean) Wis-
hart, natives of Edinburg, Scotland, who immigrated to Canada in 1832, and
settled on the shore of Lake Ontario, eighteen miles northeast of Hamilton.
They afterward removed into Wellington County, near Guelph, where the
father died and where the mother still resides. Archibald grew up in his
native county, and there began learning the carpenter’s trade. In the fall of
1865 he came to Sharon and completed his trade. After about two years he
went to Phelps County, Mo., where he resided four years. Returning to
Sharon in 1871, he has since followed contracting and building, in which line
he has been fairly successful. In April, 1886, he opened a grocery store on
State Street, which is in charge of his son, Charles A. Mr. Wishart was
married September 30, 1867, to Miss Jennie, daughter of the late William
Ulp, of Sharon. Four children have been born to them: Charles A., Jessie,
Ella (deceased), and Russell. Politically Mr. Wishart is a Republican, is a
member of the E. A. U. , and the family belong to the Presbyterian Church.
John P. Weight, deceased merchant, was born in Lawrence County, Penn.,
February 10, 1810, and was a son of Alexander Wright, who died on the old
homestead in that county. John P. grew up in Lawrence County and on
reaching manhood went into the mercantile business in Pulaski. In 1849 he
came to Sharon, and was an active business man up to his death. He was en-
gaged in merchandising many years, and was also in the milling business.
Mr. Wright was twice married, his first marriage occurring in Pulaski, Penn.,
February 15, 1849, to Mrs. Ann Jane Bell, nee McMillan. He reared two
children by this union: James A., of Sharon, and Charles F., of Michigan.
The mother died July 3, 1854, and he was again married October 8, 1857, to
Miss Jane Stewart, of Mercer. She was born in that borough, and is a
daughter of Robert Stewart, one of its pioneer merchants, and sister of Will-
iam Stewart, a prominent pioneer attorney of the Mercer bar. Mr. Wright
770
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
died in October, 1860, in the faith of the Presbyterian Church. He*was a R-e-
publican in politics, an ardent anti- slavery man, and filled the office of justice
of the peace for several years. He was an upright, honest and successful
citizen, and was honored and respected by those who knew him best.
John M. Yahees, iron roller with P. L. Kimberly & Co., was born in Pitts-
burgh, Penn., December 19, 1839, and is a son of Matthias and Christiana
(Byers) Yahres. The former is a native of Darmstadt, Germany, born in 1807,
and, on reaching manhood, immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn., where he mar-
ried Christiana Byers, born in 1809, and daughter of one of the early settlers
of Allegheny County. She died in Sharpsburg, Penn. , a few years ago, and
her husband still lives there. John M-. grew to manhood in his native county,
and on August 1, 1861, enlisted in Company E, Sixty-third Regiment Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and served in the battles and campaigns of his regiment
up to the time of his capture in front of Petersburg, June 22, 1864. From
that time up to March 5, 1865, he was a prisoner in the rebel prison pens,
including Andersonville, when he was exchanged and discharged from the
service in April, 1865. Returning to his home he was married September 27,
following, to Miss Sophia Gregg, of Allegheny County, Penn., who is the
mother of six children: Mollie C., Frank G. , John M., Samuel H., Lou E.
and Ada G. Politically he is an independent Republican, and the family be-
long to the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a member of the R. T. of T. ,
G. A. R. and Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers. Since he
was thirteen years old he worked in the iron mills of Allegheny County till
September 2, 1872, when he came to Sharon, and has ever since been one of
the leading iron rollers in the mills of P. L. Kimberly & Co.
Chaeles H. Yeagee, general dry goods merchant, was born in Trumbull
County, Ohio, December 19, 1853, and is a son of John and Rebecca (Reiber)
Yeager, natives of Lehigh County, Penn., of German descent, both of whom
died in Trumbull County, Ohio. Charles H. grew up in that county, and re-
ceived his education in the public schools of Newton Falls, Ohio. He began
clerking in that town, and subsequently clerked in Warren, Ohio. He after-
ward traveled for the wholesale dry goods house of Morgan, Root & Co. In
1882 he became interested in a wholesale notion house in Cleveland, the firm
being Manahan, Greene & Yeager. After some two years he sold out, and
again traveled on the road for Morgan, Root & Co. He was afterward en-
gaged in business in Wheeling, W. Va. , a short time. In the fall of 1885 he
opened his present dry goods store in the Prindle Block, in Sharon, and has
since won and retained a large trade. Mr. Yeager was married June 30, 1881,
to Miss Mary L. Patterson, of Cleveland, Ohio, of which union two children
have been born: Charles E., deceased, and Helen R. Politically Mr. Yeager
is a Democrat, and one of the enterprising business men of Sharon.
c
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
771
CHAPTER XXXI.
BIOGKAPHIES OF GREENVILLE.
ON. JOHN ALLISON, deceased, late register of the United States Treas-
ury, was born in Beaver, Penn., August 5, 1812, and died of apoplexy at
Washington, D. C., March 23, 1878. His father, Janies Allison, Avas one of the
foremost lawyers at the Beaver bar. At the age of eighteen our subject went to
Pittsburgh to learn the hatter’s trade, where he spent three years. He then
went to Marietta, Ohio, and commenced business for himself. In the mean-
time, March 16, 1836, he had married Miss Eliza Ann, daughter of Dr. Milo
Adams, a prominent physician of Beaver, and after a short residence in Mari-
etta he returned to Beaver. He entered his father’s office, read law, and was
admitted to the bar, but the profession was not congenial to his tastes and he
never attempted to build up a practice. Mr. Allison was a natural politician,
and from 1847 to 1850 he represented Beaver County in the Legislature. Upon
the expiration of his last term he was nominated and elected to Congress from
the Beaver District, and after serving his term was renominated. Under a
new apportionment the district was changed, Mercer County being included
therein, and Mr. Allison was defeated by Hon. Michael C. Trout. At the close
of Mr. Trout’s term Mr. Allison was again the Whig nominee, and was elected
by a good majority and served with honor in that capacity. Mr. Allison was
one of the founders of the Republican party in Pennsylvania, and was presi-
dent of the first Republican State convention held in Pittsburgh in 1855. He
was also one of the leaders at Pittsburgh in the winter of 1856 to lay plans
for a national Republican organization, and was chairman of the Pennsylvania
delegation in the Republican National Convention at Philadelphia in 1856,
which nominated Fremont and Dayton. Mr. Allison there named and sup-
ported Abraham Lincoln for the vice-presidency, and whom four years after-
ward he helped to elect President. During the Rebellion he filled the position
of paymaster in the army, with the rank of major, and though he paid out
hundreds of thousands of dollars his accounts always balanced to a cent. In
1864 he purchased a farm in Perry and Otter Creek Townships, Mercer County,
to which he removed his family in the spring of 1865, and soon after closed
his accounts as paymaster and retired to his farm. In the fall of 1867 he
traded his farm for a controlling interest in the Greenville Steam Tannery.
The family residence was on the west side, which his widow occupied until her
death, May 4, 1884, and is still owned by his daughter, Mrs. George O. Keck.
In 1869 Mr. Allison was appointed by President Grant register of the United
States Treasury, and continued to discharge the duties of that position with
credit and fidelity up to the day of his death. During the last ten years of
his life he was frequently mentioned in connection with important positions,
and was the unanimous nominee of the Republicans in the Legislature for the
United States Senate when Hon. William A. Wallace was elected to that posi-
tion by the Democracy, then holding a combined majority. Mr. Allison left a
wife, two sons, James and John H. , residents of Missouri, and four daughters :
Mrs. Charles M. Merrick, of New Brighton, Penn. ; Mrs. George O. Keck,
Mrs. W. O. Tillotson and Mrs. W. H. Beil, all of Greenville. At the time of
his death the Philadelphia Times paid the following glowing tribute to his
772
HISTOEY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
worth; “He was one of Pennsylvania’s purest and best men. Although
aggressive as an anti-slavery champion, he was a man of general conservative
attributes, and avoided the conflict of faction and the race for conspicuous
party leadership. He was one of the few men who have filled so high a meas-
ure of public trust, and died with hardly an enemy to dispute the integi’ity of
his public or private acts.” He was a devoted friend, a kind father and hus-
band, a wise counselor and an upright, Christian man.
John Annett, dry goods merchant, was born in the County Down, Ireland,
August 20, 1844, and is a son of Hugh and Mary A. Annett, natives of that
county, where his mother died and his father yet resides. In May, 1861,
John immigrated to Huntingdon County, Penn., where he had an uncle liv-
ing. In October, 1861, he came to Greenville and began clerking for Charles
Hoge, with whom he remained seven years. In the winter of 1868 he went to
Jamestown, Penn., where he clerked one year for James Rodgers. He then
opened a store in that town, which he carried on till January, 1875, when he
sold out and went on the road as a commercial drummer for Raymond, Lowe
& Co. , of Cleveland, Ohio. He afterward traveled for Morgan, Root & Co. , of
the same city, and then for Tefft, Weller & Co. , of New York, with which firms
he spent in all ten years. In June, 1885, he began the dry goods business in
Greenville, in which he has since been engaged. Mr. Annett was married
April 28, 1870, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of James W. Brown, one of the
early settlers of Mercer County. Mrs. Annett was born on the old Brown
homestead immediately north of Greenville. She is the mother of three chil-
dren: Jennie M. , Hugh W. and Maggie B. Politically Mr. Annett is a
Republican, and the family adhere to the United Presbyterian faith.
John Randolph Aethekholt, queensware dealer, was born in Pymatuning
Township, Mercer Co., Penn., June 22, 1852, and is a son of David and Mary
Ann (Speir) Artherholt, a sketch of whom will be found under the head of
Pymatuning Township. He grew up on the homestead, and attended the
district schools of his neighborhood. In March, 1872, he entered the employ
of D. B. Packard & Co., crockery dealers, with whom he remained for about
four years. He then attended commercial college at Mount Union, Ohio, for
one term. In April, 1876, he purchased an interest in the queensware store
of E. P. Beckwith & Co., the firm name remaining as before. In the spring
of 1877 James Loutzenhiser and L. D. Leech bought interests in the business,
and the firm of Artherholt & Co. was established. In December, 1881, Mr.
Leech retired from the business, and Messrs. Artherholt and Loutzenhiser
have since continued to carry on one of the largest business houses of Green-
ville. Mr. Artherholt was married January 30, 1883, to Miss Sakie White-
sides, of Crawford County, Penn. He is an unswerving Democrat, a member
of the Masonic fraternity, and one of the enterprising young business men of
the town.
Edwin Ash, farmer, was born in Northampton County, Penn., January 31,
1832, and is a son of John and Catharine (Laurish) Ash, natives of the same
county, and of German ancestry. They were married in Northampton County,
and in the spring of 1834 removed to Hickory Township, Mercer County, with
a family of seven children, and five were born in this county. Nine of these
grew to maturity, and six are now living, two of them residents of Mercer
County. John Ash was a tailor by trade, and worked at that business on his
farm, where he also kept a tavern for many years. The parents died on the
old homestead in Hickory Township, the father January 23, 1853, and his
widow in March, 1855. Both were life-long members of the Reformed
Church. Our subject grew to manhood on the home farm, and was married
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
773
September 8, 1853, to Marietta, daughter of Samuel and Eva (Cover) Rickert,
who settled in Pymatuning Township in the spring of 1836, where the father
died and the mother yet resides, at the ripe old age of eighty-five years. Mrs.
Ash is a native of Eastern Pennsylvania, and is the mother of eight children,
five of whom are living: Milton E., James E., Newton D., Edwin E. and
Mary V. Of the three deceased children only one, Ada J. , grew to maturity.
Mr. Ash followed farming in West Salem Township up to the spring of 1884,
then removed to Greenville, where he was engaged in the coal business until
the spring of 1888, when he sold out. In politics he is a Republican, and the
family belong to the Reformed Church.
Henry Austin, the pioneer jeweler of Greenville, who died of paralysis on
Tuesday, March 6, 1888, was born in Sheffield, Berkshire Co., Mass., Febru-
ary 28, 1821, and celebrated his sixty-seventh birthday on the Tuesday pre-
ceding his death. His parents were Harry D. and Elmira (Pope) Austin,
natives of Massachusetts, both of whom died at Sheffield at ripe old ages. At
the age of fifteen Henry left home and went to Michigan, and three years
afterward located in Erie, Penn., where he was employed in his brother’s jew-
elry store. In the fall of 1840 he returned to his early home and entered the
jewelry store of his brother-in-law, in Sheffield, whence he removed to Norfolk,
Conn. Soon afterward he returned to Sheffield, where he worked at his trade
till the fall of 1845, when he came to Greenville, Penn., and opened a jew-
eler’s store. For nearly forty-three years Mr. Austin carried on that business
successfully in this town, and at the time of his death was the oldest merchant
of Greenville, all of those who were in business when he came having either
left the borough, retired from active life, or passed to their eternal reward.
Mr. Austin was married in Sheffield, Mass., October 19, 1847, to Miss Clar-
rissa Jones, a native of the same place, who survives him. Six children were
born of this union: Harry D., Robert E., Adela F. (wife of C. E. Loutzen-
hiser), Charles H. , Ida L. and T. Merrill, all of whom are residents of Green-
ville, except Robert E., of Sharpsville, and T. Merrill, a professor of music in
Westminster College, New Wilmington, Penn. Deceased was one of the old-
est members of Eureka Lodge No. 290, F. & A. M. , also of Mound Chapter
No. 212 and North-Western Commandery, and belonged to Alhambra Lodge
No. 293, I. O. O. F. Politically he was a stanch Republican, and served in
the borough council and filled the position of burgess. He always took a deep
interest in the growth and progress of education, and was at one time an active
member of the school board. Throughout his long residence in Greenville Mr.
Austin was at all times an ardent advocate of temperance, and did all in his
power against the liquor traffic. He possessed a cheerful, hopeful and benev-
olent disposition, strong convictions, strong likings, and the opposite, but was
always courteous in business and social life; while simplicity, integrity and
love of home and family were among the most prominent traits of his character.
John Bacher, clothing merchant, was born in Warren, Trumbull Co., Ohio,
April 26, 1841, and is a son of Michael and Margaret (Fichtner) Bacher,
natives of Wuertemberg, Germany, who immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn.,
about 1830, and a few years later removed to Warren, Ohio. They reared
three sons: John, of Greenville, Penn.; Henry, of Warren, Ohio, and Daniel,
of Washington Territory. The mother died in Warren, Ohio, and the father
in Greenville, Penn. Our subject attended school in Warren, Ohio, until
March, 1857, when he came to Greenville and spent three years and a half at
the confectioner’s trade. . In the fall of 1860 he began clerking in the store of
Henlein & Brother, which he followed until October, 1862. He then enlisted
in the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served
774
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
nearly ten months, when he was honorably discharged from the service. He
returned to the old establishment, where he took charge of the clothing
department as clerk. In 1871 he obtained a working interest in the business,
the firm being Henlein & Bacher, and in January, 1873, T. C. Gibson joined
the firm, and it then became Bacher, Gibson & Co. In April, 1876, Mr. Gib-
son retired, and the old name of Henlein & Bacher was resumed. This firm-
continued in successful operation until February, 1885, when Mr. Henlein
dropped out and J. G. Benninghoff and Gustav B. Henlein each obtained an
interest, and the present firm of Bacher, Benninghoff & Co. was established,
and carries on one of the largest clothing houses in Mercer County. Mr.
Bacher was married, November 16, 1865, to Eva M. Mathay, a native of Ger-
many, whose parents settled in Mercer County when she was a child. Of
this union six children have been born to them: William F., Mary, Nettie U. ,
Jennie B. , Eva M. and Annie E. Mr. Bacher is a Democrat in politics,
a member of the G. A. E,. , and the family belong to the Lutheran Church.
B. F. Baskin (deceased attorney) was born July 2, 1819, in Selins Grove,
Union Co., Penn., and was educated at Lafayette College, Easton, Penn.,
from which institution he graduated in 1839. He read law with John
Lashells, then of New Berlin, and was admitted to the bar in 1842. He
began the practice of his chosen profession in Mercer in 1843, being a portion
of the time that he remained in the county seat in the office of John Hoge.
In 1849 he removed to Greenville, and ten years later to Meadville, Penn. ,
and for three years was associated with the Hon. S. Newton Pettis in the prac-
tice of law, in the latter named city. He returned to Greenville in April,
1862, where he died July 9, of that year. He served one term as district
attorney of Mercer County .
William Beatty, ex-commissioner of Mercer County, was born March 5,
1831. in Delaware Township, this county. His father, James, was a native
of Chester County, Penn., and one of nine, the children of William Beatty, who
immigrated to America from his native country, Ireland, prior to the Revo-
lutionary War. The children of William Beatty were: Jane (married a Mr.
McCreary), Rebecca (married a Mr. Porter), Polly (married Washington Tait,
a brother of the well-known Rev. Samuel Tait), Betsey (was never married),
Margaret (married Richard Moore), Samuel (was never married), Robert (mar-
ried Anna McMillan), William (was never married), James (married Elizabeth
Campbell). William Beatty, the grandfather of our subject, was a brave
soldier in the great Revolutionary struggle, and two of his sons, Robert and
William, served in the War of 1812; the latter was wounded in the shoulder
and maimed for life. Elizabeth (Campbell) Beatty, was one of seven chil-
dren: Margaret married Robert Fruit; Anna married Thomas Fruit: Jane
married J. W. Ormsby; Polly married Charles Koonce; William married
Esther Dilly ; James married a Miss Thompson, and Eliza. The mother of W ill-
iam Beatty, Sr. , often walked fifteen miles and return to enjoy the preaching
of the famous Whitfield. Robert, the brother of James Beatty, was an earnest
worker in all reforms, especially temperance, abolition and the church.
Robert’s children were: Sarah (married Thomas Shoemaker), William (died
young), Samuel (was never married), Eliza (married W. Alden, a nephew of
Timothy Alden, once president of Allegheny College, at Meadville. Penn. ),
Isabella (died single), Ebenezer (died young), Amelia (married Bartlett Leon-
ard), Caroline (married David Parker), Harriet (married Samuel Hubler),
James (married Axenia Cutler). The children of James and Elizabeth (Camp-
bell) Beatty are: Mary A. (never married), Margaret (married Anson Jones),
Elmyra (died when young), William. The last named was educated in the
HISTOEY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
775'
common schools. His father died when he was ten years old, and his school
days were consequently cut short, because of the need of his services to sus-
tain the family. He spent his early days on the farm, and later gave his
attention to stock growing. In 1874 he formed a partnership under the firm
name of Bright & Beatty, and dealt in boots and shoes at Greenville. After
a period of success he withdrew, and subsequently re-entered the same business
with his son, J. P. In 1884 Fred, another son, was taken into the firm, and
they continued until 1886. In 1884 he was elected a coimty commissioner,
and served as president of the board with credit and ability. He was married
in 1855 to Mary E., a daughter of John L. Dilley, of Hubbard, Ohio. By
her he has been blessed with three children: J. P., Fred (deceased) and Eva
(the wife of J. W. Vaughn). Mr. and IVIi’s. Beatty are consistent members of
the Presbyterian Church, and he is a stanch Republican. The ancestors of
Mr. Beatty have nearly all lived to a ripe old age, and were closely identified
with the Presbyterian Church. It was about 1802 or 1803 when the first of the
Beattys came to Mercer County. On March 12, 1888, the angel of death came
along and plucked from this happy family their brightest flower, in the person of
Fred Beatty, which filled the entire community with sorrow. For many years
he had been an efficient clerk in the store of Tillotson Bros., in whose welfare
and business he took as deep interest as if it were his own.
Edwin T. Beatty, of the firm of Beatty & Findley, dealers in books, etc. ,
was born in Sheakleyville, Mercer County, Penn., August 10, 1849. His
father, David M. Beatty, was also a native of this county, where he was born
February lO, 1813, his parents being Hon. Francis and Isabella Beatty, of
Salem Township. David M. grew up on the old homestead, and during his
boyhood days learned the shoemaker’s trade. He was married to Miss Eliza-
beth Findley, April 25, 1839, who was born in Crawford County, Penn. , and
was a daughter of Moses and Elizabeth Findley, natives of Ireland, pioneers
of that county. Soon after his marriage David M. removed to Portersville,
Penn., where he resided about two years, then returned to Mercer County
and located at Sheakleyville, where he carried on the boot and shoe business
till his sudden death, January 9, 1885, his wife having died May 3, 1884.
They were the parents of seven children: Francis G. (of Nevada City, Cal.),
Findley N. (deceased), Mrs. Caroline Carver (of Sandy Lake) Norman H. (of
Jefferson, Ohio), Edwin T. (of Greenville), Elizabeth (deceased), and Thomas
D. (of Rock Creek, Ohio). Mr. Beatty was a prominent Republican, and
filled the office of justice of the peace in Sheakleyville twenty-three years, and
died while serving his fifth term. He also went out in the ninety-days ser-
vice during the Rebellion in Capt. John Stinson’s company. He was a quiet,
unassuming man of upright character, and died possessing a host of friends.
Both he and his wife were Presbyterians all their lives, and belonged to the
United Presbyterian body from its organization in 1858. Edwin T. was
reared in this county, and attended the public schools of Sheakleyville till
1868, when he commenced clerking in Wayne, Ohio. In 1869-70 he attended
the Normal Academy at Cannonsburg, Penn. , for two terms. During the win-
ter of 1870-71 he taught school in Mercer County, came to Greenville in the
latter year and engaged in clerking. For a few months in 1872, he was in
the coal business. In August, 1873, he formed a partnership with W. H.
Findley, and purchased the book store of Jacob Miller, of Greenville. The
firm of Beatty & Findley has ever since been engaged in that business.
Mr. Beatty was married September 1, 1875, to Miss Maggie M. R. E., daugh-
ter of the late Dr. R. E. Breiner, of Greenville, where Mrs. Beatty was born
and reared. Three children are the fruits of this union: Robert E., Susan
776
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
A. and Breiner F. (deceased). Mr. Beatty is a Republican in politics, and a
member of tbe borough council. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church,
and belongs to the Masonic order, R. A. and K. of H.
E. F. Bennett, tinner, was born in New Castle, Penn., October 13, 1839,
and is a son of Silas and Catharine (Nicholas) Bennett, the former a native
of Connecticut, born in 1816, and the latter of Eastern Pennsylvania. The
parents of Silas died when he was six years old, and he then went to live with
his uncle, who removed to New Lisbon, Ohio, where he grew to manhood and
learned the tin and coppersmith trade. In 1837 he was there married to
Catharine Nicholas, who had come from Eastern Pennsylvania to Ohio with her
brother-in-law. Eleven children were born of this union, ten of whom are
living. In 1837 Silas Bennett located in business at New Castle, Penn. , where
all of his children were born. His wife died in that city in February, 1882,
and he survived her until July 30, 1887. Both were members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, and in politics he was a Republican. Our subject
grew up in New Castle, and learned the tinner’s trade with his father. At the
age of seventeen he went to Warren, Ohio, where he worked at his trade till
September 2, 1861, when he came to Sharon, Penn., and enlisted in Company B,
Seventy-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers. He served in the field until the charge
on Fort Wagner, S. C. , where he was severely wounded and taken prisoner.
The Confederate surgeons amputated his left 'leg, and he was soon afterward
exchanged and sent to New York, where it was found necessary to perform
another amputation. He remained in hospital quarters till his discharge,
July 27, 1864, when he returned to New Castle and thence to Warren, Ohio.
In May, 1866, Mr. Bennett came to Greenville, where he has since remained.
He was married July 25, 1866, to Miss Ellen J. Dunlap, of Warren, Ohio,
who is the mother of one son, William H. In June, 1878, Mr. Bennett
opened a tinner’s and job shop in Greenville, and has since carried on a suc-
cessful business. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. He
is a Republican in politics, has served in the council three years, and is a
member of the G. A. R. and the Masonic fraternity.
John Benninghoff, deceased, was born in Lehigh County, Penn., Decem-
ber 25, 1801, and when quite young removed with his parents to Union County,
where he grew to manhood. He was there married in 1824, to Miss Elizabeth
Heise, a native of Union County. Her father, Solomon Heise, was one of the
pioneers of that section of Pennsylvania, where he died at the remarkable age
of over one hundred and seven years. He was a native of the Keystone State,
but his parents were natives of Germany, who immigrated to Penn’s Colony
soon after it was founded. About 1831 John Benninghoff, wife and family
removed from Clearfield County to Venango County, where he rented farm
land for several years. He finally purchased land at different times until he
owned a farm of 235 acres, which subsequently proved to be the most produc-
tive oil farm in the oil country discovered up to the present. This fortunate
stroke of luck made him rich. His interest in the oil product of his farm ex-
tended from 1861 to April, 1868, when he sold his lands and removed to
Greenville. During that period he had a large royalty coming in from the
wells on his land, and his bank deposits in Franklin were correspondingly
heavy. The bank failed and he lost a large amount of money. Losing confi-
dence in such institutions, he concluded to be his own banker, and purchasing
a safe kept his money in his house. On the evening of January 16, 1868, his
safe was robbed of $250,000, not a cent of which was ever recovered, though
the family spent $50,000 in attempts to capture the robbers. Notwithstanding
this very heavy loss he died worth about $400,000. Mr. Benninghoff and wife
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
77T
reared a family of eight sons and four daughters, viz. : George, Charles, Mar-
tin, Amelia, Elizabeth, John E., Catharine, Frederick W., Mary J., Jeremiah,
Joseph and Milton, all of whom are living except John E. , Amelia and Catha-
rine. The mother died in the Presbyterian faith, July 26, 1872, her husband
surviving her nearly ten years, and dying March 20, 1882, in the eighty-first
year of his age. He was a Lutheran in religious belief, and politically a Repub-
lican. At the time of his death he had sixty-one grandchildren and twenty-
one great-grandchildren. John Benninghoff was a plain, practical, upright
man, whose word was ever sacred. Though his struggles with poverty in early
life made him frugal and economical, when wealth came to him, almost as if by
magic, he seldom refused to help worthy objects. He also gave a liberal dona-
tion to the Lutheran Church, and a similar gift to Thiel College, which alone
attest his generous nature.
Joseph Benninghofp was born December 18, 1843, in Cherry Tree Town-
ship, Venango Co., Penn., within one mile of Petroleum Centre, and is a son
of John and Elizabeth (Heise) Benninghoff, both of whom died in Greenville.
Joseph was the eleventh in a family of eight sons and four daughters, and re-
ceived his primary education in the public schools of Venango County. In
1868-69, he attended the commercial college of Meadville, and graduated in
March of the latter year. He then entered the law office of Hiram L. Rich-
mond & Son, of Meadville, but on his mother’s death, in 1872, he came to
Greenville to reside with his father, and did not renew his legal studies till
1880, when he returned to Meadville and was there admitted to the bar in the
spring of 1882. Since his admission he has resided in Greenville. Mr. Ben-
ninghoff was married to Miss Ella Affantranger, of Meadville, daughter of the
late P. A. Affantranger, a merchant of that city. Five children have been
born of this union: MaudE. , Ai'thur H. (deceased), Leon A., Josephine and
Helen M. Politically he is a stanch Republican, and was elected burgess of
Greenville in the spring of 1887, and served one term. For the past twenty
years Mr. Benninghoff has been a member of the Masonic fraternity.
Jacob G. Benninghoff, clothing merchant, was born in Venango County,
Penn., May 13, 1859, and is a son of Martin and Mary Benninghoff, residents
of West Salem Township, whither they removed in 1865. Our subject grew
to manhood in this county, and in 1880 began clerking in the clothing house
of Henlein & Bacher. In February, 1885, he became a member of the firm
of Bacher, Benninghoff & Co., to which he still belongs. Mr. Benninghoff
was married April 11, 1888, to Miss Minnie, daughter of S. H. Ross, of
Greenville. He is a Republican in politics, and a member of the I. O. O. F.
society.
Geoege a. Bittenbannee is one of the few remaining pioneer business men
of the town. He is a native of Columbia County, Penn., born November 28,
1815, and a son of Conrad and Sarah (Blank) Bittenbanner, natives of North-
ampton County, who were married and lived in Columbia County. They
came to this county in the spring of 1826, and located in Delaware Township.
They had at that time four children: George A., David, Esther and Conrad.
Three were born after coming, viz. : J acob, Sarah (deceased) and Mary Ann,
wife of Hon. J. C. Brown, of the Advance Argus. In 1832 the parents moved
into Greenville, where the father kept hotel several years. He then went
back to agricultural pursuits, and both he and wife died on the farm now
occupied by Mr. Brown. George A. grew to manhood in Mercer County, and
in 1839 was married to Miss Louisa McDonald, who is the mother of two
daughters, Alice (deceased) and Mary, wife of Dr. John T. Shutt, of Green-
ville. From early manhood up to a recent date Mr. Bittenbanner was
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
*
one of the leading business men of Mercer County, and was prominently
identified with the mercantile and financial interests of Greenville throughout
his business career. He was one of the most public-spirited citizens of the
town, and his name was the synonym of push and enterprise. Politically he
was first a Whig, and afterward a Republican. In 1855 he was chosen an
elder of the Presbyterian Church, and, though unable to fulfill the duties of the
office because of failing health, he is nevertheless still an elder in that body.
Rev. Jeremiah Reed Brittain, D. D., late pastor of the United Presby-
terian Church of Greenville, but now located in Englewood, 111. , was born
near Beaver Falls, Beaver Co., Penn., July 26, 1839, and is a son of Joseph
and Belinda (Clark) Brittain, natives of the same county. The Brittains were
originally from Maryland, and removed to Berwick, in Eastern Pennsylvania,
whence, about 1796, Jeremiah Brittain, grandfather of our subject, immigrated
to Beaver County, where, during a long residence, he was widely known as
one of the most prominent farmers and sheep growers of that section of the
State. Both he and his wife died on the old homestead in Beaver County.
They reared a family of seven sons and three daughters. Rev. Brittain’ s father,
Joseph, being the ninth and youngest son. He inherited the old homestead,
and reared a family of three sons and two daughters, all of whom are living.
He now resides with his daughter, Mrs. W. C. Chamberlain, of East Palestine,
Ohio, where his wife died August 5, 1886. Rev. Brittain was the oldest of
the family, and his boyhood days were principally spent on his father’s farm.
His first schooling was obtained in White’s school-house, which stood near his
home and not far from the site of Geneva College. In his fourteenth year he
attended one term at Darlington Academy, in Beaver County, and when seven-
teen again spent some time in the same institution, then under the charge
of Joseph B. Kiddo, afterward a brigadier-general in the Union army.
He taught one term of school when seventeen years of age, and from that
time till attaining his majority worked on the farm. In September, 1859, Mr.
Brittain entered Beaver Academy, then under Simon B. Mercer, and the next
autumn cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln for President. He spent two
years at Beaver Academy, and then entered Westminster College, New Wil-
mington. Lawrence County, then under the presidency of Dr. James Patter-
son, where he graduated with first honors in June, 1863, delivering the Greek
salutatory on commencement day. Immediately after graduating he enlisted
in a company of volunteers, made up chiefly of students. Dr. George C. Vin-
cent, captain, but only experienced a brief service. In the fall of 1863 Mr.
Brittain entered the United Presbyterian Theological Seminary of Allegheny
City, where he spent three years studying for the ministry, but was licensed
at the end of the second year. In March, 1886, Dr. Brittain received a call
from the United Presbyterian congregation of Greenville, where he entered
on his work July 1, and where he was ordained and installed pastor by the
Lake Presbytery in September, 1866. The following year the present church
building was erected, and under his pastorate the congregation increased from
100 to 300 members. Dr. Brittain has been a member of the board of trustees
of Westminster College ten years, and in June, 1885, that institution conferred
upon him the title of Doctor of Divinity. He has also been a director of the
United Presbyterian Theological Seminary six years. Dr. Brittain was mar-
ried August 30, 1864, to Miss Nannie D. King, of Illinois, who has borne him
nine children, eight of whom are living, two sons and six daughters. During
his pastorate in Greenville of nearly twenty-two years Dr. Brittain received
several calls from other churches, but his popularity among his people was
such as to deter his departure from the field wherein he had labored so long
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
779
and faithfully, until his acceptance of the call from the United Presbyterian
congregation of Englewood, 111. , in February, 1888. He is one of the ablest
men of his church, and throughout his long residence in Greenville was recog-
nized as a hard-working, successful minister, and an enterprising, influential
citizen.
James Wilson Brown, deceased, was born in Fayette County, Penn.,
October 2, 1794, and died in Greenville February 10, 1885, in his ninety-
first year. His father, Hugh Brown, was a native of County Down, Ireland,
who immigrated to Maryland, and there married Sarah Wilson, born near
AVhite Hall, in that State. They afterward removed to Fayette County, Penn. ,
and in 1799 came to what is now Mercer County, and located on a
tract of 500 acres, immediately north of the site of Greenville. They reared
a family of four sons and five daughters, all of whom, excepting one, became
heads of families. Hugh Brown died on his homestead November 25, 1845,
aged eighty-three years, his wife having died June 15, 1838, aged sixty-eight.
He was an elder of the Associate Presbyterian Church, of Greenville, about
thirty years. James W. was nearly five years old when his parents settled in
the Shenango Valley, and his subsequent life was spent in the vicinity of
Greenville. He was married October 27, 1825, to Jane, daughter of Robert
King, an early settler of Kinsman, Ohio. The following children were born of
that union: H. Wilson and Robert K., of Cincinnati, Ohio; James C., editor
of the Greenville Advance Argus\ Mary A., wife of Conrad Bittenbanner, of
Greenville; Isabella, wife of Rufus Thompson, of Piper City, 111.; John E., of
Greenville; William A., killed by a runaway horse in 1848; Lizzie E., wife of
John Annett, of Greenville, and Maggie J. , a teacher in the public schools of
this borough. Politically J ames W. Brown was originally a Democrat, subse-
quently joined the anti -Masonic and Whig parties, and finally became a Re-
publican, being from early manhood a stanch opponent of slavery.
Hon. James C. Brown, editor and one of the proprietors of the Advance
Argus, was born on the old homestead, settled by his grandfather, October 7,
1829, and is the third son of James W. Brown, previously spoken of in this
chapter. He received his primary education in the common schools, and at
the age of seventeen, in September, 1846, entered the office of the Mercer
Whig, where he remained till January, 1848. He then entered the Mercer
Academy, but after a few months returned to Greenville and became a student
in the academy, then under the charge of Revs. D. H. A. McLean and J. G.
Wilson, where he completed his education. In the winter of 1848-49 he com-
menced teaching a school in the Law district, five miles west of Mercer, and
the following winter taught at Leech’ s Corners. At the close of the latter
term he went to Brookville, Penn., and taught a select school six months. He
then bought a half interest in the Jefferson Star, a Whig paper, published
at Brookville, and began editing that journal ere reaching his twenty-first
year. While connected with the Star Mr. Brown taught in the common
schools of Greenville two winters. In the spring of 1853 he sold his interest
in that paper, came to Greenville and purchased the Independent Press, and
during the past thirty-five years he has been connected with the press of
Greenville the larger portion of his time. Politically Mr. Brown was first a
Whig, and since the birth of the Republican party has been one of its stanchest
supporters. In June, 1854, he was elected the first county superintendent of
public schools in Mercer County, and filled that position two years. In
October, 1861, he was elected to the Legislature, and re-elected to the same
office in October, 1862. The following year he was the choice of his party in
Mercer County for the Senate, but the nomination went to Venango County.
780
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
In June, 1863, Mr. Brown enlisted as a private in Company C, Fifty-fifth
Pennsylvania Militia, and served his full term of enlistment. In 1866 he was
elected to the State Senate, and served in that body three years. In March,
1871, he was appointed United States assessor, by President Grant, for this
district, and in May, 1873, when the offices of assessor and collector were
merged, he became deputy collector for the counties of Mercer and Crawford.
In September, 1874, he was appointed collector for the district, and continued
to fill that position nearly nine years, or until a reorganization of districts
legislated the old collectors out of office. On settling up accounts, subse-
quently, the government was found to be in his debt several hundred dollars.
Mr. Brown was married April 29, 1856, to Mary A., daughter of Conrad Bit-
tenbanner, of Greenville, where Mrs. Brown was born and reared. Four chil-
dren survive this union: Sarah J., wife of Rev. Alfred Ramsey, of Scenery
Hill, Washington Co., Penn.; M. A., wife of P. E. McCray, of Greenville;
Robert W. , a recent graduate of Thiel College, and George A. The family
belong to the United Presbyterian Chm’ch, in which body Mr. Brown has been
an elder about fifteen years. Few citizens of Mercer County are more widely
known or more thoroughly respected than the able editor of the Advance
Argus.
John E. Brown, grocery merchant, was born near Greenville, June 17,
1835, and is a son of James W. and Jane (King) Brown, pioneers of Mercer
County. Our subject grew up on the old homestead, attended the common
schools of his neighborhood, and worked at farming throughout his early man-
hood. In October, 1862, Mr. Brown enlisted in Company A, One Hundred
and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served nearly ten months, when
his term of service expired. On his return to Mercer County he continued his
former occupation of farming. In April, 1878, he opened a grocery store in
Greenville, where he has since continued in that business. He was married
November 16, 1865, to Miss S. M. , daughter of Samuel and Eliza J. Cald-
well, pioneers of Delaware Township. Mr. Brown is a Republican in politics,
a member of the G. A. R., and both he and wife belong to the United Presby-
terian Church of Greenville.
Dr. G. G. Brush, deceased, was born in Sheakleyville, Mercer County,
Penn., September 9, 1820, and was a son of James and Margaret (Sheakley)
Brush, the former a native of Westmoreland County, and the latter of Adams
County, Penn. James Brush came to this county early in the present century,
where he married Margaret, daughter of John Sheakley, Sr., a pioneer of
Sandy Creek Township. He followed farming, and with his wife died on the
homestead near Sheakleyville. Dr. Brush grew to manhood on the home
farm, and taught a few terms of school in that vicinity. He read medicine
two years in the office of Dr. Cossitt, of Greenville, and subseqiiently one year
with Dr. Ray, formerly of Philadelphia. In March, 1845, ho opened an office
in Sheakleyville, where he practiced his profession twenty-nine years. In
April, 1874, Dr. Brush removed to Greenville, where he continued in active
practice till his death, August 8, 1886. He attended lectures in the medical
colleges of Philadelphia, Buffalo and New York City, and was a graduate of
the Buffalo Medical University. He built up a large practice during his resi-
dence in Sheakleyville and Greenville, and was surgeon of the Atlantic &
Great Western Railroad six years. Dr. Brush was married September 19,
1845, to Miss Asenath Thatcher, a native of Trumbull County, Ohio, who is
the mother of six children, only one of whom survives. The children are:
Hattie R. ; James A., a deceased physician of Sheakleyville; Elizabeth, de-
ceased wife of Addison Williams, of Mercer County, and three died in infancy.
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
781
Dr. Brush was a kind father and husband, an honest, upright man, a useful
citizen and a successful physician.
Dr. James A. Brush, deceased, was born in Shealdeyville, Penn., March 16,
1846, and died there after a lingering illness March 29, 1881. He was the only
son of Dr. George G. Brush, with whom he read medicine. He attended lectures
at Ann Arbor University, Buffalo Medical University and Jefferson Medical
College, and was a graduate of the two last mentioned institutions. He located
at Shealdeyville immediately after graduating at Buffalo, and, excepting two
years spent in Greenville, during which time he was surgeon of the Erie &
Pittsburgh and Atlantic & Great Western Railroads, he continued prac-
ticing in Sheakleyville until his death. He was a thorough student and deeply
wedded to his profession, and stern and positive in the prosecution of his du-
ties. Dr. Brush married Miss Nancy J. McQuiston, of Hartstown, Penn.,
who survives him. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and
died in a firm hope of a blessed immortality. Both father and son are buried
in the family lot in Shenango Valley Cemetery, Greenville.
Orson A. Carlin, agent of the Adams Express Company, was born in Con-
neaut, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, February 15, 1842, and is a son of Capt. Thomas
J. Carlin, of that town. Capt. Carlin Avas born in the County Down, Ireland,
and when he was about two years old his parents immigrated to Westfield,
Chautauqua Co. , N. Y. , where the father died , his widow subsequently dying
at Conneaut, Ohio. Soon after reaching manhood Capt. Carlin removed to
Conneaut, Ohio, where he married Miss Mary A. Dibble, a native of Ashta-
bula County. Five children have been born of this union, four of whom are
living, and two residents of Greenville, our subject and Mrs. J. C. Kuchler.
When Sumter was fired upon Capt. Carlin was filling the office of mayor of
Conneaut, Ohio, of which town he had been postmaster throughout the
administrations of Presidents Pierce and Buchanan, and immediately called a
meeting of the citizens, organized a battery of 160 men, and was chosen
captain of the same. Carlin’s battery was soon after assigned to service as
the Second Ohio, Capt. Carlin being the second captain of artillery commis-
sioned by the governor of the State. He served in the field two years, and
then • resigned on account of injuries received in the service, but his sons
served through the whole war. Capt. Carlin and wife are still living in Con-
neaut, Ohio, and throughout his long residence in Ashtabula County he has
been one of the foremost Democrats in that county. He has filled the several
offices of the town; been a school director for twenty-seven years, and is now
a justice of the peace. Orson A. received a common-school education, and
was clerking for his father in the Conneaut post-office when the tocsin of war
was sounded. He at once enlisted in his father’s command, and served in
Carlin’s battery till near the close of 1863. In March, 1862, a detachment of
this battery, under Lieut. Huston, was surrounded near Bentonville, Ark. , by
a battalion of Texas Rangers, under Capt. White, who, demantled its surrender.
A number of the men under Corp. Carlin refused to comply with the demand,
and attempted to cut their way through the rebel lines, but all were captured
excepting Corp. Carlin and Private Henry Sweet, both of whom escaped unin-
jured amidst a shower of the enemy’s bullets. At the battle of Pea Ridge a
rebel officer on horseback was noticed behind a rail fence, reconnoitering the
Union lines, and Corp. Carlin was ordered to give him a shot. He immediately
complied, and the fence was scattered in every direction, covering the officer
with a shower of rails. Gen. Asboth, in command of the division, witnessed
the shot, and riding up to Corp. Carlin, complimented him on his efficiency
as an expert artillerist. Toward the close of 1863 Corp. Carlin was assigned
45
782
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
to the quartermaster’s department, and was stationed at Nashville, Tenn. ,
till the end of the war; was then mustered out of service, and returned to his
home. While at Nashville Mr. Carlin became well acquainted with Andrew
Johnson, and, though opposing his election to the Vice-Presidency, was never-
theless, ujion Johnson’s accession to the Presidency, appointed postmaster
of Conneaut, Ohio, which office he filled till April, 1869, when he resigned.
Mr. Carlin was married December 3, 1867, to Miss Alice A. Loomis, of Con-
neaut, Ohio, whose parents were pioneers of that county. In January, 1872,
he came to Greeuville to accept the agency of the United States Express
Comi^any, and subsequently was appointed agent of the Adams Express
Company. Mr. Carlin continued to fill the position of local manager of both
companies until the withdrawal from Greenville of the United States Com-
pany’s office, since which event he has remained in charge of the Adams. He
belongs to the Masonic fraternity, and also the G. A. R. Politically Mr.
Carlin has always been an unswerving Democrat, and while a resident of
Astabula County, Ohio, he’ was once the Democratic candidate for sheriff, and
though defeated he polled the largest vote on the ticket.
James Williamson Christy, retired farmer, was born in Salem (now
Hempfield) Township, Mercer Co., Penn., October 4, 1807, and is a
son of Col. Andrew and Susan (Williamson) Christy, a sketch of whom will be
found elsewhere in this work. James W. grew to manhood on the old home-
stead, and at the age of twenty- four came to Greenville and followed the tan-
ning business about five years. He then traded his interest in the tan-yard
for fifty acres of land near Greenville, which he soon afterward sold and
purchased 200 acres in Sandy Creek Township, upon which he settled per-
manently in 1836. On the 20th of December, 1838, he was married to Miss
Mary L. Thompson, a native of Salem Township, who bore him the following
children: Thompson A. (deceased), Susan, Elizabeth, Emily, Andrew, Alice
(deceased), Madison, Cassius C. (deceased) and Velzora. Mrs. Christy died
April 16, 1885, in her sixty- seventh year. She was a member of the United
Presbyterian Church, to which denomination her husband also belongs.
Politically Mr. Christy is a Republican, but aside from exercising the right of
franchise has taken no active part in political affairs. He is one of the few
remaining links between the pioneer days and the ever changing present, and has
been a daily eye-witness for three-quarters of a century of the steady growth
and development of his native county.
Dr. Anson T. Clark, physician and surgeon, was born in Cattaraugus
County, N. Y. , April 21, 1835, and is a son of Elam and Perces (Carpenter)
Clark. His father was a native of Northampton, Mass. , and his mother of
Norwich, Conn., who immediately after their marriage located in New York
State. In 1843 the family removed to Crawford County, Penn., and settled
four miles east of Meadville, where the parents resided until death. Dr.
Clark grew to manhood on the homestead in Crawford County, and received
his primary education in the public schools thereof. He afterward attended
Randolph Academy, in New York State, now the Chamberlin Institute, two
years. For the next three years he taught school in Crawford County, and
during that time commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. John
C. Cotton, of Meadville. In 1859 he entered the medical department of
Michigan University, Ann Arbor, where he graduated in March, 1861. Dr.
Clark opened an office soon afterward in Centerville, Crawford County, where
he continued in practice up to May, 1863, when he was appointed assistant
surgeon of the Twenty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, for the unexpired term
of that regiment, which extended up to the fall of 1864. Dr. Clark then
HISTOEY OF MEEOEK COUNTY.
783
returned to his home and opened an office in Greenfield, Mercer County, where
he prosecuted the duties of his profession, until the fall of 1879, when he
removed to Greenville. Since locating in this borough he has devoted his
whole attention to his profession, and now enjoys a good practice. He was
married October 7, 1861, to Miss Adelia F. Carr, a native and resident of
Conneautville, Crawford County, of which union three children have been
born, two of whom are living: Charles C., now at United States Military Acad-
emy, West Point, and S. Frances. Dr. Clark and family belong to the
Baptist Church. He is a Republican in politics and a member of John C.
Dickey Post, No. 433, G. A. E. He is also a member of the Mercer County
Medical Society, the State Medical Society and the American Medical
Association.
W. H. Clift, grocery merchant, was born in Bucks County, Penn., March
13, 1852, and grew to maturity under the parental roof. His father, Jona-
than Clift (deceased), was born in the same county, March 31, 1820, and was a
son of Jonathan and Ann Clift, who resided in Bucks County until their
decease. Jonathan, Jr., learned the stone-mason’s trade in his native county,
which he followed in different parts of the Union. He was a contractor in
Bucks County until his removal to Delaware Grove, Mercer Co. , Penn. , in
1863. Here he engaged in hotel-keeping, and dealing in stock in partnership
with B. E. Worthington, a leading stock dealer in Bucks County, Penn. In
1865 he removed to New Hamburg and formed a partnership with Daniel
Hecker in the mercantile business, which lasted six years. Throughout this
period Mr. Clift continued the stock business, and in the fall of 1870 removed
to Greenville, where he bought and shipped stock up to 1881, when he retired
from the stock trade. In partnership with his son, W. H. Clift, he estab-
lished a grocery house, in which he was interested until his death, September
21, 1887. Mr. Clift was married in Bucks County, Penn., September 11,
1850, to Miss Emily R. Boyd, a native of Philadelphia, who bore him five
children: William H. , Anna M. , Louisa S. (deceased), Mary H. andH. Jennie
(wife of L. F. Black, of Greenville). Mr. Clift was a member of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church, to which his family also adheres. He was a Republican
in politics, and a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities. His
widow and family reside in Greenville. Our subject, W. H, Clift, followed
clerking from the age of twelve until he went into business for himself.
Besides a public school education he spent one year in Bustleton Academy,
Philadelphia. In 1881 he formed a partnership with his father, and they
opened a grocery store, which he still operates. Mr. Clift was married Feb-
ruary 10, 1884, to Miss Phebe J. Freeman, of Crawford, Penn., of which
union two daughters, Mabel and Emma, have been born. He and wife are
members of the Presbyterian Church, and he belongs to the Republican party.
He is a charter member of Greenville Lodge, No. 64, A. O. U. W.
Charles Dambachee, merchant tailor, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany,
June 24, 1852, and is a son of Andrew and Veronica (Hafier) Dambacher,
natives of the same place, where both died. Charles grew up in Wurtemberg,
and there learned the tailor’s trade. In 1871 he immigrated to Greenville,
Penn. , where he worked at his trade three years. For the succeeding six
years he worked in Erie, New Castle andFredonia, Penn., returning to Green-
ville in 1880, where he continued the same for nearly two years longer. On
September 1, 1882, he formed a partnership with Frank A. Donner, under the
firm name of Dambacher & Donner, and opened a merchant tailoring estab-
lishment, since which time they have won and retained a good share of the
business. Mr. Dambacher was married January 27, 1876, to Miss Sophia,
784
HISTOKY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
daughter of Michael and Mary (Rommeltinger) Schumacher, a pioneer Catholic
family of ' Greenville. Mrs. Dambacher vpas born in Greenville, and bore him
a family of four children; Otto, Mary, Michael and Gertrude (deceased). She
died June 11, 1885, in the faith of the Catholic Church. Our subject was
again married January 6, 1886, to Miss Lizzie F., daughter of Samuel and
Mary (Hxiston) Kee, natives of Lake Township, Mercer County. The father
died in 1868, and his widow resides on the old homestead. Mrs. Dambacher
was born and reared in Lake Township. Mr. Dambacher is a member of St.
Michael’s Catholic Church, and his wife of the Presbyterian Church, of Green-
ville. He is a Democrat in politics, and one of the active young businessmen
of the town.
Robert Dickey, retired merchant and farmer, was born in County Donegal,
Ireland, November, 8, 1808, and is a son of Rev. William and Margaret
(Porter) Dickey, of the same place, where both spent their lives. Rev. Will-
iam Dickey was a Presbyterian minister, and followed that vocation in his
native county up to a short time of his death. Our subject grew to manhood
in Ireland, and there learned the trade of a copper and tinsmith. In May,
1830, he immigrated to Pittsburgh, Penn., where he married Miss Matilda
Cooper, October 7, 1833. She, too, was a native of County Donegal, Ireland,
born May 10, 1810, and was a daughter of John and Elizabeth Cooper. Mrs.
Dickey reared the following children: Samuel C., John C. (deceased), Re-
becca, Joseph P., Robert and James C. Mr. Dickeyresided in Pittsburgh
until the spring of 1845, when he came to Greenville and established the busi-
ness house which his sons still carry on. In 1859 he gave up that business
and purchased a part of the old Loutzenhiser farm, northeast of Greenville,
and resided there till the spring of 1888, when he removed into the borough..
Mr. Dickey became a member of his father’s congregation in Ireland, and
when he settled in Pittsburgh he united with the Associate Presbyterian
Church of that city. He kept up his membership in that body until its amal-
gamation, in 1858, with the Associate Reformed, since which event he has
continued a leading member of the United Presbyterian Church of Greenville,
Penn. In 1838 he was elected an elder of the Allegheny Church, and for the
past fifty years has filled that office. His wife died February 22, 1883, in the
United Presbyterian faith. Mr. Dickey has been a resident of Mercer County
over forty-three years, and is one of its well-known, respected pioneers. He
was first a Whig and then a Republican; was burgess of Greenville in 1858,
and has also filled the office of school director.
Dickey Brothers, stove and hardware merchants, are the successors of one
of the oldest firms in the borough. Their parents, Robert and Matilda
Dickey, natives of Ireland, removed from Pittsburgh to Greenville on April,
1845, where the former established a tinware and stove store, which he con-
ducted fourteen years, when he sold out to his son Samuel C., the senior mem-
ber of the present firm. Samuel C. was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., October
25, 1836, and came with his parents to Greenville. In 1859 he bought out his
father’s store and ran the business until 1867, when A. G. Boies purchased an
interest. The firm of Dickey & Boies continued until 1873, when Mr. Dickey
bought out his partner. His brothers, Joseph P. and Robert, subsequently
entered the business, and the firm of Dickey Bros, was formed. Mr. Dickey
was married September 20. 1866, to Miss Eliza Stinson, of Greenville, whose
father, James Stinson, was one of the early settlers of Mercer County. One
son and two daughters have been born of this union, Amelda being the only
survivor. Both he and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church.
Mr. Dickey is a Republican in politics, has been councilman of the borough
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
785
nine years, and is now serving as burgess. He is a member of Sergt. J ohn C.
Dickey Post No. 433, G. A. R. , which was named in honor of his deceased
brother.
Joseph P. Dickey was born in Greenville September 5, 1848, and grew
up in his native town. In 1866 he went to Colorado, where he spent sev-
eral years in mining and merchandising. In 1873 he returned to Greenville
and became a member of the present firm. On the 1st of December, 1879,
he was married to Miss Ada M. Palmer, of Cleveland, Ohio, of which union
three daughters have been born and survive: Mamie, Rebe and Clara. Mr.
Dickey is a stanch Republican, and a member of the Masonic fraternity.
Robeet Dickey, Jb. , was born in Greenville .October 13, 1852, and has
always lived here. In 1873 he became a member of the firm of Dickey Bros.
He was married February 2, 1882, to Miss Dora, daughter of James W. Linn,
who spent his whole life in this county. Two daughters have been born to
them, Matilda and Roberta, both of whom are living. Mr. Dickey is an ardent
supporter of the principles of the Republican party.
Dh. Fielding Donaldson, Se., physician and surgeon, was born in -Wash-
ington County, Penn., December 25, 1822. His grandfather, William Don-
aldson, emigrated with his family from the County Armagh, Ireland, to
Chamb'ersburg, Penn., where he spent the balance of his life. The Doctor’s
parents, John and Nancy (Watson) Donaldson, were also natives of Armagh,
Ireland, where they were married, and in 1801 immigrated to Lancaster County,
Penn. Two years afterward they removed to Washington County, where a
family of eleven children were born to them. In the spring of 1840 the family
settled in Freedom, Beaver County, and there the parents died in October and
December of 1851, respectively. Dr. Donaldson received his education prin-
cipally in his native county. He began his medical studies in Youngstown, Ohio,
and completed them under his brother, Dr. James A. Donaldson, of Venango
County, Penn. In the spring of 1850 he commenced practice in Venango
County, where he remained in practice over seven years. In the fall of
1857 Dr. Donaldson came to Greenville, and formed a partnership with Dr.
H. D. La. Cossitt, one of the pioneer physicians of the town. This partner-
ship continued two years, when it was dissolved and Dr. Donaldson continued
alone. He attended his first course of lectures at the Western Reserve Medi-
cal College, Cleveland, Ohio, and his second course at Philadelphia Medical
University, where he graduated in 1866. The Doctor was married May 14,
1845, to Miss Margaret C. Jones, a native of Rochester, Beaver Co., Penn.,
who is the mother of four sons: Nelson F., a physician at North Platte, Neb.,
and one of the surgeons of .the Union Pacific Railroad Company; James A., a
dentist of Greenville; Jacob J. , a dentist of East Palestine, Ohio, and Field-
ing, a practicing physician of Greenville. Dr. Donaldson belongs to the
Methodist Episcopal Church and his wife to the Disciples, while the whole
family are Republicans in politics. Since locating in Greenville, more than
thirty years ago. Dr. Donaldson has continued in active practice, and he yet
occupies the same house, on the corner of Main and Water Streets, wherein
he first located. He is to day the senior member of the medical profession in
Greenville.
Simon Donnee, retired merchant, was born in Northampton County, Penn.,
March 12, 1821, and is a son of Michael and Susannah (Laubach) Donner,
natives of the same county, of German ancestry. Simon grew to maturity in
Northampton County. His father died when oui’ subject was about eighteen
years old, and he subsequently went to learn the tinner’s trade, at which
he spent a couple of years. He worked at his trade in his native county till
786
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1848-49, when he came to Clarksville, Mercer County, and started the tin-
ning business. He was there married, April 16, 1850, to Christiana Holler,
of Hickory Township, but a native of Northampton County, Penn. Soon
after marriage Mr. Donner removed to Greenville, where he continued in the
tinner’s business a few years. He then engaged in merchandising, and re-
mained in that line of business the greater portion of his time up to a recent
date. Mr. Donner reared two children: Frank A., of the firm of Dambacher
& Donner, and Amanda, wife of George W. Hewitt, a jeweler of Greenville.
He has been a stanch Democrat all his life, and is one of the oldest and most
substantial citizens of the town.
Rev. Bernaed Donohoe, pastor of St. Michael’s Catholic Church of Green-
ville, was born in Ardleny, County Cavan, Ireland, August 15, 1852, and is a
son of James and Bridget (Keirnan) Donohoe, natives and residents of the
same place. Our subject attended the national schools until his twelfth year,
and then went to a classical academy, located on the banks of the celebrated
Lough Sheelan, in his native county, where he spent six years. In August,
1870, he immigrated to New A^ork, and soon afterward entered St. Bonaven-
ture’s College, Allegany, N. Y. , where he remained until June, 1874, when
he was called to Erie, Penn., and ordained priest by Bishop Mullen, June 7,
1874, and was immediately sent as assistant priest in St. Thomas’ Church,
Corry, Penn. In December, 1874, he took charge of Lepanto, Clarion Co.,
Penn., but early in 1875 he removed to St. Michael’s Church, Emlenton,
Venango Co., Penn. A short time afterward he took charge of the Immacu-
late Conception Church, in Rome, Crawford County, returning to Corry in the
fall of 1875. He remained in Corry until July, 1876, when he was appointed
pastor of St. Michael’s Church, Greenville, where he has ever since had charge.
In connection with St. Michael’s are the missions of Jamestown, Transfer,
Orangeville, Hadley and Atlantic. Since taking charge of the Greenville
Parish, Father Donohoe has made many improvements in the church and pas-
toral residence. He has also purchased four lots opposite the church, known
as the Andrews property, and four acres of an addition to the cemetery, adjoin-
ing the same on the west. He has done a great deal toward building up St.
Michael's congregation, which is to-day in a more flourishing condition than
during any period of its history.
W. H. H. Dumaes, editor and proprietor of the Shenango Valley Neics, is
a descendant of one of the pioneer families of Mercer County. His grand-
father, Timothy Dumars, was a native of Ireland, who immigrated to Penn-
sylvania when eighteen years of age, and in 1797-98 came to the Shenango
Valley, and located in what afterward became Salem Township, Mercer Coun-
ty. He was twice married, first to Mary, daughter of William Fell, a pioneer
of West Salem, of which union two daughters, Nancy and Polly, were born.
His second wife was Sarah Stuart, who bore him seven children: Phoebe (de-
ceased), Thomas S. , William (deceased), James, Joseph (deceased), Fanny
(deceased) and Sarah. The parents both died in this county. The eldest
son, Thomas S., is the father of our subject, and was born in Salem Township
June 18, 1810. His boyhood days were spent upon his father-’ s farm, and
his early manhood in agricultural pursuits. He was married April 23, 1833,
to Hannah A. Limber, who bore him nine children, five of whom survive, viz. :
Sarah (wife of Rev. W. H. Mossman), W. H. H. , Mary F., Annie (wife of D.
D. Buck) and Emma (wife of H. H. Lininger). In 1846 Mr. Dumars began
keeping hotel in Mercer, removing to Meadville in 1849, where he continued
in the same business till 1852, when he came to Greenville and opened the
St. Charles Hotel. From 1857 to 1832 he lived in Jacksonville, 111., where
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
he was engaged in farming and milling. He then returned to Greenville, and
has since resided in this borough. Our subject was born a few miles east of
Greenville, December 24, 1840, and was named in honor of the then Presi-
dent-elect, William Henry Harrison, grandfather of Benjamin Harrison,
recently elected to the same high office. In 1854 he commenced learning the
printing trade in the office of Finch & Weir, then publishing the only paper
in Greenville, and worked three years in that office. In 1858 he entered
Illinois College, at Jacksonville, spending four years in that institution, and
during vacations worked at his trade and on the farm. He did editorial work
on the Jacksonville Journal, and in 1860-61 published the Jacksonville
Review, at the same time contributing to the Continental Monthly, St. Louis
Democrat and other publications. In 1862 he returned to Greenville, and
August 11 enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, and served till the regiment was mustered out. May 31,
1865. He is a member of the G. A. R., and, though a sufferer from rheuma-
tism contracted in the army, he has never applied for a pension. After the
war Mr. Dumars was appointed to a clerkship in the war department akWash-
ington, which he resigned, in 1867, to take an interest in the Greenville
Argus. He soon sold out to his partner, and took a situation on the Erie
Dispatch, filling consecutively the positions of compositor, night editor and
managing editor on that paper. Returning to Greenville he became one of
the founders of the Advance, now the Advance Argus. In 1882 he purchased
the Shenango Valley Neivs, and has since been the editor and owner of that
paper. Mr. Dumars was married March 27, 1876, to Mrs. Nellie M. Lyon,
who is now his business, as well his domestic, partner. She is a practical
printer, and fully competent to take charge of the office. Both are members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. As the News is one of of the most vigor-
ous supporters of the Republican party it is perhaps unnecessary to add that
its able editor has always held the same political faith since the birth of that
organization.
David Emery was born in what is now Lawrence County, Penn. , March
21, 1823, and removed with his parents, William and Lydia (Harlan) Emery,
into Butler County, when he was about two years old. His parents were
natives of this State, and his grandparents, John and Ann (Covert) Emery,
settled in what is now Lawrence County, on Slippery Rock, early in the pres-
ent century. The maternal grandfather, Jonathan Harlan, emigrated from
Eastern Pennsylvania to the site of Harlansburg, Lawrence County, in the
latter part of the eighteenth century. David grew up in Butler County, and
was married, in Grove City, Penn., to Miss Isabella Campbell, born near
Harlansburg, Penn. They reared seven children, all of whom are living, and
three sons and one daughter residents of Greenville. Mr. Emery taught
school for fifteen years and carried on farming during this period, removing
in the spring of 1857 to the vicinity of Greenville, and in 1872 located in the
borough where he and his wife have since resided. W. W. Emery was born
near Harlansburg, Butler Co., Penn., July 27, 1847, and remained under the
parental roof until he grew to maturity, receiving a common-school education.
Ere reaching manhood he began clerking in a dry goods store in Greenville,
and in 1877 formed a partnership with W. A. Keck in the dry goods business.
Mr. Emery continued a member of the firm of Keck & Emery until February,
1886, when he sold out to his partner and, with his brother, P. C. , purchased
the boot and shoe stock of William Beatty & Sons, which he sold out in the
fall of 1888, with the intention of re entering the dry goods in 1889.
Mr. Emery was married, September 15, 1874, to Miss Dora F., daughter
788
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
of Marvin Loomis, of Greenville. Four children have been born of this
union: Mary, Ella, Laura and Marvin. Mr. Emery is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and belongs to the Republican party. P. C.
Emery was born in Butler County, Penn., November 4, 1855, and grew up
and received his education in Mercer County. In 1871 he came to Green-
ville, and clerked until 1879, then went to Mercer and formed a partner-
ship in the dry goods business with James Campbell, the firm being Camp-
bell & Emery. He remained in business at Mercer until February, 1886,
when the partnership of Emery Bros, was formed, which existed till the fall of
1888. Mr. Emery was married March 22, 1883, to Miss Sadie, daughter of
William Logan, president of the First National Bank of Mercer. He and wife
are adherents of the United Presbyterian Church, and he is an unswerving
advocate of the Democratic party.
Waltee J. Fell, manufacturer, was born in West Salem Township, Mer-
cer Co., Penn., October 12, 1851, and is a son of Aylett R. and Clarissa (Fol-
lett) Fell, who reside upon the old homestead in West Salem. W. J. grew to
manhood on his father’s farm, and received his primary education in the dis
trict schools. He afterward attended the high-school at New Lebanon, Mer-
cer County, and subsequently the Western Reserve College at Hudson, Ohio,
and Mount Union College in the same State, also the State Normal School at
Edinboro, Penn. During this period he had been engaged in teaching at
various points, and was principal of the public schools of Orangeville, Ohio.
In January, 1878, Mr. Fell commenced the manufacture of oil barrel staves
and lumber in this county and Trumbull County, Ohio, and West Virginia,
and has since continued in this line of business. He owns and operates sev-
eral mills in Mercer and adjoining counties of Pennsylvania and Ohio, and in
West Virginia, and has been very successful in the several enterprises in which
he has been engaged. Mr. Fell is a stanch Republican, and one of the most
energetic and enterprising citizens of his native county.
William R. Fesslee, merchant tailor and cutter, was born in Heidelberg
Township, Berks Co., Penn., October 19, 1828, and is a son of Daniel and
Rebecca (Gruber) Fessler, natives of the same place, of German ancestry.
Both died in Harrisburg, Penn. Our subject grew up under the parental roof,
and learned the tailor trade in Cumberland, Md. , and afterward spent some
time working at his trade in different portions of the Union, principally in
the Southern States. In June, 1848, he came to Mercer County and located
in Sheakleyville, where he was married, in March, 1849, to Miss Nancy H.,
daughter of the late Thomas and Ellen (Limber) Wallace, pioneers of that
portion of Mercer County. Three children were born of this marriage: Lydia
(deceased), John W. and W^ alter Woodruff. From 1848 until 1861 Mr. Fess-
ler spent most of his time in Sheakleyville, where he followed his trade and
where his family I’esided. In April, 1861, he came to Greenville and entered
the employ of John Brackin, merchant tailor, in which house he tilled the
position of cutter a period of over twentj» -seven years. Mrs. Fessler died
after a lingering illness January 28, 1888, in the faith of the Methodist Epis-
co]ial Church, to which denomination her husband also belongs. Politically
Mr. Fessler is a Democrat, and has' been councilman of the borough and a
director on the school board. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and
also of I. O. O. F. since 1849, and has always taken a deep interest in the growth
and progress of his adopted county.
M. H. Fetzee, D. D. S., was born in Cambria County, Penn., November
18, 1856, and is the son of Rev. C. A. and Anna W. (Harris) Fetzer. The
former is a native of Germany, and a minister of the Lutheran Church. The
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
789
latter was born in England, and they were married in J efPerson County, Penn.
Dr. Fetzer was one of the first students of Thiel College, then known as Thiel
Hall, and afterward attended Tabeleau Seminary in Venango County, Penn.
He subsequently taught school two terms in Clarion and Armstrong Counties.
In June, 1875, he commenced the study of dentistry in Ephrata, Lancaster
Co., Penn., under Dr. Khine Hertz, a prominent dentist of that section of
the State. In 1881 and 1882 he attended the Pennsylvania College of Dental
Surgery, and graduated in the spring of the latter year. His parents having
removed to Greenville in 1880, Dr. Fetzer, immediately after graduating, came
to this borough, opened an office and has since built up a good practice. The
Doctor was married in January, 1876, to Miss Mary E. Mohler, of Ephrata, Penn.
Dr. Fetzer is a member of Lake Erie Dental Association and the Odontologi-
cal Society of Western Pennsylvania. He is a Democrat in politics, a member
of the Masonic fraternity, and a Lutheran in religious belief.
W. J. B. Findley, grocery merchant, was born in East Fallowfield Town-
ship, Crawford Co., Penn., January 28, 1831, and is a son of Moses and
Elizabeth (Hays) Findley. The former was born in Ireland, and at the age of
twenty-one immigrated, with his father, John Findley and family, to Crawford
County. John Findley died in the north part of Crawford County, leaving
three sons and two daughters: Moses, John, Robert, Ehoda and Mary Ann, all
of whom have since passed away. Moses Findley was married to Elizabeth
Hays, in Crawford County, December 17, 1811. She, too, was a native of Ire-
land, and a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Hays, natives of Scotland, who
emigrated from Ireland to Westmoreland County, Penn., when she was seven
years old, and in 1803 settled in Crawford County, where they died. To
Moses and Elizabeth Findley were born eight children: John, deceased; Eliz-
abeth, deceased; Mary J. deceased; Samuel H., of Crawford County; Rhoda,
deceased; Haul, deceased; Thomas, of California, and W. J. B., of Greenville.
The father died on the old homestead in 1845, in his sixty-fifth year, from dis-
ease contracted while serving in the War of 1812. His widow survived him
until 1873, dying in her eighty-third year. They were Covenanters in
religious faith, and Democrats in politics. The Hays family were connected
in marriage with the Buchanans of Pennsylvania, Polks of Tennessee, and the
Knoxes of Arkansas. Our subject grew to manhood in his native county, and
at the age of twenty- two opened a store in Sheakleyville. In 1856 he went
to California, and returned in 1860. He began mercantile business in Mead-
ville, which he carried on until the spring of 1877, when he sold out and
spent some time recuperating his broken health. In the spring of 1879 he
located in Greenville, and in the spring of 1881 opened a general grocery store,
which he has since conducted. Mr. Findley was married August 21, 1856, to
Miss Hattie Dunn, of Sheakleyville, of which union three children have been
born: Carrie E., wife of S. H. Sutherland, a stock grower of New Mexico;
Charles H., who died July 9, 1883, and James E., of Greenville. The fam-
ily belong to the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Findley is a fearless advocate of
the principles of the Democratic party, and in 1874 was the choice of his party
in Crawford County for Congress.
William H. Findley, of the firm of Beatty & Findley, dealers in books,
stationery, etc. , was born in East Fallowfield Township, Crawford Co. , Penn. ,
J anuary 5, 1850, and is a son of Hon. Samuel H. Findley, of Hartstown,
Crawford County, who has represented that county two terms in the Legis-
lature. He was born on the old Findley homestead, in East Fallowfield Town-
ship, February 4, 1821, and is a son of Moses Findley, previously mentioned.
He grew up under the parental roof, and received a good English education.
790
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
He spent a portion of his early manhood in the South engaged as a contractor.
He was married June 22, 1847, to Miss Louisa Ann, daughter of Richard and
Almera (Whetmore) Custard, of Crawford County, who afterward removed to
Sheakleyville. Mrs. Findley was born in Greenwood Township, Crawford
County, December 17, 1827, at what is well known as “Custards,” where her
father kept hotel and post-office for many years. Samuel H. Findley and
wife are residents of Hartstown, and members of the United Presbyterian
Church. Politically he was always an anti-slavery man, and was one of the
local organizers of the Republican party. He has served many years as
justice of the peace in a Democratic township, and has always been prom-
inent in the local affairs of his neighborhood. He is a strong temperance
man, of wide knowledge of men and affairs, and is highly respected by his
neighbors. In 1863 William H. Findley went to Meadville, where he spent
three years in the public schools and the academy of that borough. He after-
ward clerked in Meadville three years, and in the fall of 1869 entered Jeffer-
son Academy at Cannonsburg, Penn. , and spent two terms. He taught school
one term in Crawford County, and in May, 1872, came to Greenville, and
clerked till August, 1873, when the firm of Beatty & Findley was established
and began business. They have been the leading house in their line in Green-
ville for the past fifteen years. Mr. Findley was married October 31, 1877,
to Miss Susan J. P., daughter of the late Dr. R. E. Breiner, of Greenville,
of which union one son, Paul B. , survives. The family are members of the
Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Findley has been one of the leading Repub-
licans of Mercer County for several years.
David H. Ford, carriage manufacturer, was born in Bolesburg, Centre
County, Penn., August 11, 1839, and is a son of Hiram Ford, a native of
Pennsylvania, of English parentage. His father grew to manhood in Centre
County, and there married Barbara Ream, of that county, of German ancestry.
They reared two children; David H. and Mary J. , wife of Edward Stenger, of
Hempfield Township. The father died when our subject was an infant, and
the widow subsequently married John Durst. About 1851 the family came to
Mercer County, where the mother died in 1886. David H. grew up in Mercer
County, and was educated in the common schools. He learned carriage trim-
ming in Greenville, commencing in 1857. In August, 1861, he enlisted in
Company K, Sixty -first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the charge
at Mayers Heights in the battle of Chancellorsville, May 3, 1863, where he
was severely wounded while carrying the colors of his regiment in that charge.
He lay in the hospital eight months, and at the end of fourteen months was
honorably discharged as unfit for further service. Mr. Ford followed his trade
until 1873, when he purchased the interest of William McDowell, of McDowell
& Cooke, carriage manufacturers, and the firm of Cooke & Ford was then
formed. In October, 1884, Mr. Ford became sole proprietor, and in January,
1886, his present partner, R. E. Thorn, joined him in business, and the pres-
ent firm of Ford & Thorn was established. Mr. Ford was married July 26,
1866, to Amanda M. , daughter of Samuel and Louisa Spear, early settlers of
Mercer County. He is a Republican in politics, a member of the G. A. R.
and the Masonic fraternity, and both he and wife are Presbyterians.
Charles H. Fry, farmer and proprietor of stone quarries, was born in
Lehigh County, Penn., December 26, 1813. His parents, Abraham and.
Rebecca (Hofford) Fry, lived and died in that county. In the fall of 1837
our subject came to Greenville, where he has ever since made his home. He
was married December 26, 1846, to Hannah, daughter of Jacob Hommer, one
of the well-remembered pioneers of West Salem Township, where he came
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
791
with his father from Maryland in 1809. Mrs. Fry was born on the old home-
stead April 23, 1826, and is the mother of nine children: Louisa, widow of
Daniel Knappenberger; William, Elizabeth E., wife of Jonathan Hawk;
Charles, Joseph, Fannie, wife of Frank Keck; Samuel Q. , Benjamin and
Addie B., deceased. Mr. Fry has followed farming and quarrying the princi-
pal portion of his life. From 1852 to 1860 he was connected with Samuel
West in carrying the mails between Greenville and Mercer, and the latter part
of that period between Greenville and Warren, Ohio. Mr. Fry began life in
Mercer County without a dollar, and by steady, industrious habits has accumu-
lated during the past fifty-one years a competence for himself and family.
Politically he is a Republican, and the family belong to the Lutheran Church.
He is now a member of the borough council.
Feed H. Gaisee, of the firm of Gaiser & Kane, general merchants,
was born in Greenville, March 31, 1853. His father, David Gaiser, was
born in Switzerland, in 1806, there grew to manhood and learned the carpen-
ter trade. In 1830 he immigrated to Greenville, Penn., and was one of the
pioneer carpenters of the town. He was married November 29, 1840, to
Mrs. Elizabeth Snyder, nee Sweitzer, widow of Jacob Snyder, an early settler
of Greenville, where they were married in June, 1834. Mr. Snyder died
May 7, 1837, and three years and a half afterward she became the wife of
David Gaiser. She was born in Germany in 1809, and bore the following
children by her second marriage: Eliza, John, David (deceased), George, Eli and
Fred H. Mr. Gaiser died April 1, 1853, and his widow has ever since
resided in Greenville. He followed his trade up to his death, and erected
many of the first buildings in this part of the county. Fred H. Gaiser has
always made Greenville his home. He began clerking at the age of sixteen,
in the store of S. P. Johnston & Co. In February, 1877, he obtained an in-
terest in the business, and has since continued a member of the firm under
its several changes. In September, 1887, Martin Kane obtained a half inter-
est, and the present firm of Gaiser & Kane was formed. Mr. Gaiser wms mar-
ried June 27, 1875, to Miss Abigail Bates, a native of Greene ToAvnship,
Mercer Co., of which union seven children have been born: Nora, Bert,
George, Eli, Thomas, Mabel and William, all of whom are living. Mr.
Gaiser is a stanch Democrat, a member of the K. of P. and K. of H. and the-
family adhere to the Reformed Church.
Thomas Chisman Gibson, clothing merchant, was born in Darlington,
England, November 8, 1847. His paternal grandparents, William and
Sarah (Chisman) Gibson, had a “registered coat of arms, “ and lived and
died in Darlington, England. The father of Sarah Gibson kept the “Queen’s
Head” Hotel in Darlington for many years, and after his death, at the age
of eighty-seven, his widow conducted the business for a long time, living to
the ripe old age of eighty-eight years. The parents of our subject, Chisman
and Hannah (Hodgson) Gibson, were also natives of England, where the
latter died in 1854, leaving a family of three sons. Chisman Gibson immi-
grated to Buffalo, N. Y. , in 1856, whither his children followed him in Jan-
uary, 1858. The family subsequently removed to Aurora, N. Y. , where the
father still resides. Thomas C. was educated in the public schools of New
York State, and at the age of twenty went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he com-
menced learning his present business; thence removed to Warren, Ohio, and af-
terward to Sharon, Penn. In June, 1871, Mr. Gibson came to Greenville, to fill
the position of cutter forHenlein & Bacher, and in January, 1873, obtained an
interest in the business, the firm becoming Bacher, Gibson & Co. This co-
partnership was dissolved in April, 1876, and Mr. Gibson opened a mer-
792
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
cliant tailoring and clothing house in the room he has ever since occupied,
and where he is conducting one of the largest trades in the county. Mr.
Gibson was married October 26, 1876, to Miss Lizzie Kern, of Greenville, a
native of Hamburg, Bucks Co., Penn., and a daughter of John and Wilhemina
(F eather) Kern, natives of the same place. Two sons have been born of this
marriage: Howard K. and Frank C. Mr. Gibson is a prominent member of
the Masonic fraternity, and an active adherent of the Republican party.
He was president of the Blaine and Logan Club in 1884, and has always
taken a deep interest in the success of Republican measures and principles.
He is also one of the managers of the Board of Trade, and every worthy enter-
prise finds in him a warm friend and generous supporter. The family are
members of the Presbyterian Chui'ch of Greenville, Mr Gibson being one of
the trustees of the church.
Alexander D. Gillespie, attorney at law, was born two miles east of
Greenville, October 10, 1822. He is a son of David and Hannah (Dumars)
Gillespie, the former a native of Ireland, and the latter a daughter of Alex-
ander Dumars, who settled two miles east of Greenville in the spring of 1800.
When oiu’ subject was six years old his parents moved to Big Bend, on the
Shenango River, and there spent the remaining years of their lives. Alexan-
der left home at seventeen to attend the academy of Greenville, then under
the charge of Rev. John Gamble, a well-known educator of that period,
where he spent one year. He then began teaching school in the winter seasons,
and devoted the remainder of his time to the study of law in the office of
William Maxwell, of Mercer. He attended Allegheny College at Meadville
during the session of 1842-43, and taught school until 1844. On the 17th of
December, 1845, he was admitted to practice, and ‘ ‘ hung out his shingle ’ ’
in Greenville. His surplus of cash to bridge over the period during which he
was waiting for clients was the enormous sum of 75 cents. The first
few years he scarcely made expenses, but with indomitable pluck he stuck to
the law, and finally became one of the leading and most successful attorneys
of the Mercer bar. Mr. Gillespie was married, July 4, 1846, to Miss Nancy
Linn, a native of Mercer County, who has borne him four sons: Alfred D.,
Cassius R. (who died while attending the Ediuboro Normal School), Eugene P.
(a prominent attorney of Greenville) and Alexander J. (a practicing attorney
of the same borough). Mr. Gillespie and wife reside on the west side, and
are one of the few remaining pioneer couples of the town. Throughout his
life he has been firm in his adherence to the Democratic party; assisted in
establishing the Greenville Progress, and for a time was its editor and pro-
prietor, and has been elected eight terms as burgess of Greenville, which fact,
the town being strongly Republican, speaks volumes in favor of his standing
among the people of his old home.
Eugene P. Gillespie, attorney at law, was born in Greenville September
24, 1852, and is a son of Alexander D. Gillespie, a prominent pioneer lawyer
of that borough. After receiving the advantages which the public schools
afforded, he entered Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn. , in 1868, where he
spent two years. Late in 1870 he entered St. Michael’s College, Toronto,
Ontario, and was a student of that institution till June, 1872, when he received
his certificate of graduation. Returning to Greenville he began reading law
with his father, and was admitted to the Mercer bar August 18, 1874. He
has since been engaged in the active duties of his profession, and has built up
a large and successful practice. Mr. Gillespie was married, November 25,
1880, to Miss Ella Davidson, of Sharon, Penn., of which union three children
have been born: Florence Stanley, Ellen and Robert Wray. He is a member
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
793
of the Masonic fraternity, a leading politician of the Democratic party, and
one of the best known attorneys of the county.
George H. Geauel, dealer in books, stationery, etc., was born in Pitts-
burgh, Penn., March 25, 1862, and is a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Nippert)
Grauel, he a native of Bavaria, Germany, and she of Pittsburgh. In 1863
his parents came to Greenville, subsequently returning to Pittsburgh, where
they remained a year or two and again located in Greenville, where his father
is now engaged in the bakery and confectionery business. Our subject was
educated in the public schools of Greenville, and at the age of seventeen
began clerking in a book and stationery store of the borough. He continued
clerking in this town till the spring of 1883, and the following nine months
clerked in Kansas City, Mo., returning to Greenville late in 1883. He after-
ward went to Pittsburgh, where he clerked until October, 1885, then came
home and purchased a half interest in the book store of John P. Derr, the
firm becoming John P. Derr & Co. In May, 1886, Frank M. Woods pur-
chased Mr. Derr’s interest, and the firm of Grauel & Woods was organized,
and has since carried on the business. Mr. Grauel was married, October 5,
1887, to Miss Della, daughter of Lyman B. Speir, of Greenville. Politically
he is a Eepublican, a member of the I. O. O. F. , and both he and wife belong
to the Methodist Episcopal Church.
John K. Hamblin, senior member of Hamblin, Sons & Co., proprietors of
the Greenville Foundry and Machine Shops, was born in Wilmington, Essex
Co., N. Y. , March 2, 1809. He is a son of Samuel and Rhoda (Smith) Ham-
blin, natives of Connecticut, and grandson of Simeon Hamblin, a native of
Maine, and a pioneer of Essex County, N.Y. Samuel removed with his family
to Licking County, Ohio, early in the thirties, where he died in 1838. His
widow afterward came to Mercer County, Penn. , and here spent the remaining
years of her life. In 1829 John K. Hamblin came West, and located in
Unionville, Lake Co. , Ohio, and taught school in that county two terms. He
then, as confidential clerk, took charge of a furnace store in the same county,
which position he filled three years, and then went to Cleveland, Ohio, to
occupy a similar position. In 1835 he went back to Wilmington, N. Y. , and
on the 20th of September was there married to Miss Elizabeth Hickok, a
native of Essex County, born September 10, 1810. Mr. Hamblin immediately
returned to Lake County, Ohio, and resided there until March, 1838, when
he removed to Greenville, Penn. , and opened on Canal Street the first foundry
operated in the town, and one of the first in Mercer County. For the past
fifty years, excepting one short interval, he has been continuously engaged
in the same business, the present foundry being just across the street from
the site of the one he established half a century ago. Mrs. Hamblin died in
November, 1846, leaving a family of five children: Henry M. , Mrs. Mary E.
Thalimer, of Greenville, Samuel, Mrs. Harriett Donaldson (deceased) and Mrs.
Emeline McClelland, of Warren, Ohio. Mr. Hamblin was again married in
April, 1848, to Mrs. Eunice B. Hunstable, who bore him three children; Albert,
a resident of North Carolina; Alice, wife of A. T. Kreps, of Hamblin, Sons &
Co.,and J. Charles (deceased). Mrs. Hamblin died April 6,1888. Our subject
is a Republican in politics, and the oldest surviving pioneer business man of
Greenville.
Henry M. Hamblin, of Hamblin, Sons & Co., was born in Lake County,
Ohio, August 29, 1836, and is the eldest son of John K. and Elizabeth Ham-
blin. After receiving the usual advantages of the Greenville public schools,
he attended Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn. A large portion of his
youthful days- was spent in Rock Island, 111. , and Boston, Mass. He read
794
HISTORY OF MEEUER COUNTY.
law in the former city, and, after his return to Greenville in 1805, practiced
his profession in Mercer County, and has served one term as district attorney.
In August, 1871, be became a member of the present firm, and has ever since
devoted his attention to the foundry and machine business. ]\Ii'. Hamblin is
married, is the father of three children, and is one of the stanch Kepublicans
of Greenville.
Samuel Hamblin, of Hamblin, Sons & Co. , was born in Greenville, Penn. ,
January 7, 1840, and grew up in his native town. After obtaining a common-
school education he entered his father’s foundry and machine shop, and
became master of the mechanical part of the business. He continued to work
for his father until August, 1871, when he became a member of the present
firm, with full control of the mechanical department. Mr. Hamblin was
married December 7, 1861, to Miss E. J. Kyle, of Greene Township, a native
of Dauphin County, Penn. Four children have been born of this union:
Mary C., John G. , Maud G. and Ralph R. Mr. Hamblin is a Republican in
politics, and the family are adherents of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Michael Hamill, proprietor of the Hamill House, was born September 29,
1842, in the parish of Fork Hill, County Ai'magh, Ireland, and is a son of Mich-
ael and Susan (Lee) Hamill, who lived and died in their native place. Our sub-
ject received a good education in his native land, and in August, 1865, immi-
grated to Greenville, Penn. , where he then had relatives. He worked for his
uncle a short time and then began clerking in the grocery store of Eugene
Rooney, with whom he remained three years. In February, 1869, he started
a grocery store, which he carried on successfully until March, 1881, when he
opened the Hamill House, and has since been engaged in the hotel business.
For the past fourteen years Mr. Hamill has had the general local agency
of all the steamship lines between the Atlantic seaboard and Europe. He
was married December 27, 1867, to Miss Mary Morgan, of Greenville, and
a native of his own parish in Ireland. Of this union six children have
been born to them, three of whom survive: Michael J., John T. and
Susan. The family belong to the Catholic Church, and Mr. Hamill is a
member of the C. M. B. A., and one of the stanch Democrats of the borough.
William Peeey Hanna closed his eyes in the sleep of death on Saturday,
October 6, 1888, at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, aged seventy-three years, four
months and twenty-seven days, after a lingering illness of several months’
duration. He was born at Carlisle, Cumberland Co. , Penn., May 7, 1815.
His father, John C. Hanna, was a native of County Donegal, Ireland, and
immigrated to the United States in early manhood, where he met and married
Hannah Smith, also a native of the Emerald Isle. William P. was thus of
pure Celtic stock, and inherited many of the characteristics of that remarkable
race. His parents resided successively in Cumberland and Allegheny Counties,
and removed to the borough of Mercer in 1822. They had then a family of
three sons and three daughters, viz.: Robert, John S., MaryH. , Sarah A.,
Nancy and William P. Sarah died at Mercer the year following their settle-
ment. Our subject received his education in the pioneer schools of Mercer,
and in 1833 came to Greenville to learn the chair-maker’s trade in his brother
Robert’s factory. He, however, did not like the business, having had from
early youth a strong natural inclination for drawing and painting. Fol-
lowing this penchant he quit his trade and engaged in house and sign paint-
ing, also indulging in his natural though uncultivated taste for drawing and
portrait painting whenever the opportunity offered. In his late home are a
few specimens of his brush, which he took pleasure in exhibiting to his friends.
His mother died at Mercer October 21, 1844, in her sixty-fifth year, and his
HISTOKY OF IIEKCFB COUNTY.
795
father then came to Greenville and made his home with his children until his
death, June 16, 1846, aged seventy-two. From early manhood William P.
was the mainstay of his parents, and their principal support in their declining
years. His brother Robert and sisters Mary and Nancy died in Greenville,
while John S. emigrated to Baltimore, Md. , and is supposed to have died there.
Politically Mr. Hanna was a stanch, unswerving Democrat, and faithfully
believed in and advocated the principles of his party. He was appointed by
President Polk postmaster at Greenville, December 29, 1845, and served until
May, 1849, when the administration of President Taylor having come into
power he was relieved from office. He then followed painting until June 6,
1853, when he was again appointed to the postmastership by President Pierce,
and reappointed by President Buchanan in 1857. Soon after Abraham Lincoln
succeeded to the Presidency Mr. Hanna was replaced .by William Keck, a
supporter of the new administration. In May, 1861, immediately after leaving
the post-office, he established the Union Democrat — the first Democratic paper
published at Greenville. He continued the publication of the Democrat under
trying difficulties until the autumn of 1864, when the business proving un-
profitable he sold the office to W. F. Chalfant, of the Argus, and retired from
the newspaper field. He ever afterward, however, retained a love for news-
paper work, and contributed many valuable articles to the local press. He was
also one of the best and most reliable authorities "on local history in Green-
ville, and his extensive memory preserved for the historian a mass of valuable
information on the early history of the town that but for him would have been
lost ’mid the rubbish of forgotten things. After selling the Democrat iilr.
Hanna opened a news and book store, which he disposed of in 1865 to Coni-ad
Bittenbanner, and subsequently spent a few months in West Yirginia. Ee-
turning to Greenville he again entered the book and news business, which he
carried on till burned out by the fire of January, 1871. He did not engage in
business after this event, but in 1874 he was elected justice of the peace, and
served five years, commencing April 11, 1875. liH. Hanna was married
October 13, 1859, to Miss Lizzie, daughter of Moses and Esther Blair, of
Crawford County, Penn., who has borne him two children: Lizzie, wife of
Lewis Klein, and William T. , now in the government mail service. His home
life was strongly marked with the Christian virtues of love and kindness, and
the deep affection existing between him and the members of his household was
an example worthy of imitation. For many years he had been a consistent
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and died strengthened and solaced
by the teachings of his faith. Mr. Hanna was generous and charitable beyond
his means, and could not pass by a case of suffering or need without extend-
ing consolation and a helping hand. Ever true to his friends, he had few if
any enemies, and was always courteous to friend and stranger alike. He pos-
sessed a modest, unassuming, obliging disposition, and was never so happy as
when doing a favor or granting a request. His thorough distaste of ostenta-
tion, and strong love for his fellowmen. were vividly illustrated by his dying
injunctions. He requested that his funeral should be a simple one, devoid of
show, and that the services should be conducted at the residence. Said he to
his pastor: “Say nothing about me or my life, but try and say something that
may find a lodging place in the heart of some friend present. ’ ’ Here was an
example of unselfishness and Christian charity worthy of perpetuation in the
pages of history.
Capt. W. F. Hakpst, one of the editors and proprietors of the Greenville
Progress, was born in Half Moon Valley, Centre County, Penn., July 13,
1837. He is a son of Philip and Sarah Harpst, and a grandson of Daniel
796
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Harpst, a Revolutionary soldier, who was serving under Washington when
Cornwallis surrendered his army at Yorktown, Va. The parents of our sub-
ject removed to Mead ville, Penn., when he was two years old, and he there
grew up and attended the common schools of the town. At the age of sixteen
he became an apprentice in the printing office of the Spirit of the Age, of
Meadville. In April, 1856, he left Meadville to try his fortunes in the West,
and for over three years he worked at his trade in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
In September, 1859, he went South, where he followed the occupation of a
typo in Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi till April, 1860, when, finding that
the political atmosphere in the South was getting rather warm for Union men,
he returned to Meadville, and worked at his trade till August, 1862, when he
enlisted as private in Company C, One Hundred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, for the nine months service. On arriving at Harrisburg it was
found that the nine months quota was filled, and his command then enlisted
for three years, and subsequently joined the army of the Potomac. Capt.
Harpst participated in all of the battles in which his regiment was engaged
during its service except Chancellorsville, when he was sick in hospital. He
was mustered out with his regiment June 23, 1865, with the rank of first ser-
geant, and returned to Meadville. He there resumed the duties of his trade,
and in September, 1865, came to Greenville, and began working in the Argus
office. He continued in that office till November, 1870, when he formed a
partnership with W. H. H. Dumars and Amos A. Yeakel, for the purpose of
establishing a new paper, and on January 7, 1871, the first number of the
Greenville Advance was issued by them. The following April Capt. Harpst
sold his interest in the paper to J. C. Brown, Esq. , but remained in the office
as foreman and assistant local editor till January 1, 1879. On that date he-
became a compositor in the office of the Greenville Progress, in which capacity
he served till May 2, 1881, when, in company with Frank C. Huling, he pur-
chased the office from A. D. Gillespie, Esq., and thus became half owner of
the paper. Capt. Harpst was reared a Whig, but cast his first vote for Doug-
las in 1860, and has ever since been a stanch adherent of the Democratic
party. In 1876 he joined Company K, Fifteenth Regiment National Guards of
Pennsylvania; participated with his regiment in quelling the railroad riots the
following year; was commissioned second lieutenant of his company February
18, 1878; first lieutenant, March 24, 1883, and captain, February 2, 1885,
which position he has filled up to the present. Capt. Harpst was married at
Greenville, Penn. , October 30, 1867, to Miss Emma R. , eldest daughter of
Edward and Matilda Yeakel. Five children have been born of this marriage:
Mary E. (deceased), Freddie M. (deceased), Sadie B. , Matilda G. and
Alice L.
Daniel Hasenplug, boot and shoe merchant, was born in West Salem
Township, Mercer Co., Penn., December 6, 1843, and is a son of Jacob
and Anna (Lichty) Hasenplug, natives of Union County, Penn. , who settled in
West Salem Township in the fall of 1834. Our subject was reared on the old
homestead, and attended the common district schools of his neighborhood. He
learned the shoemaker’s trade, and began business in Pymatuning Township
in 1865, where he remained until coming to Greenville in the spring of
1884. Hs spent some time in traveling through the West, and in
January, 1887, opened his present boot and shoe store, where he has
won and retained a fair share of the trade. Mr. Hasenplug served in
the Fifty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers three months, and subsequently
in the One Hundred and Ninety-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers nearly a
year and a half, his regiment being at Appomattox. On the close of the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
797
war Mr. Hasenplug returned to his home and settled down to peaceful
avocations. He was married May 19, 1868, to Sarah J. , daughter of John
Mowry, of Delaware Township, of which union two daughters have been born;
Lillie P. and Jennie M. The family belong to the Evangelical Association,
and politically Mr. Hasenplug is a Bepublican.
Theodoee Etting Heilman, contractor and builder, was born in Plum
Creek Township, Armstrong Co., Penn., January 7, 1842, and is a son of
George and Henrietta (Hengst) Heilman. The former was born in Armstrong
County in 1814, and the latter in Germany in 1819. They were married in
Armstrong County, where the father died October 9,1849, and his widow is noAV
living with her daughter near Fredonia, Mercer County. The great-grand-
parents of our subject were Peter and Elizabeth Heilman, who emigrated from
Germany, and died in Pennsylvania June 1, 1833, and January 10, 1832,
respectively, each being in the eighty-third year of their age. The grand-
parents of our subject, Daniel and Lydia (Yount) Heilman, were natives of
Westmoreland County, Penn., born in 1782 and 1790, respectively. The
former died December 26, 1832, and the latter June 24, 1868, both in
Armstrong County, Penn. His paternal grandfather, Christian Hengst, was
a native of Hanover, Germany, where he married a Miss Etting, and in the
spring of 1832 immigrated to Baltimore, Md. , and died near Cumberland,
Penn., in 1833. His widow subsequently came to Mercer County, and died in
1871 aged eighty-six years. In 1850 Mrs. Heilman, with her two sons, Theo-
dore and George, and one daughter, Lydia, now the wife of August Bye, of
Fredonia, Penn. , removed from Armstrong to Indiana County. Penn. , where
the family lived two years. They returned to Ai’mstrong County, and in the
fall of 1854 came to Mercer County and settled near Gillespie’s Corners, in
Pymatuning Township, where the mother lived eleven years. Theodore E.
began learning the carpenter’s trade at Gillespie’s Corners, and followed that
business until his removal to Greenville in the spring of 1866. Soon after locat-
ing in Greenville he began as a contractor and architect builder. For the past
twenty years he has been successfully engaged in that business, and through-
out that period has been one of the leading contractors of this part of the
county. Thiel College buildings, Thomas Gibson’s residence, the Fell House,
Yance Stewart’s dwelling house and Dr. Martin’s residence are among the
many buildings that attest his skill as a builder. Mr. Heilman was married
April 11, 1865, to Miss Loretta E., daughter of Dr. Augustus B. Bierdman,
then a resident of Crawford County, Penn. Dr. Bierdman was born in Han-
over, Germany, in 1810, immigrated to America in 1832 and died in Edinburg,
Crawford Co., Penn., October 20, 1869. He first read medicine and then
studied for the Lutheran ministry. Mrs. Heilman was born in Canton, Ohio,
December 4, 1846, and is the mother of four children: Luther A. (who died
in 1882, aged sixteen), Sadie, Gustavus A. and Adeline L. The family belong
to the Lutheran Church, and Mr. Heilman is a member of the P. H. C. , and
one of the stanch Democrats of Mercer County.
Geoege H. Heilman, carpenter and builder, was born in Plum Creek Town-
ship, Armstrong Co., Penn., January 4, 1849, and is a son of George and
Henrietta Heilman, previously spoken of. Our subject was reared in Mercer
County, and attended the public schools of Pymatuning Township. In the
spring of 1866 he came to Greenville and began learning the carpenter’ s trade
with his brother, Theodore E. He remained with his brother until 1870,
and then began contracting and building through the eastern part of the
county, which he continued in that section for five years, when he returned to
Greenville. He again commenced working for his brother, which continued till
46
798
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
the spring of 1880, when he formed a partnership with A. Sahm, under the
firm name of Heilman & Sahm. This lasted two years, when the partnership
was dissolved, and Mr. Heilman has since been one of the well-known con-
tractors and builders of Greenville, having erected some of the best buildings
in the town. He was married June 11, 1872, to Miss Julia A. Stillings, a
native of Fairview Township, Mercer County. Two children have been born
of this union: Hattie M. and Leona A. The family belong to the Lutheran
Church, and Mr. Heilman is an unswerving Democrat.
James A. Heilman, proprietor of planing-mill and lumber yard, is a native
of Armstrong County, Penn., born September 26, 1850. His parents are Isaac
and Hannah (Briney) Heilman, the former a native of Armstrong County,
born upon the farm where he yet lives, and the latter of Greensburg, West-
moreland Co. , Penn. Our subject grew to manhood on the old homestead,
and in 1870 came to Greenville, where he learned the carpenter’s trade. In
1877 he began contracting and building, and in May, 1879, in partnership
with his brother, Jackson B., and cousin, T. E. Heilman, purchased the
McPherrin planing- mills and lumber yard. In 1880 T. E. Heilman sold his
interest to his cousins, and the firm of Heilman Bros, came to be known as
one of the largest and most successful institutions of the borough. Mr.
Heilman was married August 6, 1879, to Miss Annie M. Schilpp, a native of
Allegheny City. Three children have been born of this union: Bertha M.
(deceased), Fred L. and Florence P. Mr. Heilman is a member of the I. O.
O. F., K. of P. and P. H. C., and the family belong to the Lutheran Church.
He is a Democrat in politics, and stanch in his adherence to Democratic
principles. He has been councilman of the borough, and in 1887 was the
choice of his party in this portion of the county for sheriff, losing the nomi-
nation by only six votes.
Jackson B. Heilman, who died in Greenville May 29, 1888, was the junior
member of the firm of Heilman Bros. He was born in Armstrong County,
Penn., March 13, 1856. In February, 1876, he came to Greenville, and learned
the carpenter’s trade with his brother, James A., and cousin, T. E. Heilman.
He worked for the former until May, 1879, when, in company with his brother
and cousin, the McPherrin planing-mill and lumber yard was purchased. His
cousin retired from the firm in 1880, and Heilman Bros, conducted the busi-
ness up to the death of our subject. He was married June 28, 1887, to Miss
Carrie Miller, a native of Allegheny City, Penn. He was a member of the I.
O. O. F. , K. of P. and the P. H. C. , and was a firm adherent of the Demo-
cratic party. He belonged to the Lutheran Church from early boyhood, and
remained a consistent member thereof up to his death. His frank, open-hearted
manners endeared him to all with whom he came in contact, while his straight-
forward, honest business principles stamped him as one of the leading young
business men of the borough. He was a whole-souled, generous, kind and
genial companion, and was highly respected by the best citizens of the
community.
Benjamin Henlein, retired clothing merchant and farmer, was born in
Wuertemberg, Germany, July 2, 1825, and is a son of Henle Henlein, of that
place. He grew to manhood in Germany, and in July, 1847, immigrated to
Franklin County, Penn., coming to Greenville in May, 1850, where his
brother Morris was engaged in merchandising. He began clerking for his
brother, and in 1855 obtained an interest in the business, then owned by his
brothers, Manassa, of New Castle, and Morris. The latter died in 1857, and
our subject continued the business with his brother Manassa. He too died in
1863, and Benjamin then became sole proprietor of the Greenville store. In
HISTOBY OF MEEOEE COUNTY.
799
1870 he sold his drj goods and grocery business, and continued the clothing
alone. In February, 1885, he retired from business and engaged in farming,
which he still follows. Mr. Henlein was married September 22, 1852, in Ger-
many, to Miss Amelia Ullman, of that country. Nine children are the fruits
of this union: Alfred F., an attorney at law of Greenville; Matilda, deceased,
aged twenty; Allen, deceased; Frances, wife of Julius Weis, of Philadelphia;
Morris, who died aged twelve; Gustav B. , of the firm of Bacher, Benninghoff
& Co. ; Manassa, of New York; Ida and Louis. Mr. Henlein is a Democrat in
politics, and a member of the Jewish faith. Coming to America comparatively
penniless, by rigid industry, economy and close attention to his business, he
has amassed a handsome fortune.
De. Fayette Hesrick, dentist, was born in Ontario County, N. Y., August
6, 1834, and is a son of Eben A. and Malinda (Webb) Herrick, natives of New
York State. When our subject was quite young his parents removed to Mich-
igan, where his father died. His mother afterward returned to New York,
whence she removed to Trumbull County, Ohio, where she now lives. Dr.
Herrick is the eldest in a family of three sons, all of whom are living. He
grew to manhood and received his education in the public schools of the
Western Reserve, and in 1857 began the study of dentistry in Ashtabula
County. In 1858 he commenced practice in that county, and in 1861 removed
to Gustavus, Trumbull County, coming to Greenville in the fall of 1865,
where he has since built up and enjoyed a large and successful practice. Dr.
Herrick was married August 18, 1855, to Miss Catherine M. Webb, of Ash-
tabula County, Ohio, but a native of Ontario County, N. Y. Two children
have been born of this union, Lenora B. and Fred A. The Doctor has always
been a Republican in politics, has been councilman of the borough, and is a
member of the Masonic fraternity. He belongs to the Lake Erie Dental
Society, the Odontological Dental Society of Western Pennsylvania and the
State Dental Society.
George W. Hewitt, jeweler, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, August 29,
1850, and is a son of George and Sarah Hewitt, the former a native of Con-
necticut, and the latter of Trumbull County, Ohio. His father died in Trum-
bull County in 1851, and in the spring of 1865 our subject removed with his
mother to Greenville, where he learned the jeweler’s trade. His mother
resided in that borough until her death July 22, 1888. In the spring of
1869 Mr. Hewitt bought out the jewelry store of David Hum, and has since
conducted that business. He was married in 1868 to Miss Amanda, daughter
of Simon Donner, one of the old retired business men of Greenville. Two
children have been born of this marriage: Cora and Clem. Politically he is
a Republican, and belongs to the I. O. O. F. ,K. of P.,K. of H. and A. O. U. W.
Elijah W. Hodge, of the Hodge Manufacturing Company, was born in
Gloucestershire, England, June 9, 1843. His parents, William and Amelia
Hodge, are both residents of that shire. He learned the fuller’s trade in a
woolen factory in England, and worked at it there till coming to Greenville,
Penn. In April, 1868, he and family immigrated to this borough, and for a
short time he worked at his trade. The Greenville Woolen Mills closed the fol-
lowing autumn, and he was compelled to go at coal mining. In October, 1869, he
entered Hamblin’s Foundry, where he spent nearly eight years working at
molding. In 1876-77 he began operating during the evenings, and when short
of work, a small brass foundry, a portion of his present plant. This gradually
developed into the Hodge Brass and Iron Foundry and Machine Shops, since
April, 1883, the Hodge Manufacturing Company. On the 2d of April, 1863,
Mr. Hodge was married in England to Ann E. Howell, who bore him six 'chil-
800
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
dren, foui* of whom are living: John H., Elizabeth A., Rose R. and Emma H.
His wife died in Greenville, in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
March 21, 1874, and on the 26th of the following November he was again
married, to Angeline L. Scott, of which union five children have been born,
four of whom survive: Thomas S., Garfield, Mary and Florence L. Mr.
Hodge has always been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his
wife a Presbyterian. Politically he is a Republican of strong prohibition pro-
clivities. John H. Hodge, machinist, and eldest son of Elijah W. Hodge,
was born in England May 23, 1864, and came to Greenville with his parents.
He learned the trade of a machinist in his father’s shops, and has since worked
in the same establishment. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and a Republican of strong temperance views.
Uriah Homer (originally spelled Hommer) was born in that borough August
20, 1823, and was a son of Joseph Hommer, a pioneer of West Salem Town-
ship. Our subject followed stock dealing all his life, excepting three years
spent at merchandising at W est Middlesex. He was married in April, 1852,
to Miss Mary J. , daughter of Adam Wier, of Mercer County. She bore him
four children, three of whom are living: Harry M. , Drayton E. and Warren
E., the two eldest being now the firm of Homer Bros., proprietors of meat
market in Greenville. Mrs. Homer died August 7, 1874, in the faith of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican, and a member
of one of the oldest families of the valley.
Frank C. Huling, one of the editors and proprietors of the Greenville
Progress, was born in Greenville, Penn., February 27, 1859, and is a son of
Robert and Mary (Kidd) Huling. The former was born in Williamsport,
Penn., and the latter in Mahoning County, Ohio. Robert Huling came to
Greenville in 1839, where he afterward married Miss Mary Kidd, whose par-
ents located near that borough when she was about eight years old. He was a
tanner by trade, and ran a tan-yard on the west side from a short time after his
arrival up to his death March 8, 1877. His widow now resides in Greenville,
and is the mother of six children, five of whom are living. She is a member
of the United Presbyterian Church. In early childhood our subject was
adopted by his uncle, John Crowder, and lived with him till a short time prior
to his death, in 1873. His early boyhood days were spent in Canada, New
York City and Cleveland, Ohio, at which points his uncle was engaged in the
lumber business. About 1871 Prank C. returned to Greenville, and received
his education at the public schools and Thiel College. He learned the printer’s
trade in the Progress office, beginning in 1878. In May, 1881, he formed a
partnership with W. F. Harpst. and purchased the Greenville Progress, and
the firm of Harpst & Huling has since conducted that paper successfully.
Politically Mr. Huling is a Democrat, and is a member of the Presbyterian
Church.
John J. Hutcheson, boot and shoe merchant, was born in Trumbull County,
Ohio, January 3, 1833, and is a son of William and Anna (Battles) Hutche-
son. The former was a native of Connecticut, of English descent, and his
wife of Niles, Ohio, of French ancestry. William’s parents removed from
Connecticut to Bucks County, Penn., when he was a youth, and there died.
In 1812 he came to Pittsburgh, where he joined the army that went to the
defense of Erie in the war with England. After the War of 1812 he settled in
Trumbull County, Ohio, where he was married to Miss Anna Battles, of that
county. They reared a family of five sons and four daughters : Mary (deceased
wife, of James Wilson), Elizabeth (wife of William Struble), Allen, Rebecca
(wife of George Beggs), Warren (deceased), Lucinda (deceased wife of Perry
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
801
English), John J., Asa and Clinton. In 1840 the family removed from Ohio
to Perry Township, Mercer Co. , Penn. , where the parents resided until death.
They were members of the Baptist Church, and patriotic supporters of the
government throughout the period of civil strife. John J. was seven years
old when his parents came to Mercer County, where he grew to manhood. In
the spring of 1856 he went to California, and remained on the Pacific coast
until the summer of 1861, when he returned to his home. He then went into
the dry goods business in Cochranton, Crawford County, and continued mer-
chandising at that point two years. The next two years he spent in the oil
country, and in 1866 opened a shoe store in Greenville, which he conducted
five years. In 1873 he formed a partnership with William Paden, in the dry
goods business, in which he remained three years, when he sold out to his
partner and purchased the boot and shoe stock of John Ramsey, and has since
been engaged in that business. In 1878 Mr. Hutcheson erected his present
store-room, which he has since occupied. He has been thrice married, his two
deceased wives having been daughters of Peter Fritz, Esq., of Greenville.
Four children were born of both marriages, all of whom are dead. His pres-
ent wife was Miss Theressa Boies, and is the mother of one son, John. Polit-
ically Mr. Hutcheson is a Republican, and a member of the Masonic and I. O.
O. F. societies of Greenville.
Simon Kameeee, dry goods merchant, was born three miles south of that
borough, March 11, 1822. His father, Jacob Kamerer, was born in West-
moreland County, Penn., September 26, 1788, and was married to Miss Mar-
garet Highberger, a native of the same county. In 1812 they removed to
Mercer County, and settled on the farm where Simon was born. It had a
clearing and a small log cabin, the latter being utilized as a sheep pen. When
he reached his purchase he drove out the occupants of the cabin, fixed it up
and lived in it until such time as he could build a better one. The whole sur-
rounding country was then a comparative wilderness, with a few settlers
scattered through the forest at long intervals. Wild game was so abundant
that Mr. Kamerer could at pleasure raise a window and, with his trusty rifle,
kill a wild turkey for dinner as the flock strutted through his garden patch.
Jacob and Margaret Kamerer reared a family of five sons and six daughters,
viz. : Joseph and Daniel, both of whom died in this county; Hannah, wife of
Gideon Falk, of Hancock County, Ohio; Samuel, a resident of Hancock Coun-
ty, Ohio; Mary, widow of David Beil, of Greenville; Simon, of Greenville;
Rebecca, deceased wife of Reuben Diefenderfer (deceased); Catherine, wife
of Charles Diefenderfer,, of this county; Lydia, wife of Daniel R. Saul, of
Greenville; Sarah, wife of George Fye, of Hempfield Township, and Levi, of
Greenville. The whole family were brought up in the faith of the Reformed
Church, in which belief the parents lived and died, the mother dying June 12,
1855, and the father August 6,1869. Jacob Kamerer was an ardent Democrat,
and served under Col. Andrew Christy in the War of 1812. He accumulated
considerable landed property, which, through the passing years, he divided
among his children, but resided on the old homestead, which adjoined his
first settlement, until his death, at the ripe old age of nearly eighty-two years.
During his boyhood days Simon attended the primitive log school -house then
standing on his father’ s farm, and remained with his parents till attaining his
majority. He then began learning the tanner’s trade in Isaac Greene wait’s
tannery, near Greenville, and completed it in a yard opened by his father on
the home farm. He operated this yard successfully for twenty-five years,
when failing health compelled him to give up the business, and in 1868 he
sold out and removed to Greenville. In 1870 he formed a partnership with
802
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
his son-in-law, Aaron Wagner, under the firm name of Wagner & Kamerer,
and began merchandising. This firm has since carried on that business. Mr.
Kamerer was married May 11, 1845, to Miss Henrietta Saul, a native of Le-
high County, Penn. , whose parents settled about one mile south of Greenville
in 1833. Of this union four children have been born: Margaret E., wife of
Linus Dorwart, of Mercer County; Anna M., wife of Aaron Wagner, of Green-
ville; Oliver D. , grocer, and George P. , druggist, both of the same borough.
The whole family are Democrats in politics and adherents of the Reformed
Church. Mr. Kam^’er was one of the leading spirits in the erection of the
Reformed Church of Greenville, and has always taken a deep interest in the
growth of that society.
David L. Kamerer, secretary of the Pymatuning Mutual Fire Insurance
Company, and secretary and director of the Keystone Mutual Storm Insurance
Company, was born in Delaware Township, Mercer Co., Penn., November 24,
1858. His grandfather, Samuel Kamerer, was a native of Westmoreland
County, Penn., and settled in what is now Hempfield Township in 1812. He
married Elizabeth Lininger, who was born in Maryland in 1790, thence re-
moved to Westmoreland County, and to Mercer County in 1802. They reared
eight children: David (deceased), Joseph, Benjamin (deceased), John, Esther
(wife of Frank Cooper), Elizabeth, Leah and Mary (deceased). David, the
father of our subject, was born in what is now Hempfield Township, January
7, 1819. He there grew up, and on the 6th of January, 1848, was married
to Lea Bortz, a native of Westmoreland County, Penn., born February 16,
1821, and who came to Lackawannock Township with her parents, Jacob and
Anna M. Bortz, in May, 1822. Mr. Kamerer lived on a part of the old home-
stead until 1852, when he purchased and settled on the farm in Delaware Town-
ship where he resided up to his death, October 9, 1888. They reared seven
children : Levi T. , Edward O. , Mary Adaline, Samuel S. , David L. , Franklin W.
and Tillman E. Politically the whole family are Republicans, and adherents of
the Lutheran Church. David was secretary of the Pymatuning Mutual Fire
Insurance Company twenty-seven years, and was one of the prosperous farmers
of Delaware Township. He was captain of the Greenville company of militia
for six years. Our subject here grew to maturity, and was educated in the
public schools of Delaware Township, and from early boyhood was more or
less connected with the Pymatuning Mutual Fire Insurance Company, of
which his father was secretary. In February, 1885, he came to Greenville
and began clerking, while at the same time conducting an agency for the
Pymatuning Mutual Fire Insurance Company. In January, 1887, he suc-
ceeded his father as secretary of this company, and has since filled that posi-
tion. In 1888 he was the leading spirit in the organization of the Keystone
Mutual Storm Insurance Company. Mr. Kamerer was married April 8, 1886,
to Miss Sadie E. Adams, a native of Delaware Township. They are members
of the Lutheran Church. He belongs to the Republican party, and is a mem-
ber of the P. H. C.
Franklin W. Kamerer, furniture dealer, was born in Delaware Township
August 27, 1861, and is a son of the late David Kamerer, of Delaware Town-
ship. Our subject grew up and received his education in his native Township,
and in the spring of 1879 began clerking in Greenville, which he continued
eight years. In June, 1887, he formed a partnership with L. F. Black, pur-
chased the furniture stock of Woodward Bros., and removed to the Johnston
Block, where they continued to do a large and increasing business till Novem-
ber, 1888, when the present firm of Kamerer & Newell was organized. Mr.
Kamerer was married March 11, 1886, to Miss Fannie Brown, of Greenville.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
803
He is a Republican in politics, and one of the enterprising young business men
of the town.
Martin Kane, dry goods and grocery dealer, of the firm of Gaiser & Kane,
was born in Kilrush, County Clare, Ireland, June 24, 1847, and is a son of
Patrick and Bridget Kane, natives of the same county. The family removed
to England when Martin was three years old, and both died in Halifax, Eng-
land. Our subject grew to manhood in that country, and in the fall of 1864
immigrated to Scranton, Penn., where he learned the boiler-maker’s trade, at
which he worked several years, subsequently traveling on the road selling
goods. In 1873 he came to Greenville, and July 2, of that year, was married,
by Rev. Thomas Tracy, to Miss Mary McEleavy, a native of the County
Armagh, Ireland. Of this union eight sons have been born unto them: Pat-
rick, John, Francis, James, Edward, Martin J. (deceased), Leo and Robert.
Mr. Kane followed merchandising in Greenville, and in September, 1887, he
purchased one-half interest in the general mercantile house of Gaiser, McClure
& Co. , the firm becoming Gaiser & Kane. Mr. Kane and family belong to St.
Michael’s Catholic Church, and he is a member of the C. M. B. A.,, and a
stanch adherent of the Democratic party.
William Keck, deceased, was born near Greenville, Penn., February, 29,
1808, and is a son of Joseph acd Catharine Keck, pioneers of the Shenango
Valley. Our subject obtained the usual advantages of a common-school edu-
cation, and grew to manhood upon the old homestead. On the 3d of April,
1839, he married Miss Harriett Asberry Sheriff, a native of Zanesville, Ohio.
Three children were born of this union: Lewis L. , William A. and Ella S.,
wife of James Morgan, and all residents of Greenville. In early days Will-
iam learned the fuller’s and carder’s trade, but did not follow that business
very long. He then entered the dry goods store of the late Robert Cochran,
a pioneer merchant of New Castle, Penn. He was there married, and soon
afterward opened a dry goods store at Old Harmony, Butler Co. , Penn. , in
partnership with a Mr. Ziegler. He afterward returned to New Castle, thence
removed to Sheakleyville, where he established and carried on a mercantile
business about four years, when he located in Greenville and followed clerk-
ing. In 1861 he was appointed by President Lincoln postmaster of the
borough, and after serving his full term of four years was reappointed by
Lincoln, and again by Grant, and continued in office until his sudden death,
April 27, 1871. He was succeeded by his daughter, Ella S., who was ap-
pointed and served four years. He was first a Whig and afterward a Repub-
lican.
John Keck, deceased merchant, was born on the old homestead, south of
Greenville, September 5, 1816, and removed into the village at the time his
father, Joseph Keck, purchased the old log flouring mill from the executors
of Jacob Loutzenhiser. Soon after attaining his majority our subject en-
tered the employ of William B. Osmon, a merchant of New Castle, Penn. On
the 24th of September, 1839, he married Terrissa Osmon, daughter of his
employer, who was born in Philadelphia, Penn., February 10, 1819. Her par-
ents, William B. and Terrissa Osmon, removed to Beaver County, Penn. , when
she was an infant. In 1839 Mr. Osmon died, and Mr. Keck became his suc-
cessor in the business, which had previously been removed from New Castle to
New Wilmington, and the following year he removed to Georgetown, Mercer
County, where he carried on the mercantile trade about five years. In 1845
he came to Greenville to take charge of the business of Vincent, Himrod &
Co. From that time forward he was engaged in merchandising for many
years. In January, 1882, Mr. Keck was elected president of the Greenville
804
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
National Bank, which position he filled up to his death, September 7, 1885.
He was the father of five children, three of whom grew to maturity, viz. :
George Osmon (deceased) J. M. and William D., a leading merchant of Mercer.
Politically Mr. Keck was a Republican, and filled the offices of justice of the
peace and burgess of Greenville, and was also prominently identified with
the growth and progress of the public schools. He was a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and one of the most respected and best known
citizens of his native county.
Lewis L. Keck, dry goods merchant, was born in Old Harmony, Butler
Co., Penn., January 30, 1840, and is the eldest son of William Keck, deceased.
He received a common-school education and began his mercantile career in boy-
hood days as a clerk in the store of Root & Hoge. He followed clerking up
to 1864, when, in partnership with his Uncle Henry, he opened a dry goods store
on the site of the First National Bank, Greenville, whence they removed to
the room now occupied by him. The firm of H. & L. L. Keck continued for
about six years, when his brother, William A., succeeded his uncle in the firm,
which then became L. L. Keck & Bro. In 1877 our subject sold out to
William W. Emery, and engaged in operating a coal bank west of town, which
he followed five years. In the spring of 1882 he re-entered his former business
in the old room, where he has since commanded a successful trade. Mr. Keck
was married June 5, 1866, to Miss Felicia, daughter of David and Euty
(Brown) Loutzenhiser, of Greenville. Three children have been born of
this union: Harry L., Florence E. and Frederick L. Politically Mr. Keck
is a Republican, belongs to the R. T. of T. , and the family are members of the
Presbyterian Church.
George Osmon Keck, who died in Greenville August 12, 1887, was born in
Sheakleyville, Mercer Co., Penn., February 13, 1842, and was the eldest son
of John Keck, deceased. He received a common-school education, and after-
ward attended Girard Academy and Allegheny College, Meadville, Penn. , and
for a brief period taught school in West Salem Township. In September,
1862, he enlisted in Capt. Wood’s company. One Hundred and Forty-fifth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and after serving five months was discharged on
account of sickness and inability to continue in the service. In 1864 he pur-
chased the interest of his uncle, Henry Keck, in the firm of J. and H. Keck,
and the firm became John Keck & Son. He continued business in Greenville,
Penn. , and afterward East Palestine, Ohio, up to within a short time of enter-
ing the private banking firm of Achre, Wick & Co. , in 1872, which was after-
ward merged into the Greenville National Bank, of which he was assistant
cashier and book-keeper, and also one of the directors up to his death. Mr.
Keck was married, August 17, 1869, to Miss Louisa, daughter of the late Hon.
John Allison, who bore him three sons, J. Allison, C. Clifford and George
Osmon, who reside with their mother in Greenville. Mr. Keck was a Repub-
lican in politics and a member of the G. A. R. He served on the school
board from June, 1885, up to July, 1887, when failing health compelled him
to give up the duties thereof. He always took a deep interest in the growth
and progress of the public schools, as well as in the social and material devel-
opment of the town. He died in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
with which society he united in 1870. He was also a member of the Masonic
fraternity, and was buried with Masonic honors. Mr. Keck was a man of high
standing in this community, and left to his children the rich legacy of an
unblemished character.
Stephen R. Keelen, contractor and builder, was born three miles east of
Sheakleyville, Penn., September 20, 1837, and is a son of James and Eliza-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
805
beth (Rowland) Keelen, natives of Bucks County, Penn. They came into
Mercer County early in the twenties, where they were married. James Keelen
was a stone mason, and did considerable contracting in building the locks on
the canal. He died when our subject was about four years old, leaving four
children, only two of whom survive: Stephen R. and Mary E. (wife of Sam-
uel Gibson, of New Castle, Penn.). His widow subsequently married Nathan
Hazen, since whose death she spends her time with her children. After her
second marriage she removed to the vicinity of New Castle, Penn., where our
subject grew up and learned the trade of a bricklayer. He has since followed
that business in different parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio and Kentucky, and
located in Greenville in the spring of 1874, where he has been successfully
engaged in contracting and building for the past fourteen years. Mr. Keelen
was married, July 4, 1863, to Elizabeth J. Henderson, of Lawrence County,
Penn., who is the mother of six children; Alonzo O., Robert B., Archy K.,
Olivia, Edwin E. and Elva. Politically Mr. Keelen is a Republican, and now
a member of the borough council.
F. H. Keller, deceased attorney at law, was born in West Salem -Town-
ship, Penn., March 16, 1859, and was a son of Christian and Caroline (Beck-
stein) Keller, natives of Germany, born September 6, 1830, and November 26,
1838, respectively. The former immigrated to Mercer County when a young
man of twenty-three years of age, and the latter to the vicinity of Greenville
when a girl of eight years old. They were married in West Salem Town-
ship August 19, 1858, and F. H. was the only fruit of this union. On the
breaking out of the war Christian Keller was in New York State, and imme-
diately enlisted in the three months’ service. On the expiration of his term
he returned to Mercer County, and enlisted in Company K, Sixty-first Penn-
sylvanian Volunteers, in which regiment he served three years. He died July
19, 1880, from disease contracted in the service, which incapacitated him from
manual labor. His widow afterward applied for a pension, which was granted
her in 1886. Our subject grew up in this county, and in September, 1876,
began working in a coal mine, where he remained three years, earning suffi-
cient means to defray his expenses in Thiel College five years. He entered
that institution in September, 1879, and graduated June 19, 1884. The
following autumn he went to Washington, D. C., and entered the law depart-
ment of Columbian University, where he graduated with the degrees of B. L.
and M. L. in June, 1886. He was admitted to practice June 8, of that year,
in the supreme court of the district, and shortly afterward returned to Green-
ville, was admitted to the Mercer bar at the September term, 1887, and began
practice in Greenville. Politically he was a Republican, and captain of
General Vincent Camp No. 179, Sons of Veterans. He was a member of the
Lutheran Church, and died in that faith April 5, 1888. Mr. Keller was a
young man of bright promise, and during his residence in Greenville had
won the respect and confidence of its best citizens. Straightforward and
honest in all his actions, he was likewise kind and courteous to friend and
stranger alike, and few young men of his native county possessed so many
warm friends.
Rev. Michael Kuchlee, deceased, was born near Hanover, York Co.,
Penn., November 10, 1800, and was a son of John Michael and Elizabeth
(Beringer) Kuchler. In 1806 the family removed to Frederick County, Md.,
and in 1811 to Columbiana County, Ohio, where Michael attended the pioneer
schools of his neighborhood. In the spring of 1818 Rev. Henry Heut, pastor
of the Lutheran Church of his settlement, sent young Kuchler to Wolf
Creek, Mercer Co. , Penn. , for the purpose of giving religious instruction to
806
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
the children of that community. In 1818-19 he taught school near Zion
Church, meanwhile studying with a view of entering the ministry of the
Lutheran Church. On October 2, 1821, he was married to Miss Catharine,
daughter of Jacob and Mary E. (George) Snyder, pioneers of the southern
part of Mercer County. She was born in Westmoreland County, Penn.,
April 1, 1802, and was also an adherent of the Lutheran faith. Soon after
his marriage Mr. Kuchler moved to Ohio, and taught a German school one
term. He returned to Mercer County in the spring of 1822, where he con-
tinued to teach and give religious instruction. Rev. Kuchler conducted his
first regular religious service November 26, 1826, at Herbst’s, in Mercer (now
Lawrence) County, and for nearly two years continued to serve several charges
in that capacity. On June 4, 1828, Rev. Kuchler was received into the
German Evangelical Lutheran Ministerium of Ohio, at Canfield, as a catechist.
In 1829 he was licensed by the Lutheran synod in session, at Lancaster, Ohio,
and was finally ordained at Zelienople, Penn., June 16, 1833. To Michael
and Catharine Kuchler were born eight children, six of whom grew to
maturity, and are still living ; John, of Rolla, Mo.; George D. , a physician of
Greenville; James S., a physician of Sharon; Louisa M. , widow of George
L. Baker, and a resident of BufPalo, N. A.; Lucinda H. , of Greenville, and
J. C. , agent of the Erie & Pittsburgh Railroad, Greenville. In 1839 Rev.
Kuchler and family removed to Erie, Penn. , and he labored in that section of
the State for many years. In 1860 he located in Greenville, where he resided
until his death, April 4, 1887, in his eighty- seventh year. His wife died in
Erie ten years prior to her husband’s death. From early manhood up to
within a few years of his death Rev. Kuchler’ s life was devoted to the interests
of his church in Northwestern Pennsylvania and Northeastern Ohio, his
active service extending through a period of nearly fifty- four years, when
failing health demanded a rest from labor. But his deep interest in church
work, to which his whole life had been devoted, never ceased till his eyes closed
in death. His last years were spent in Greenville, where he enjoyed the unceas-
ing devotion of his children.
De. Geoege D. Kughlee (originally Kuchler), physician and surgeon, was
born in Mercer County, Penn., April 6, 1827, and is a son of Rev. Michael
Kuchler, deceased. His early boyhood was spent in his native county, but in
1839 his parents removed to Erie, Penn. , where George D. grew to manhood
and was educated. He read medicine in that city, and in 1848 commenced
practice in Clarence, N. Y. In the meantime he attended lectures at the New
York Central Medical College, of Rochester and Syracuse. This institution
was afterward removed to New York City as the Metropolitan Medical College,
now the Eclectic Medical College of New York, where he graduated in the
spring of 1858. He practiced in Buffalo, N. Y. , from 1855 to the fall of 1861,
when he opened an office in the same room he has ever since occupied, over the
Greenville National Bank. Dr. Kughler was married in Erie, Penn., to Miss
Elizabeth F. Foust, of Norristown, Montgomery Co., Penn., who has borne
him four children, two of whom survive: James W., of Beaver Falls, Penn.,
and W. Wallace, general manager of theW. W. Kughler Company, collectors
and financial adjusters. New York City. The family belong to the Lutheran
Church, and the Doctor is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity.
Before the breaking out of the Rebellion Dr. Kughler was a Democrat, but at
that time he joined the Republican party, and still adheres to that political
faith. In 1877 the Georgia Eclectic Medical College conferred upon Dr.
Kughler the degree of M. D. He is a member of the National Eclectic Med-
ical Society, president of the Eclectic Medical Society of Pennsylvania, and
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
807
president of the Eclectic Medical Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania. The
Doctor enjoys a lucrative practice, which he has gradually built up since locat-
ing in Greenville twenty-seven years ago.
J. C. Kuchler, general agent of the Erie & Pennsylvania Railroad, was
born in Erie, Penn., September 1, 1840, and is a son of Rev. Michael Kuchler
(deceased). Our subject learned telegraphy, and after acquiring a knowledge
of that profession was, in 1858, appointed operator at Girard, Penn. , in the
Lake Shoi’e Railroad office. He afterward served in the same capacity at
Conneaut, Geneva and White Sulphur Springs, Ohio, and then at Franklin,
Union City, and Meadville, Penn. In 1863 he was appointed ticket agent
and operator of the A. &G. W. R. R., at Greenville, and in 1866 received the
appointment as general agent of the E. & P. R. R. in the same borough, which
position he has filled for the past twenty-two years. Mr. Kuchler was mar-
ried July 3, 1862, to Miss Helen J., daughter of Capt. Thomas J. Carlin, of
Conneaut, Ohio. Three children have been born of this union : Artie (deceased),
Eva Carlin, and one who died in infancy. Mr. Kuchler is a member of the
Lutheran Church, and his wife of the Presbyterian denomination. Politically
he has been a life-long Democrat, and stanch in his allegiance to the princi-
ples of that party. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and one of the
well-known citizens of Greenville.
Lester Kuber, attorney at law, was born in Allegheny County, N. Y. ,
July 1, 1835. His father, Israel Kuder, was born in Lehigh County, Penn.,
January 14, 1806, and June 17, 1834, was married in Allegheny County, N.
Y., to Miss Elizabeth Hollister, a native of that county, born August 9, 1818.
In 1836 they removed to Turnersville, Crawford Co., Penn., where they havn
ever since resided upon a farm which adjoins the Mercer County line. They
reared a family of six children: Lester, of Greenville; Mary Ann, wife of
William Durham, of Turnersville; Charles, who lives near the parents; Ju-
liett, wife of Reuben Camp, residing on the old homestead; John, a
merchant of Turnersville, and Osee, wife of J. W. Snodgrass, a con-
tractor and builder of Turnersville. Our subject grew to maturity under the
parental roof, and received his early education in the public schools of that
vicinity. He commenced teaching at the age of seventeen, and followed that
profession twelve years, four years in the district schools, one year in Har-
monsburgh Academy, two years in Chatham, Ontario, Canada, and five years
as principal of New Lebanon Academy, Mercer County. Upon the expiration
of his fourth year as teacher in the district schools Mr. Kuder attended Alle-
gheny College, Meadville, Penn., where he took the degree of A. B. in 1862,
and that of A. M. in 1865. In 1864 he began his legal studies in the office
of H. L. Richmond & Son, Meadville, and was there admitted to the bar in
1866. In the fall of the latter year Mr. Kuder took charge of New Lebanon
Academy, which position he filled until the spring of 1871. He then opened
a law office in Packard’s Commercial Block, Greenville, where he has since
been engaged in the active duties of his profession. Mr. Kuder was married
November, 19, 1868, to Miss Cordelia, adopted daughter of Dr. D. B. Packard,
of Greenville, who died March 31, 1873. He was again married November
19, 1874, to Miss Louisa, daughter of John and Catharine (Snyder) Rutter,
natives of Dauphin County, Penn., who came to Mercer County in 1847. Mr.
Rutter died April 27, 1879, and his widow still resides on the old homestead
in Delaware Township. Mrs. Kuder is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, while our subject adheres to the Presbyterian faith. Mr. Kuder has
always been a Democrat, and was once the candidate of his party for district
attorney, and though defeated he ran considerably ahead of the balance of the-
ticket.
808
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
William Laied, deceased, was born in tbe County Tyrone, Ireland, in
1806, and was a son of James and Ellen (Blakely) Laird, natives of the same
place. His mother died when William was only two weeks old, and when a
year old his aunt, Mrs. James Donnel, took him to her home and cared for him
till he was old enough to make his own living. In return for this loving care
Mr. Laird provided for his aunt for many years preceding her death. When
William was about three years old, James Donnel and wife immigrated from
Ireland to Chester County, Penn. , locating in that county in 1809, where they
remained till 1820, when they came to Greenville, William being then fourteen
years of age. Four years after coming to Mercer County he became an appren-
tice in the cabinet-shop of Robert G. Mossman, one of the pioneer business
men of Greenville and subsequently sheriff of the county. He spent three
years with Mr. Mossman, and after completing his trade he worked in Mead-
ville, Penn., and Vienna and Warren, Ohio, during which period he purchased
and paid for twenty-five acres of land, on which was a log cabin, as a perma-
nent home for his aunt. He also saved some money, and returning to Green-
ville, in 1835, purchased an, interest in the business of his old employer, which
then consisted of a furniture establishment and grist-mill, located on the north
side of Main Street, immediately east of the bridge. Messrs. Mossman &
Laird soon afterward established a woolen mill across the street, and took John
M. Graham into partnership to operate that factory. Mr. Mossman was
elected sheriff of the county in 1836, and sold his interest to Mr. Laird, who
soon afterward added a saw-mill to the business. In 1838 he sold out and
removed to a farm a short distance south of Greenville, where he resided five
years. In 1843 he returned to the borough, purchased considerable real estate,
and began improving the same. Among these improvements was a large frame
building, which stood on the site of Laird’s Opera House Block till burned
down. In 1877 he began the erection of the latter substantial structure, but
ere its completion Mr. Laird was laid at rest in the beautiful cemetery near
Thiel College, his death occurring December 14, 1877. Mr. Laird was twice
married, his first marriage taking place in 1838, in Vienna, Ohio, to Miss Lois
Woodford, a native of Connecticut, whose parents died when she was quite
young. Five children were born of this union, viz. : Mrs. Lovisa Miller and
James S., of Greenville; Mary E., deceased; Mrs. Celestia Camp, of Union
City, Penn. , and Susan J. , deceased. Mrs. Laird died August 3, 1850, in her
thirty-third year, and her husband was again married, February 19, 1852, to
Mrs. Rebecca Burton, of Brookfield, Ohio, who bore him two children:
Blakely, deceased, and William F., of Brookfield. A few years after his
second marriage Mr. Laird removed to Brookfield, but upon his wife’s death,
September 20, 1875, returned to Greenville, where he spent the few remaining
years of his life. Mr. Laird was a faithful member of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church, and was known and recognized as a plain, sober, industrious citi-
zen, and an upright, honest, Christian man. Beginning life a poor orphan
boy, he soon developed those industrious and saving habits which, ere his
death, made him the possessor of an estate valued at about $40,000.
William P. Leech, produce dealer, is a descendant of one of the pioneer
families of Sugar Grove Township, Mercer Co., Penn., where he was born May
21, 1824. His grandfather, John Leech, settled in that township in the spring
of 1802, and his father, Joseph Leech, grew to manhood, married and spent
his whole life in that part of the county. [See sketch in Sugar Grove Town-
ship of father and grandfather.] William P. received a good English educa-
tion, and taught school a couple of terms. He was married April 12, 1849,
to Miss Minerva Martin, a native of Greenville, and daughter of John and
HISTOEY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
809
Mary Martin, early settlers of Mercer County. Mr. Leech settled on a farm
close to the old homestead, where he resided until his removal to Greenville.
Four children were born to William P. and Minerva Leech, viz.: Lester D.,
Augusta, Elizabeth H. and Sarah E., all residents of Greenville, where the
mother died August 10, 1887, a zealous disciple of the United Presbyterian
Church. In early life Mr. Leech was a Whig, but was in at the birth of the
Repxiblican party. In the fall of 1860 he was elected, on that ticket, sheriff
of Mercer County, and served one term, and was afterward elected jury com-
missioner. In 1857 he took up his residence in Greenville, and, excepting
his term in the sheriff’s office, when he lived at Mercer, has ever since been
one of the active business men of the borough.
Lester D. Leech, general grocer, was born in Sugar Grove Township,
Mercer Co., Penn., March 20, 1850, and is the only son of W. P. Leech, of
Greenville. He resided with his parents until reaching manhood, and
obtained a good English education. In the spring of 1877 he and James
Loutzenhiser each purchased an interest in the queensware store of D. D.
Lynn & Co., of Greenville, and the firm name was changed to Artherholt &
Co. In December, 1881, Mr. Leech sold out to his partners, and in March,
1882, purchased a half interest in the grocery house of L. L. Kamerer, and
the firm of Kamerer & Leech was established. This lasted till February,
1884, when the partnership was dissolved. The following October Mr. Leech
bought out the grocery store of E. C. McClure & Son, and has since conducted
one of the leading houses of Mercer County. Mr. Leech was married March
3, 1880, to Miss Clara, daughter of John R. Packard, Esq,, of Greenville.
Two children are the fruits of this union: Josephine and John P. (deceased).
Politically Mr. Leech is an unswerving Republican, a prominent member of
the I. O. O. F. , and is one of the enterprising young business men of the
borough.
Frederick H. Leet, physician and surgeon, was born on the site of Roches-
ter, Beaver Co., Penn., October 17, 1821, and is a son of Jonathan and Mary
(Haymaker) Leet. The former was a native of Washington County, Penn.,
but removed to Beaver County with his parents, who were among the first
settlers. He kept a trading post at Beaver Point, and subsequently a hotel
on the site of Rochester. In 1819 he was married to Miss Mary Haymaker,
one of the very first settlers of Crawford County, Penn., and a subsequent
pioneer of Beaver County. The Haymaker family removed to the site of Kent,
Ohio, at an early day, where some of the descendants now reside. In 1851
Jonathan Leet and family removed from Beaver to Mercer County and located
on a farm close to Greenville, where the parents passed the remaining years
of their lives. The mother died in 1862, leaving a family of eight children
to mourn her loss. Her husband survived her ten years, and both lived and
died in the Baptist faith. Dr. Leet was educated in Beaver County, at the
school which subsequently became the Sewickly Seminary, and afterward
attended Beaver Academy. He taught school in Beaver County five years.
In 1854 he began the study of medicine under Dr. H. D. La. Cossitt, of Green-
ville, and in March, 1858, graduated at the Western Reserve Medical College,
Cleveland, Ohio. He immediately opened an office in Greenville, where for
the past thirty years he has prosecuted the duties of his profession. In Janu-
ary, 1863, Dr. Leet was appointed assistant surgeon of the Fifty- seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served in that capacity about nine months, when
failing health compelled him to resign and return to his home. He was mar-
ried March 8, 1864, to Miss Sarah F. Waldron, of Portsmouth, N. H. , who
has borne him the following children: Frederick (deceased), Irene, William H.,
810
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Susan, Blanche (deceased) and Clara. Dr. Leet was first a Whig and then a
Republican, and still affiliates with the latter organization. He is to-day one
of the oldest medical practitioners in Mercer County.
David Linn, retired farmer, was born in Delaware Township, Mercer Co. ,
Penn., October 19, 1812. About the year 1802 his grandparents, David and
Susan (Coyle) Linn, came from Westmoreland County, Penn., to what is now
Sugar Grove Township, Mercer County, with a family of nine children:
James, David, John, William, Anna, Betsey, Margaret, Polly and Jane, all
of whom, except Polly, became heads of families ere their decease. ■ After a
few years’ residence in the north part of the county, the family removed to
Delaware Township, where the grandparents died. James, the father of our
subject, married Anna Williamson, of Centre County, Penn., in 1811, and
located in Delaware Township, where both passed the remainder of their lives.
James was a soldier at Erie in the War of 1812. He and wife were members
of the Presbyterian Church, and reared a family of seven children: David,
James W., Jane, Susan, William P. , Eliza A. and Oliver H. P. , all of whom
are dead except the eldest and the youngest. David grew to manhood in his
native township, and in 1839 settled in what is now Otter Creek Township.
He was married October 18, 1840, to Mary M., daughter of Joseph Leech,
who has reared a family of seven children: Joseph, who died from the effects
of imprisonment at Columbia, S. C. , during the war; Sylvester J., of Salt Lake
City; Anna B., wife of W. A. McLean; Rhoda B. , wife of W. E. Davidson;
D. D., of Sugar Creek Township; Jennie, wife of John Wiley, and William
P. , of Salt Lake City. In the spring of 1873 Mr. Linn located in Greenville.
He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics
Mr. Linn has been a life-long Whig and Republican. He is to-day one of the
oldest representative pioneers of Mercer County, where he has lived over three-
quarters of a century.
Samuel C. Livingston, of Livingston & Moyer, general hardware mer-
chants, was born in Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., January 10,
1848, and is a son of Andrew T. and Elizabeth (Caldwell) Livingston. The
former was born in Washington County, Penn., in 1817, and was a son of
Samuel Livingston, born in 1776, and grandson of Joseph Livingston,, of
County Antrim, Ireland, who immigrated to America about 1788, and settled
in Allegheny County, Penn. In 1836 Samuel, Sr., located in Pymatuning
Township, Mercer County, where his son, Daniel L. , now lives. ’ His wife,
Sarah, was a daughter of Andrew Thompson, a native of Ireland, and a resi-
dent of Allegheny County, Penn. They reared seven children: Joseph,
deceased; Eliza J. , who married Samuel Caldwell, of Delaware Township;
Margaret L., who married William Walker; Andrew T., deceased; Daniel L.,
Sarah L. , and Catherine P. , who married Samuel Kennedy, of New Brighton,
Penn. The parents both died on the old homestead near Transfer. Andrew
T. Livingston was nineteen years old when his parents settled in this county,
and he here married Elizabeth Caldwell, who was born in Delaware Township
in 1819, and was a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Caldwell, pioneers of
that township. She bore him seven children; Samuel, Mary E. (deceased),
AVilliam, Ada, Eliza, and two died in early youth. Mr. Livingston died in the
United Presbyterian faith in November, 1884, and his widow resides upon the
old homestead. Our subject grew up in his native township, and after obtain-
ing a district school education, spent two years at the Edinboro Normal School.
In 1869 he and his Uncle Daniel engaged in milling at Hadley Station, in
which he remained four years, then came to Greenville and clerked for Pack-
ard & Co. nine years. In 1882 he and William Lohr established a general
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
811
hardware store in Greenville, in which he has since been engaged. His part-
ner died in 1886, and in January, 1887, H. F. Moyer obtained the interest of
Mr. Lohr, and the present firm was organized. Mr. Livingston was married
October 19, 1887, to Miss Mary Ohl, of Greenville. Politically he is a
Republican.
Marvin Loomis, president of the First National Bank, was born in Tyring-
ham, Berkshire Co., Mass., December 19, 1807. His father, Josiah Loomis,
was a native of Massachusetts, of English and German extraction, and was
reared in Windsor, Vt. His mother, Rebecca Loomis, nee Ray, was born in
Great Barrington, Berkshire Co. , Mass. , and was of Irish and French ances-
try. Josiah and Rebecca Loomis reared a family of six sons and five daugh-
ters, some of whom were born after their removal to Williamstield, Ashtabula
Co., Ohio, in 1816, where the parents spent the balance of their lives. Mar-
vin was the third eldest, and remained under the parental roof till attaining
his majority. He received a good English education, and taught school six
winter terms. In 1828 he visited Mercer County, and the next year took up
his residence in Salem (now Sugar Grove) Township, where he was married,
October 29, 1829, to Miss Mary Ann Walker. She was a daughter of James
and Catherine (McFetridge) Walker, and was born upon the old Walker home-
stead, half a mile west of Leech’s Corners, March 13, 1812. Her parents
were natives of Ireland, and her father settled in Mercer County in the fall of
1797. [See Walker sketch in Sugar Grove Township.] Mr. Loomis resided
with his wife’s parents and took charge of the farm until both had passed
away. In 1865 he removed to Greenville, where he has since continued to
reside. He was one of the organizers of the First National Bank, and also
of the Greenville National Bank; is a director of each and president of the
former, but has not been otherwise engaged in business since coming to
Greenville. Mr. Loomis and wife reared two daughters: Electa C., wife of
John H. Wilson, of Rock Island, 111., and Dora F., wife of W. W. Emery,
of Greenville. Mrs. Loomis died May 22, 1874, a fervent member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, to which her surviving husband and daughters
also belong. Politically Mr. Loomis has been a Whig and Republican all his
life. During his residence in Sugar Grove Township he served as school director
about twenty years, and since locating in Greenville he has filled the office of
burgess one term. In 1863, though fifty-six years old, he exhibited his patri-
otism by going into the three-months service, and is now a member of John
C. Dickey Post, G. A. R. , of Greenville. Mr. Loomis has always taken an
active interest in the social and material development of Mercer County. He
was prominently connected with the first fairs held in Greenville, and president
of its first agricultural society; and was also one of the organizers of the She-
nango Valley Cemetery Association and its secretary and treasurer. For
many years Mr. Loomis had the general management of the cemetery, and
was largely instrumental in having it finely improved and beautified. For
nearly sixty years he has watched the steady growth of his adopted county,
and for a large part of that time has been one of its best known citizens.
Beginning in early manhood without a dollar, he so improved his opportunities
that he is to-day one of the wealthiest pioneers of the county.
Frederick W. Looser, coal dealer and operator, was born in Essen, Prus-
sia, Germany, March 18, 1842, and is second in a family of fourteen chil-
dren, and a son of F. W. and Katrina Looser, of Prussia. In May, 1867,
he immigrated to Illinois, and engaged in coal mining, which business he had
followed for nine years in his native land. He came to Greenville in 1870,
and continued working in the coal mines till 1878, when he opened a bank
812
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
two miles west of town. He ran this till 1882, and then opened another mine,
which he operated till 1886, when he sold out and started his present coal
yard in Greenville. Mr. Looser was married in August, 1868, to Miss Amelia
Obst, a native of Germany. Six children are the fruits of this union: Will-
iam, Ella, Matilda, Lawrence, John and Fred. Politically he is a Democrat,
and adheres to the Catholic Church.
Jacob Loutzenhisee was one of the hardy band of land prospectors who
came from Westmoreland Co., Penn., in the fall of 1796, and selected their
future homes in the Shenango Valley, where they settled permanently in the
spring of 1797. Our subject first located on the site of Orangeville, in Pyma-
tuning Township, where he erected a mill in 1798. In 1802 he sold his prop-
erty and removed to a tract of land west of the Shenango, now partly in-
clirded in Greenville. In 1809 he sold this to Jacob Hommer, Sr., having
piirchased in 1806 the Williamson Mill, near Greenville, afterward known as
the Loutzenhiser Mill, which he ran up to his death in 1821. In 1815 he
built the old log grist-mill, which stood on the site of Mathers Mill, and also
operated it up to his death. Mr. Loutzenhiser was a native of Germany, and
a son of Joseph Loutzenhiser, who settled in West Salem Township in the
spring of 1800. He was reared in Westmoreland County, Penn., and married
Mary, a daughter of Daniel Klingensmith, and with his father-in-law became
the owner of a large tract of land in Mercer County, including the site of
Greenville, which they purchased from Lodge, Probst & Walker, Mr Probst
being the brother-in-law of our subject. These lands were sold or divided up
among the family, Jacob retaining the old homestead in Greenville till his
death. Jacob and Mary Loutzenhiser reared the following children; Betsey,
who married Jacob Keck; Jacob, one of the pioneer sheriffs of the county,
who died in February, 1864; John, who removed to the West; David, Daniel,
who died in Ohio; Joseph, who died in Indiana; Henry, who died in Illinois;
Polly, who married William Bean, and after his death became the wife of
Adam Wier, and died in this county, and Catharine, who married James L.
Wick, of Greenville, and died in 1887, being the last survivor of the family.
The parents both died upon the old homestead in Greenville.
David Loutzenhiser is perhaps the best remembered of Jacob Loutzenhiser’ s
children. He was born on the site of Greenville August 12, 1803, and resided
on a portion of his father’ s original purchase all his life. The widow of his son
Amos still occupies the old home on East Main Street. He was married March
25, 1823, to Euty Brown, a native of Crawford County, Penn., born in 1805.
They reared the following children: Amos, deceased, who left two children;
Jacob, deceased, who left a family of live children; Benjamin, deceased; Maria,
deceased wife of James Nesbit; Frederick, deceased; Catharine, deceased;
Henry, deceased; Emeline, deceased, and Felicia, wife of L. L. Keck, of
Greenville, and the only survivor of the family. Mrs. Loutzenhiser died
March 5, 1871, in her sixty-sixth year, and her husband survived her till June
21, 1882, in his seventy-ninth year. For many years preceding his death he
was comparatively retired from the active duties of life. He was a generous-
hearted neighbor, a kind father, and an honest, enterprising citizen.
Amos Loutzenhisee, the oldest child of David, was born on the old home-
stead May 20, 1824. He was married June 5, 1850, to Emily Ikler, a native
of Columbia County, Penn., whose parents, Phillip and Elizabeth (Kitchen)
Ikler, removed to Crawford County when she was nine years old. Her father
died in Kentucky and her mother in Greenville, Penn. Two sons were born
to Amos and Emily Loutzenhiser: James and Henry A., residents of Green-
ville. Mr. Loutzenhiser followed farming and stock dealing all his life, and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
813
died January 5, 1881. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and in
politics a Republican. His widow resides on the old homestead in Green-
ville.
Benjamin Loutzenhisee, deceased, was born in Greenville, Penn., January
28, 1829, and was also a son of David Loutzenhiser. Benjamin grew up and
was married in Greenville May 9, 1859, to Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and
Mary Hommer, one of the pioneer families of West Salem Township. One
son was born of this union, but died in infancy. Mr. Loutzenhiser resided in
Greenville and vicinity all his life. He was one of the most enterprising and
successful citizens of his native county, and accumulated through the passing
years quite a respectable estate. He died in the faiih of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church November 11, 1887. He was a stanch Republican, and a man
of unsullied reputation and honest character.
James Loutzenhisee, queensware dealer, was born in Greenville, August
15, 1853, and is a son of Amos and Emily Loutzenhiser, the former a native
of Greenville and the latter of Crawford County, Penn. J ames was the eldest
in a family of two sons, his brother, Henry A. , being also a resident of Green-
ville. Our subject was educated in the public schools of his native town, and
afterward attended Eastman's Business College, of Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , for
one year. In the spring of 1877 he and L. D. Leech purchased interests in the
queensware store of D. D. Lynn & Co., and with John R. Artherholt estab-
lished the firm of Artherholt & Co. In December, 1881, Mr. Leech sold
out to his partners, and the two remaining members of the firm have since
continued a successful and growing business. Mr. Loutzenhiser was married
February 10, 1880, to Miss L. B. , daughter of Dr. Isaac Mulholland, of
Greenville, now of Toledo, Ohio. Two children are the fruits of this union:
Clifford and Margery. Mr. Loutzenhiser is a member of the I. O. O. F., and
in politics is a Republican. He is now filling the office of second burgess of
Greenville, and is recognized as an energetic, enterprising business man.
De. William Cowan Edmiston Maetin, for thirty years one of the most
prominent physicians of Mercer County, died at his home in Greenville, Novem-
ber 19, 1885. He was born in South Sheuango Township, Crawford Co. , Penn. ,
October 28, 1829, and was a son of Robert and Jane (Stinson) Martin. His
father was a native of Ireland, and his mother of Mercer County, the Stin-
sons being one of the pioneer families of this section of the State. Dr. Mar-
tin was the fourth in a family of seven children, only three of whom are now
living; James, Samuel and Mrs. Susan McArthur. His early life was spent
on his father’s farm in Crawford County, where he received the usual advan-
tages that country schools afforded. In his fifteenth year he became a student
of Mosiertown Academy, where he spent one year, the two succeeding years
being passed in Kirtland Institute, then located in West Chester, Ohio.
Upon the close of his academic course, he taught school one term near Green-
ville, and in the spring of 1851 he entered the office of Dr. F. H. Judd, of
that town, as a student of medicine. After a year’s perparatory study he
attended lectures in the Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, and gradu-
ated in the spring of 1854. He soon afterward purchased the residence,
office and drugs of his preceptor. Dr. Judd, and located in Greenville as a
practicing physician. Dr. Martin was married July 12, 1854, to Miss Jennie
E. , daughter of Dr. John Hall, of Syracuse, N. Y. , a refined and accom-
plished lady. Mrs. Martin died in 1859, leaving one son, John H. , who is now
one of the leading physicians of Greenville. On the 5th of November,
1867, Dr. Martin was again married, to Miss Jennie P. Ralston, of Cannons-
burg, Penn., who, with their daughter. May, survives him. Dr. Martin wps
47
814
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
a Republican in politics, and in October, 1862, joined Company A, One Hun-
dred and Sixty-nintb Regiment, and served nine months. Soon after com-
mencing practice Dr. Martin united with the Associate Presbyterian Church,
and remained a faithful and practical member of the United Presbyterian
denomination until he passed to his eternal reward. He was a true, unselfish
friend, a kind, generous, father and husband, and a progressive, enterprising,
Christian gentleman. As a physician he was skillful and conscientious, and
no call of the sick or afflicted was unheeded by him, when in his power to
answer it, whether there was a prospect of compensation or not.
De. John H. Martin, physician and surgeon, was born in Greenville April
13, 1855, and is the only son of Dr. W. C. E. Martin, deceased. He was
educated at Thiel College, Greenville, and Westminster College, Wilming-
ton, Lawrence Co. , Penn. , and read medicine in his father’ s office. Dr. Mar-
tin graduated at the Eclectic Medical Institute, Cincinnati, Ohio, June 3,
1879, and at once associated himself in practice with Dr. W. C. Brittain, of
Cochranton, Crawford County, a former student in his father’s office. He
practiced there and at Utica, Venango County, five years, and then spent
about one year in the Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, of Chicago,
111., where he graduated February 25, 1885. The failing health of his father
necessitated his return to Greenville, where to a large extent he took charge
of his father’s business, and has since continued inactive practice. Dr. Mar-
tin was married Feburary 2, 1887, to Mrs. Grace P. Hill, of Akron, Ohio, and
resides in a handsome residence on East Main Street, Greenville. The Doc-
tor is a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities, and a warm ad-
herent of the Republican party. Since opening an office at Greenville he
has built up a large practice, and is now surgeon-in-chief of the Pittsburgh,
Shenango & Lake Erie Railroad.
James Mathers, who died in Greenville February 14, 1888, was born near
Mount Jackson, Lawrence County, Penn., July 8, 1810. His parents, Mar-
garet and Thomas (Baird) Mathers, were natives of Westmoreland County,
Penn. , and removed to Lawrence County, Penn. , then a part of Mercer, early
in the present century. His father died when James was only six years old,
but his mother lived to the ripe old age of nearly ninety, and died in Hubbard,
Ohio. They reared a family of eight children, none of whom are now living.
James worked on the home farm till eighteen years of age, and then went
out in the world to begin the battle of life. Soon after reaching manhood
he engaged in contracting on the Sandy & Beaver Canal, which public work
subsequently proved a failure. When the State began the construction of
the Beaver & Erie Canal Mr. Mathers obtained a contract to build Lock
No. 16, and afterward Dams Nos. 2 and 5. In 1842 the State refused to
appropriate any more money toward completing the canal, and subsequently
turned over the work to a private company. Mr. Mathers took a contract from
that company to finish eighteen miles of the canal, which he carried to a
successful completion. In partnership with James C. Brown, of Greenville,
he afterward assisted in building two bridges over the Shenango, at Green-
ville and Sharpsville, respectively. Mr. Mathers was also a contractor in the
construction of the Erie & Pittsburgh Railroad; built two short coal lines, and
was interested in the abandoned Air Line road. He was quite successful in
these several enterprises, and made considerable money during their prose-
cution. Mr. Mathers was married December 23, 1841, to Miss Sarah Welch,
a native of Hickory Township. Her father, William G. Welch, was born in
Washington County, Penn., and married Elizabeth Flenniken, of Greene Coun-
ty, Penn., whence they came to Mercer County in 1801 and 1803, respect-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
815
ively, both dying on the old homestead in Hickory Township. In January,
1842, Mr. Mathers and wife located in Greenville, where he had previously
purchased an interest in a flouring mill. With the exception of two intervals,
when he disposed of his mill interest and engaged in contracting, he was
prominently and successfully connected with the milling business in Green-
ville up to the illness which closed with his death. In August, 1880, the frame
mill was burned, and Mr. Mathers immediately began the erection of the large,
substantial brick mill, on the site of the old structure, which his sons, J. F.
and M. P. , now manage. Six children were born to J ames and Sarah Mathers :
Sarah J. (deceased), William W., James F., John G. (deceased), Elizabeth
(deceased) and Mead P. Politically Mr. Mathers was a Republican, and a
consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, to which denomination his
widow also belongs.
Hon. William Maxwell, attorney at law, was born in Gettysburg, Adams
Co., Penn., February 28, 1809, the son of William Maxwell, a member of the
Adams County bar, who died in 1816. Our subject read law in the office of
John Lashells, Esq., a well-known lawyer of New Berlin, Union Co., Penn.,
and was there admitted to the bar in September, 1831. In February, 1832,
Mr. Maxwell came to the town of Mercer, and was admitted to practice the
following term of court. In March, 1832, he opened an office, and practiced
the duties of his profession in Mercer until the fall of 1866, when he removed
to Greenville. In May, 1874, he was appointed president judge of Mercer
County, and served on the bench nearly a year. In September, 1861, by
authority of Gov. Curtin, Judge Maxwell raised the Fifty-seventh Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, of which he was commissioned colonel. He commanded his
regiment till sickness compelled him to resign. During his brief term of ser-
vice his regiment was stationed at Washington, D. C., where he acted as
brigadier-general in organizing several regiments into a provisional brigade.
It was the constant worry while thus engaged that produced the sickness
which necessitated his retirement from the service. Col. Maxwell was married
October 17, 1833, to Miss Caroline Geddis, a native of Lewisburg, Union Co.,
Penn., born in 1812. Of this union were born three sons; James, who com-
manded a vessel throughout the Rebellion, and died at Tampico, Mexico, in
1867, while serving as lieutenant- commander of the United States gunboat
“Yantic;” Ralph, now a notary public of Greenville, who served as captain
in the Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers the greater portion of the war,
and was subsequently a lieutenant in the regular army, which position he
resigned in 1867 ; and William, who died in New Orleans during the yellow
fever epidemic of 1867. Mrs. Maxwell still survives to solace her aged hus-
band in the evening of his life. Judge Maxwell is the Nestor of the Mercer
bar. Of the attorneys at the bar when he was admitted to practice but three
representatives in Northwestern Pennsylvania are still living. Before the
Rebellion Judge Maxwell affiliated with the Democratic party, but when
Sumter was fired upon he at once became propiinent in organizing the Union
party, and subsequently united with the Republican party. He has ever
since been stanch in his allegiance to the principles and measures of that
political organization.
Jambs B. McClimans, proprietor of meat market, was born in Salem
Township, Mercer Co., Penn., January 17, 1846, and is a son of Samuel and
Jane (Cannon) McClimans. The former is a native of Butler County, Penn.,
and came to this county with his parents about 1828, where he gi’ew up and
married Miss Jane Cannon, a native of Fayette County, Penn., whose parents
settled in West Salem Township, Mercer County, in 1833. Of this union ten
816
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
children were born; Margaret L., Martha A., David A., James B., Elizabeth
J. , Matthew Eli, William E., Sarah M. , Samuel A. and Thomas M. , all of
whom are living except the first mentioned. The mother died a few years ago.
Our subject was reared in Salem Township, and followed farming till February
14, 1864, w'hen he enlisted in the Second Pennsylvania Cavalry, and served until
the close of the war, returning to his home in August, 1865. He still continued
to work upon a farm till the spring of 1874, when he came to Greenville and
worked at the carpenter’s trade about three years. .He then followed the
butcher’s trade until the spring of 1880, when he purchased an interest in the
meat market of James A. Clark. He remained with Mr. Clark up to Decem-
ber, 1883, when J. A. Lyons bought out Mr. Clark. Our subject subsequent-
ly purchased Mr. Lyon’s interest and has since continued the business alone.
Mr. McClimans was married September 3, 1868, to Miss Adda E., a daughter
of Clinton George (deceased), of Sugar Grove Township. She was born in
Erie County, Penn., and is the mother of three children; Jennie (deceased),
Adella F. and George L. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal
Church of Greenville, in which body Mr. McClimans has been steward about
six years. Politically he is a Republican, of strong temperance proclivities,
and is a member of the G. A. R. and the F. M. C.
Phineas E. McCray, secretary and auditor of the P. S. & L. E. Railroad,
was born July 9, 1857, at Harmonsburg, Crawford Co., Penn. He was edu-
cated in the schools of his native town, obtained a knowledge of telegraphy,
and at the age of sixteen years entered the employ of the Shenango & Alle-
gheny Railroad as an operator, which position he filled for a few years, when
he was appointed chief clerk in the general office. On May 1, 1880, he wms
appointed auditor, and in 1882 he was made secretary of the W. P. & S. C.
Railroad, one of the connecting lines. In 1885 he was appointed secretary
of the P. S. & L. E. Railroad. In 1875 Mr. McCray became a resident of
Greenville, and has filled the office of borough auditor, and is the present sec-
retary and auditor of the Greenville Water Company. He is a member of the
F. & A. M. , Lodge No. 290, of Greenville, also a member of the P. H. C. No.
18. Mr. McCray was married in 1886 to Miss Annetta, daughter of Hon.
James C. Brown, of Greenville. Politically he is a Republican.
Dk. M. j. McElhaney, physician and surgeon, was born in Greene Town-
ship, Mercer Co. , Penn. , October 23, 1838. He comes of pioneer stock, his
father, James McElhaney, having been born a short distance north of James-
town, in Crawford County, and his mother, Margaret (Mahan) McElhaney, be-
ing a native of Mercer County. His grandfather, Matthew McElhaney, was a
native of Ireland, and one of the earliest settlers of South Shenango Township,
Craw'ford Co. , Penn. , coming there in the latter part of the eighteenth cen-
tury, when the whole country was yet a wilderness and the Indians still
roamed the forest. Both he and wife died on the old homestead, where they
reared a family of six sons and six daughters. That was one of those good
old-fashioned Irish families, who believed in the scriptural injunction to in-
crease and multiply, and who knew nothing of the new American idea that
large families are unfashionable. Only three of the twelve children are now
living, one son and two daughters. James was the second oldest, and was
born in South Shenango Township in 1800, and there grew to manhood. In
1820 he was married to Miss Margaret Mahan, whose parents emigrated from
Ireland to Westmoreland County, Penn., and thence to Mercer County about
1800, locating some three miles southeast of Jamestown, where Margaret was
born in 1802. Her father served from this county in the War of 1812, and
both her parents died on the old homestead, leaving a large family, a son and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
817
daughter, now residing in Crawford County, being the only survivors. Soon
after their marriage James McElhaney and wife settled in Greene Township,
Mercer County, one and one-half miles west of Jamestown. They reared a
family of three sons and three daughters, viz.: John K., living near the old
home; Isabella, deceased; James, deceased; Mrs. Jane Snodgrass, residing
across the line in Crawford County ; M. J. , 'of Greenville, and Leander, who
died while serving in the army during the Rebellion. The mother died on
the old homestead in August, 1870, and the father in January, 1887. The
whole family adhered to the United Presbyterian faith, from the grandparents
on both sides down to the present generation. Dr. McElhaney grew to ma-
turity on his father’s farm, and received his education in the public schools.
At the age of eighteen he began teaching school in his neighborhood, and sub-
sequently attended the academies at Meadville and Jamestown, Penn. He
continued to teach for several years, and was assistant teacher in the James-
town Academy a portion of the time while attending that institution. In the
spring of 1863 he began his medical studies under Dr. Gamble, of Jamestown,
Penn., and in the winter of 1865-66 attended lectures at Buffalo Medical
University. He commenced practice in the spring of 1866 at Hartstown,
Crawford County. In the winter of 1869-70 he again attended lectures at
Buffalo Medical University, where he graduated February 22 of the latter
year. Dr. McElhaney then removed his office to Brookfield, Trumbull Co. ,
Ohio, where he continued in active practice for fifteen years. In the spring
of 1885 he sold out and took a course of study in the Post Graduate School of
New York, and then located in Greenville, where he has since won and re-
tained a good practice. Dr. McElhaney was married September 24, 1867, to
Miss Letitia Wilson, of Hartstown, Crawford County, and has a family of one
son and four daughters. The family belong to the United Presbyterian Church,
and the Doctor is a strong advocate of temperance. He served in the ninety
days service in the Rebellion, and is a member of John C. Dickey Post No.
433, G. A. R. , of Greenville.
John G. McEate, farmer, was born near Oil City, Venango Co., Penn.,
December 16, 1837. His father, Joseph, was a native of Westmoreland
County, Penn., and removed w'ith his parents to Venango County when about
two years old, where he spent nearly all of his days, dying in Crawford County
in 1878. Joseph McEate married Margaret McKnight, a native of County
Donegal, Ireland, who immigrated with her parents to Sugar Lake, Crawford
Co., Penn., when nine years of age. She reared eight children, and died in
Crawford County in 1882. The parents were life-long members of the United
Presbyterian Church. Our subject was the third eldest in the family, and
grew to manhood on the old homestead in Venango County, and received
a common-school education. He began teaching at eighteen, and taught four
winter terms. He was married February 14, 1866, to Miss Lizzie A. Birch-
field, of Meadville, Penn. The following children have been born of this
union: Willis (deceased), Howard C., Percy (deceased), Cornell R., Le Grand,
La Pierre, Mary E. and Derwood. In 1866 he removed to Cleveland, Ohio,
where he was engaged in the real estate business until the spring of 1874,
when he located on his present homestead, in the eastern suburbs of Green-
ville, where he has since been engaged in farming. Mr. McEate is a Repub-
lican in politics, and the family belong to the United Presbyterian Church of
Greenville, in which body he has been a ruling elder about eleven years.
Jesse McQuiston, proprietor livery stables, was born in Westmoreland
County, Penn., October 18, 1825, and is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth
(Showers) McQuiston, natives of the same county. In 1833 the family removed
818
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
to Jefferson County, Penn., where they resided until 1849, when the parents
went to Lawrence County, to reside with their son, Samuel, where the mother
died. The father and Samuel subsequently removed to Illinois, and there
died. They reared six sons and three daughters, only two of whom, Nicholas,
of Jefferson County, and Jesse, of Greenville, are living. Our subject fol-
lowed the lumber trade for many years, and was married in Jefferson County,
Penn., to Miss Margaret Davidson, of that county, who bore him three sons:
Curtis (deceased), Clarence J. , of Sugar Grove Township, and Samuel K. , of
Youngstown, Ohio. Mrs. McQuiston died in Lawrence County, Penn., April
27, 1855, and he was again married January 1, 1858, in Mercer County, to
Miss Margaret Carver, a native of Poland, Mahoning Co., Ohio, but who grew
to womanhood in Mercer County. In December, 1859, Mr. McQuiston and
family removed from Lawrence County to Greenville, where he worked in a
saw-mill about ten years, afterward serving for six successive years as con-
stable. In 1869 he began operating a small livery stable, and has since grown
into quite a flourishing business. Six children were born of his second
marriage; Curtis L., James, Harry P. , Fred L., Wilbert (deceased) and
Charles Wesley. The family are attendants of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and Mr. McQuiston is a Republican in politics.
De. Chaeles a. Millee, physician and surgeon, was born in New Castle,
Lawrence Co., Penn., August 3, 1857, and is a son of William W. and Adela
(Moffet) Miller. The former was born in New York State, and removed with
his father, Almon F. Miller, to the vicinity of New Castle, Penn., more than
flfty years ago, where the father yet resides. William there grew up and
married Adela Moffet, a native of New Hampshire. In 1862 he enlisted in the
One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was killed at
Chancellorsville May 3, 1863, leaving a wife and two sons to mourn his loss.
Charles A. was the eldest, and subsequently went to live with his grandfather.
He was educated in the public schools of Lawrence County; read medicine
under Dr. J. W. Covert, of New Castle, Penn., and graduated at Pulte Medi-
cal College, Cincinnati Ohio. He began practice in 1882, and in the spring of
1885 came to Greenville, where he has since practiced his profession. Dr.
Miller is a member of Hahnemann Medical Society, of Cincinnati, and is the
only Homoeopathic practitioner between the towns of Mercer, Sharon and
Meadville. He was married December 13, 1876, to Miss Cally Bell, of Law-
rence County. Two children have been born of this union, one of whom is
deceased. Politically Dr. Miller is a Republican, and belongs to the Masonic
fraternity, A. O. U. W. and P. H. C. , and is the local medical examiner for
the two last mentioned societies.
William H. Millee, horseshoer, was born in Newburg, Orange Co., N. Y. ,
October -29, 1845, and is a son of Elmer and Alice (McCormick) Miller, the
former a native of Orange County, N. Y. , of Connecticut stock (his father
being a soldier of the Revolution), and his wife a native of Ireland. Elmer
Miller died in Chicago in 1852, and his widow returned to Newburg, N. Y. ,
and now resides in Cleveland, Ohio. Our subject grew up in the East, and
learned the horseshoer’ s trade in New York City, after which he spent three
years on the road shoeing and treating horses. In 1872 he located in Green-
ville, where he has since principally made his home. He was married Sep-
tember 23, 1875, to Lovisa, eldest daughter of the late William Laird.
Politically Mr. Miller is a stanch Republican, and a member of the P. H. C.
He is a local writer of some note on political and other subjects, and many
of his articles have recently appeared in the local press.
N. N. Moss, grocery dealer, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, October
HISTOKY OP MEECER COUNTY.
819
24, 1864, and is a son of Nicholas and Ann (Donie) Moss, natives of Ger-
many. They emigrated from Germany to Ohio, where our subject was born,
and in 1878 removed to Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., where
the parents now reside. They reared a family of eight children, allot whom
are living and adherents of the Catholic Church. Our subject grew up in
Trumbull County, and received his education in the common schools of that
and Mercer County. In 1886 he came to Greenville and began clerking, and
in March, 1887, formed a partnership with J. C. Kahl, under the firm name
of Moss & Kahl, which lasted until the spring of 1888, when Mr. Kahl sold
out to J. E. Davenny, and the firm became Moss & Davenny. This young
firm has built up a good trade and is doing a fair share of the business in their
line. Politically Mr. Moss is a Democrat, and a member of St. Michael’s
Catholic Church.
Robert Gillis Mossman, born in Fayette County, Penn., October 1, 1795,
eldest son of William Herdman and Sarah (Gillis) Mossman, died August 25,
1847, in Greenville, Penn. When but four years old his parents removed to
West Salem Township, Mercer County, at that time part of Allegheny County,
and settled at what was afterward known as Mossmantown. His early educa-
tion was quite limited. He received several months’ day schooling, and, being
bright and studious, he acquired a good knowledge of the rudiments of the
English language. His father was a manufacturer of spinning wheels, which
trade he learned and worked at when not engaged working on the farm. He
married Miss Mai'garet, daughter of Col. Andrew Christy, September 27,
1821, Rev. Samuel Tait, pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Mercer, officiat-
ing. He subsequently removed to Greenville, and settled in what is now the
East Ward, part of which is Mossman’s addition to Greenville. He carried on
several branches of business, such as a furniture factory, woolen mills, grist
and saw-mills, tannery and other branches of enterprise. He was a go-ahead
man, of unlimited energy, and contributed largely to the development of the
business interests of the place. He was a strong supporter of Andrew Jack-
son when first elected, but was afterward a Whig. He was the first Whig
sheriff of Mercer County, elected in October, 1836. Mr. Mossman was a consist-
ent member of the Presbyterian Church, and a man of sterling qualities, hon-
ored and respected by everybody. He had eight children, only two of whom
are now living, viz. : Rev. William Herdman Mossman, a member of Erie Confer-
ence, Methodist Episcopal Church, and Dr. Beriah Edwin Mossman, of Green-
ville. Sarah Ann, one of his daughters, married Dr. Reuben E. Breiner, father
of Mrs. E. T. Beatty and Mrs. William H. Findley; another daughter, Susan
Jane, married Chambers Templeton, father of Edwin S. Templeton, Esq., of
this place.
Beriah Edwin Mossman, physician and surgeon, was born in Greenville,
Penn. He is the fifth son of Robert Gillis Mossman, of that borough, descended
from Scotch-Irish ancestors, and Margaret (Christy) Mossman, a daughter of
Col. Andrew Christy, a pioneer of 1797. He received a thorough classical and
scientific education at the Greenville Academy, and during vacations was
under private tutorship. He began the study of medicine in the office of his
brother-in-law, the late Dr. R. E. Breiner, in Greenville, in the year 1861 :
entered the Cleveland Medical College in 1862, from which institution he
graduated at the head of his class, March 1, 1864. Returning to Greenville
he commenced the practice of medicine on the 9th of the same month, in com-
paay with his brother-in-law, with whom he remained until March, 1868, wffien
he entered an office by himself. In 1874 he became associated with Dr. H. D.
La. Cossitt, with whom he remained until the death of Dr.Cossitt, which occurred
820
HISTOKY OF MERCEII COUNTY.
March 1, 1877. After a number of years’ practice he moved his family to Phila-
delphia, and regularly entered the University of Pennsylvania, from which insti-
tution he graduated with first honors in March, 1879. He also received the
diploma of the Philadelphia Lying-in Charity, March 1, 1879, an institution
devoted exclusively to obstetrics and the diseases of females. Pie then returned
to Greenville and engaged in the active practice of his profession, devoting
special attention to obstetrics and diseases of women, in which specialty he has
built up a large practice. He was for many years the surgeon of the A. & G.
W. and S. & A. Railroads, and has successfully performed all the capital oper-
ations. In 1870 he became a member of the Medical Society of Pennsylvania,
and in 1874 of the American Medical Association. He is a member of the
Mercer County Medical Society, and is one of the members who, by zeal and
energy and love for the profession, established that organization. For many
years he Avas its secretary, and on January 9, 1877, was elected president. He
has contributed a number of valuable articles to the ‘ ‘ transactions ’ ’ of the
State society, and various other medical journals, and is a contributor to the
American Journal of Obstetrics. The Doctor is a prominent Mason, and at
present H. P. of Mound Royal Arch Chapter, a member of Eureka Lodge F.
& A. M. , North Western Commandery K. T. , and a member of Pennsylvania
Consistory Scottish Rite Masonry, in which order he has received the thirty-
second degree. On September 5, 1872, he married Emma E., daughter of
Reuben V. Hilands, of Greenville, and has five children: BeriahE., Nana M. ,
Margie B. , Hazel and Roy G. Politically Dr. Mossman is an unswerving
Democrat, and in the spring of 1888 came within three votes of being elected
burgess of Greenville, which usually gives a large Republican majority. The
Doctor is United States examining surgeon for pensions for this district, and
one of Mercer County’s best known physicians.
Thomas Mould, guide and hoop roller in P. L. Kimberly & Co.’s Green-
ville Iron Works, was born in Victoria, Monmouthshire, Wales, October 28,
1852, and is a son of Thomas and Hannah (Davis) Mould, he a native of
Somersetshire and she of France. In the fall of 1862 the family immigrated
to Duncansville, Penn., and subsequently lived in Allentown and Johnstown,
whence in 1866 they came to Sharon. Since boyhood our subject has worked
in the iron mills of Sharon and Greenville, and learned his trade in the works
of P. L. Kimberly & Co. , for whom he has worked for the past eighteen years.
His mother died in Sharon in 1884, and his father now resides with him, and is
a puddler by trade. Mr. Mould was married June 17, 1877, to Miss Priscilla
Parry, of Sharon, who is the mother of four sons: Thomas, William H. , Rich-
ard and Ralph P. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and
politically Mr. Mould is a Republican. He is also a member of the I. O. O. F.,
K. of P. , A. O. of F. and Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers.
Irvin M. Moyer, manufacturer of cigars, was born in Montgomery County,
Penn.. January 12, 1853, and is a son of Josiah and Mary (Miller) Moyer, also
natives of Montgomery County, where both spent their lives. His mother
died when Irvin M. was only five years old, his father surviving until 1883.
At the age of thirteen our subject left home, and began learning the cigar
maker’s trade in Quakerstown, Bucks Co., Penn. For several years he
worked at his trade in different sections of the State, coming to Greenville in
July, 1873. He worked for H. K. Reiss until 1881, when he formed a jiart-
nership with Frank Bortz, under the firm name of Bortz & Co. , and bought
out Mr. Reiss. In January, 1885, Mr. Moyer purchased his partner’s interest,
and has since conducted the business. He was married June 3, 1879, to Miss
Ella, daughter of James Bortz, of West Salem Township. Two sons are the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
821
fruits of this union; Ralph and Ray. The family belong to the Lutheran
Church, and Mr. Moyer is a stanch adherent of the Democratic party.
H. F. Moyer, hardware merchant, was born in Pymatuning Township,
Mercer Co., Penn., July 24, 1861, and is a son of Levi and Elvina (Diefen-
derfer) Moyer, natives of this State and, residents of Pymatuning Township.
Our subject grew up on the old homestead, received his primary education in
the common schools, and afterward attended the State Normal at Edinboro
three terms. He then taugfht school one term in the building where he him-
self had received his early education, and subsequently spent one course at
Duff’s Commercial College, Pittsburgh, where he graduated, afterward teach-
ing a term in his old district. Mr. Moyer clerked a brief time in Cleveland,
Ohio, and in May, 1884, entered the employ of Livingston & Lohr, as book-
keeper, which position he filled up to January, 1887, when, Mr. Lohr having
previously died, he purchased his interest in the store, and the firm of Livings-
ton & Moyer has since continued to do a successful business. Mr. Moyer
was married April 20, 1886, to Miss Permilla, daughter of Samuel and Lydia
(Bartholomew) Stoyer, of Pymatuning Township. Both he and w-ife are
members of the Reformed Church. He belongs to the P. H. C. , and is an
adherent of the Democratic party.
Oliver H. Muntz, manufacturer and dealer in harness, etc. , was born in
New Castle, Penn., April 24, 1863, and is a son of J. H. and Sarah (Rodgers)
Muntz, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Lawrence County,
Penn., where her parents were among the early settlers. Our subject grew
to manhood in Lawrence and Butler Counties, Penn. , his parents removing to
the latter county in 1875, and are now residents of Centreville, Butler County,
where Mr. Muntz carries on the harness business. When thirteen years old
Oliver H. entered a printing office in Centreville, where he served one year as
a typo, when the paper ceased publication, and he then began learning the
harness business in his father’s shop. In the fall of 1885 his father estab-
lished the harness business in Greenville, and placed our subject in charge
of the same. They have since done the leading business in the borough.
Mr. Muntz was married April 25, 1882, to Miss Anna, daughter of Pressley
Gill, of Centreville, Penn. Three children have been born of this union:
Almira, Laura and Raymond. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and in politics Mr. Muntz is a Republican. He is the inventor and
patentee of the bristle-bone whip, ornamental hame-clip, and a horse-tail
holder (a device for tying up a horse’s tail), which inventions are valuable to
the harness trade.
John Neel, contractor and builder, was born in Westmoreland County,
Penn., February 15, 1830, and is a son of John and Mary (Hendrickson)
Neel, he a native of Westmoreland County, of Irish parentage, and she of
New Jersey, of German ancestry. In 1831 the parents, with three sons and
one daughter, our subject being the youngest, removed from Westmoreland
County, Penn., to Mercer County, and located on a farm about four miles
south of Greenville, near the old Salem Church. Four daughters were born
after their coming to Mercer County, and of the eight children seven grew to
maturity and three sons and one daughter survive. The mother died near
Greenville forty years ago, and the father in Illinois, whither he and most of
the family removed about 1851. Our subject grew to manhood in Mercer
County, and learned th-e carpenter’s trade in Greenville. About 1852 he
started out as a contractor and builder. For the past twenty years he has
been one of the leading contractors in Greenville, and has erected many of the
finer buildings in this part of the county. Mr. Neel was married, January
822
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
17, 1856, to Miss Nancy, daughter of William and Ann Young, pioneers of
Hempfield, where both died on the old farm one mile east of Greenville, where
the water works are now located. Mrs. Neel was born on the old homestead,
and was at the time of her death the mother of five children: Lydia A. (wife
of Edwin McMannus, of Greenville), William H. , Mary (deceased), Curtin
(deceased) and Milton. Mrs. Neel died January 14, 1872, in the faith of the
Presbyterian Church. Mr. Neel is a Republican, and has filled one term as
councilman and two consecutive terms as burgess of Greenville.
Daniel B. Packard, M. D. , deceased, was born in Trumbull (now Mahon-
ing) County, Ohio, September 19, 1817, and died in Greenville, Penn., Sep-
tember 19, 1873, having completed his fifty-sixth year on the very day of his
death. In 1835 he removed with his parents to Northern Indiana, but
returned to his native place within one year. Though thrown upon his own
resources at an early age, by characteristic application he secured a fair edu-
cation. He commenced the study of medicine in the office of his brother. Dr.
John A. Packard, of Austintown, Ohio, and taught school during this period
to defray his necessary expenses. He attended medical lectures at Worthing-
ton, Ohio, and subsequently at Willoughby Medical Institute, from where he
graduated in February, lS42. He soon after began practice at Clarksville,
Mercer Co., Penn., removing to Greenville in August, 1842, where he formed
a partnership with Dr. H. D. La. Cossitt. Upon the dissolution of this
co-partnership Dr. Packard opened an office for himself, and vigorously prose-
cuted the arduous duties of his profession until embarking in commercial pur-
suits in the spring of 1854, when he gradually relinquished his professional
duties and devoted his attention to the interests of his new enterprise. Under
the firm name of Packard & Co., his nephews, Warren and John R. Packard,
being his partners, he opened the pioneer hardware and 'iron store of Green-
ville May 10, 1854, in the brick block erected by him the previous year. This
house has ever since continued to be the leading iron and hardware store in
the borough, and one of the largest in the Shenango Valley. Dr. Packard
retired from the firm in April, 1870. He was the leading spirit in estab-
lishing the dry goods house of Anderson & Packard, and also the queensware
and crockery store of D. B. Packard & Co. , in which he was interested at the
time of his death. In 1859 he erected the “ Commercial Block, ” corner of
Main and Canal Streets, and in 1873 remodeled and enlarged that structure.
Dr. Packard was married, October 26, 1841, to Miss Celestia, daughter of
John Cotton, Esq., of Austintown, Ohio, who, with one son, D.P., an attorney
of Greenville, survives him. He took a prominent part in having Thiel Col-
lege removed to Greenville, and was one of its warmest supporters
up to his death. Dr. Packard was recognized as a sagacious and successful
business man, who took an active interest in the growth and development of
the social and material prosperity of his adopted county.
John R. Packard, of the firm of Packard & Co., wholesale and retail
hardware merchants, was born in Lordstown, Trumbull Co., Ohio, January
31, 1836, and is a son of William and Julia A. (Leach) Packard. The former
was a native of Washington County. Penn., and the latter of Mendhan, Mor-
ris Co., N. J. The Packards and Leaches immigrated to what is now Mahon-
ing County, Ohio, in the early part of the present century. Our subject was
reared in Lordstown, and educated in the common schools and a select acad-
emy conducted by Rev. Joseph King, of the Disciple Church, and subse-
quently taught school in that vicinity. In 1852 he began clerking in his
brother’s hardware store in W'arren, Ohio, and in the spring of 1854 came to
Greenville and entered into partnership with his uncle. Dr. D. B. Packard,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
S23
and his brother Warren, of Warren, Ohio, as Packard & Co. After three
years his brother sold his interest to the other partners, who continued the
business until 1870, when Dr. Packard retired and our subject has since been
head of the firm. Mr. Packard was married September 26, 1859, to Miss
Augusta Buck, of Westfield, N. Y. Eight children have been born of this union:
Clara, wife of L. D. Leech, of Greenville; Cora, wife of F. A. Mallery, of
Erie, Penn.; Edwin B. , Celestia, Julia, deceased; Sylvia, Paul, deceased, and
Stanley, deceased. The family adhere to the Episcopal Church. Mr. Packard
is a Democrat in politics, a member of the Masonic fraternity, and is one of
the oldest and most prominent business men of Mercer County.
D. P. Packard, attorney at law, was born December 6, 1857, at Green-
ville, Penn., where he has always resided. He attended the Greenville union
schools until Thiel College was established, and then attended that institution
some four or five years, or until the death of his father. Dr. D. B. Packard,
who died September 19, 1873. He made a trip to California in 1874, and
afterward attended college at Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , from which he was called
home to look after the crockery and glassware business of the old firm of D.
B. Packard & Co. He has always been an active Democrat, and was elected
chairman of the Democratic County Committee in 1881 and again in 1882, the
two most successful years in the history of the Democratic party in Mercer
County, there being more Democrats elected to office under his administration as
chairman than ever before. He read law under A. F. Henlein, and was ad-
mitted to practice in January, 1885. In 1887 he was nominated liy his party
for the office of district attorney, and was defeated by a small majority, so
small that his party placed him in nomination in 1888 for the office of
State senator, and this was done without his knowledge and against his private
wishes. He is prominent in local military, fire department and secret society
circles, being adjutant of the Fifteenth Begiment National Guards of Penn-
sylvania, and foreman of the D. P. Packard Hose Co. , No. 1, which was named
after him. A Mason of high standing, he has filled every office in the power
of the lodge to give him, and was elected and served as district deputy grand
master of Odd Fellows for some three years.
William Paden, dry goods merchant, is a native of Delaware Township,
Mercer Co., Penn., where he was born April 7, 1847. His grandfather,
Robert Paden, was a native of the County Down, Ireland, whence he immi-
grated to Beaver County, Penn., as early as 1790, bringing his family with
him. Both he and wife and most of their children lived and died in Beaver
County. The only survivor, Robert, resides in Lawrence County. Robert
Paden, Sr., like most of the pioneers from Ireland, served in the War of 1812
against the hereditary foe of his native land. His son John, the father of
our subject, was born in Beaver County, Penn., in 1801, and there grew to
manhood. He married Miss Jane Patton, a native of Lawrence County,
Penn., born in 1810, and daughter of Nathan Patton, of that county. The
latter was a Pennsylvanian, of Scotch parentage, and located in Lawrence
County in the last decade of the eighteenth century. He reared a large
family, some of whom are residents of that section . of the State. He served
in the War of 1812, and both he and wife died on the old homestead, about
four miles north of New Castle, Penn. About 1835 Mr. Paden’ s parents
removed to Mercer County, where both resided until their decease in 1878.
They were members of the United Presbyterian Church and were highly re-
spected. John Paden was an ardent Republican, and took a deep interest in the
success of his party. Our subject was the eldest son in a family of nine children,
was reared on his father’s farm, attended the common school of the district, and
824
HISTOKY OF MEKCEK COUNTY.
afterward the high-sehool at Sheakleyville. In 1870 he came to Greenville,
and began clerking in the store of Charles Hoge. In the spring of 1871 he
and H. H. Lininger bought out the business, and the firm of Lininger &
Paden was formed. In the spring of 1872 the store was destroyed by fire,
and the partnership dissolved. The present building was then erected, and
Mr. Paden has since conducted business therein. He was married November
2, 1872, to Miss Olive A. Long, a native of Mercer County, and daughter of
David Long, an early settler of Otter Creek Township. Two sons and tw'O
daughters have been born of this union, all of whom are living. The family
belong to the United Presbyterian Church. Mr. Paden is a Republican, has
served in the council three terms and has been a school director several years.
He is also a member of the Board of Trade, and a prominent breeder of fine
horses.
John Pearce, head of the Pearce Woolen Company (limited), was born in
Allegheny County, Penn., March 20, 1831, and is a son of Richard and
Susanna (Holstein) Pearce, natives of England, who immigrated with three
children to Allegheny County, Penn., before the birth of our subject, where
six children were born to them. The parents both died in Allegheny County,
the father in 1802, and the mother about two years afterward. John was
reared upon his father’s farm, and on reaching manhood began learning the
miller’s trade in the flouring- mill owned by his father on the old homestead,
where he was engaged six years. In 1859 he removed to Harmony, Butler
Co., Penn., and purchased a flouring-mill, which he operated till 1805,
when he sold out and bought a half interest in the Harmony Woolen Mills, and,
in partnership with Robert Sample, carried them on till 1871, and then became
sole proprietor by the purchase of Sample’s interest. He operated this mill
till February, 1885, when, having formed a stock company known as ‘ ‘The Pearce
Woolen Mill Company (limited),” in Greenville, he erected the present mills
and removed his machinery and business to this borough. He has since con-
ducted a large and constantly growing trade, and the goods turned out by the
Pearce mills have a high reputation in the markets of neighboring cities. Mr.
Pearce was married May 5. 1847, to Amelia M., daughter of Michael Douglas,
of Beaver County, Penn. , of which union three children have been born to
them: Walter D., William A. and Anna L., all residents of Greenville, and
the two sons connected with the Pearce mills. He and wife are members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Pearce has always affiliated with
the Republican party.
Henry K. Reiss, tobacco merchant and postmaster, was born in Berks
County, Penn., May 3, 1833, and is a son of Marmaduke and Sarah (Kess-
inger) Reiss. The former was a native of Lehigh County, and his wife of
Berks, both of whom died in the latter county, he in 1858 and she in 1867,
leaving two children; Henry K. and Mrs. Hiram Holston, of Pottstown, Penn.
Our subject was reared in Lehigh County, Penn. , where he attended school
only about six months in early boyhood. At the age of ten Henry K. began
working in a tobacco factory, and the balance of his youth was spent in that
business. Mr. Reiss was, married July 15, 1854, in Allentown, Penn., to
Miss Fiana Lick, a native of Lehigh County. She is the mother of four
childi’en, only two of whom survive; Tilghman and Allen. The former is a
partner with his father in the tobacco business. In August, 1862, Mr. Reiss
enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and served until the expiration of his term of enlistment. In
April, 1867, he located in Greenville, and established his present business of
manufacturer and dealer in cigars and tobacco. In March, 1887, Mr. Reiss
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
825
was appointed postmaster of Greenville, and is the first Democrat to hold
that office since the accession of Lincoln to the presidency, in 1861. Mr.
Reiss is an unflinching Democrat, and both he and family belong to the
Lutheran Church. He is a member of Dickey Post G. A. R. , also of the
Masonic and Odd Fellows fraternities, and has filled the offices of school
director, councilman and auditor of the borough.
Petee Saal, deceased, was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, May 14,
1836, and in 1852 immigrated to Greenville. After a few years he went to
Illinois, where he spent about five years, and then returned to Greenwille. In
1863 he was married near Clarksville, Mercer Co., Penn., to Miss Susan
Batteiger, a native of Germany. Six children were born of this marriage:
Emma, Maggie, Mary, Charles, George and Clara, all of whom are living.
Mr. Saal was a brewer by trade, and worked for Mr. Ohl, of Greenville, many
years. He subsequently became a partner in the business, and finally sole
owner of the brewery. About ten years ago he gave up the manufactui’e of
beer, and established a bottling works, which he conducted up to his death,
September 10, 1887. He was a member of the Reformed Church, to which
faith his widow and family also belong. In politics he was a Democrat. Mr.
Saal was an upright, honest man, straightforward and courteous in his deal-
ings, and had many friends among the people of Greenville, where he came,
an unknown boy, thirty-five years ago.
John E. Sankey, farmer, was born in Edenburg, Lawrence Co., Penn.,
June 11, 1827, and is a son of John R. and Cynthia (Espy) Sankey. His
grandfather, Ezekiel Sankey, and family, emigrated from east of the Mount-
ains, in the latter part of the eighteenth century or early in the present one, to
the Shenango Valley, and located in that portion of Mercer County cut off in
the organization of Lawrence. They reared a large family, and the parents
both died on the homestead in Shenango Township. Ezekiel Sankey was the
second sheriff of Mercer County, and was county commissioner two terms. He
served at Erie in the War of 1812, and died from the effects of a cold con-
tracted during his service there. John R. , the father of our subject, was born
November 3, 1797, and grew to manhood on the old homestead in Lawrence
County. He learned the cabinet-maker’ s trade, which he followed most of his
life, in that portion of the State. He married Cynthia Espy, a native of Tarrs-
town, Penn., born in April, 1799, whose parents were pioneers of that portion
of Lawrence County. They reared six children, all of whom are living. Both
were members of the Presbyterian Church, and the mother died in June, 1854,
her husband surviving her until March, 27, 1868. Our subject spent his boy-
hood days under the parental roof, andlearned the carder’s and fuller’s trade in
a woolen mill. Soon after completing his trade he went into farming, and has
followed that occupation a large portion of his life. For the past twenty years
he has devoted his attention to the sale of agricultural implements, and is well
known in every portion of the county. He was married November 8, 1849, to
Miss Nancy A. Wines, a native of Beaver County, Penn., who has borne him
seven children: William W., Cynthia A., Ezekiel V., James M. (deceased),
Carrie (deceased), Edwin M. and King. In February, 1865, Mr. Sankey re-
moved from Lawrence County to a farm in Sugar Grove Township, upon which
his son William now lives, and in 1874 he removed to Greenville, where he has
since resided. Mr. Sankey is a Democrat in politics, and the family attend
the Methodist Episcopal Church. He filled the office of justice of the peace in
Sugar Grove Township one term. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. , and the
A. O. U. W., and is one of the well-to-do citizens of the county.
Aaeon Saul, grocery merchant, was born in Berks County, Penn., Febru-
826
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ary 7, 1827. His parents were Daniel and Polly (Reichart) Saul, natives of
Berks County, Penn., where they were married. In the spring of 1833, with a
family of six children, they came to Mercer County, and located on a farm on
the Mercer road, one mile south of Greenville. They reared seven children:
Henrietta, Aaron, Daniel, William, Mary, James A. and Nancy, all of whom
are residents of this county. The father was a tailor by trade, and followed
that business all his life. Politically he was a Whig, and afterward a Repub-
lican, and died on the old homestead May 2, 1885, his widow surviving him
until August 20, 1887. Both lived and died consistent members of the Re-
formed Church. Our subject grew up on the old homestead, and July 4, 1848,
he was married to Miss Maria, only child of Jacob Beitler, an early settler of
West Salem Township. Mrs. Saul was born in Eastern Pennsylvania, but was
reared in Mercer County. Three children are the fruits of this marriage:
Mary E. L. , Martha H. J. and Agnes H. L., all living and heads of families.
Mr. Saul farmed two years after his marriage, then removed to Greenville, and
for sixteen years drove a mail line. He had the routes from Greenville to
Orangeville, Ohio, and also to Franklin, Penn. In 1862 he went into the gro-
cery business with Samuel West, whom he bought out in less than a year, and
has since continued alone. Mr. Saul is a member of the Reformed Church,
and his wife is a Lutheran. Politically he is a Republican, and one of the
oldest and best known business men of Greenville.
William Haevy Sheakley, attorney at law, was born on the old Sheakley
farm, November 10, 1833, and is the third son of Moses and Susan (Limber)
Sheakley. He grew up in his native township, receiving his education in the
public schools and at Allegheny College, Meadville. After teaching a few
years he began his law studies under Gen. Wilson, of Franklin, Penn. , and was
there admitted to the bar in 1800. He returned to Sheakley ville, and in 1861
was admitted to practice at Mercer. In the fall of 1862 he was elected, on
the Union ticket, district attorney, and took up his residence in Mercer,
where he practiced for five years. In 1868 Mr. Sheakley opened an office in
Greenville, where he has ever since prosecuted the duties of his profession.
He has always been independent in politics; was a Democrat up to the war,
then joined the Republican party; in 1872 supported Greely, and since that
time has again affiliated with the Democratic party. Mr. Sheakley was mar-
ried in 1862 to Miss Lydia Hay, of Girard, Erie Co. , Penn. , who has borne him
three sons and one daughter, all living in Greenville except Samuel H. , who
graduated with first honors at Thiel College, in the class of 1883, and is now
principal of the public schools of Nashua, Iowa.
John T. Shdtt, physician and surgeon, was born in Armstrong County,
Penn., May 18, 1851, and is a son of Michael and Sarah (Ashbaugh) Shutt,
natives and residents of that county. Dr. Shutt was reared in Armstrong
County, where he obtained the usual advantages of a common school educa-
tion. In the fall of 1873 he came to Greenville for the purpose of attending
Thiel College, at which institution he spent three years. In 1876 he began
reading medicine in his native county, and in the winters of 1878-79 and 1879-
80 he attended lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Balti-
more, Md., where he graduated in the spring of the latter year. He commenced
practice in Greenville in June, 1880, where he has since made his perma-
nent home. Dr. Shutt was married June 17, 1880, to Miss Mary, daughter of
George A. Bittenbanner, one of the pioneer business men of the town. Two
children are the fruits of this union: Louise and Albert. Dr. Shutt is a member
of the Presbyterian Church, and belongs to the Democratic party. He is a
member of the Mercer County Medical Society, of which he has been secre-
tary and vice-president.
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
827
David S. Soult, oil dealer and producer, was born in Clearfield County,
Penn., October 19, 1841, and is a son of Michael and Hannah (Hoover) Soult.
The former was a native of Union County, Penn,, and removed to Clearfield
County when he was ten years old, where he grew up and married Hannah
Hoover, a native of that county. In 1863 they removed with a family of five
children to Greenville, subsequently settling on a farm in Delaware Township,
whence they returned to Greenville, where Michael Soult died in August, 1881,
in the faith of the United Brethren Church. His widow resides in Greenville,
and is also a member of the United Brethren denomination. Our subject was
the third son in a family of eleven children, and grew to maturity in his native
county. He received a good common school education, and taught school
three winter terms. In 1864 he left Greenville and went into the oil country,
where he engaged in the oil business, and has since been a dealer and pro- •
ducer of oil. Mr. Soult was married January 6, 1869, to Miss Nannie G.
English, of Fairview, Mercer Co., Penn., and took up his residence in Titus-
ville, Penn. In 1876 he went west, and in the following year settled in Mead-
ville, Penn. In the spring of 1878 he came to Greenville and built his pres-
ent residence on Meadville Street, where he has since resided. Four children
have been born to David S. and Nannie G. Soult: Fannie E., deceased; Eda
M. , deceased; Edwin Earl and Edson Carl. Mr. Soult is a stanch Republi-
can and the family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. He com-
menced life in moderate circumstances, and has been quite successful in his
many business ventures.
Lyman B. Speie was born in West Salem Township, Mercer County, Janu-
ary 25, 1838. His parents wore John H. and Sarah (Smail) Speir, pioneers of
that township, where a sketch of the Speir family will be found. Our subject
was reared on the old homestead, and in 1863 came to Greenville and followed
the coal business for one year. He then went to Warren County, Penn.,
where, after about six months spent in the lumber business, ha returned to
Greenville, and was in the grocery business about one year. In the fall of
1866 he engaged in the livery business, which he carried on until April, 1888,
when he sold out. Mr. Speir was married June 20, 1861, to Eliza J. , daugh-
ter of Bartlett McLaughlin, one of the well remembered farmers of West
Salem Township. Three children were born of this union: Bartlett E., Della
(wife of George Grauel, of Greenville) and Sarah N. The family attend the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Speir is a member of the I. O. O. F. ,
R. T. of T. and F. M. C. He is a stanch Republican, and in November, 1888,
was elected to the Legislature as one of the three representatives of Mercer
County.
Vance Stewart, retired farmer, was born in what is now Hickory Township,
Mercer Co., Penn., May 15, 1818. His father, Vance Stewart, emigrated
with his parents from Ireland to Huntingdon County, Penn. , when he was
about four years old, where both died, and where his father, John, was
engaged in farming up to his death. Vance Sr. grew to manhood in that
county, and there married Mary, daughter of James Sample, who emigrated
with his family from Ireland when she was a small child. In 1805 Vance
Stewart, Sr., and wife, with one child, James, crossed the Mountains on a pack
horse, and located on a tract of land south of the site of Hickory Corners,
in Mercer County. They were the parents of thirteen children, two of whom
died in infancy. Of the remaining eleven, five sons and two daughters became
heads of families, of whom but two, Vance and Robert, survive. The parents
resided all their days upon the old homestead where Robert now lives. Thej''
were members of the United Presbyterian Church, and died in that faith
828
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
March 22, 1855, and May 24, 1867, respectively, aged seventy-three and
eighty-five years. Our subject grew to manhood in his native township, and
attended school in the primitive log school-house of pioneer days. On the 2d
of November, 1842, he was married to Miss Eliza M., daughter of John and
Leonora (Gilbert) Sherrard, the former a native of Franklin County, Penn.,
and the latter of Berkley County, W. Va. Mrs. Stewart was born in Franklin
County, Penn., and came to Mercer County with her parents in childhood.
In the spring of 1844 Mr. Stewart removed to Upper Sandusky, Ohio, return-
ing to Mercer County three years afterward. With the exception of this
period, and a few years spent in the oil country, his whole life has been passed
in his native county. Vance and Eliza M. Stewart have reared five children:
Mrs. Mary J. Bartlett, of New Richmond, W'is. ; James W. , a lawyer of
Cleveland, Ohio; Orlando V., pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, Steu-
benville, Ohio; Wilber V. (deceased) and Della. They settled on a farm south
of Greenville in 1862, removing to Greenville in 1864. The family are Pres-
byterians in religious faith, and Republicans in politics. The sons all gradu-
ated at Westminster College. Beginning in life comparatively poor Mr.
Stewart has accumulated a comfortable competence, and is recognized as one
of the substantial, wealthy citizens of Greenville.
Thomas Stone, plumber and assistant superintendent of the Greenville
Water Works, was born in Nottingham, England, April 18, 1842, and is a son
of George and Anna (Ely) Stone, both of whom are residents of Nottingham.
Mr. Stone grew up in his native town, and served seven years at the plumber’s
trade. He was there married, October 4, 1869, to Miss Tacy Pears, of Not-
tingham, who has borne him four childre: Fnrederick W., Rose E., Alva W.
and Leroy, all of whom are living. In February, 1870, Mr. Stone and fam-
ily immigrated to New York, and soon afterward removed to Philadelphia.
Early in 1871 he came to Erie, Penn., where he continued working at his trade
until the spring of 1876. He then returned to England with his family, and
worked in South Wales one year, returning to Erie, Penn., in the spring of
1877, and locating in Greenville in Maj" of that year, where he has since
resided. In the fall of 1879 Mr. Stone opened a plumber’s shop, and has
since conducted that business. For several years Mr. Stone has had charge
of the business of the gas works, and was superintendent of the works about
three years. In the spring of 1888 he accepted his present position of assist-
ant superintendent of the water works. The family belong to the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and politically he is independent. He is a member of the
I. O. O. F. and the A. O. U. W\ fraternities.
William G. Taylor, deceased undertaker, was born in Greensburg, West-
moreland Co., Penn., August 17, 1823, and died in Greenville, Mercer Co. ,
Penn., September 11, 1887. He was a son of Jehu A. and Elizabeth Taylor,
of W^estmoreland County. He learned the cabinet-maker’s trade, which he
followed for many years. On the 8th of September, 1844, he was married to
Susan, daughter of Adam Turney, of Greensburg, Penn. , where she was born
April 21, 1821. In April, 1845, Mr. Taylor and wife removed to Delaware
Township, Mercer Co. , Penn. , and located on a farm near Fredonia, and he was
for several years one of the leading stock dealers of the county. In January,
1865, he located in Greenville, and followed contracting and building, also
operated a planing-mill, and was one of the leading contractors of the county.
Some ten or twelve years ago he embarked in the undertaking business, which
he followed up to the illness which ended with his death. To William G. and
Susan Taylor were born three sons and three daughters: Annabell (wife of
John Davenny, of Stoneboro, Penn.), Lucetta (wife of W. A. Kreps, sheriff
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
829
of Mercer County), J. A. (of Greenville), J. W. (successor of W. G. Taylor
& Son), Carrie (deceased) and Thomas O. (of Washington, D. C). Mrs. Taylor
died in the Methodist Episcopal faith, September 20, 1887, nine days after the
death of her husband. He, too, was a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and since early boyhood a strong temperance man. He was a mem-
ber of the Masonic fraternity and the A. O. U. W. Mr. Taylor was an upright,
successful business man, a kind father and husband, and had the respect and
confidence of his fellow citizens.
Edwin S. Templet6n, attorney at law, was born in Brady’s Bend, Arm-
strong Co., Penn., April 23, 1854, and is a son of Chambers and Susan J.
(Mossman) Templeton. The former is a native of Armstrong County, of Scotch-
Irish descent, while his wife, who died in Greenville December 19, 1872, was
born in Mercer County, her parents being among the very first settlers of
the Shenango Valley. Chambers Templeton and family located in Green-
ville in 1869, and he has since been connected with the business interests of
the county. Edwin S. graduated from Thiel College in June, 1875, and the
same fall was appointed to a clerkship in the office of the Hon. John Allison,
Register of the United States Treasury, where he remained two years. Dur-
ing this period he attended the law department of Columbian University,
Washington, D. C. , and graduated in June, 1877, thus becoming a member
of the bar of that district. Mr. Templeton was admitted to the Mercer bar
in the fall of 1877, but for the succeeding two years devoted his attention to
the oil business. In 1879 he commenced active practice in Greenville, and
is one of the able attorneys of the Mercer bar. He was married July 27, 1887,
to Miss Clara, daughter of H. N. Shrom, Esq., the pioneer druggist of Green-
ville. Politically Mr. Templeton is a Republican of independent proclivities,
and takes an active interest in the practical reformatory movements of the
day.
Caleb M. Thompson, manufacturer and dealer in lumber, was born in
French Creek Township, Mercer Co., Penn., December 2, 1847, and is a son
of Abel and Margaret J. (Bell) Thompson, the former a native of Mercer
County, Penn., and the latter of Bedford, Penn., and both residents of Green-
ville. The Thompsons were pioneers of French Creek Township, and the par-
ents of our subject have had fourteen children, twelve of whom grew to maturity.
Ten of the children are yet living, and all but two are residents of Mercer
County. Caleb M. grew upon his father’s farm, on whiqh was a grist-mill,
which his father built in 1852 and operated until 1882. He began the lumber
business eighteen years ago in a part of the old mill, and has since been en-
gaged in that business. During this period Mr. Thompson has operated saw-
mills in Mercer and Clarion Counties, Penn. , and Andover, Ohio, coming from
the latter place to the mill at Loutzenhiser’ s Corners, which he began operat-
ing June 1, 1884. In the fall of 1885 he erected and put in operation a saw-
mill immediately north of the Mathers mill in Greenville, which he carried
on till January, 1888, when he purchased the Field & Fell stave mill, on the
New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, known as the old Fiske property,
to which he removed his saw-mill machinery and where he has since conducted
business. Mr. Thompson is a member of 'the Methodist Episcopal Church,
and in politics is a Prohibitionist.
Ralph E. Thoen, of the firm of Ford & Thorn, carriage manufacturers,
was born in Mill Creek Township, Mercer Co., Penn., September 12, 1856.
His father, Charles Thorn, was born in Youngstown, Ohio, where he grew up
and married Miss Hulda Holcomb, a native of Vermont. He was engaged in
merchandising in Youngstown, but soon after his marriage settled on a farm
48
830
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
in Mill Creek Township, whence he removed into Sandy Lake Township a few
years after coming to Mercer County. He resided in Sandy Lake till his death
in September, 1874. Besides the widow he left a family of three children:
Balph E., Wilson S. and Hattie E. In 1876 the family removed to Youngs-
town, Ohio, where the mother and two youngest children now live. Balph E.
grew up in Sandy Lake Township, and after attending the public schools
spent two terms at the New Lebanon Academy. In 1875 he began learning
the carriage builder’s trade in Youngstown, Ohio. Coming to Greenville in
1877, he continued working at his trade till January, 1886, when he purchased
a half interest in the present carriage factory of Ford & Thorn, one of the
leading manufacturing firms of Greenville. Mr. Thorn was married April 8,
1879, to Miss Lizzie Beachler, of Greenville, of which union two children,
Ada M. and Helen M., have been born. He and wife are members of the
Reformed Church, and in politics he is a Republican.
W. O. AND N. E. Tillotson, under the firm name of Tillotson Bros., carry
on one of the leading dry goods stores in Greenville. They were born in
Sodus, Wayne Co., N. Y. , March 13, 1843, and August 22, 1847, respect-
ively. Their father, William Tillotson, was born in Genoa. Cayuga Co., N. Y. ,
December 20, 1810, and is a son of Matthew N. and Asenath (Higby) Tillotson,
natives of Hartford, Conn., of English ancestry. William grew to maturity
in New York State, and was there married October 17, 1837, to Miss Louisa
Ogden. She, too, was born in Genoa, N. Y. , and is a daughter of Ezekiel and
Abijail Ogden, natives of New Jersey. Two sons and two daughters were born
of this marriage: W. Ogden, Clara, wife of James F. Crandall, of Jersey
City; Norton E., and Ida, wife of James A. Waugh, of Greenville. The
parents came to Greenville in 1868, where they have since resided. Mr.
Tillotson is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Masonic order. In
January, 1866, W. Ogden, senior member of Tillotson Bros. , came from New
York State to Greenville, and bought the dry goods stock of Simon Donner,
which occupied a room in Packard’s Commercial Block. In 1867 his brother,
Norton E., came to Greenville to assist him, and the stock was removed to a
frame room which stood on the site of Reiss & Son’s tobacco store. In 1868
Norton E. obtained an interest in the business, and the present firm was formed.
In the extensive fire which occurred in Greenville January 15, 1873, the store
of Tillotson Bros, was among those destroyed, and they immediately erected
the brick building now occupied by Reiss & Son. They carried on business in
that room till the erection, in 1881-82, of their present block, which they took
possession of in the latter year. W. Ogden Tillotson was married August 15,
1872, to Miss Eliza, daughter of Hon. John Allison, late register of the United
States Treasury. Of this union two sons have been born: W. Ogden and
Gustav K. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr.
Tillotson is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Norton E. was married
June 6, 1876, to Miss Augusta M. . daughter of W. P. Leech, of Greenville.
Two children have been born to them, Jesse M. and William P.
Richard Tdnison, retired merchant, was born in Reading, Steuben Co.,
N. Y. , January 16, 1823. His parents, Cornelius and Catharine (Hays)
Tunison, were natives of New Jersey, but were married in New York State.
In the spring of 1853 the family came to Mercer County, and located north of
the site of Thiel College. The parents died on that farm, the father August
20, 1854, aged sixty-eight, and the mother March 10, 1865, aged ninety-one
years. Both adhered to the Baptist faith, Mrs. Tunison being one of the
original members of the Greenville congregation. Cornelius Tunison was in
the United States Army eight years, and served in the War of 1812. In early
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
8B1
life a Democrat, he subsequently became a Whig and then a Republican, to
which political faith he adhered until his death. Richard Tunison grew to
manhood in his native county, receiving the usual common school education.
He wAs married in Bound Brook, N. J., to Miss Mary E. Sullard, a native of
that town. They resided in New Jersey about three years, and Mr. Tunison
then engaged in the grain trade on Seneca Lake, N. Y. In the spring of 1853
he removed with his parents to the vicinity of Greenville, where he followed
farming until his removal to that borough some twenty years ago, where he
purchased and ran the St. Charles Hotel for one year. In 1873 Mr. Tunison
erected a store-room on Main Street, and in partnership with his son, William
F. , opened a grocery house. In the fall of 1 882 he retired from the firm, and
his son conducted the business till the spring of 1888, when he sold out. To
Richard and Mary E. Tunison have been born three sons: William F. , H. A.
and Charles, deceased. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church, and the family are all stanch supporters of the Republican party.
Allen Turner, lumber dealer, etc., was born in Warren County, Penn.,
October 18, 1821, and is a son of Marcus and Sarah (Stevens) Turner, the
former a native of Massachusetts, born February 12, 1794, and the latter of
Vermont. Mr. Turner’s grandfather, Abraham Turner, of Massachusetts,
was one of the soldiers who erected the fort at the mouth of French Creek, on
the site of Franklin, Penn. , and also that on the site of Meadville, Penn. ,
after the purchase of this territory from the Indians. He subsequently
returned to Massachusetts, and there died. Marcus Turner grew up in that
State, and thence came to Meadville, Penn. , where he married Sarah Stephens
and settled on a farm in Warren County, Penn. He was a soldier in the War
of 1812. In 1847 he removed to Chautauqua County, N. Y. , where he still
resides, and enjoys good health, at the advanced age of ninety-four years.
His wife died in Greenville while on a visit to her son Allen, in March, 1869.
They were the parents of seven children, five of whom are living. One of the
daughters, Mrs. Orpha Hammond, is a well-known pioneer educator of Penn-
sylvania and New York States, and for about one year was editor of the Times
(now Argus), of Greenville. Our subject was the oldest son in the family,
grew to manhood in Warren County, Penn., and was there married August
19, 1849, to Miss Mary E. Shipman, of Erie County, Penn., and a native of
Madison County, N. Y. Mr. Turner followed the lumber business up to his
removal to Sharon in June, 1852, where he went into the stove and tin-ware
business, having the only store in that line in the borough at that time. In
1856 he removed to Kinsman, Ohio, where he continued ljusiness. Finding
that Kinsman was not sufficiently flourishing for his business enterprise, he
came, in 1859, to Greenville and purchased the store building of Achre, Bit-
tenbanner & Co. on Main Street, the upper story of which was then occupied
by his sister, Mrs. Hammond, in publishing the Times. In the spring of 1860
he located in the borough, and opened a stove and tin-ware store in the same
building which he has ever since been interested in, and which his two sons
and son-in-law now occupy. He also carried on a book and wall-paper store in
the same building up to 1865, when he sold out, being the only dealer in that
line in Greenville during his term of business. In 1865 he purchased 800
acres of timber lands on the head-waters of the Shenango River, which stream
had been declared, by the act of 1803, navigable to its source, and cleaned
out up to Greenville. Mr. Turner cleaned out the bed of the stream from
Greenville to his purchase, a distance of from thirty-nve to forty-five miles.
For the succeeding eighteen years he rafted his logs to Greenville, where he
had erected extensive saw mills, and cut them into lumber, producing about
832
HISTOBY OF MERCEB COUNTY.
1,000,000 feet annually. His mill was burned in 1881, but he remained in
the business until 1883. Mr. Turner, in 1870, started the first tree and small
fruit nursery in this portion of the county, which he sold out in 1873, when
he had 50,000 valuable roots. He was one of the men who was instrumental
in having the rolling mills located in Greenville, and also the Pearce Woolen
Mills, and one of the leading spirits in having Thiel College brought to the
place. Since 1865 he has been engaged in the lumber business, and has been
one of the most successful financiers of this part of the county. Mrs. Turner
died in the Methodist Episcopal faith November 18, 1878, leaving a family of
three children: Julius Fillmore, Elmer Allen and Edith, all of whom are liv-
ing. Mr. Turner was again married August 23, 1883, to Miss Margaret
Sheriff, of Mercer, a member of the Presbyterian Church. He is a Republican
in politics, and has been burgess of Greenville one term. His mother was a
relative of President Fillmore, and Hon. Jabe Sutherland, judge in Utah Ter-
ritory, while his brother Oren is a prominent attorney of the Chicago bar.
John Lambert Turner, general grocer, was born in Monmouthshire, Eng-
land, April 22, 1838, and is a son of William and Sarah (Lambert) Turner, the
former a native of Oxfordshire, and the latter of Monmouthshire, England.
In the fall of 1841 the family immigrated to Youngstown, Ohio, where the
parents spent the balance of their lives. They reared a family of seven chil-
dren, four of whom are living: Mrs. Sarah A. Crowther, of Ashland, Ky. ;
William, of Niles, Ohio; Mrs. Matilda Hull, of Youngstown, Ohio, and John
L. Our subject grew to manhood in Youngstown, Ohio, and worked in one of
the iron mills of that town as a roller. Mr. Turner was married May 6, 1858,
to Miss Sarah Jane, daughter of David and Hannah (Dumars) Gillespie, who
was born at Big Bend, Mercer Co. , Penn. One son, John A. , a partner with
his father in the grocery house, is the only fruit of this union. Mr. Turner
followed the iron birsiness until removing to Greenville. In 1871 he super-
intended the erection of a rolling mill in Massillon, Ohio, and then went to
Wyandotte, Mich., as superintendent of the Wyandotte Rolling Mills, and was
subsequently superintendent two years of the iron mills in Hamilton, Ontario.
In April, 1881, Mr. Turner came to Greenville, and began operating coal
mines in Butler County, which he sold out in December, 1886. In the mean-
time he bought out the grocery store of Kamerer & Leech, in February, 1884,
and the firm of J. L . Turner & Son has since conducted a general grocery
business. The family are attendants of the Presbyterian Church. Politically
Mr. Turner is a Democrat, and a member of the R. A. and the Masonic fra-
ternity.
William A. Vaughn, carriage manufacturer, was born in Washington
County, Penn., July 27, 1823, and is a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Alex-
ander) Vaughn. The former was born in Washington County, Penn., June
12, 1797, and was a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Storer) Vaughn, who were
married October 4, 1792, aud were the parents of the following chil-
dren: Agnes, James, Thomas, Mary, John, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Andrew and
Lydia. Thomas came to Mercer County a young man, where he met and
married Elizabeth, daughter of William Alexander, a pioneer of Findley
Township. He and wife went back to Washington County, and returned to
Mercer County in 1824, locating a short distance from the county seat. Of
this union three children were born, our subject being the only survivor. The
mother died when William A. was a small boy, and his father remarried, and
reared by his second wife three children: James A., Harriet E. and Thomas
L. He died in Greenville in February, 1884, in the eighty- seventh year of
his age. Our subject was reared in Mercer County, and learned the carriage
HISTOBY OP MEKOER COUNTY.
833
blacksmith trade at Mossmantown, in West Salem Township. In June, 1847,
he opened a shop across the street from his present factory, and in the spring
of 1850 erected a building on its present site, where he has ever since carried
on the carriage business, which has increased from year to year, until to-day
he conducts one of the leading manufacturing institutions of the borough. Mr.
Vaughn was married October 18, 1849, to -Miss Sarah, daughter of Hugh and
Isabel (Hunter-) Mossman, one of the pioneer families of West Salem Town-
ship. Mrs. Vaughn was born on the old homestead, in West Salem, not far
from the Ohio line, and grew to womanhood in that part of the county. The
following children have been born of this union: James W., of the firm of W.
A. Vaughn & Son; Theresa, deceased; Harriett E. , wife of C. H. Gardner,
of Cleveland, Ohio; Emma P. and Carrie M. Mr. Vaughn and wife are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he belongs to the Masonic fra-
ternity. Politically he is a Republican, has filled the position of councilman
and school director, and has always taken a deep interest in the growth and
progress of his adopted county.
John W. Voslee, attorney at law, was born in Salem Township, Mercer
Co., Penn., January 20, 1850, and is a son of Leonard and Viletta (Waters)
Vosler, the former a native of New York State, and the latter of Eastern
Pennsylvania. They came to this county in early youth, married, and are
now residents of Salem Township. Our subject was reared upon the old
homestead, and received his primary education in the district schools. At the
age of seventeen he came to Greenville, and attended the high-school one
term. In the fall of 1868 he entered the State Normal School at Edinboro,
Penn., where he graduated in June, 1871, and subsequently spent one term
at Mount Union College, Mount Union, Ohio. In the meantime he had taught
school two winter terms in Mercer County. After graduating he taught one
term in the Utica, Penn., public schools as principal; was principal of the
schools at Parker’ s Landing, Penn. , one year, and the Freeport schools two
years. He began his law studies in 1874, under Judge William Maxwell, of
Greenville, and was admitted to the bar in the spring of 1876. He did not
begin active practice, however, in Greenville until the spring of 1878, since
which time he has followed the duties of his profession. In the fall of 1878
he was elected, on the Republican ticket, one of the auditors of Mercer Coun-
ty, and re-elected in 1881, serving in that position six years. Mr. Vosler was
married February 7, 1878, to Miss Mary Hoak, of Freeport, Penn., of which
union one son, Ray, survives. Mrs. Vosler died in the consolations of the
Christian faith, January 25, 1888, after a lingering illness of about three
years’ duration. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and
belongs to the I. O. O. E. Since locating in Greenville Mr. Vosler has built
up a fair practice at the bar of Mercer County.
Hon. William Waugh was born in New Bedford, Lawrence Co., Penn.,
May 4, 1818. His father, James Waugh, was born in Cumberland Couuty,
Penn., July 5, 1788, and his grandfather, James, was a captain in the Revo-
lutionary War, and died on his farm near New Wilmington, Penn., about
1815, whither the family had removed early in the present century. The
father of our subject, when a boy, crossed the Mountains to Crawford County,
Penn. , with Alexander Power, a pioneer surveyor of that county, whence he
subsequently returned to Cumberland County. Soon after reaching manhood
James, Jr., opened a small store in a log cabin near New Bedford, Penn.,
into which town he subsequently removed. About 1824 he formed a partner-
ship with his brother, Alexander Power Waugh, under the firm name of J. &
A. P. Waugh, and started a store in Greenville. They carried on merchandis-
834
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
ing in that town about twenty years, and during this period operated its lead-
ing mercantile establishment. Their business house stood west of the Shenan-
go, on Main Street. Alexander P., born July 4, 1791, located in Greenville
in 1824, and was the first postmaster of the village. After giving up mer-
chandising he led a retired life, and died in the Presbyterian faith March 7,
1869. He was a quiet, unassuming man, and well known and respected by
the early settlers of Mercer County. They sold their store to Gen. James
Power and John Waugh, a son of James, who, as Power & Waugh, removed
it to the east side of the Shenango, and were leading merchants of Green-
ville. They were also large canal contractors, and in connection with Charles
M. Reed, of Erie, Penn., built the first blast furnace in Greenville, which
they operated a few years at a large financial loss. John Waugh was also
one of the prominent stock dealers of Mercer County, and one of its well-
known citizens. James Waugh and family resided in New Bedford till the
spring of 1829, when he joined his brother at Greenville. Politically he was
a Whig, and in 1828 was elected from Mercer County to the Legislature, and
served one term. He was married at New Bedford to Miss Jane Thompson,
born in July, 1788, who bore him four children: Margaret, Elizabeth, John
and William, all of whom are dead except the last mentioned. During the
War of 1812 he served at Erie, in Capt. Gilliland’s company. The family
were Presbyterians, and his wife died in that faith July 19, 1861, her husband
surviving her until July 18, 1874. James Waugh was a self-educated man,
of strong argumentative ability, and a wide knowledge of men and afPairs.
William came to Greenville with his parents in the spring of 1829, attended
school in the Jamestown Academy, and in 1838 graduated at the AVestern
University, Pittsburgh. He then read law with Pearson & Stewart, of Mer-
cer, and was admitted to the bar December 28, 1842. He soon gave up the
law profession, however, and engaged in other business. In 1850 he was
appointed associate judge, and served until new judges were elected by popu-
lar vote, when he was not a candidate. In 1857 he was elected, on the Repub-
lican ticket, prothonotary of Mercer County, and re-elected to the same office,
in which capacity he served six years. Judge AVaugh was a leading spirit in
the organization of the First National Bank of Greenville, in 1864, and was
its first cashier. He filled that position until the death of the president, the
late Samuel P. Johnston, in the fall of 1875, when he was chosen president of
the bank, and served in that capacity up to January, 1888. Judge Waugh
was married February 6, 1846, to Miss Apnie D. Lasher, of Philadelphia,
Penn., of which union three sons have been born: James A., of Greenville;
William F., professor in the Medical Chirurgical College of Philadelphia, and
John H. , a stock grower of Dakota. From 1845 until 1848 Judge Waugh
was editor and proprietor of the Mercer County Whig, at Mercer, and in the
latter year was the nominee of the AVhig party of Mercer County for the Leg-
islature, but, because of his opposition to the division of the county, the
AVhigs in the southern part split ofP and defeated him.
Samuel AVest, grocery merchant, was born in Lehigh County, Penn. , April
2, 1828, and is a son of David and Catharine (Beitnett) AA^est, also natives of
Lehigh County, and of German parentage. They grew up and married in
their native county, and in 1832 removed with their family to Canfield, Ohio,
and settled on a farm. Two years afterward they removed to Leavittsburg,
Ohio, and in 1842 came to Mercer County, and located one mile east of Green-
ville. In 1849 the parents moved into West Salem Township, where they
spent the remaining years of their lives. The mother died in 1863, and the
father in 1867. They were life-long Lutherans, and Mr. AVest supported the
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
835
Democratic party up to his death. They reared three children : Samuel, Mrs.
Polly Greeiiewalt, of Crawford County, Penn., and Mrs. Mary Struble, who
died in Wisconsin. Samuel left the parental roof in 1841, came to the vicinity
of Greenville, and worked on a farm until his twenty-fourth year. In 1852 he
got a government contract to carry a daily mail between Greenville and Mer-
cer. He established a hack line, and carried the first daily mail between those
points, which he continued to do for eight years. In 1856 he obtained a sim-
ilar contract to carry the mail from Greenville to Warren, Ohio, which lasted
four years, both contracts ending in 1860. Mr. West then engaged in farm-
ing, and in 1863 opened a grocery store in Greenville, which he conducted for
one year. He purchased and ran the Greenville Steam Saw mill for the next
two years, and then sold out and went into the clothing business. In the
spi'ing of 1871 he disposed of his stock and again engaged in the grocery trade,
which he has since continued. Mr. West was married April 6, 1852, to Miss
Mary L. Homer, who bore him one daughter, Mrs. Frances Hernevious, of
West Salem Township. Mrs. West died, in the Methodist faith, December
23, 1855. In December, 1859, Mr. West was again married, to Miss Maria
Knappenberger, who has borne him four daughters and three sons; Minnie,
Lydia, Samuel, Alice, John, Harry and May, all living at home. The family
belong to the Lutheran Church, and Mr. West is a member of the I. O. O. F.,
and a stanch supporter of the Democratic party.
James R. Wick was one of the early business men of Greenville, where he
located as a clerk in the store of J. & A. P. Waugh in 1826-27. He was born
in Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1807, and was a son of Rev. William Wick, a
Presbyterian minister. After clerking a few years he began merchandising,
and continued in the mercantile business till about 1850, when he started a
private bank. He was engaged in the brokerage line until 1856, and then re-
moved to Wisconsin. He finally returned to Greenville, and died November 1,
1865. Mr. Wick was the second postmaster of Greenville, filling the office
from July, 1830, till October, 1831. He was also a justice of the peace sev-
eral terms, and associate judge one term. He was married in 1830 to Cathe-
rine, daughter of Jacob Loutzenhiser, a pioneer of Greenville, and reared a
family of six children. She died October 11, 1887, surviving her husband
nearly twenty-two years.
CHAPTER XXXII.
BIOGRAPHIES OF SHARPSVILLE.
T^AVID AGNEW, deceased, was born at Frankstown, Huntingdon Co.,
Penn., September 25, 1805, and died at Sharpsville, Penn., August 24,
1882, Ere reaching marvbood he obtained a clerkship with Dr. P. Shoen-
berger, at Maria Forges, in Bedford County. About the year 1823 he
removed to the Doctor’s iron works, at Pittsburgh, where he remained until
the spring of 1832, when he removed to Wheeling, Va. , having entered into
partnership with Dr. Shoenberger for the erection of a rolling mill at that
place, the first in that city, and believed to be the first of the kind erected in
that State. He was about the same time connected with a forge and furnace
at Hanging Rock, Ohio. While a resident of Wheeling he was appointed by
836
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
the governor a member of the “County Court;” was instrumental vyith others in
establishing the Merchants’ & Mechanics’ Bank, of Wheeling; was a director,
and for a time acted as president of that institution, and subsequently was
appointed by President Tyler postmaster, which office he held for more than
four years. During his term of postmaster Polk was elected President, and
when the new administration came into power an attempt was made by the
politicians to have Mr. Agnew removed; but the Postmaster-General, having
examined into the affairs of the office, and finding that they were conducted in
such an able and business-like manner, protested so strongly against any change
being made that Mr. Agnew, though of different political faith, was permitted
to retain the office. Wheeling, at that time, was one of the most important
points along the line of the National Road, being a distributing office. Mr.
Agnew resigned about a year later. In the year 1846 he removed to Sharon,
this county, and, in connection with Dr. Shoenberger and others, built the
Sharon Furnace. Afterward, together with Gen. Curtis, Mr. Boyce and other
citizens of Sharon, the Sharon Iron Company was formed, and the rolling mill
at Sharon, known as the Sharon Iron Works, was erected, of which Mr. Agnew
was a director and manager About the year 1846 there was considerable
excitement in Mercer County in regard to the coal and iron business, which led
to the erection of quite a number of blast furnaces along the Shenango Valley,
but the expectations of these pioneers in the iron business of this county were
destined to disappointment. The Lake Superior ores had not been obtained,
and confined, as they were, to the native ores, and the use of mineral coal,
with a general want of knowledge and experience in the working of these ma-
terials, it is not surprising that the business proved unprofitable, and was gen-
erally abandoned, so that very few of these old furnaces remain, having, since
the introduction of Lake Superior ores, been superseded by larger and more
perfect establishments. The connection of the iron ore of Lake Superior with
the coal of Mercer County has produced an entire revolution in the manufact-
ure of iron in Mercer County, and throughout W estern Pennsylvania gener-
ally. Mr. Agnew and his brother, John P. Agnew, were the first to use
Lake Suiierior ore in a blast furnace. While running the old Sharpsville Fur-
nace they procured, at great expense, a few tons of ore for that purpose,
which.it is believed, was the first time it had ever been so used. In 1850 Mr.
Agnew removed to Erie, where he remained two years, looking after the
business affairs of the Sharon Iron Company, at the- end of which time he
severed his connection with the firm, and went to Parkersburg, W. Va. , and
engaged in mercantile pursuits. In 1862 he went to Mount Savage, Md. ,
and took charge of the rolling mills and furnaces in that place, and returned
to Parkersburg about the close of the war, and stayed until the spring of 1869,
when he came to Sharpsville. In an acquaintance of over fifty years Mr. Ag-
new witnessed many seasons of prosperity and adversity, as well as great im-
provements, in the iron industries of the county. Since 1869 he resided in
Sharpsville, having the general supervision of the books and accounts con-
nected with the various iron, coal and other concerns in which the late Gen.
Pierce was interested, and in the capacity of secretary and treasurer of the
Sharpsville Railroad Company. The business of the Pierce estate was closed in
1881, and notwithstanding its extensive and varied character, and the immense
amount of labor involved, under Mr. Agnew’ s wise management, and com-
prehensive acquaintance with the affairs thereof, it was settled in a compara-
tively speedy and satisfactory manner to all concerned. In politics Mr. Ag-
new was a Republican, but never took an active part in any of the campaigns
of the party. In 1873, just before the borough of Sharpsville was formed.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
837
he was elected a justice of the peace, but could not devote much time to the
affairs of the office, though he did considerable work in drawing up deeds,
legal documents, etc. In religion Mr. Agnew always took an active and ear-
nest part, being a leading member of the Presbyterian Church. He was elect-
ed an elder of the Fourth Street Church in Wheeling, and was honored with
that position in the chui’ch of his choice wherever he resided. He was prom-
inent in organizing the church here, and lived to see a very neat edifice erected
and dedicated but a short time before his death, toward the building of
which he contributed liberally. Mr. Agnew was married in Pittsburgh, De-
cember 29, 1829, to Miss Eliza C. Lightner, Rev. Francis Herron, D. D. , per-
forming the ceremony. The deceased left two children: Charles E. and
Mary. His widow died February 6, 1888, a consistent member of the Presby-
terian Church. Her four oldest children also are dead. Their names were
JohnL., Theodore P., William H. and David L. John L. has one son, J.
Ford, who lives in St. Louis, Mo. ; Theodore P. has one daughter, Nellie, who
lives with her mother at Fredericksburg, Md.
Philip J. Baetleson was born in Campbell County, Ky. , October 20,
1837. In 1840 his father moved to Wheeling, Va. , where he purchased, in
connection with James E. Wharton, the Daily Times and Gazette, a Whig
journal, in which office the subject of this sketch learned the printer’s trade.
At that time this was the best printing office in the State outside of Richmond,
having six presses in the jobbing department, with bindery, etc. Mr. Bartle-
son had three brothers, Charles, Frederick and William, Charles and Fred-
erick being older and William younger. The two first named also learned the
printer’s trade. Charles started with the “forty-niners” to California, but
died on the way from illness contracted on shipboard. Frederick became a
lawyer, and settled in Joliet, 111., and was, during the war, colonel of the One
Hundredth Illinois Infantry. He was killed at the battle of Kenesaw Mount-
ain. William was a private in the Sixty-ninth New York Infantry, and was
killed in the Wilderness. In 1858 Mr. Bartleson went to Waynesburg, Greene
Co., Penn., with his father, where they published the Reimblican. In 1861
Mr. Bartleson was married to Miss Margaret, daughter of Jesse Rinehart,
Esq. , of Waynesburg, and moved to Brooklyn, N. Y. , where he was employed on
the Times. In 1866 he moved to Pittsburgh, and was engaged on the Gazette,
where he remained until 1869, when he moved to Greenville, this county, and
became a silent partner of Jacob Miller in the publication of i\xQ Argus, but
withdrew just before the sale of the paper to W. F. Chalfant. In August,
1871, he assumed the editorship and management of the Advertiser, and has
been in charge of the paper since. In politics Mr. Bartleson is a conservative
Republican. He has never held an office, . with the exception of school
director of Sharpsville, which position he is now holding, serving his twelfth
year, or fourth successive term.
Rev. Samuel L. Boston was born November 8, 1859, near Mercer. He is
the son of Adam Boston, deceased, and Christena (Crill) Boston. His early
life was spent on the farm of his father, except only the time spent at school.
Beginning his higher studies under Dr. I. C. Ketler, at Grove City, he grad-
uated in the academy in 1878, and thence he pursued his collegiate studies at
Wooster, Ohio, where he graduated in June, 1883. In the fall of 1883 he
entered his theological course at the Western Theological Seminary of Alle-
gheny City, where he graduated in May, 1886. His first year after leaving
the seminary was spent in supplying the churches of Cool S2iring and Fredonia,
in his native county. During this year he enjoyed a great outpouring of the
Spirit on his work, and received about 100 members into the two churches. In
838
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
July, 1887, he received a call to the Presbyterian Church of Sharpsville, which
he accepted, and he is now settled pastor of that church, being ordained and
installed at that place in September, 1887. In 1886, July 29, Rev. Boston
was married to Jennie P. Keifer, of Allegheny City, and a graduate of Curry
Musical Conservatory. Mrs. Boston was the daughter of A. S. and Maggie
(Barclay) Keifer. Rev. Boston and wife are the possessors of one infant son,
whom they have named John Keifer Boston.
Rev. Thomas J. Clark, pastor of St. Bartholomew Church, is a son of
Patrick and Catherine (Hughes) Clark, natives of Ireland, who immigrated to
this country in 1850, and settled in Silver Lake Township, Susquehanna Co.,
Penn., where our subject was born in 1854. His early life was spent upon
the homestead farm, and his primary education was received at the common
schools. He afterward entered the commercial college of Binghamton, N. Y. ,
from which he graduated in September, 1871. He then entered St. Bonne-
venture College, in Cattaraugus County, N. Y. , and was ordained priest Decem-
ber 28, 1879, by the Rt. Rev. Tobias Mullen, of Erie. He was then appointed
assistant pastor at Ridgeway, Elk Co. Penn., where he remained four months,
and was nest assistant pastor at Kersey, Penn., where he remained nine
months, and was then appointed assistant at Bradford, McKean Co., Penn.
He was afterward appointed to take charge of the parish located at Petroleum
Centre, Venango Co., Penn., where he remained five years. October 1, 1885,
he became pastor of his present parish, and August 16, 1886, his church was
destroyed by fire. He has since rebuilt the present substantial brick edifice,
which is entirely clear of debt. In connection with his Sharpsville charge
Father Clark’s pastoral duties include the missions located at Neshannock and
Wheatland.
George D. Devitt, superintendent of Perkins & Co. ’s blast furnace, is a
son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Dean) Devitt, natives of Lincoln County, Canada,
where our subject was born in 1844. He received his education at the public
schools, and at the age of fifteen commenced his business career as a clerk in
the store of Henry Dilts, of Wellandport, Canada, with whom he remained for
six years. He then engaged with his father as superintendent of his saw-mill.
In 1866 he came to Sharon, Penn. , and engaged with Runser, Carver & Trout
as superintendent of their planing-mill, where he remained till 1869, when he
located at Jamestown, Penn., and engaged in the planing-mill business for
himself. In 1880 he removed to Sharpsville and engaged with Perkins & Co.
as book-keeper, which position he filled for four years, when he was placed in
his present position as superintendent. Our subject was married in December,
1873, to Miss Mary W. , daughter of John S. King, of Sharon, Penn., and by
this union they have born to them two children: Carrie E. and John K.
Mr. Devitt is a member of F. & A. M. , Lodge 424, of Jamestown, Penn.,
also of the A. O. U. W., Lodge No. 17, of Sharpsville, Penn., and is a mem-
ber of the Baptist Church.
G. M. Dull, millwright, was born in Centre County, Penn., September
18, 1829, and is a son of George and Mary C. (Weaver) Dull, who were mar-
ried Febrnary 19, 1816. Six children were born to them: Elizabeth A., wife
of A. T. Watson; Wilhelm A., John B. , deceased; Margaret S., wife of Eli
Woods; Hannah W., deceased, and George M. Our subject’s educational
advantages were very limited. He commenced work in a woolen factory at the
age of twelve, where he remained for six years. He then learned the wagon-
making trade, which he followed until 1862. In August, 1862, he enlisted as
a private in Company H, One Hundred and Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry,
which was assigned to the Fourteenth Army Corps, and participated in all the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
839
battles in which his regiment and corps were engaged, and Sherman’s famons
march to the sea. He went through the war without receiving a wound, and
was mustered out as orderly sergeant June 9, 1865. After coming home from
the army he removed to Clarksville, Mercer County, and started a carriage fac-
tory under the firm name of G. M. Dull & Co. , which he conducted a few
years. Subsequently he purchased the interest of the silent partner, William
Dickson, and continued that business until 1871, when he removed to Sharps-
ville, and engaged in the same business with Thomas Eagan, under the firm
name of Dull & Eagan, which they carried on until 1874. He then sold his
interest to Daniel Eagan, and since that time has principally been engaged in
the millwright business, which business he is now following. Our subject was
married on the 4th of July, 1860, to Hannah, daughter of William and Mable
Levingston. Two children were born to them: Mary E., wife of Frank Fitch,
Hartford, Trumbull Co., Ohio, and William Sherman. Our subject is a stanch
Republican, and is a member of the I. O. O. F. and R. T. of T., being
a strong advocate of temperance.
Samuel Dunham, merchant, is a son of George and Jane (Hodge) Dunham.
The grandfather of our subject, Jonathan Dunham, who married Mary Clark,
was a native of New Jersey, who came to Mercer County at an early date and
took up a large tract of land, which was located where the borough of Sharps-
ville now stands. He died in 1856. He had eleven children: Justus, Mar-
garet, who married Henry Dunlap; George, Nancy, Mrs. William Moyer;
Experience, Mrs. Thomas Ferguson; Clark, Azariah, Phenias, Rachel, Mrs.
Robert Jackson; James, who died in 1846; Mary, Mrs. Daniel Groscost, and
George, the father of our subject, whose family consisted of seven children:
Jonathan, deceased, who served three years in the Tenth Regiment, Pennsyl-
vania Volunteer Cavalry; Robert, who died from the effect of a wound received
in the war, and was a member of the Sixty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers;
Samuel, Mary, deceased; George, deceased; Jane and Phenias. George died
in 1871, and his wife in 1878. Samuel, our subject, was born in 1838,
and was reared and educated in Pymatuning Township. His first employ-
ment was as a clerk for his uncle, Samuel Hodge, a merchant of Sharpsville.
Subsequently he was employed by his father in stone quarrying and stone
cutting. On August 10, 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Sixty-third Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and served three years, participating in all the engage-
ments from Yorktown to the engagement at Weldon Railroad, which included
Fair Oaks, Seven Days’ Fight, second Bull Run, Fredericksburg, Chancellors-
ville, Gettysburg, Mine Run, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna, Cold Har-
bor and Petersburg. In 1865 he engaged in the grocery business in Sharps-
ville, which he now conducts. Our subject was married in 1859 to Miss Han-
nah, daughter of W’illiam Carnes, of Pymatuning Township, and by this mar-
riage they have seven children: Victor H., William G., Gertrude, Mertie, Min-
nie, Cora and Bessie. Mr. Dunham was appointed postmaster of Sharjjsville
in 1869, which office he held until 1885. He is also connected with the
G. A. R. , Post No. 234, of Sharpsville, a member of the I. O. O. F. , No. 739,
and the K. of P. , Lodge No. 163, both of Sharpsville. Politically Mr. Dun-
ham is a Republican.
Theodore M. Ford is a son of Darius and Samantha (Butler) Ford. He
was born April 5, 1830, in Chairtauqua County, N. Y., and received his edu-
cation in the common schools of his native county. In 1848 he entered the
employ of Tomlinson & Co., grocery and commission dealers, of Erie, Penn.,
where he remained for two years. From Erie he went in the winter of 1850-
51 to Aspinwall (now Colon), as receiving clerk for the Panama Railroad, then
840
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
just building, and had the honor of unloading from the brig “Tartar” the
first locomotive that went onto that road. He then engaged in the lumber
business, and conducted it in various localities, in connection with his farming
in Chautauqua County, N. Y. , and Crawford County, Penn. In 1870 he
engaged with the late Gen. James Pierce, at Sharpsville, in his book-keeping
department, where he remained until 1874, when he engaged in mercantile
business, which he carried on until 1878. In 1882 he received the appoint-
ment of auditor for the Sharpsville Railroad, which position he filled until
1880. In that year he entered the employ of Jonas J. Pierce, as book-keeper,
where he remained until 1887. In 1887, in connection with C. E. Agnew
and W. A. Lynch, they formed the company known as Agnew, Lynch & Co. ,
contractors and builders, and dealers in building materials, coal and lumber.
In 1858 our subject was married to Miss Phebe, daughter of John Rodgers, of
Silver Creek Township, Chautauqua Co., N.T., and by this marriage they have
three children: Fannie E., wife of C. B. Allen; Kate L. and Edith Our sub-
ject is a member of the F. & A. M. , Sharpsville Lodge No. 517, Royal Arch
Chapter 244 of Sharon; also of the R. T. of T. Council, No. 27, of Sharpsville.
Mr. Ford is a member of the Universalist Church of Sharpsville, filling the
office of clerk and treasurer. In politics he is a Republican.
John D. Hadley, agent for fire, life and accident insurance, is the second
son of David and Jane (Robinson) Hadley, of Hadley Station. He was born
in Columbiana County, Ohio, May 25, 1832, and came to Mercer County with
his parents in 1843. In 1850 he started in life by learning the blacksmith’s
trade, which occupation he followed for seventeen years, at Hadley and else-
where. In 1867 he moved to Hubbard, Ohio, where he worked at his trade
for one year, and then engaged in tbe drug business, and afterward in the
wholesale and retail feed business. In 1873 he located at Sharpsville, and
established a flour and f-eed store, which he conducted for three years, and
engaged in the grocery business. His store was burned in June, 1887, and
since that time he has followed his present insurance business. March 3,
1853, he married Miss Mary, daughter of John and Ruth McClure, of Clarks
Mills. She died April 12, 1865, leaving five children, one of whom married
John McElwain, and died in January, l874. The living children are Loretta,
wife of William H. Bell, of Youngstown, Ohio; Ruth E., wife of Deloss Long-
street, of Hadley, and have Hiram, Mary, Bessie, Albert; David M., engaged
in the livery business at Sharpsville, married Constance Holstein, of Sharps-
ville; John B. , of the firm of Hadley & Maxwell, grocers, etc., Sharpsville,
married Alice Ashton, of Sharon. Our subject was again married in 1866 to
Lucy A. , daughter of Mrs. Elizabeth McKey, of Sandy Creek Township. The
children of this union are J ane E. , wife of R. O. Maxwell, of Sharpsville, and
has one child, Helen ; W. C. , station agent at Sharpsville for the Sharpsville
Railroad Company, married Miss Catherine, daughter of Rut Collins, of West
Middlesex; George O. , brakesman on the Sharpsville Railroad; Alice S. and
Clara G. Mr. Hadley has held several borough offices, and is now serving as
school director. He is a member of the A. O. IT. W. , No. 71, of Sharpsville, of
the E. A. U. , No. 359, and of the Protected Home Circle, No. 3, of Sharpsville.
He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is an
elder. He is a strong temperance advocate, and votes the Prohibition ticket.
Thomas O. Hazen, justice of the peace, real estate and insurance agent and
dealer in wall and window shades, is a son of Ziba and Milcah ( Perrine) Hazen,
who are natives of Hickory and Worth Townships, respectively. Nathaniel
Hazen, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of Massachusetts, and was
one of the early settlers of Mercer County. Our subject was born in Hickory
HISTOBY OF MERCEB COUNTY.
841
Township in 1842, and was reared and educated in the common schools of the
same township, and graded schools of Sharon, Penn. He learned the painter’s
trade, which he followed in the summer, and taught school in the winter for
twelve years. In 1872 he engaged in the lumber business in Sharpsville,
which he carried on for six years. In 1878 he engaged in his present busi-
ness, as a dealer in wall paper and window shades, and the same year was
elected justice of the peace, which office he continues to fill. Mr. Hazen also
represents the following insurance companies as their agent for this locality:
Phoenix, of Hartford, Conn., Reading, of Reading, Penn., and the Dwelling
House Insurance Co., of Boston, Mass. In politics our subject is a Re-
publican. He was married in 1865 to Miss A. V. McDowell, daughter of Jo-
siah McDowell, of Crawford County, Penn., who died in 1869, leaving one
son, Elton E., who died in 1872. Mr. Hazen’ s second wife was Miss Eva
McDowell, sister of his first wife, and by this marriage they have one child.
Birdie May. Our subject is a member of the I. O. O. F., Lodge No. 739, of
Sharpsville, Lodge A. O. U. W. No. 71 of Sharpsville, and the E. A. U.
Union, No. 359, of Sharpsville. He is also a member of the First Universalist
Church of Sharpsville, and rung the first Universalist Church bell that was
ever rung in Mercer County. Mr. Hazen is of Scotch and Welsh descent.
Samuel W. Hazen, publisher of the Sharpsville Times, is a son of A. B.
Hazen, and was born in Hickory Township in 1863. He received his edu-
cation in the public schools of Sharpsville, and was engaged in teaching for
some years, when he connected himself with M. W. Thompson in the estab-
lishing of the Sharpsville Times. Our subject is a Republican in politics and
a progressive citizen, always ready to advance by his personal interest any
movement of a public nature.
William Hoeius, the third son of George Hofius, was born May 12, 1806,
in Hickory Township, where he spent the early years of his life on the home-
stead farm, and was engaged in farming. About 1847-48 he removed to
Jackson County, Iowa, where he now resides. He married Martha, daughter
of Thomas Dugan, of Trumbull County, Ohio, who died in 1841, leaving seven
children: Seth, Azariah, Jonathan, Hulda, Mrs. Bently, of Iowa; Marilda,
wife of John Damond, of Iowa; Mary A., Martha, Mrs. Melvin J. Thompson.
His second wife was Mrs. Vaughn, and by this marriage they have one child,
George.
Seth, the eldest son of William, was born in May, 1829, in Hickory Town-
ship, where he was reared and educated. In 1846 he entered the employ of
Himrod & Vincent, subsequently working at the different furnaces located in
Clarion and Venango Counties, Penn., Youngstown, Ohio, and West Mid-
dlesex, Penn. In 1858 he removed to Mineral Ridge and took charge of the
works at that place for James Wood & Warner. He subsequently was engaged
as superintendent for James Wood, Sons & Co.,, of Wheatland. He also had
charge of the Mount Hickory Iron Co. works at Sharpsville. He then removed
to Buffalo, N. Y., and took charge of the Buffalo Iron & Nail Co.’s works.
In 1882 he located in Ohio, and engaged in farming, where his family now re-
sides. In 1886 he was placed in charge of the Spearman Iron Furnace at
Sharpsville, which position he now fills. Our subject was married in 1850 to
Miss Elizabeth Maxwell, of West Middlesex, Penn., and by this union they
have five children: William D., Lewis W., Frank, Annie J., wife of Henry
Sibes, of Buffalo, N. Y., and Harriet, wife of William Fair, of the same city.
Mrs. Hofius died in 1862, and our subject was again married in 1867 to Miss
Margaret McGowan, of Campfield, Ohio, and by this marriage they have five
children: Walter, Charley, Blanch, Seth and James.
842
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
William D. Hofius, the eldest son of Seth, was born September 25, 1852,
at West Middlesex. He was reared and educated at Mineral Ridge, Ohio,
Wheatland and Sharpsville. At the age of twenty he engaged in the iron
business as furnaceman, and followed that business as an occupation until 1883,
when he engaged in the foundry and machine business with Charles F. Eld-
ridge, under the firm name of Hofius & Eldridge, located at Sharpsyille. He
is also operating the Grafton Furnace at Leetonia, Ohio, under the name of
McKeefrey & Hofius. Mr. Hofius was married in 1882 to Miss Emma K. ,
daughter of Louis Laux, of Baltimore, Md. Our subject is a member of the
F. & A. M., Lodge No. 250, Norman Chapter 244 and Commandery No. 50, of
Sharon.
Henry Kaufman, livery, is a son of Jacob and Catherine (Speigelmyer)
Kaufman. Our subject was born in Delaware Township, December 12, l856.
He received his education at the public schools of his township. He was
engaged in farming on the homestead until 1880, when he located at Mercer
and engaged in the butcher business. In 1881 he located at Sharpsville and
engaged in his present business. Our subject was married in October, 1883,
to Miss Ella, daughter of John Shell, of New Hamburg. Mrs. Kaufman died
in 1884, leaving one son, Harley A., who died in 1884. Our subject married
for his second wife, in 1887, Miss Maggie, daughter of Joshua Reichard, of
New Hamburg, Mercer Co., Penn., and by this marriage they have one daugh-
ter, Bertha L. Politically Mr. Kaufman is a Democrat.
George D. Kelly, of Pierce, Kelly & Co. , iron manufacturers, was born in
Cleveland, Ohio, in 1843. His parents are Moses and Jane M. (Howe) Kelly.
His father was a native of Livingston County, N. Y. , and his mother of New
Haven, Conn. Our subject received his education in the select schools of
Cleveland, Ohio. At the age of seventeen he was employed as a clerk by the
Cuyahoga Furnace Co., of Cleveland, where he remained for two years. He
then entered the employ of the late Gen. James Pierce, at the Sharpsville
Furnace, as a clerk, remaining in that capacity until 1870, when he entered
into CO partnership with James, Jonas J. and Wallace Pierce as manufacturers
of iron at the Douglas Furnace. He was united in marriage, in 1870, to Miss
Kate, daughter of Calvin C. Wick, of Ashton, Ohio, and by this marriage
they have four living children: Clara M. , George W. , Douglas and Catherine.
Mr. Kelly has been identified with the public offices of Sharpsville, filling the
office of burgess in 1880-81, also as a member of the council for a number of
years. In politics he is independent, but of Republican proclivities.
Willis W. Kitch, postmaster and hardware dealer, is a son of John M.
and Elizabeth (McCleery) Kitch. both natives of Mercer County. The mother
of our subject is the daughter of Alexander McCleery, one of the pioneer
settlers of Mercer County. Mr. Kitch was born in Perry Township, and
received his education in the public schools. At the age of sixteen he entered
the employ of the late Gen. James Pierce as a clerk in his store at Mount
Hickory. In 1872 he located at Sharpsville, and entered the employ of J. W.
Mick & Co., hardware dealers, as a clerk. On the death of Mr. Mick, which
occurred in 1875, he formed a co-partnership under the firm name of Walter
Pierce & Co., as dealers in hardware, which continued until December 31,
1883, when the present firm of Kitch & Mower was organized. Our subject
was appointed postmaster November 23, 1885. He was married in 1875 to
Miss E., daughter of Hiram and Susan (Henry) Phelps, and by this union
they have two children: Walter (born in 1887) and Frances (in 1886). Mr.
Kitch is a Democrat, and belongs to the F. & A. M,, Lodge 517, of Sharps-
ville, Norman Chapter, No. 250, and Rebecca Commandery, No. 50, of Sharon.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
843
James R. Lytle, engineer, is a son of Hugh and Elizabeth (Robinson)
Lytle. The father of our subject settled in Shenango Township in 1813, was a
farmer by occupation, and died in 1881, and his wife in 1838. He married
for his second wife Sarah Thompson, of Shenango Township, who survives
him, and lives in Greenfield. Our subject was the only child, and was born
in 1838, in Shenango Township, where he was reared, receiving his education
in the common schools of that township, and the private schools of West
Middlesex. Mr. Lytle was engaged in farming until 1864. He then
engaged as an engineer, and was located at Charleston, Jefferson Township,
where he remained until 1872, when he located at Sharpsville, and has been
employed at the different furnaces of this place. Mr. Lytle is now located at
the Claire Furnace as engineer. When Sharpsville was first incorporated as a
borough Mr. Lytle was elected a member of the school board, and was its
secretary for three years. In 1881 he was elected justice of the peace, and
served one term of five years. He was married in 1860 to Miss Mary J.,
daughter of Robert Wallace, of Lackawannock Township, and by this mar-
riage they have one son, Robert K. , who is an engineer at Claire Furnace.
Our subject is a member of the F. & A. M., Lodge 517, of Sharpsville, and
Norman Chapter 244, Rebecca Commandery No. 50, of Sharon, Penn. He is
also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of Sharpsville, and has
filled the offices of steward and class leader for ten years. In politics he
is a Democrat.
James C. McDowell, prop, of livery stable, son of James H. and Fanny F.
(Byerly) McDowell, was born September 13, 1848, in Jefferson Township;
was reared on the homestead farm ; received his early education at the common
schools of the township; completed his education at New Brighton College,
and after graduating engaged in farming until 1883, when he located at
Sharpsville, and engaged in the livery business. Our subject was married in
1888 to Miss Sarah, daughter of Branton Holstein, of Mercer. By this union
they have three children: Charles, Constance and Branton. In 1866 Mr.
McDowell was elected burgess of Sharpsville, and re-elected in 1887. Our
subject is a member of the A. O. U. W., No. 127, of Sharpsville, also of the
K. of P.
Andrew J. Nickle, superintendent of Sharpsville Furnace, is a son of
Andrew and Sarah A. (Hoffman) Nickle, of Philadelphia, Penn. Our subject
was born in 1835, in Venango County, Penn. ; was reared and educated in Clar-
ion County, and when a young man found employment at different furnaces,
where he learned the business of manufacturing iron. In 1862 he was em-
ployed by the late Gen. James Pierce, and in 1875 engaged with Pierce,
Kelly & Co., as foundryman, where he remained until 1887, when he took
charge of the Sharpsville Furnace. Our subject was married in 1857 to Miss
Nancy J. Barnacle, of Venango County, Penn., and by this union they have
seven children: Philip H. , Sarah, Ann, Mrs. Henry Myers (of Sharpsville,
Penn), Andrew Jackson, William A. (died in 1871), Martin V., Stanceless C.
and Charles C. Our subject is a member of the United Brethren Church of
Sharpsville, and politically is a Democrat.
Gen. James Pierce (deceased). — The history of those who, under adverse
circumstances, have, by their own unaided efforts and native force of charac-
ter, achieved success in any department of human enterprise, is always inter-
esting, and should be especially so to young men about to engage in the active
duties of life, as examples for their imitation. No man has ever lived in the
Shenango Valley who is more worthy of a place in the pages- of history than
he whose name stands at the head of this biography. James Pierce was born
844
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
in Swanzey, Cheshire Co. , N. H. , on the 24th day of September, 1810, and
remained with his father, whose name also was James, working on the farm
until he was twenty-one years of age, receiving in the meantime such limited
education as country schools of that period afforded. He then left the paren-
tal roof and began working by the month at the lumber business, at which
employment he continued about two years, and then commenced the same
business on his own account, in the manufacture of shooks for sugar hogsheads,
conveying them to market down the Connecticut River. He was married Jan-
uary 1, 1839, to Miss Chloe Holbrook, a native of New Hampshire, born March
20, 1816. Immediately after his marriage, in connection with the lumber
business he added the occupation of a 'farmer. He and a cousin, Jervis
Bates, came to Erie County, Penn. , in 1844, bringing with them cotton and
woolen cloth, which they disposed of and turned the proceeds into horses, which
they took back with them when they returned home. They made the journey
out with wagons and sleighs. Mr. Pierce came to Erie County again, in De-
cember of the same year, and stayed all winter. This time he was engaged in
selling clocks through Erie and Crawford Counties. There being very little
money in this section at that time, his accumulations, which were about
$1,000, consisted wholly of Beaver & Erie Canal Bonds. Being unable to ob-
tain the interest on the bonds at Erie, he disposed of them for a lot of stoves.
Possessing an enterprising spirit, and desiring a wider field for the display of
his energies, he sold his property in New Hampshire, and in the ^ear 1845
removed with his young family to Cranesville, Erie Co. , Penn. , where he re-
mained until the spring of 1847, when he located at Clarksville, Mercer County.
The first business enterprise in which he engaged here was mining and
shipping coal in the vicinity of Clarksville, in the year 1847. Coal then found
its market in Erie, and v/as transported to that point via the Beaver &
Erie Canal, the business being then in its infancy in the Shenango Valley.
This first adventure was only moderately successful; the mine being limited in
extent, soon became exhausted. He then opened new mines near to his late
residence. Mount Hickory, in Hickory Township. These proved very valuable,
and here was laid the foundation of his subsequent eminently successful busi-
ness career. To convey the coal from these mines he constructed a tram-road,
operated by horse-power, which was regarded at that time as a wonderful
achievement of individual enterprise, and which answered a most valuable
purpose until it was superseded by the Erie & Pittsburgh and the Sharpsville
& Oakland Railroads. In the construction of both these roads he took a most
active interest. In the former he was a large stockholder and a director; in
the latter the principal stockholder and its president and general manager
from the beginning to his death. These roads have performed an indispensa-
ble part in the development of iron, coal and other industries of the country
through which they pass, and to the energy and public spirit of Mr. Pierce is
the community indebted for the existence and beneficial results of these im-
provements. Among the first to engage in the coal business in Mercer County,
so did he continue until the day of his death to be among the most prominent
and successful operators, being connected with extensive mines both in Mercer
and Lawrence Counties.
His connection with the furnace business commenced in the year 1859.
Becoming the proprietor of the Sharpsville Furnace, he put the same in blast
that year, and started to work on the Jackson iron ore of Lake Superior, and
it was then that the principal revival of the blast furnaces of the Shenango
and Mahoning Valleys took place,^ the successful working of the Jackson ore
in the Sharpsville furnace calling the attention of the furnace men to Lake
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
845
Superior ores for the manufacture of a distinctive red short iron. In 18G8, in
connection with 'William L. Scott, of Erie, the Mount Hickory Furnaces (two
stacks) were erected, and more recently, in company with two of his sons
(Jonas J. and Wallace) and George D. Kelly, the Douglas Furnaces (two
stacks) were built. Another son, Walter, is also a partner in the Spearman
Iron Works, consisting of two blast furnaces. He was thus identified with
seven out of nine furnaces located at Sharpsville, all of which are first-class
establishments of their kind. He had also large investments in iron inines at
Lake Superior, which, however, are only partially developed. These com-
prise the mining, manufacturing and railroad enterprises with which he was
connected, but do not by any means include the whole of his business opera-
tions. He was president and principal owner of the Iron Banking Company,
of Sharpsville, and a stockholder in the Sharon Banking Company. His
farming operations were conducted on a very extensive scale, and with more
science and system than is generally employed. Mount Hickory is a model
farm. The mansion and out buildings are equal to any in the county, and
perhaps not surpassed by any of their kind in Western Pennsylvania. The
land is in the highest state of cultivation, abounding in all the fruits suitable
to this latitude, and, in short, with everything to make it a most pleasant and
desirable residence. His extensive herd of thoroughbred cattle was greatly
admired by farmers and stock breeders. That he had very superior stock is
evidenced by the many premiums awarded him at the North Western Penn-
sylvania Fair and elsewhere.
To design and successfully accomplish these varied and extensive opera-
tions suggests the possession of no ordinary business capacity. Nature had,
indeed, been kind, endowing him with large mental powers, but with a physi-
cal organization fitted for the endurance of almost any amount of labor. It
might be supposed that, in the midst of these numerous and pressing business
cares, he would be indifferent to the welfare of the community in which he
dwelt. The contrary was the case, however, and every object designed to
benefit society met his cordial approbation and co- operation. He always
manifested a deep interest in the cause of education, devoting much personal
attention, as a director for a number of years, to the common schools, and in
liberal contributions in lands and money for the erection of school -hoiises,
aside from the large amount of taxes paid by him annually for their support.
A noted instance of his liberality is seen in the contribution of $10,000, made
in the name of his wife, toward endowing the female professorship in Buch-
tel College, Akron, Ohio, to be called the ‘ ‘ Chloe Pierce ’ ’ professorship.
This is a new institution of learning, of which he was one of the trustees, and
is in a very prosperous condition. Several of the churches in Sharpsville also
received generous donations from his hands, while public and private enter-
prises have been greatly aided and fostered through his liberality.
Gen. Pierce died at his residence. Mount Hickory Farm, on Wednesday
morning, December 2, 1874, after an illness of only a few days’ duration,
caused by a fall a week previous, from the effects of which he gradually sank
into the sleep of death. He was a Universalist in religious belief, and it
was through his infiuence the first Universalist organization was effected in
the county at Sharpsville. His wife also was a Universalist, and the present
financial prosperity of the Sharpsville Society is largely due to her liberality.
Gen. Pierce left a widow and five grown sons to mourn his unexpected
decease. The former survived him nearly twelve years, and died August 16,
1886, aged seventy years. Jonas J., the eldest son, was born September 23,
1839, and was married April 6, 1865, to Miss Kate Pritzl, of Baltimore, Md. ,
49
846
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
who has borne him hve children: Scott, James A., Chloe H., Jonas and Fred-
erick P. Walter and Wallace (twins) were born October 19, 1842; the former
was married June 28, 1871, to Miss Alice Mower, of Greenville, Penn., who
died October 11, 1884, leavingthree daughters: Alice, Mary and Kate; Wal-
lace is unmarried. Frank was born November 10, 1852, and married, October
21, 1880, Miss Minnie Andrews, of Sharpsville, Penn., who has borne him two
sons: Frank W. and Thomas A. James B. was born September 2, 1856, and
married,. June 17, 1880, Miss Albertine Pomplitz, of Baltimore, Md. , and has
two daughters: Louesa and Pauline. These gentlemen are all engaged in
large business enterprises, and are among the most prominent and best known
citizens of this portion of the State.
Gen. Pierce was one of the leading members of the Democratic party in
Northwestern Pennsylvania, and always took a deep interest in its success,
favoring legislation for the advancement of the general interests of the State.
He was once the Democratic candidate for the Legislature, and, though defeated,
polled a much larger vote than the full strength of his party. Few men in
the Shenango Valley were so widely known and respected by the people in
every walk of life, and his death was a severe loss to the community in which
he had spent so many years of a successful business career. His kindnesses
passed from his hand not as credits to be returned with use, but as souvenirs
sacred to his memory, and as such will be cherised in perpetual remembrance.
His memory will long be retained in the hearts of those whom he has
befriended and assisted by counsel, advice and pecuniary aid, and among
them can be numbered many poor men who have been brought to a prosperous
condition, if not to affluence and wealth. The strict rule of rectitude was the
magnet by which he moved, and the guide-star of his business life, while
indomitable will, enterprise and perseverance were the three leading traits of
his character.
M. W. Thompson, publisher of the Sharpsville Times, is a sou of Samuel
Thompson, of Pymatuning Township. Our subject was born in 1862 in Hick-
ory Township. He received his education in the public schools of Sharpsville,
in which place he was reariffl. Mr. Thompson began the printing business in
1877, serving his time in the office of the Sharpsville Advertiser. Our subject
has been employed upon many of the leading journals of the present day, in-
cluding the New York Wo7'ld, Cincinnati Enquirer, Cleveland Leader and Erie
Dispatch. In 1887, in connection with Samuel W. Hazen, he established the
Sharpsville Times. In politics he is an ardent supporter of the Republican
party.
De. John H. Twitmyee, son of Emanuel and Lucy (Gebhart) Twitmyer, was
born April 26, 1844, at Zion, Centre Co. , Penn. He received his early educa-
tion at the common schools of his native town, subsequently entered Dicken-
son Seminary at Williamsport, and was graduated from the University of Penn-
sylvania, at Philadelphia, March 12, 1872. His first location in Mercer County
was at Transfer in 1872. In the spring of 1873 he located at Sharpsville,
where he has since continued the practice of his profession. Our subject was
married, June 1, 1875, to Miss Donna, daughter of Lewis Hull, and by this
marriage they have one daughter, Alma. The Doctor is a member of the A.
O. U. W. , Lodge No. 27, of Sharpsville, also a member of the R. T. of T. ,
of Sharon, and a member of the Reformed Church of Sharpsville.
De. Chaeles L. Williams was born in 1851, at Sharon, Penn., a son of
Lester and Ann E. (Moore) Williams. His early education was received in
the public schools of Sharon. He commenced the study of medicine with
Dr. Hoyt, of Sharon, and Dr. Hurlbert, of Youngstown, Ohio, and was grad-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
847
uated from the Homoeopathic Hospital College of Cleveland, Ohio, in 1879.
He then commenced the practice of medicine with Dr. Hoyt, of Sharon, Penn.
In 1880 he located at Sharpsville, Penn., where he has continued in practice.
He married, November 17, 1881, Miss Chloe, daughter of David and Jane D.
Stewart, of Sharpsville, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church
of this borough.
Matthias R. Zahnisee is a son of David and Rachel (Tice) Zahniser. The
grandfather, Matthias Zahniser, was one of Mercer County’s early settlers.
Our subject was born May 12, 1844, in Jefferson Township. His early life
was spent on the home farm, receiving such education as the township schools
afforded. At the age of eighteen he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred
and Fortieth Pennsylvania Reserves, and participated in all the engagements
from the battle of the Wilderness to Spottsylvania, where he suffered the loss
of his right leg from a gun -shot wound. After returning from the army he
engaged in the mercantile business at Big Bend, Jefferson Township, where
he remained for three years. In 1871 he located in Sharpsville, was elected
constable for that borough and served three years. In 1877, in connection with
his brother, H. N. Zahniser, he engaged in the boot and shoe business. In
1880 his brother sold his interest to J. L. Filman, and in 1882 our subject sold
his interest, also, to Mr. Filman, and until May of the present year, was in his
employ. Our subject is now in charge of the boot and shoe department of J.
P. Hughes’ mercantile business. Mr. Zahniser was married in '1871 to Miss
Lottie, daughter of James Hunter, of Pymatuning Township, and by this
union they have two children: Charley W. and Nellie D. Our subject was the
Democratic candidate for member of the Legislature in 1884. He is a member
of the G. A. R., Sharpsville Post No. 234, and one of the past commanders.
He also belongs to the K. of L. Politically he is a Democrat, but voted for
Harrison and Morton.
CHAPTER XXXIII.
BIOGRAPHIES OF SHENANGO AND HICKORY.
SHENANGO TOWNSHIP.
WILLIAM ANDERSON, farmer, post-office New Bedford, Penn. , is a son of
John and grandson of William Anderson, a pioneer of Mercer County,
who immigrated to this county in company with his wife, Betsey (Adams)
Anderson, and one child, the father of our subject. About 1796 John Ander-
son, a brother, followed and located a short distance from his brother William.
He was known as “Agent John Anderson,’’ acting in that capacity for Dr.
Nathaniel Bedford, of Pittsburgh, who owned large tracts of land in this and
Lawrence Counties. He married Jane McFarland, and had six children, all of
whom are dead, the last survivor, William R. , dying on the old homestead
June 27, 1888, aged seventy. He died in 1820, leaving an estate of 800 acres.
William Anderson, the grandfather of our subject, and his son John, were pro-
gressive men of their day. They erected on their farm one of the first grist-
mills built in this county, and were also extensively engaged in the distilling
business. John served with the army in the War of 1812. He married Ellen,
848
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
daughter of William Crawford, of Mercer County, and by this marriage was
the father of eleven children: William, Adam, deceased; James, deceased;
David, Hiram, Robert, deceased; Alexander, of Fairview Township, Mercer
County; Samuel, deceased; Betsey, wife of Frederick Breede, of Crawford
County, Penn. ; Ellen J. , deceased, and Mary E. , deceased. He married for
his second wife Eliza, daughter of John and Jane (McFarland) Anderson, by
whom he had four children: Lemuel, deceased; Julia, wife of James Keer, of
Crawford County, Penn. ; John, and Louisa, deceased. He died in 1860 at the age
of sixty-three. His father died in 1859 at the age of ninety-three. William was
the eldest son, and was born in 1817 on the old homestead, and was educated
in the common schools. He was apprenticed to the carpenter’s trade, which
business he followed for some ten years, then engaged in farming upon a part
of the homestead, and has since followed farming. He married, in 1851, Miss
Mary A., daughter of David and Kate (Gundy) Crawford, and they have one
child, David W.
David C. Anderson, farmer, post-office New Bedford, Penn., is the third
son of John and Ellen (Crawford) Anderson. His father’s family is mentioned
in the sketch of William Anderson. He was born on the homestead May 4,
1825, where he resided until 1851, when he purchased his present home. He
married, March 20, 1851, Miss Rebecca J. Robinson, daughter of Andrew and
Betsy (Maxwell) Robinson, of Ohio. She died May 4, 1874, leaving four chil-
dren: John A., Lizzie, Mrs. Irwin Caldwell; William F. and David Law-
rence. Mr. Anderson married for his second wife Eletha Gundy, daughter
of John P. and Sarah (Marstler) Gundy, April 7, 1877. He has always been
engaged in farming, and excepting four years’ residence in Ohio has resided
upon his place since 1851. He has been connected with the schools of his
township as director. He is a member of the New Bedford Presbyterian
Church, which was built in 1801, his grandfather and father having aided
largely by their means and influence in its erection.
Samuel G. Bell, farmer, post-office W^est Middlesex, Penn., is a descend-
ant of William Bell, who settled upon the place now owned by our subject.
His son Samuel was the grandfather of our subject, and was a prominent
business man of his day. He was born in Washington County, Penn., in
1795, and moved from there with his parents while yet a child. He was
engaged in the insurance business, and represented the North American Insur-
rance Company, of Philadelphia, for forty-four years. He married Nancy
Ewing, a daughter of Irish parents, and died in 1884 at the age of eighty-eight
years. He was the father of six children: William, AAoods, Margaret, Mrs.
Clark; Eliza, Mrs. Clinger; Rebecca, Mrs. Miles, and Jane, Mrs. Crossman.
William, the father of our subject, was born in 1816, and married Mary Shirk,
of German and Irish descent. Her parents immigrated to this country and
settled in Centre County, Penn. She had eight children: Walter J. , Thomas
W., Theressa, Mrs. William Riblet; Nancy E., Mrs. Dr. Stevenson, of Hub-
bard, Ohio; Mattie A., Florence M. , Mrs. John E. Phillips; Nettie J. , Mrs.
Marcus Miller, and our subject, Samuel G. , who was born in 1848. He was
educated in the public schools of the township, and has been engaged in farming
since he arrived at manhood. He has filled the office of tax collector for his
township.
John C. Bell, farmer and agent for the American Road Machine, is a son
of William S. and Margaret (Irwin) Bell. The mother of our subject was a
native of Westmoreland County, Penn., and the father a native of Cumber-
land County, who settled where Mr. Bell now resides in 1826. He was born
in 1805, and died in 1879, his wife having died in 1873. They had six chil-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
849
dren, two of whom are living: Eliza J. , Mrs. Benjamin Love, of Lackawan-
nock Township, and our subject, who was born January 29, 1843, and received
his education at the common schools of his township. Our subject early
engaged in farming in connection with his father, and is now largely engaged
in the raising of farm products. In 1886 Mr. Bell connected himself with the
American Road Machine Company as its agent, and represents them in Mercer
and Lawrence Counties. Our subject has always been active in public mat-
ters connected with his township, having filled the position of justice of the
peace and all the principal offices of the township. In politics he is a Repub-
lican, and for several years he has been an elder in the Presbyterian Church of
Neshannock. He married, October 16, 1866, Miss Susan, daughter of Robert
and Rebecca Thompson, of Mercer County, and by this union they have
four children: Robert Thompson, William Stephenson, Rebecca, Mary and
John Mealy.
Samuel Buckwaltee, farmer, is a son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Witwer)
Buckwalter, natives of Lancaster County, Penn. The father of our subject, in
the fall of 1843, removed’with his family from Lancaster County, and settled
upon a large tract of land known as the Hezlip property, in Wilmington Town-
ship, Mercer County, and in 1852 he removed from there upon the Paup
Mills property, in the same township. In 1853 he removed to Grundy County,
111., where he died in 1872, at the age of seventy-nine, his wife surviving him
until July 7, 1882, when she died, aged eighty-two years. They had six sons
and three daughters: John, the eldest, and Elizabeth died in this county;
Daniel died in Lancaster County, Penn., and David died in Illinois; Benjamin
and Michael reside in Illinois; Mary, Mrs. Isaac Showalter, of Illinois; Ann,
Mrs. W. E. Weber, of Indiana. Our subject was born November 23, 1827,
in Lancaster County, Penn., where he received his early training. Upon the
removal of his father to Illinois he purchased his present home, and has since
been engaged in general farming. In 1879 he was elected county commissioner,
which position he filled for three years. He has always been identified with
public affairs connected with his township, filling nearly all the local offices.
He married Miss Mattie, daughter of Jacob Bixler, of Shenango Township, and
by this marriage they had four children: Benjamin, who married Mary Mus
sellman, and resides in Lancaster County; Abraham, died May 29, 1864;
Samuel W. and Nancy J. , died in 1864. Samuel W. married Miss Lydia M.
Cowden, daughter of I. Cowden, Esq. , and resides on the homestead with his
father.
James P. Byers, farmer, post-office Pulaski, Penn. , is a son of John and Jane
(Porter) Byers, and grandson of William Byers, the first sheriff of Mercer
County. The father of our subject was a native of this county, and a farmer
by occupation; was active in county affairs; served as commissioner one term,
being elected in 1849, and was also justice of the peace for many years. He
died in 1851, his wife surviving him till 1871. They had nine children:
Isabella, Mrs. Josiah Gibson; William, deceased; J. P. , John T., Walter D.,
Mary J. , Mrs. Ebenezer McFarland; Ebenezer, Esther, Ellen, Mrs. Peter
West, of Albion, N. Y. Our subject was born in May, 1828, and received his
education in the public schools of the township. Mr. Byers enlisted in August,
1861, in Company B, One Hundredj:h Pennsylvania Volunteers, his regiment
being known as the “Roundheads,” being so named from the fact that the
members were nearly all descendants of Scotch families, who were followers of
Cromwell. Mr. Byers followed the fortunes of his regiment for three years,
and participated in the following engagements: Port Royal, Port Royal Ferry,
James Island, second Bull Run, Chantilly, South Mountain, Antietam, Fred-
850
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
ericksbnrg and Weldon R. R. While in the service Mr. Byers contracted the
small-pox, which has resulted in depriving him of his hearing. Our subject
is engaged in general farming. He was married February 1857, to Miss
Eliza J. McMillin, daughter of Robert and Margaret (Hulse) McMillin, of
Beaver County, Penn. By this union they have had eight children, of whom five
are living: Ellen F., John P. , married Tilla Pomroy, and has two children,
Harvey and a daughter; William W., Eliza A. and Hattie B. Mr. Byers is a
member of the G. A. R,, and a good, enterprising citizen.
William Byeks and his wife, Jane (Kincaid) Byers, natives of Adams
County, Penn., settled in 1797 near the site of Georgetown, Mercer County.
He was born September 6, 1767, and died January 3, 1844, at Pulaski, Law-
rence County. He was the first sheriff of Mercer County, and after complet
ing his term of office removed to Pulaski, and in 1834 received the appoint
ment of postmaster, it betng the first for that place. He had ten children, of
whom three are living: James, of Iowa; Mary, Mrs. Andrew Morrison, of
this county, and Ebenezer Wiley, who was born at Pulaski in 1816, and sub-
sequently removed to his present place of residence in Shenango Township.
He married, in 1841, Hannah, daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Bebout) Mc-
Clain, of Lackawannock Township, and by this marriage they have had ten
children, six of whom are living: Sarah A., Mrs. J. D. Porter, of this town-
ship; Addie, Esther, John W. and Carrie, at home, and Maggie, Mrs. J. M.
McFarland, of Mercer County. John W. was born at Pulaski in 1856, and
was educated in the common schools, completing his education at Wilmington
College. He subsequently taught school, and afterward engaged in farming.
He was elected, in 1883, justice of the peace for his township, which position
he now fills. He married, in 1880, Miss Anna, daughter of James Reddle, of
Butler County. They have two children: Wiley and Helen A.
Thomas Caldwell, deceased farmer, w'as born in December, 1806, on the
place where he resided till his death, September 3, 1888. His parents,
Charles and Isabella (Stitts) Caldwell, removed from Huntingdon County in
1805, and settled in Shenango Township, Mercer Co., Penn., where our sub-
ject was born. The grandfather on the paternal side was a native of Ireland,
and came to Huntingdon County, Penn. , at an early date. The father of Mr.
Caldwell died in 1840 and his mother in 1844. They had seven children, all of
whom are deceased. He was married in 1830 to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of
James Clingan, a native of Ireland. By this marriage they had three children:
Robert, who in 1861 enlisted in the Tenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and died
from wounds received at the battle of Bull Run; John, who lives at home,
and Irwin, who married Miss Lizzie, daughter of David Anderson, of this
township, and has three children: Robert, Nellie and Josiah. Mr. Caldwell
was a member of the United Presbyterian Church, of Deer Creek, having held
a continuous membership therein for sixty-one years.
Canon Family. — Among the earliest settlers of Mercer County, Penn.,
were Thomas and Margaret (Heath) Canon, who came from Philadelphia,
Penn., about 1796-97, and located in what is now Hickory Township. He
was twice married, and was the father of eleven children: Moses, John,
Rachel, Rebecca, Thomas, Ruth, Ross, James, Margaret, Samuel and Will-
iam, all of whom may be classed as pioneers of the Shenango Valley. Moses
was the eldest son of the first marriage, and was born in Philadelphia in 1782,
and on reaching manhood married Elizabeth, daughter of George Swasie, a
pioneer of Mercer County. Six children were born to this union: Rebecca
(who married Henry Coryea), Mary (who married James Dunlap), John, Eliza
(who became the wife of John Livingston), James and Thomas, all of whom
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
851
are dead, excepting John and Thomas, both residents of Shenango Township.
John was born in this township in 1810, and here grew to manhood. He learned
the blacksmithing trade, and after serving his apprenticeship followed that
business about seven years. He then purchased the farm upon which he has
ever since resided. He married Rebecca, daughter of William Jones, of this
county, who died in 1881. She was the mother of eleven children: Maria
(deceased), Eliza (^wife of Alex. Mayberry), Moses (deceased), Rachel (wife of
Henry Morehead), Alfred (deceased), Hannah (wife of James Thompson),
James, John C., Mary (deceased), William W. and Robert (deceased). Mr.
Canon is a member of the Presbyterian Church, is a Republican in politics,
and one of the well-known and respected citizens of Shenango Township.
Ceossman Family. — One of the pioneer families of Mercer County was the
Crossmans. Abner Crossman, a soldier of the War of 1812, settled in
Shenango Township, Mercer Co., Penn., shortly after the close of the war.
He was a native of Beaver County, and married Mary, daughter of Alexander
McCall, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, and a native of Washington
County, Penn. But little is known of Abner Crossman by his descendants.
He had two brothers and one sister: Robert Crossman, a Methodist min-
ister of Zanesville, Ohio; James Crossman, who settled in Indiana, and
Mrs. Robert McGill, of Lowell, Ohio. Abner Crossman, previous to his
locating in Mercer County, was extensively engaged in the distillery business
in Beaver County, Penn., but his works were destroyed by fire, and he then
removed to this county, and settled where his son Robert C. now lives, in
Shenango Township. He had seven children, three of whom are living:
Murry Alexander, who married Jane, daughter of Samuel Bell, of Shenango
Township, in 1867, and by this marriage have four children: Mary B. , Samuel
A., Nannie E. and Addison W. Mr. Crossman is a carpenter by trade. In
1861 he enlisted in Company B, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserves, and was dis
charged the same year for disability. Robert C., who was born in 1831 upon
the place where he now resides, learned the carpenter trade, and was subse-
quently a member of the firm of Harriott, Eaton & Crossman in the oil busi
ness at Mackey, Ohio. In 1861 he enlisted in Company B, Tenth Regi-
ment Pennsylvania Reserves, and participated in the following engagements:
Drainsville, Mechanicsville, Gaines’ Mill, White Oak Swamp, Malvern Hill,
Groveton, Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg,
Bristoe Station, Mine Run, the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna River,
Tolopotomy and Bethseda Church. At Mechanicsville our subject received a
wound in the head from a shell; at Fredericksburg he was wounded in the left
leg, and at the Wilderness was sun-struck. At the battle of Fredericksburg
he was appointed color bearer for his regiment. At the close of the war Mr.
Crossman returned to Mercer County, and engaged with his old employers, the
Crawford & Patterson Coal Co., as shipper, and remained with them two years.
He then associated with himself his brother Cyrus, and engaged in the saw-
mill business and the manufacture of shingles. In 1870 he purchased the
old homestead, and since that time has been engaged in farming. In 1859 he
married Sarah, daughter of James and Jane (Wilson) Mayers, of Shenango
Township, and by this marriage they have five children: Sarah F. (Mrs.
ElwynHart, of Madison, D. T.), ArsenaE., Ulysses G. (who resides in Dakota).
Horatio A. and Cyrus E. Mr. Crossman is a member of the Alonzo McCall
Post No. 456, G. A. R. , of West Middlesex, and is connected with the United
Presbyterian Church of that borough.
Cyrus, the fifth and youngest son of Abner Crossman, was born in 1843,
in Shenango Towoship, and was educated in the public schools of the town-
852
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ship. After leaving school he engaged vyith his brother Alexander to learn
the carpenter’s trade. In 1862 he enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-
second Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He
followed the fortunes of his regiment, and participated with it in the following
engagements; Antietam, Fi’edericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the
Wilderness, Cold Harbor, Weldon Kailroad, Petersburg, Five Forks, South
Side Kailroad, and was present with his command at the surrender of Lee.
On his return to Mercer he engaged in the carpenter business and farming,
and in the winter of 1866-67 he engaged in teaching school. He subsequent-
ly became connected with his brother in saw-mills and shingle business. In
1867 he was united in marriage to Miss Maria, daughter of Benjamin and
Margaret (Mathews) Mayers, early settlers of Shenango Township, who settled
on the land now occupied by our subject. Mr. Crossman is a member of
Alonzo McCall Post, G. A. K., and also of the United Presbyterian Church of
West Middlesex, Penn.
Charles H. Dilley, farmer, post-office West Middlesex, Penn., is a son of
John H. and Orlena (Currie) Dilley. The father of Charles H. was a native
of Mercer County, Penn., and his mother of Wisconsin, where she died in
1859, leaving one child, the subject of our sketch. The grandfather on the
paternal side was Matthias Dilley, a native of Westmoreland County, who
settled in Mercer County at an earl3'' date. The father of our subject married
a Miss Irvine, of Shenango Township, and by this marriage they had one son,
Fred, deceased. Mr. Dilley, Sr. , died in 1887, his wife having died the pre-
vious year. Our subject was born in Wisconsin in 1858, and at the age of
seven years came to Shenango Township with his father. He received his
education in the public schools of the township, and early began farming.
Mr. Dilley is extensively engaged in farming, and his homestead, containing
250 acres, is situated west of the Shenango River, and near the Lawrence
County line.
Albert Edeburn, farmer, post office West Middlesex, Penn., is a son of
Henry and Ellen (Crawford) Edeburn. The grandfather, W^illiam Edeburn,
emigrated from Germany, and settled on the Shenango River, near W’est Mid-
dlesex Borough, and was engaged in farming. The father of our subject had
a family of three children: Calvin, David W. and Albert. His wife died in
July, 1882. He was again married May 1, 1884, to Mrs. Elizabeth McCluug,
and died May 26, 1885. Our subject was born July 22, 1853, was reared on
the homestead where he now lives, two miles west of Middlesex, and received
his education in the public schools of his native township. He married, in
1871, Miss Nancy A., daughter of John Walker, of Shenango Township, who
is the mother of three children: Ella B. , Harry and Jennie O. Mr. Edeburn
is engaged in general farming. He is a member of the United Presbyterian
Church of Wffist Middlesex.
Daniel Gearheart, farmer, post-office W^est Middlesex, is a son of Jacob
Gearheart, and grandson of Daniel Gearheart, a native of Bucks County, Penn. ,
who settled where our subject now lives at an early date. Mr. Gearheart was
reared and educated in Shenango Township, and has always been engaged in
farming. He was married in 1879 to Miss Eliza Garrett, of Shenango Town-
ship, and by this union they have five children: Jessie, Alice, Grover Cleve-
land, Minnie and Frank.
Robert M. Graham, justice of the peace and farmer, post-officeWest Middle-
sex, Penn. , is a son of William and Margaret (Canon) Graham. Our subject was
born in 1849, and was reared upon the homestead farm, where he now resides,
in Shenango Township. The father of Mr. Graham was a native of Chester
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
853
County, Penn., and came to Mercer County when quite young. He was a
blacksmith by trade, and subsequently engaged in farming. His wife was a
native of Mercer County, and a member of a pioneer family. William Graham
always took a great interest in the public affairs of the county, and held the
position of justice of the peace in Shenango Township for over twenty years.
He was connected with the State militia, holding a major.’s commission. He
died April 20, 1876, and his wife in December, 1877. They had twelve chil-
dren, six of whom are living: Dr. J. W. , of Ashtabula, Ohio; Thompson, of
Berg Hill, Ohio; Charles, of Chicago, 111.; Dr. Thomas, of Australia; Sarah
J. (Mrs. Walter Mclntroy, of Shenango Township) and Robert M. Our
subject received his education in the public schools, and has always been
engaged in farming.' In 1887 he was elected justice of the peace, which posi-
tion he now tills. He was united in marriage December 28, 1871, to Miss
Maggie, daughter of John Burns, of Michigan. They have three children:
Sarah J. , Maggie M. and William. Mr. Graham is a member of the United
Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex, and in politics is a Democrat.
B. J. Haywood, prothonotary of Mercer County, post-office West Middlesex,
was born April 12, 1849, in Hickory Township, this county. His parents,Ben-
jamin and Catharine (Long) Haywood, were among the most respected citizens
of the community in which they lived, and their union resulted in four chil-
dren. Our subject was brought up at farm labor, and was educated in the
common schools of his native township. He also took a course at the Iron
City Business College, Pittsburgh, and in 1869 he was employed as a clerk
in the general store of H. N. Warren, at West Middlesex. Later he became
a partner with Mr. Warren, and remained as such until 1870, when he with-
drew from the firm, and accepted a position in a local banking institution,
remaining there until 1878, when he was appointed and commissioned post-
master at West Middlesex, and held the position until July 1, 1886. Mr.
Haywood was elected transcribing clerk of the State Senate during the session
of 1885, and message clerk of the same during the session of 1887. He
served as auditof, member of the town council, and three terms as burgess of
West Middlesex. He served as chairman of the Republican county committee
during the years 1883-84-85, and displayed great tact in organizing the Re-
publican forces and wresting the county from the Democracy, who had control
of the leading offices when he first became chairman. As evidence of his
popularity he was elected to the office of prothonotary by a majority of 1,306.
He was married July 29, 1873, to Miss Lizzie E. Powell, born July 25, 1850,
in Shenango Township, daughter of Ebenezer and Elizabeth (Satterfield)
Powell. Mr. Haywood was a member of the Home Guards, although too
young for service in the late war. He is a stanch Republican, a member of
the Masonic and A. O. U. W. lodges, and, with his wife, belongs to the Pres-
byterian Church at West Middlesex.
Joseph Warren Hillier, M. D., post-office West Middlesex, was born in
Cooperstown, Venango Co., Penn., July 22, 1839. He received his education
in the schools of his native place, subsequently attending Allegheny College,
in Meadville, Penn. He studied medicine with Dr. Robert Crawford, of
Cooperstown, and graduated from the medical department of the University
of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, March 15, 1860. He located in West
Middlesex, Penn., July 19, 1860, and has continued the practice of his pro-
fession uninterruptedly up to the present time.
Peter Huff, a native of Germany, immigrated to this country, enlisted in
the army, and served through the Revolutionary War, afterward drawing a
pension until the time of his death, which occurred about 1838. He was well
85-1:
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
off wten he left Germany, but was shipwrecked on the way over, and lost all
he had. But little is known of his early history by his descendants. He
eventually settled in Hubbard Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio. He was mar-
ried three times, his first wife bearing him four sons and six daughters; his
second wife had three daughters, but there was no issue by his third marriage.
Adam was the oldest son by his first wife, from whom have descended the
Huffs of Mercer County. He was born in Hubbard, Trumbull Co., Ohio,
and settled in this township in 1827, where his son Samuel now lives. He was
a farmer and carpenter by occupation. He married Annie Hall, a native of
New Jersey, and they have seven children; Jesse H. (deceased), Elizabeth
(Mrs. David Raymond, of Ohio), Sarah (Mrs. William Napier, of Ohio), Susan
(Mrs. E. Snyder, of Ohio), Mary (Mrs. Joel Morford, of Ohio), and Peter,
who was born in Ohio July 22, l8l5, and was reared and educated in the
township schools, learned the carpenter trade, which he has followed for forty
years, and is also operating a small fruit farm. He married Margaret Gil-
bert, of Sheuango Township, who died in 1862, leaving seven children, six of
whom are living: Sarah A., Gilbraith, Henry, Adam, Parkshale and Margaret.
In 1862 he married Mary J. Lightner, of Butler County, Penn. Samuel
was the third son, and was born January 31, 1825, at Hubbard, Ohio, and was
reared and educated at the common schools of Shenango Township. On
coming of age he engaged in the machine business with his cousin, at Brook-
held, Ohio. In 1857 he returned to the homestead property, and engaged in
manufacturing guns. In 1860 he engaged in the manufacturing of wagons
and general blacksmith business, which he carried on until 1866, when he
erected a steam saw mill, which he operated in connection with his other busi-
ness. He was married February 18, 1850, to Miss Catherine A. Wireman,
of Brookheld, Ohio. By this union they have had three children; Francis S.
(deceased), Rachel A. (Mrs. D. M. Buchanan, of this township) and Otis A.
Mr. Huff' and his brother Peter are members of the Disciple Church of
Hubbard, Ohio.
William A. Jackson, farmer, post-office West Middlesex, Penn., is a son
of William and Anna (Carmichael) Jackson. He was a son of William Jack-
son, one of the prominent families of Washington County, Penn. , and a nephew
of Philip Jackson, noted as the praying elder of the Cross Roads Church in
Washington County, which had for its pastor the Rev. E. McCurdy, a famous
preacher of the Presbyterian Church in pioneer days. The paternal grand-
father of our subject was William Jackson; he had ten children and settled
originally about eight miles northeast of New Castle, subsequently removing
to the place where our subject now lives. He purchased the patent for 640
aci’es of land, being located in the donation lands. The father of our subject
had eight children; Thomas and James, deceased; Sarah, wife of John Car-
nahan, of Kansas; Mary J. , wife of John Pinkerton, of Illinois; Margaret
L. and Elizabeth E., who reside upon a part of the homestead; Hugh, who
enlisted in 1861 in Company B, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and died, from exposure received in the service, at Newport News, July 25,
1862. Our subject was born in 1832 on the old homestead; was reared and
educated at the common schools; learned the carpenter’s trade, and subse-
quently engaged in farming. He married, in 1858, Miss Adelaide, daughter of
Thomas Mathews, of Ohio, who died in 1861, leaving one son, Albert, who is
now principal of the Wyman Institute of Upper Alton, 111. He married for
his second wife, October, 1861, Miss Maggie, a daughter of John and Harriet
Ayres, of Butler, Butler Co., Penn. By this marriage they have seven
children: William A. (principal of Wilmington High-school), Thomas C.
HISTORY or MERCER COUNTY.
855
(teacher), Alfred H. , Harry L., Charles E., AnnaH. and Mary. Mr. Jackson
has been officially identified with the schools of his township as a director.
He belongs to the A. O. U. W., Lodge No. 12, of West Middlesex, and is a
member and ruling elder of the West Middlesex Presbyterian Church.
David W. Leese, farmer and surveyor, post-office West Middlesex, is a
son of Daniel and Alaria (Emig) Leese, natives of York County, Penn. Mr.
Leese was born north of Codorus, York Co., Penn., in October, 1834. He
received his education in the public schools of the county, and in early life
taught school in the winter months, and worked on the farm in the summer,
until he had educated himself for his profession of surveying and expert
accountant. In 18G3 he removed to Mercer County, settled in West Middle-
sex, and engaged as the book-keeper for the coal and iron works, which posi-
tion he filled for ten years. In the spring of 1873 he removed to Brazil, Ind. ,
to fill the position of superintendent of the brass furnace and several coal
mines located there. He returned to West Middlesex in 1875, and was not
engaged in any active business until 1879, when he purchased his present place
of residence, about one mile and a half east of the town, where he has- since
resided. Mr. Leese has 105 acres of land, and pays particular attention to the
growing of fruits. He is well known ihrough the county, having been identi-
fied professionally with the settling of many private and public estates. He
was married in the fall of 1858 to Miss Sarah E. Wood, daughter of Joseph
and Sarah (Brown) Wood, of East Berlin, Adams Co., Penn. By this mar-
riage they had three children: Oliver E., Thaddeus S. and Maud F. His wife
died in May, 1886. He married for his second wife, in the fall of 1887, Miss
Julia McLain, daughter of Charles McLain, of Mercer County, Penn.
James McCandles, retired, post-office West Middlesex, is a son of James
and Margaret (Jackson) McCandles, natives of Ireland, who settled in Beaver
County, Penn., about 1800. Our subject was born in Beaver County, Penn.,
July 15, 1808. The father of our subject was a weaver and farmer by occupa-
tion. In 1834 our subject removed to Shenango Township, in this county, and
purchased a farm of fifty acres, to which he added. He has filled many of the
township offices, and served as school director for twelve years. In 1829 he
married Miss Jane, daughter of John McCall, of Beaver County, and by this
marriage they had ten children, three of whom are now living: Selina, wife
of Charles Williams; Maggie, wife of Hudson Veach, and James. Our sub-
ject in politics is a Prohibitionist, and is a member of the United Presbyterian
Church of West Middlesex.
John McCreary, Sr., farmer, post-office West Middlesex, Penn., was born
February 23, 1814. Our subject is a son of David and Betsey (McFarland)
McCreary. His grandfather, John McCreary, was a native of Ireland, and im-
migrated to this country prior to the Revolutionary War. He enlisted in the
American army and served through the entire struggle with Gen. Morgan. He
subsequently settled in what is now Washington County, and died in Shenango
Township, Mercer County. He had three sons: William, David and John.
David, the father of our subject, was born in 1782, and died February 28,
1855, his wife having died in 1853. They had nine children: Ann, deceased;
John, William, deceased; Jane, wife of William Long, of Ohio; David, de-
ceased; James, of Shenango Township; Robert, deceased; Andrew, deceased,
and Sarah E., deceased. James married Miss Jane, daughi-er of David
Pathour, of OhioJ and is the father of five children: Elizabeth, Sarah, Mrs.
William Ayres, deceased; Emma, deceased; Appeline, Mrs. E. E. Harshman,
and Lurina, Mrs. G. E. McBride. Our subject has never married, resides in
Shenango Township, and has always followed farming. He has never taken
8,56
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
any active interest in the public alfairs of his county, but after seventy- four
years of quiet usefulness it is befitting that some mention be made of his iden-
tification with the development of Shenango Township. Mr. McCreary is a
gentleman of genial manners and wide intelligence, and in politics he is a Dem-
ocrat.
William Mitcheltree, farmer, is a son of William and Margaret (Mc-
Knight) Mitcheltree, natives of Westmoreland County. Our subject came
to Mercer County in 1852, and located at his present home, and engaged in
farming. He married, in 1855, Miss Elmira, daughter of Jacob Garrett, of
Shenango Township. By this union they have six living children : Anna M. ,
Mrs. Robert Wallace; James G. , of Lawrence County; William, Mary J. ,
Mrs. George Holland of West Middlesex; Joseph H. and Elmira A. Mr. Mitch-
eltree’s wife and family are connected with the United Presbyterian Church
of West Middlesex.
Henry Newkirk, hardware merchant, and burgess of West Middlesex,
P.eiin. , is a son of John E. and Elizabeth (McBride) Newkirk, the mother
being ^a daughter of James McBride, a native of Ireland, who settled in
Mercer County. The grandfather of our subject, John F. Newkirk, was a
native of Washington County. Penn,, who removed to Brookfield, Ohio, sub-
sequently came to Mercer County, and afterward removed to Beaver County,
Penn., where he died. John E., the father of our subject, was born in Wash-
ington County, Penn., in 1793, and was reared in Mercer County. He was a
soldier in the War of 1812. After the close of the war he returned to Mercer
County, and established the Newkirk House at West Middlesex, and kept it
for many years. His family consisted of eight children; Mary Ann
(deceased), who married John McCall; Christina, Rebecca, Mrs. Samuel Par-
shall of West Middlesex; Matilda, Mrs. James Clark; Elizabeth, Mrs. J. P.
Arbaugh; Minerva J., Mrs. J. W. Russell, of West Middlesex; John, who re-
sides in Colorado. He died May 5, 1856, and his widow in 1868. Our sub-
ject was born in 1836 in Shenango Township, was reared and educated in
West Middlesex, and here learned the shoemaker’s trade. He subsequently
engaged with the Sennett & Warren Iron Company, of West Middlesex, re-
maining with them for twelve years as manager of the store. He then con-
nected himself with J. P. Risher & Co., remaining with them one year. He
afterward engaged with David Theobold in the clothing business as manager
of the branch store in West Middlesex. In connection with J. W. Russell &
Co. , he engaged in the mercantile business and the manufacture of iron in 1867,
and the same year was appointed postmaster of West Middlesex. He subse-
quently engaged in the hardware business, which he has continued up to the
present. Mr. Newkirk was married in the fall of 1860 to Miss Victoria,
daughter of James and Margaret Eakin, of Beaver County, Penn., and they
have one son, Charles E. Mr. Newkirk was elected burgess of West Middle-
sex in 1874-75, and was again elected to the same office in February, 1888.
He has been further identified with the public affairs of the borough as a
member of the council, and school board. He belongs to the A. O. U. W.
and the R. T. of T. Mr. Newkirk is a member of the Methodist Church, hold-
ing the office of steward, and is superintendent of the Sunday-school. In
politics he is a Democrat, and one of the well-known citizens of this portion of
Mercer County.
Nathaniel Riley Pettitt, farmer, post-office West Middlesex, was born in
1821 in Bedford County, Penn. He is a son of Nathaniel and Margaret
(Carr) Pettitt, who removed from Bedford County in 1828 and purchased the
farm now occupied by our subject. Nathaniel, Sr., was born in 1783, and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
857
was the father of eight children; John, Isabella, deceased; Samuel K., de-
ceased; William, deceased; Charles T., Margaret, wife of J. M. Brown, of
Pulaski, Penn., and Rebecca J., wife of George Brown, of the same place.
He died in 1874, his wife having preceded him in 1868. Our subject, was
educated in the public schools of the township. He was apprenticed to the
carpenter trade, and at the expiration of his time, in 1845, engaged in busi-
ness for himself, which he carried on successfully for twenty years. On the
death of his father he purchased the homestead property and has since been
engaged in general farming. He was married in 1845 to Miss Catherine,
daughter of Peter and Rosanna (McConnell) Michael, of Harlensburg, Penn.,
who died in 1883, leaving seven children: Calvin M. , of Greenville, Penn.;
Samuel R., of West Middlesex, Penn.; Mary, wife of Hamilton Sample, of
Ohio; Willis B., of Wilmington, Penn. ; John C., who is engaged on the farm;
Nathaniel, of Cleveland, Ohio, and Adah Z. , at home. Mr. Pettitt married
for his second wife Mrs. Rebecca Falls, sister of his deceased wife. He is a
member of the New Bedford Presbyterian Church.
Capt. Feancis M. Powell, farmer, post-office West Middlesex, Penn'., is a
son of Ebenezer and Elizabeth (Satterfield) Powell. They were natives of
Maryland and located at New Bedford, in what is now Lawrence County, Penn. ,
in l837. They were the parents of seven children: William S., Francis M. ,
Elijah D., John W., deceased; James S., Elizabeth, wife of B. J. Haywood,
of West Middlesex, and Eugene R. He married for his second wife Eleanor
Sloss, by whom he had one child, Fernando, deceased. Our subject was born
in 1838, at New Bedford, Penn., and received his education in the schools
of his native town. At the age of twenty-two he engaged in teaching. In
1862 he was mustered into the service of the United States volunteer serv-
ice as second lieutenant of Company A. One Hundred and Forty-second
Pennsylvania Volunteers. He followed the fortunes and hardships of the
regiment in its marches and battles with the Army of the Potomac, and at
the battle of Fredericksburgh received a slight wound and was promoted to
first lieutenant. He participated with his company in the battles of Chan-
cellorsville and Gettysburg, and in the latter received two severe wounds, and
was promoted to the command of his company. After recovering from his
wounds he rejoined his regiment and participated in the battle of the Wilder-
ness, again being severely wounded. Upon his recovery he was detailed for
duty under Col. J. V. D. Reeves, at Pittsburgh, Penn. At the close of the
war Mr. Powell engaged in the mercantile business in West Middlesex, which
he followed until l8?3, when he was elected county treasurer, which position
he filled for three years. He returned to West Middlesex and again engaged
in the mercantile business, which he carried on until 1878. He then engaged
in farming and has since given his attention to that business. He was mar-
ried December 14, 1871, to Lucy S. Spearman, daughter of Francis and Eliza-
beth Spearman. They have two children: Alice E. and Norman S. Mr.
Powell is a member of the Alonzo McCall Post, No. 456, O. A. R., of West
Middlesex, also of F. & A. M. , No. 389. He is connected with the A. O. U. W.
and the R. T. of T. Both he and family are members of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church, of which he is filling the position of treasurer and trustee.
Albert E. Randall, postmaster of West Middlesex, Penn., was born
September 6, 1857, at New Hamburg, Mercer Co., Penn., and is a son of
Robert and Leah (Hildebrand) Randall. In 1865 he removed with his parents
to West Middlesex and received his education in the public schools of that
borough. At the age of fifteen he entered the employ of William Jones, a
merchant of West Middlesex, and remained with him for three years. He
858
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
then engaged with the Wheeler Iron Company, and subsequently became their
book-keeper, which position he filled until his appointment as postmaster July
1, 1885, being the first postmaster appointed by the present administration.
He was married, September 21, 1881, to Miss Jessie, daughter of George Lloyd,
of Ohio, and by this union they have one daughter, Edna C. Mr. Randall is
a member of the Masonic order, being connected with Kedron Lodge, No.
389, of West Middlesex. He also belongs to the P. H. C., and is a member
of the Baiitist Church of Hubbard. Ohio.
Elmer T. Reed, post-office West Middlesex, Penn., is a son of William and
Phoebe (Carll) Reed, natives of Clarion County, Penn., where our subject was
born October 10, 1835, and came to Mercer County with his parents. Mr.
Reed’s father was an iron worker, and was engaged in many of the furnaces
in the State. He died in 1873, and his wife in 1876. They had nine children.
Elmer T. was the third child, and received his education in the common schools
of this county. In 1846 he commenced work at the Mineral Ridge Furnace,
in this county, and found employment at various furnaces until 1857^ when he
settled in West Middlesex and commenced work with the Sennett & Warren
Iron Company as furnace keeper. In 1859 the Shenango Furnace was erected
at West Middlesex, and he engaged with them. In 1862 he took charge of
the work, for G. W. TifPt & Co., of this place. In 1869 the Shenango Fur-
nace Company was organized, and he was engaged by them to fill the same
position, and has continued his connection with them up to the present time,
the company now being known as the Wheeler Furnace Company. In 1857,
when Mr. Reed came to the works, the daily output was from thirteen to fif-
teen tons, employing about eighty-five hands. The present daily output is
112 tons, and 170 hands are employed in the works. Mr. Reed was married,
in 1859, to Miss Melissa, a daughter of W. D. Brandon, of Mercer County,
and by this union they have seven children: Philitus, Anna, Ella, Maud,
Lydia, Rufus and Charley. Our subject is a member of Kedron Lodge 389,
F. & A. M., also of the A. O. U. W., No. 12.
Addison L. V. Riggs, farmer, post-office Hubbard, Ohio, is a descendant
of Jonathan Riggs, of Baskinridge, N. J. , who settled near the Mercer County
line in Venango County, Penn., in 1795. His wife’s maiden name was Mary
Hampton, a native of New Jersey, who bore him nine children. He was a
soldier in the Revolution, serving through the seven years’ service. He died
April 2, 1836, at the age of ninety-five, his wife having died some years pre-
vious. Jonathan, his second son, was the grandfather of our subject, and was
born about 1785, and married Druscilla, daughter of John Toland, of Wil-
mington, Penn. They had six children, all of whom are dead excepting Jona-
than, the third of that name in the family, and the father of our subject. He
died in 1823, and his wife in 1851. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, hav-
ing command of a company. Jonathan, the father of our subject, was born in
1815, and was reared and educated at Hubbard, Ohio, where his father had
removed in 1818. He married, in 1838, Miss Sarah Van Fleet, daughter of
Richard Van Fleet, of Pulaski, Penn. , and reared four sons: Richard C. N.,John
P. J. , J. W. Byron and Addison L. V., all deceased excepting the last named,
who was born in April, 1842, in this township, where his father had located.
In 1843 his father removed to Mill Creek, where he was. reared and educated.
In 1882 he, in connection with his father, removed to his present farm, and
they are extensively engaged in farming, operating some 435 acres in Shenango
Township and in Mill Creek. Mr. Riggs and his father occupy a handsome
residence, which they built in 1884, and where they live, surrounded by the
results of their industry. He married, in 1870, Miss Emma, daughter of John
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
859
McClure, of Perry Township, Mercer County, and they have four children:
John J., Mary R., Ad E. and Sarah E.
Hon. Joseph AV. Russell, post-office West Middlesex, Penn., is a son of
Joseph and Jane (Gallagher) Russell, natives of Ireland. The parents of Mr.
Russell immigrated to this country about 1832, and settled in Philadelphia,
Penn. Mr. Russell, Sr., engaged in the contracting business upon the public
works in Philadelphia, and continued in that business until 1852, when he re-
moved to Mercer County, and settled at New Vernon, where he engaged in
farming. His wife died in 1849, leaving five children: Martha, who married
George Marshall, of Philadelphia; Mary Ann, married Andrew J. Johnson,
of Philadelphia; Elizabeth L. , married John L. Cheessman, of Burlington, N.
J. ; Isabella F., married Charles Benner, of Philadelphia, and Joseph AV., all
of whom are dead excepting Elizabeth and our subject. In 1852 he married
Mrs. Margaret James, daughter of James Buchanan, of Butler County, Penn.,
and of this marx-iage two children wei’e boim: David J. and James A., both of
whom reside in Nebraska. Mr. Russell, Sr., died January 13, 1866, meeting
his death by accident, through his team running away. Our subject wan born
in Philadelphia, Penn., in 1837, received his education at the public schools of
that city, and was apprenticed to the moulder’s trade. In 1856 he came to
Mercer County and settled in VA^est Middlesex. He followed his trade until
1861, when he enlisted in Company B, Tenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and
served for three years, participating in the following engagements: Drains-
ville, Mechanicsville, Gaines’ Mill, White Oak Swamp, Charles City Cross
Roads, Malvern Hill, South Mountain and Antietam, when he was appointed
commissary-sergeant of his regiment, which position he held until the close of
his tei’m of enlistment. In 1864 he connected himself with the AA'illiam Mc-
Gilvray Iron Works of Sharon, as superintendent of the foundry department.
In 1865 he purchased the Veach, Risher & Co. Iron AVorks of West Middle-
sex, which he sold in 1868 to engage in the coal and mercantile business in
the same place. In 1870 he bought back the iron works, which he operated
until 1887, when he I’emoved them to Hubbard, Ohio, where he now has them
in operation. Our subject has been actively identified with the public affairs
of the county, and in 1884 he was elected to I’epresent this county in the State
Legislature. He has been identified with the schools of AA'est Middlesex as
school director, with the exception of two years, since 1867, and also as a
member of the borough council. In 1881 he was elected a member of the Re-
publican State Central Committee and served in that capacity for the years
1882-3-4. Mr. Russell was married in 1863 to Miss Minerva J. , daughter of
John and Elizabeth (McBride) Newkirk, of Mercer County, and by this mar-
riage they have four children: Frank M. , who is a midshipman in the United
States Navy; Fred E., Clara B. and Helen E. Mr. Russell is connected with
the Masonic order, and is a member of the Kedron Lodge No. 389, of AVest
Middlesex, also of Alonzo McCall Post 456, G. A. R., and A. O. U. W. No. 12.
He and family are members of the Methodist Church of AVest Middlesex, and
he is an enterprising, trustworthy citizen.
Elijah D. Satterfield, post-office West Middlesex, farmer and drover, was
born in Maryland in 1812. His parents were Elijah and Elizabeth (Dukes)
Satterfield. Our subject was reared in Maryland. He was left an orphan at
the age of twelve years, and for five years worked for $25. He bound wheat
after a cradle for 25 cents a day. From Maryland he went to Dela-
ware and worked three years at $3. 50 a month. AA’hen about twenty years old
he came to Mercer County, traveling in a two -horse wagon, where he worked
on a farm for $6 a month, and afterward clerked in David Thompson’s store.
860
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
who sent him to Philadelphia with a drove of horses, which he sold there, and
walked home in eleven days, the distance being about 400 miles. He remained
with Mr. Thompson until his first marriage, when he bought a farm at Clarks-
ville for 11,000, where he settled, but subsequently removed to West Middle-
sex. Mr. Satterfield was married in 1834 to Marilda, daughter of William
Haywood, of Hickory Township, who died in 1855, leaving one child, Catha-
rine, who married Hr. Veach, of New Castle, Penn. His second wife was
Miss Addie, daughter of James Campbell, of Hickory Township, whom he
married in 1859. She died in 1862, leaving two children: Frank, who re-
sides in Shenango Township, and Fred, a resident of Hickory Township. Mr.
Satterfield married for his third wife Miss Sarah, daughter of James and
Hannah (Waddle) Hamilton, of Bellefonte, Centre Co., Penn., September 21,
1869. Mr. Satterfield has been one of Mercer County’s most active business
men, and has been the most extensive purchaser of horses and cattle in this
section of the State. For thirty-seven consecutive years, in the same month
of the year (February), he has crossed the Alleghany Mountains with his
drove of horses for the Eastern markets. He has also farmed extensively, and
is to-day one of the oldest and most prominent citizens of West Middlesex.
Mr. Satterfield is connected with the Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex,
and politically is an ardent Democrat.
George Stewart, farmer, post-office Wheeler, Penn. The grandfather of
our subject was Robert Stewart, and was one of Mercer County’s early set-
tlers. He came from Huntingdon County, Penn., in 1810, and settled where
our subject now lives. His wife was Elizabeth (Sample) Stewart, by whom
he had ten children. He participated in the War of 1812, and died in 1845 at
the age of sixty-five. Robert, Jr., his son, and father of our subject, was born
on the homestead in 1820. He married Elizabeth Thompson, who died in
1856. By this marriage he was the father of three children: Mary, deceased f
Joseph and Robert. He married Miss Annie Allen for his second wife, by
whom he had four children: John, deceased; James, William and George.
He died in 1871. George was born in 1862; was reared and educated in the
schools of the township, and has always resided upon the old homestead. He
married Miss Fannie Rankin, daughter of Robert Rankin, of Pulaski, Penn.,
and has one child, Robert.
Van Fleet Family. — Among the early settlers of Mercer County was Rich-
ard Van Fleet. He was born October 21, 1769, in Somerset County, N.
J. He was a young unmarried man on his coming to the county in
1798, where he took up a tract of 400 acres in the donation district, felled
the timber and built his log cabin, thus making a permanent settlement. He
then brought out his sister, Mrs. Hannah Burwell, and her three children,
William, John and Lydia. In 1800 a dispute arose as to the ownership of
the tract, which was compromised by his giving up 200 acres of his entry.
On August 1, 1801, he was married to Miss Sally Hogue, a native of Ireland,
born December 25, 1779, who came to this county with her brothers, John
and James Hogue, who settled in what is now Lawrence County, Penn., about
1800. Richard Van Fleet was a farmer and weaver by occupation. It is
claimed that the first Presbyterian sermon ever delivered in Mercer County
was preached by the Rev. W. Wick, August I, 1800, in Mr. Van Fleet’s log
cabin. He was the father of twelve children: Phcebe, born in 1802, died in
February, 1886; William, born in 1803, died in March, 1885; Eleanor, born in
1805, married William Fitch, of Youngstown, Ohio, and died in April, 1886;.
John, born in 1807, and resides in Youngstown, Ohio; Hannah, born in 1810,
married Fredrick Price and lives in Brookfield, Ohio; Richard H., born in
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
80 1
1811, killed by a fall at Youngstown, Ohio, in 1846; Sarah, born in 1813,
married Jonathan Riggs and lives in Shenango Townshij); Alexander M. ,
born in 1815, and died in Shenango Township in 1850; Jesse G. , born in
1817, and died in Shenango Township in 1857; Rebecca B., born in 1820,
married Henry Kile and lives in Pulaski, Penn. ; David, born in 1822, and
now resides upon the old homestead, and Eliza, born in 1824, married Adam
Sheriff and lives in Lawrence County, Penn.
George Watson is a son of James and Elizabeth (Mitchell) Watson. The
father of our subject was a native of Penn’s Valley, Penn., and removed with
his father, William Watson, to New Castle, and married Elizabeth Mitchell,
of that neighborhood, who died February 21, 1854, leaving one child, the
subject of our sketch. In the fall of 1849 he located upon the property now
occupied by our subject, in Shenango Township. Mr. Watson, Sr., married
for his second wife Jane Irvine, in 1850, who died May 3, 1861, leaving two chil-
dren, Irvine and J ane. He married, August 20, 1863, Miss Margaret Soders,
who survives him, and by whom he had one child, Ella (Mrs. Randall, of Kan-
sas City, Mo.), with whom the mother resides. He died June 5, 1872. George,
the subject of our sketch, and the presesnt representative of the family, was
born April 5, 1847, was reared upon the homestead, and received his educa-
tion in the schools of the township. When he became of age he engaged in
farming with his father, and has, since his father’s death, been engaged in
conducting the business upon his own account, and is following general
farming and stock raising. He was married September 18, 1878, to Miss
Anna, daughter of Mathew and Lillie Barrett, of New Bedford, Lawrence Co.,
Penn., and they have three children: Georgianna, Vida P. and Emma B.
Ford J. Wharton, son of Oliver P. and Harriet (Mortley) Wharton, was
born August 25, 1858, at Rock Island City, 111. The father of our subject is
a prominent newspaper man, at present located at Sandusky City, Ohio, as the
manager of the Journal and Local. He established the first Republican paper
west of the Mississippi River, at Rock Island, 111. , known as the Rock Island
Daily Advertiser. He was an intimate friend of Abraham Lincoln, and draft-
ed the resolution that founded the Republican party in Illinois. At the
breaking out of the war he enlisted in an Iowa regiment, and served four
years. The grandfather of our subject, on the paternal side, was Henry L.
Wharton, and a descendant of Lord Philip Wharton, of England. Our sub-
ject was educated at Beaver Seminary, at Beaver, Penn. , and was apprenticed
to the Beaver Argus. After completing his apprenticeship he located at
Youngstown, Ohio, and was engaged on the Youngstown Vindicator, subse-
quently working on various papers in different parts of the country. In 1879
he located at Youngstown, and established the Greenback Signal. In 1881 he
settled in West Middlesex, and established the West Middlesex Mail, which
he subsequently removed to Youngstown, Ohio, and changed the paper to
the Youngstown Free Press. In 1881 our subject located his family upon
his farm, two and a half miles from West Middlesex, where he now resides,
and is engaged in farming. He was married January 4, 1879, to Miss Clara,
daughter of Anderson McCreary, of Shenango Township, and by this marriage
they have four children : Henrietta, WadeH. , Howard and Lottie. Mr. Whar-
ton is a member of the I. T. U. , K. of L. and the Jr. O. W. A. M. In politics
he is a Democrat, and a public-spirited citizen.
David Wheeler, farmer, post-office Hubbard, Ohio, is a son of William
and Margaret (Weldon) Wheeler. Our subject was born in Erie County,
Penn., February 17, 1822. At the age of eight years he removed to Brook-
field, Ohio, with his parents, where he was reared and educated. Our subject
50
862
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
has always followed farming as an occupation. In 1882 he removed to She-
nango Township, and settled upon the Dr. John Mitch eltree farm, where he
now resides. Mr. Wheeler married in 1849 Miss Elmina, daughter of A.
Alderman, of Ohio, who died in 1854, leaving two children: Belle, wife of
George Patterson, of Crawford County, Penn., and Charles, who resides in
Trumbull County, Ohio. In 1885 Mr. Wheeler married Mrs. Albina Van Ness,
of Hubbard, Ohio. Our subject is one of the present supervisors of his town-
ship, and in politics is a Republican.
James F. Young, farmer, post-office West Middlesex, was born in 1847 in
Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co. , Penn. , but was reared and educated in
Shenango Township. His parents were John and Mary (Mitcheltree) Young.
The father of our subject was a native of Ireland, settled in Pymatuning
Township about 1828, and was married about 1845. In 1854 he removed to
Shenango Township, and settled where our subject now lives, about one mile
west of the borough, on the West Middlesex and Hubbard road. They had
three children: Margaret, Lewis and James. The father died in 1855, the
mother surviving him, and resides with our subject. Mr. Young is engaged
in farming, which occupation he has always followed. He was married in
1870 to Miss Catherine Young, a daughter of James Young, of the County
Tyrone, Ireland, by whom he has seven children: Rebecca J., JohnH., An-
drew E., James A., Sadie, Fred and Charley. Our subject is a member of
the Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex, and one of the young progressive
farmers of his township.
HICKORY TOWNSHIP.
Francis Allen, retired iron manufacturer, post-office Hermitage, Penn.,
was born in Luzerne County, Penn., March 15, 1817, and is a son of Rich-
ard and Nancy (Mowery) Allen, the former being a native of Ireland, and
the latter a daughter of Andrew Mowery, of Luzerne County. Mr. Allen
removed with his parents in 1827 to Waterford, Erie Co., Penn., where he
was reared. He was educated at the Waterford Academy, incorporated in
1811, and at one time a prosperous institution of learning. At the age of j
eighteen our subject commenced a business career which has extended over a suc-
cessful period of fifty years, engaging at that time with B. B. Vincent, of Water-
ford, as a clerk in his store. In 1841 he went to Erie and entered the employ of
Johnson, Himrod & Co., mercantile and iron manufacturers. Early in 1845
he came to Mercer County in the capacity of general manager for Vincent &
Himrod, to superintend the erection of the Clay Furnace, situated two and a
half miles from Clarksville. This was the first blast furnace built in Mercer
County. He remained three years in charge of the works, and then, returning
to Erie County, purchased a farm and engaged in farming. In 1852 the Clay
Furnace, having changed hands, was re-organized as the Sharon Iron Works,
and Mr. Allen returned and acted as manager and agent for the company.
Under his official management it was demonstrated that Lake Superior ore
could be successfully manufactured into iron in paying quantities. In 1861
the works closed, and Mr. Allen purchased the property. In 1862 our subject
formed a connection with James Wood & Sons, of Pittsburgh, as superin-
tendent, and erected the first furnace built in Wheatland. In the spring of
1863 he became a member of the firm composed of the Hon. William L. Scott,
Gen. James Pierce and F. Allen, and opened the Oakland Coal Bank, in Hick-
ory Township. He located his residence five miles south of Sharpsville, and
was identified with the building of the Sharpsville & Oakland Railroad. In
1868 he removed to Sharpsville, and superintended the building of the Allen
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
863
Furnace, Henderson, Allen & Co., proprietors. He continued there as its
manager until 1882, when he purchased his present place of residence at Her-
mitage, in Hickory Township, where he is engaged in farming. He was
united in marriage in April, 1846, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Henry and
Jane (Patton) Woodworth, of Conneaut, Ohio. By this union he has had four
children: Blanche, who died in 1851; Jane, who married T. K. Mackey, of
Carbondale, 111., and died in 1886; Charles B. , who married Fannie F.,
daughter of T. M. Ford, of Sharpsville, who has blessed him with two chil-
dren: Francis F., and Jessie, wife of David Jamison, of New Castle, Penn., who
has one daughter, Elizabeth W. Politically Mr. Allen is an unswerving Dem-
ocrat, and is one of the most successful business men who has ever lived in
Mercer County. He is a man of unblemished reputation, and a fitting repre-
sentative of the growth and development of the leading interests of the
Shenango Valley.
Thomas Clark, deceased, son of Thomas and Mary (Presland) Clark, was
born February 12, 1793, in England. He immigrated to this country about
1827, and located at Fort Erie, Canada, opposite the city of Buffalo, N. Y.,
remaining there five years working at his trade of miller. He then came to
New Castle, Penn., where he took charge of a mill. In the fall of 1833 our
subject purchased the mill located on the Shenango Biver, near Sharon, now
known as “Clark’s Mill,” and kept it in constant operation up to 1843. Mr.
Clark during that period did the principal milling business of this location.
He was also extensively engaged in farming, cultivating some 200 acres in
connection with his mill. He was identified with the late Joel B. Curtis in the
construction of the old Sharon Bolling Mill, as one of the stockholders. Mr.
Clark was a stanch Democrat, and always took great interest in the success of
his party. He died in 1876, leaving a widow and eleven children. Mr. Clark
married, in 1832, Miss Nancy, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Young) Crow-
der, of Canada. Their family consisted of Louisa, Joseph P. , Edmond F.,
and Lucy J. , of Sharon; John L., of Jackson Centre; Elizabeth, wife of
I. K. Whitcraft; Bobert, of Ohio; Mary, wife of Louis Buchholz, of Sharon;
Florence, James T. and Alfred D.
Samuel Cole, farmer, post-office Wheatland, Penn., is a son of Isaac D.
and Elizabeth (Taylor) Cole, and was born May 31, 1846, on the old homestead
in Shenango Township. He received his education in the common schools of
the district, and early engaged in farming, which occupation he has continued
to follow, in connection with the breeding of Norman horses. In 1869 he was
married to Miss Mary J. , daughter of William Stewart, of Hubbard. Ohio,
who died in November, 1885. By this marriage one daughter Avas born to
him, Ida May (deceased). In 1886 he was again united in marriage, to Miss
Mary, daughter of James McCallen, of Shenango Township, who has borne
him one son, Heilman D. Our subject is a member of the I. O. O. F. , Lodge
No. 347, of Sharon, Penn., and is one of the well-to-do farmers of the She-
nango Valley. His father resides in Sharon, and a sketch of him will be found
in the biographical chapter of that borough.
Isaac DEpOEREst, farmer, post-office Sharon, Penn., is a son of Abraham
and Margaret (Vandenberg) DeForrest. The father of our subject came to
Mercer County in 1820, and settled where our subject now lives. He was a
native of Hunterdon County, N. J. , and an officer in the Bevolutionary War.
His death occurred at the ripe old age of ninety-eight years and nine months.
His family consisted of nine children, viz. : Jennie (married G. Karhuff of
New Jersey), Hannah (married William Hall, of Ohio), Catherine (married
Mr. Koon. of New Jersey), Elizabeth (married Bobert Stout, of New Jersey),
864
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Sarah (married Charles Campbell, of Mercer), Jane (married Philip Homer,
of Sharon), Gershom, Mary (Mrs. Peter Warren, of New Jersey), and our
subject, who was born August 7, 1797, in Hunterdon County, N. J. He was
reared and received his education in New Jersey, and removed to Mercer
County with his parents. He has always lived on the old homestead and
followed farming for an occupation. He was married in 1822 to Miss Nancy,
daughter of Samuel Quinby, and by this union they reared seven children:
Eliza J. (wife of Charles Brewster, of Fort Madison, Iowa), Theodore (who
died in 1887), Julia (wife of William Buchanan, of Beaver County, Penn.),
Josephine (who died at the age of twenty-six), Adoniram (deceased), Nannie
(wife of Joseph Higgs, of Sharon), and Teresa (wife of M. H. Staunton).
Mrs. DeForrest died in 1885. Our subject is a member of the First Presby-
terian Church of Sharon, and one of the oldest citizens of the valley.
Thomas Downing, farmer, was born March 4, 1819, in Indiana County,
Penn. He is the son of John Downing, a native of Vermont, and a soldier of
the War of 1812, who served during the war in the United States service, par-
ticipating in the battle of Lundy’s Lane, near Niagara Falls. John was mar-
ried March 20, 1817, to Miss Nancy Baux, of Centre County, Penn., where he
at that time resided. She was a native of the northern part of Ireland. They
had by this marriage eleven children, seven of whom are now living : Thomas,
our subject; Nancy, wife of J. C. Thompson; Jane, Mrs. Jane McCord;
Susan, widow of Thomas Pearson; Mary, wife of Prank Osborn; John and
George. In 1838 the elder Downing located in Sharpsville, having contracted
to build one mile of the Beaver & Erie Canal, which passed through what
is now the borough of Sharpsville. In 1853 he removed to Jackson, Iowa,
where he and wife died. Our subject was married February 5, 1840, to Miss
Phebe, daughter of John and Lydia Cary, of Hickory Township. He located
on his present farm, which he purchased from Mrs. Hull. By this union
they have seven living children: James L., Thomas J., Harkness W., Jerome
H. , Melinda (wife of U. Snyder, of Ohio), Mary (wife of G. D. Gilson) and
Anna. In politics our subject is a Republican. He is a member of the F. &
A. M. and the I. O. O. F. Mr. Downing and wife are members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church of Sharpsville.
Dunham Family. — One of the pioneer settlers of Mercer County was Aza-
riah Dunham, a native of New Jersey. He was a blacksmith by trade, and
his first settlement in this county was made in Hickory Township. He sub-
sequently removed to Trumbull County, Ohio, but returned to Mercer County,
and died in Sharon about 1855. His family consisted of seven sons and one
daughter — Robert, the first son, being the progenitor of the Dunhams now
residing in Hickory Township. He also was a blacksmith, and carried on the
business in connection with farming. He married Annie, daughter of Archi-
bald Titus, of Hickory Township, and by this marriage was the father af six
children: Azariah R. , of Hickory; Adeline, wife of Sebastin Runser, of Sharon,
Penn.; Shedrick, of Michigan; Albine, of Hickory Township; Melvin, of
Sharon, Penn., and Newton, who died in 1884. Robert died in 1884, his
wife having passed away in 1868. Azariah R. , the eldest son, was born in
1827, in Hickory Township; was here reared and educated at the common
schools. Early in life he engaged in coal drilling, and subsequently went
into farming. He married in 1849 Miss Elizabeth, daughter of George and
Mary (Boyer) Troutman, and by this marriage they have three children:
Lawrence, Ella (wife of John Metzler, of Hadley, Penn.) and A. Douglass.
In politics Mr. Dunham is a Democrat.
Charles Eaton, a native of Washington County, Penn., came to Mercer
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
865
County in 1818, and made his first settlement in Springfield Township, south
of Leesburg. He subsequently bought a tract of land containing 300 acres, on
the line of what is now Shenango and Hickory Townships, about two and a
half miles northeast of West Middlesex, and settled upon it in 1837. He mar-
ried Elizabeth Pencil, and they had ten children, seven of whom grew to ma-
turity: George, resides in St. Paul, Minn. ; Maria, married Joseph Caution,
and resides upon a part of the homestead property; Kebecca, deceased, married
James Highgate, of Canada; Charles, lives in Washington Territory; Lavinia,
deceased, married James Stewart, of Michigan; Henry, deceased, and Jona-
than, who now resides upon a part of the old homestead, where the parents
both died. Jonathan was born in 1819, in Springfield Township, and was
there reared. He removed to Hickory Township with his parents in 1837,
engaged in farming and has always followed that calling. In 1847 he married
Agnes, daughter of James Hood, of Lackawannock Township, who died March
4, 1879, leaving ten children, eight of whom are living: Susannah, wife of
John Boyler, of Pulaski, Penn. ; Charles V., Henry, Samantha, wife of George
AV. McLaughlin, of Mercer County; Alice, wife of William AV allace, of Hick-
ory Township; Mary C. , wife of Kobert Plater, Youngstown, Ohio; Ida, wife of
JudsonV. Stewart, of New Castle, Penn., and AVilliam G. , w'ho resides in Hick-
ory Township. He married, for his second wife, Mrs. Lizzie J. Davenport, of
Hickory Township, in the fall of 1886. Mr. Eaton has 216 acres of land, and
is engaged in general farming. He is a member of the United Brethren Church,
of Shenango Township, of which he has been a trustee for many years.
The Ebekhart Family, consisting of four brothers, Paul, Abraham, Joseph
and John Eberhart, were among the early settlers of Hickory Township. Abra-
ham and Joseph subsequently went west and died, and it is the descendants of
John of whom we write. John Eberhart married Susanna, daughter of Jacob
and Susanna Berlin, November 27, 1827, and by this union they had eight
children: Maria C. deceased; Sophia, deceased, who married Josiah Dustman,
of Hickory Township; Aaron D., who married Mary A. Allen, of Jackson Town-
ship; Sarah A., wife of Valentine Troutman, of Mercer County; Emma, deceased,
wife of John Phillips, of Sharon; Cyrus, deceased; John Me., married Maggie
Titus, of Mercer County, and Millie S. Mr. Eberhart was a farmer by occu-
pation, and died December 15, 1878. His widow resides at Neshannock.
John Hagan Frampton, farmer and lumber dealer, post-office. Five Points,
Penn., a son of Jonathan and Matilda (McDowell) Frampton, was born ip
Clarion County, Penn., and was married in 1872 to Mary Emma, daughter of
F. J. and Mary A. (Chestnut) Bean, of Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co.,
Penn. He commenced housekeeping on his farm, where he is now living, and
in connection with farming is extensively engaged in manufacturing hardwood
lumber, making a specialty of bill timber and railroad supplies. Our subject’s
family consists of five sons and three daughters: David A., John, Grover C. ,
Lance and Earl. In politics he is a Democrat.
Hon. Norman Hall, iron manufacturer and member of Congress, post-office
Sharon, Penn., was born at Muncy Farms, Lycoming Co., Penn., Novem-
ber 17, 1829, and is a son of Robert C. and Sarah A. (AVatts) Hall. He grad-
uated in 1847 from Dickinson College, and in 1851 located at Marietta, Penn.,
where he was connected with the Marietta Furnaces. In 1862 he came to
Sharon and engaged in the manufacture of iron at the Sharon Furnace,
which he operated up to a recent date. In 1886 Mr. Hall was elected member
of Congress from the Twenty- sixth Congressional District, which is strongly
Republican, by a plurality of over 500 votes. He is a man of modest, retiring
disposition, yet withal one of the most enterprising citizens of the Shenango
866
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Valley, while his name is the synonym of unimpeachable honor and business
integrity. Mr. Hall has always taken a deep and active interest in the growth
and development of Mercer County, and is a director in the First National
Bank of Sharon. He is a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church of that
borough, to which faith he became a convert after reaching manhood.
Christopher Hann, deceased, son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Roof) Hann, na-
tives of Sussex County, N. J., was born August 14, 1814, in that county. His
father, Jacob, came to Mercer County in 1830, and settled about one mile
south of Hickory Corners. He died October 16, 1873, and his widow October
24, the same year. They reared a family of six children: Sarah A., married
William Applegate; Christopher, Mary, married Henry Shilling ; James, Jacob,
and Elizabeth, widow df Lemuel Troutman. Our subject was married in
March, 1843, to Sarah, daughter of Jacob Trout, and he died December 29,
1886, leaving four children: Mary E. , Lusetta J. , wife of J. A. Ewart, of Warren
County, Penn. ; S. Malvina, and William Alfred, married Jessie B. Cole. One
daughter, Phebe T., wife of John N. Miles, died in 1882. Mr. Hann was a
farmer by occupation, a consistent Christian, and respected by all with whom
he had dealings or any business relations.
Hofius Family. — One of the pioneer families of Hickory Township are the
descendants of John Theodore Hofius, a German minister, who immigrated to
this country and settled in Washington County, Penn. He there married
Nancy Baker. Nothing of his early life or his family is known by his descend-
ants, further than in the year 1800 he came to Mercer County with his son
George, who purchased a farm of 200 acres in Hickory Township, near Sharps-
ville. John Theodore died on this farm about the year 1808 at an advanced
age. George, his son, was born in W ashington County, Penn. , and married
Jane Clark, of the same place. They, with one child and father, George
Theodore, came to Mercer County in the year above mentioned. At that date,
A. D. 1800, Mercer County was almost a forest. A camp of Indians was
located at the mouth of Pine Run, above where Sharpsville now is; also another
camp where Wheatland now is. Kindashawa, the well-known chief, was a
frequent visitor at the farm. George Hofius was well-known among the early
settlers. He was a soldier in the War of 1812; was thp father of twelve chil-
dren, six sons and six daughters. He died in the year 1842, his widow sur-
viving him until October, 1870, when she died at the advanced age of ninety-
one years, retaining her mental faculties to a remarkable degree to the last.
She could give a vivid and thrilling account of the pioneer and frontier life,
and was familiar with the incidents connected with that ill-fated expedition
that resulted in the burning of Col. Crawford. She had an uncle who served
in Washington’s army, and was killed in the battle of Long Island. She was
and had been for a great many years a consistent member of the Sharon Bap-
tist Church. She was the mother of twelve, grandmother of ninety-three,
great-grandmother of one hundred and sixty-three, and great-great-grand-
mother of eleven children at the time of her death. The descendants of George
and Jane (Clark) Hofius are as follows: Henry Hofius, the eldest child, was
born in Washington County, Penn., brought by his parents to Mercer County
when about one year old; raised on the homestead farm in Hickory Township;
received a common school education, principally under the tutorage of the
well-known teacher. Master Hays. In 1823 he married M^ry Reno, daughter
of Charles Reno, one of the early settlers of Sharon. They settled on the
farm in Hickory Township now owned by his son, George C. , and remained
on same until his death. He was quite a prominent military man in the days
of the Old State Militia, having been commissioned captain, major, lieutenant-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
867
colonel, his commissions bearing the signatures of Governors Shulze, Wolf
and Shunk. He was five times elected justice of the peace, holding the office
at the time of his death; took an active part in the political issues of the day,
and in latter years great interest in the Sabbath and common schools. His wife
died in 1851, and in 1854 he married Charlotte Austin, of Mahoning County,
Ohio, who survives him. He was the father of seven children, all by his first
marriage, four sons and three daughters. He died November 15, 1866, and
was buried in Moorfield Cemetery. John Hofius, second son, was born March
16, 1801; raised on homestead farm; settled on a farm near Hermitage; was
twice married, and was the father of a large family. He died in the year 1873
and was buried in the Sharon Cemetery. William Hofius, third son, was born
May 12, 1806; moved to the State of Iowa about the year 1847-48, where he
now resides; has been twice married, and is the father of a large family of
children. James Hofius, fourth son, born August 8, 1808; moved to Wis-
consin about the year 1855, where he died in the year 1865, leaving a family.
Jonathan Hofius, fifth son, born May 12, 1817, on the homestead, where he
has since resided, following farming. Mr. Hofius in his younger days' was
connected with the State Militia, holding the position of sergeant in the
Shenango Sharpshooters. He was married September 25, 1847, to Sarah
McHenry, who died October 28, 1849. September 23, 1888, he was again
married, to Nancy, daughter of Daniel and Mary (Flower) Artherholt, of Brook-
field, Ohio. Our subject and wife are members of the Baptist Church of Sharon.
George Hofius, youngest child, was born July 22, 1822; was reared and edu-
cated in the township of Hickory; resides on part of the old place, and has
always followed farming. He was married November 24, 1854, to Betsy,
daughter of Daniel and Mary (Flower) Artherholt. He and his wife are mem-
bers of the Baptist Church of Sharpsville. They have four children : Mary E. ,
N. Emelda, Luther W. and Leonard C. Of the six daughters of George and
Jane Hofius, but two are living: Anna Titus, widow of the late William Titus, of
Hickory Township, born in 1803, is the mother of a large family of children
and grandchildren; and Sarah, widow of George Haun, late of Hickory Town-
ship, born in 1819. She also is the mother of a large family. George D.
Hofius, a son of John Hofius, was born in Hickory Township, July 19, 1824.
He represented Mercer County in the State Legislature two terms, 1860-61.
He died January 24, 1886, and was buried in the cemetery at Sharpsville. Soc-
rates Hofius, son of Henry Hofius, was born March 16, 1842; was a member of
Company H, Eighty seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers; died while in
the service, June 2, 1865. Seth and J. P. Hofius, sons of William Hofius,
reside at Sharpsville, Penn., and are identified with the iron industry. G. C.
Hofius, son of Henry Hofius, resides at Hermitage; by occupation a farmer
and acting justice of the peace. M. B. Hofius, youngest child of Henry
Hofius, was a member of Company D, One Hundred and Eleventh Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers; resides at Grove City, Penn., and is engaged in mining and
shipping coal.
The Hull Family were among the early settlers of Hickory Town-
ship. Three brothers, Daniel, Bashara and John Hull, natives of New
Jersey, removed in youth to the vicinity of Pittsburgh, Penn., and in 1798 or
1799 located on farms in what is now Hickory Township, Mercer Co., Penn.
All reared large families, and died on their respective homesteads in Hickory
Township. John Hull married Patience Elliott, born in 1784, daughter of
Capt. John Elliott, an ex-officer of the Revolutionary War, who settled on the
banks of the Shenango River a short time before the Hull family came to the
valley. John and Patience Hull reared a family of twelve children; Hiram
868
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
(deceased), Annie (deceased, wife of Benjamin Eeno, deceased), Mary
(deceased, wife of Samuel Carnes, deceased), Emily (deceased, wife of James
McWilliams, deceased), Catharine (widow of William Budd), Lewis (who died
in Hartford, Ohio), Milton (deceased), John (of Greenville), Seth (of Cleve-
land), Jerusha (deceased, wife of David Strawbridge, deceased). Rue (of
Greenville) and Jane (deceased, wife of William Grace), all of whom grew to
maturity. When John Hull came to Mercer County his sole possessions
consisted of an ax and a hoe, and he endured all of the trials and privations
of pioneer days. He was a soldier in the War of 1812 at Erie. His first wife
died in 1834, and he married Mrs. Sarah Wheeler, who died in September,
1858. Mr. Hull helped each of his children, and died a respected and hon-
ored pioneer father of the county, which he had done so much to settle, Jan-
uary 30, 1859.
William Jamison, Jr., merchant, post-office Wheeler, was born in Hickory
Township, this county, January 29, 1847. He is a son of William and Ma-
tilda (Kelly) Jamison, natives of Ireland. William immigrated to Mercer
County, Penn., in 1832, and Miss Kelly in 1835. They were married in June,
1839, and located in Hickory Township, where they lived until about 1875.
The mother died August 19, 1869, and the father has for the last ten years
lived with his son William, being now eighty-five years old. There were six
children born to them: John H. , Anna B., wife of Wirt W. Fruit, of Jefferson
Township; Samuel, W^illiam J. , Sarah J. , deceased, and George G., deceased.
The parents were members of the United Presbyterian Church, and politi-
cally he is a Democrat. John H. enlisted in the War of the Rebellion, was
wounded June 22, 1864, before Petersburg, Va. , from the effects of which he
died June 24, 1864, in the hospital at City Point, Va. , and his remains lie in
the National Cemetery there. Our subject graduated at Duff’s Commercial
College, Pittsburgh, Penn., June 24, 1864. He then accepted a situation
with J. W. Ormsby & Co. in 1866, and remained in their store at Hermitage
over two years, afterward keeping books for the same firm over two years.
In 1871 he became a partner with his brother and Enoch Filer at Pleasant,
and remained until 1884, when their property was consumed by fire. He was
postmaster there for over twelve years. He then removed to the borough of
Bethel, where he is engaged in a general mercantile store, and in 1886 was ap-
pointed postmaster here. He was married September 12, 1876, to Frances,
daughter of Dr. A. Parsons, of Springboro, Crawford Co. , Penn. They have
five children; John P. , died in infancy; Ada F., William B., Samuel H. ,
Anna M. Politically he is a temperance Democrat, and the family belong to
the United Presbyterian Church.
Moses W. Jenkins, post-office Sharon, mining and civil engineer, is a son
of John and Rachel (Jones) Jenkins, who immigrated to this county in 1849,
and located in Clarksville, Penn. They had seven children: Ellis J. , pastor
of the United Brethren Church of Newburgh, Ind. ; Jacob, of Ohio; Phillip,
Joshua, who died August 29, 1888; Herbert R. , of Mercer County; Dinah,
Mrs. Bertwhistler, and our subject, who was born in 1845. At the age of
eight years he started to work in the coal mines at Clarksville. Being de-
prived of the early advantages of an education, he had to rely upon his own
resources to obtain his profession. In 1874 our subject leased the coal mine
of Porter, Bailey A Co., and operated it for one year. He located at Jackson
Centre in 1875, and opened a coal mine on the farm of B. A. IVilliams. The
result of the opening of this mine necessitated the building of the branch of
the Pittsburgh, Buffalo & W^estern Railroad into Jackson Township. In 1879
he engaged with E. A. Wheeler and opened the coal mine in the west tract be-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
869
low West Middlesex, where he remained one year and a half. He took charge
of the Filer, Westei’man & Co. mine at Jackson Centi'e in 1882, and remained
with them four years as mine boss. In 1886 he connected himself with the
New Virginia Coal Co., located in Hickory Township, as superintendent and
mining boss. Mr. Jenkins was married in April, 1867, to Miss Hannah,
daughter of Samuel Siddaoe, of Sharon, Penn. He is a member of the I. O.
O. F. Lodge No. 347, of Sharon, Penn.
Charles S. Love, farmer, post-office Sharon, Penn., is a son of Benjamin
and Sarah (Stewart) Love, the latter being a daughter of Charles Stewart, of
Westmoreland County, Penn. Our subject was born in 1815 in Mercer
County. His father in 1814 removed from Westmoreland County, and settled
in Hickory Township on the McBride tract. He had a family of twelve chil-
dren: Margaret, wife of Emanuel Millikin, of Ohio; Hugh, Mary A., Charles
S. , Bobert, Joseph S. , Dr. James, who died in McKean County, Penn. ; John,
Samuel C., Dr. Benjamin, died in Sharpsville, Penn.; William, Flora E.,
Thomas B. and Charles S. Our subject was reared on the homestead farm
where he now resides. He learned the carpenter’s trade and was engaged in
that business for a numjier of years. In 1847 he engaged in farming, and has
since followed that occupation. He was married in 1847 to Miss Tirzah
daughter of Robert McClellan, of Ohio. Our subject and wife are members of
the United Presbyterian Church of Sharon, and politically he is a Republican.
Joseph Linn, deceased, was a son of James and Esther (Donehay) Linn,
natives of Ireland. Joseph came from Coitsville, Ohio, in 1828, and pur-
chased a tract of land containing 100 acres, which was afterward increased to
300 acres, in Hickory Township, and made his settlement on it in 1836. He
married Nancy Gordon, of Lackawannock, and by this union they had four
children; Eliza, deceased; Sarah, deceased; Jane, deceased, and Newton.
Joseph died in 1882; his wife survives him and resides upon the homestead
farm with her son Newton. Mr. and Mrs. Linn were members of the Pres-
byterian Church, of Clarksville, from its organization. He was a Democrat
in politics, and a man who took great interest in the offices of his township.
Newton, the youngest child, was born in 1854 on the home farm, and was reared
in the township. He has always followed farming, and taken an active
interest in the offices of his township, and was secretary of the school board
from 1882 to 1884. He is a Democrat in politics, and has worked for the wel-
fare of his party, tilling all the positions on the election board. He is a mem-
ber of the Clarksville Presbyterian Church, has been one of its trustees and
secretary of the Sunday-school. He was united in marriage in 1877 to Nannie
J. , daughter of William B. and Rebecca Ann (Butterfield) Rust, of Hickory
Township, and by this marriage has four children: James W., Joseph C.,
Nannie N. and Charles C.
Prof. William S. Lytle, post-office Hermitage, Penn. The subject of
this sketch was born in Huntingdon County, Penn., in 1822, and is a son of
William and Ruth (Everhart) Lytle. He was reared and educated in Venango
and Lawrence Counties, of this State, and came to this county in 1848. His
early life was engaged in farming, and in 1844 he engaged in the iron business.
He was subsequently engaged in teaching at Shaffer’s school-house, now Reno,
Venango Co. , Penn. In 1860 he was in the employ of Veach & Burnett, of West
Middlesex, as their book-keeper until 1865, when he located in Pittsburgh, as book-
keeper for A. Fultous, Son & Co. In 1883 our subject located in Indian Terri-
tory, and was employed for three years as a teacher among the members of the
Choctaw Nation, and is vice-president of the Wilberforce Institute of the Choc-
taw Nation, and professor of natural and mental philosophy of that institution.
870
HISTOIIY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
Mr. Lytle has spent the larger part of his life teaching in the schools of Hickory
Township. He is a member of the F. & A. M. , Lodge 517, of Sharpsville, Mer-
cer Co. , Penn. , also a member of the Indian Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, No.
1, of Indian Territory. He was married in 1846 to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of
Robert Bell, of Venango County, who died in 1847, leaving one son, Christian E.,
of Washington County, Penn. His second wife was Miss Margaret, daughter of
Abram Leasure, of Mercer County, to whom he was married in 1850, and by
this union they have six children now living: David S., who resides in the
Indian Territory; Mary, wife of Aaron Coon, of Transfer, Mercer County ; Eliza-
beth M. , wife of George Teeager, of Indiana; Nettie, wife of D. J. Stewart,
of Pittsburgh; Anna, wife of Edward Peters, of Sharp ville, and Ella, now
at home. Mr. Lytle is a member of the Congregational Church of the
Choctaw Nation. He is the author of the history of the coal and iron interests
of Mercer County, in a former history of the county.
Thomas Miles, a soldier of the Revolution, and his wife, Mary (Treadway)
Miles, natives of Maryland, settled at Plain Grove, in what is now Lawrence
County, in the last decade of the eighteenth century, and from them have
descended the Miles family of Mercer County. They were the parents of
eight children: Aquilla, Joshua, Hannah, Sallie, Lewis, Thomas, Nellie and
John. The father died in 1827. Thomas, the fourth son of Thomas, Sr.,
was born in 1794, was a harness-maker by trade, and served in the War of
1812 under Capt. James McCune. He married a daughter of Capt. James and
Sarah (Nelson) McCune, by whom he had the following children born to him:
Rebecca, married Robert Young; Aquilla, Thomas, Elizabeth, married Edward
Clingan; Ellen, married Hugh Miles; Clarissa, married Morrison Lewis;
Milonorris and John. The parents died in 1805 and 1863, respectively.
Aquilla, the eldest son of Thomas, Jr., was born in 1820, at Plain Grove, and
was reared in Shenango Township, on the homestead where his father settled
the same year. In 1841 he married Catharine, daughter of John and Rebecca
(Copenhaven) Riblett, and by this union they had fourteen children: JohnR.,
Mary S., married Charles Livingston; Thomas H. , Rebecca M. , married David
Love; Hannah C., married James McCollough, of Jefferson Township; Ella J.,
married George Reimold, of Grove City, Penn. ; Caroline E., married Charles
Hawthorne, of Lackawannock Township; James N. , of Hickory Township;
Sarah W., married Lewis Reno, of Jefferson Township; Frances I., married
Joseph L. Baker, of Springfield Township. Thomas, the third son of Thomas,
Jr., was born in 1822 on the homestead in Shenango Township, and at an
early age engaged in farming, which he has since followed. He was united in
marriage in 1884, to Miss Rebecca, daughter of Samuel Bell, of Shenango
Township, and by this union they have the following children: Sarah, widow of
Newton, Dunham, deceased; Margaret, wife of James Haggerty, of West Mid-
dlesex; Jane, John N. , Nancy, Clara, Alice and Thomas. Mr. Miles is an elder
in the Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex.
Mathias Millek, post-office Hermitage, was born October 4, 1820, in
Bavaria, Germany. In 1850 he immigrated to this country, and settled at
Greenville, remaining there only one year, when he changed his location to
Hickory Township, and for eighteen years he was engaged in the coal mines
of that vicinity. He then purchased a farm at the same place, and engaged
in agricultural pursuits. In October, 1877, he purchased the mercantile busi-
ness, at Hermitage, of J. W. Ormsby, and at the same time he received his
appointment as postmaster of that office, which position he still fills. Mr.
Miller was married in 1847 to Miss Catherine Foltz, of his native town, and
by this marriage they have eight children: Jacob, who is engaged in busi-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
871
ness at Sharon; Catherine, Mrs. Charles Doerr, of Sharon; Augustus, Mary,
Frederick P., who is engaged in the grocery business in Sharon; Mathias,
engaged in farming with his father; Maggie and Lizzie. Mr. Miller is a
member of the German Reformed Church.
Hon. James W. Obmsby, farmer, post-office Sharpville, Penn., was born July
15, 1808, in Pittsburgh, Penn. His parents were Matthew and Jane (Will-
iamson) Ormsby, of Scotch-lrish extraction. The father came from Cham-
bersburg, Penn. , and the mother from Centre County, Penn. They settled in
Pittsburgh, where he followed the business of cabinet-making. In 1811 they
settled in Mercer County, at Greenville, and in the War of 1812 he joined the
American army, and did some service. They had the following children:
Dr. John, who died in Utah; James W., Dr. Oliver, who died in Mercer; Will-
iam, who was killed by the Indians in Nevada; Eliza J., Mrs. Dr. Fowler,
of Butler County, Penn.; Amanda, married John Reznor, who died, leaving
one child, John, deceased (she then married A. D. Waldron, of San Fran-
cisco, and prior to his death she returned to Mercer County, and died, leav-
ing two children); Lemuel, who died in Indian Territory; David, a physi-
cian, who settled in Kentucky and died there; Joel and Samuel, who died at the
ages of twelve and fourteen years,' respectively; and Ezra, who started with
his family from Indian Territory in 1866 to California across the plains, and
has not been heard from since. James W. was the second eldest child, and
his early opportunities for an education were confined to the small country
schools of that day. When he was sixteen years of age, or in 1824, his father
died, and he remained at home for two years after his death, and assisted his
mother in maintaining the family. Desiring to push himself forward in the
world he induced his mother to purchase a wool carding machine, and locating
at Clarksville he commenced, at the age of eighteen years, a business career that
has but few equals in the history of the Shenango Valley. In 1832 he pur-
chased the place where he now resides and engaged in farming, and in 1836
he obtained the contract for supplying the meat for the men engaged in build-
ing the canal that was then being constructed through Mercer County. He
then engaged in purchasing all classes of stock and in driving them to the
Eastern market. Maj. Ormsby was largely engaged in the coal trade of Mer-
cer County, being among the first to open up its coal banks. He operated
largely in real estate, and at one time owned large tracts in this county and at
other points. In 1873, in company with his sons, Leander and E. W. , he
erected, at Sharpsville, a blast furnace, at a cost of 1120,000, and engaged in
the manufacture of iron. Here came the most trying period of his life, for in
the panic that swept the country that year he saw pass away a fortune of over
$300,000, the earnings of many years. Even the homestead where he had
resided for forty-one years went with the balance, and at the age of seventy-
two he found himself comparatively penniless. But future events proved that
the boy who forty-seven years before had started unknown with a carding
machine in a small village, as a foundation of his subsequent fortune, was
equal to the occasion. Removing to a rented farm in Hickory Township he
again commenced the battle of life. After remaining there a short time he
went to Brazil, Ind. , and again engaged in the coal business, with results that
enabled him to buy back his old homestead, upon which ho now resides. Maj.
Ormsby has always taken a great deal of interest in the public affairs of his
county and State. Under Gov. Johnson’s administration he was appointed a
justice of the peace, which office he filled for many years in Hickory Township.
He was appointed major in the State Militia by Gov. Ritner. In 1883 he was
elected a representative, and served in the long session of 1883-84. Politically
872
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
he is an ardent Democrat, and has always furthered and upheld the principles
of that party. He has also taken a deep interest in educational matters, and
has been officially identified for years with the schools of his township. Maj.
Ormsby was married in 1832 to Miss Jane, daughter of Squire Edward and
Mary (Satterfield) Campbell, of Hickory Township. She died in August,
1873, leaving three children: Edward W., of Central City, Neb., who is
engagced in the stock business: Leander M. , who resides at Mercer and is
engaged in the coal business at Jackson Centre, Penn., and Margaret J. , who
married Dr. Babcock. In 1876 Maj. Ormsby was married to Miss Margaret
E., daughter of Thomas and Esther (Porter) Stewart, of Hickory Township.
The Major is a member of Clarksville Presbyterian Church, and one of the
most enterprising citizens who have ever lived in Mercer County.
Thomas Perry, post office Wheatland, Penn., is a son of the Rev. John
and Mary A. (Fullwood) Perry, natives of England, who immigrated to this
country in 1852, and located at Johnstown, Penn. In 1868 he came to Mercer
County and located at Wheatland as the pastor of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and died while in charge of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Clarks-
ville, Penn. He was twice married; by the first marriage he had four children:
William, John, Elizabeth and our subject. His second wife was Mrs. Ann
Griffiths, and by this marriage they had one son, Joseph, a resident of Youngs-
town, Ohio. Thomas Perry was born November 3, 1844, and was edu-
cated at Johnstown, Penn. At an early age he entered the mines of that lo-
cality and followed the business of a miner until he was twenty- one years old.
In 1865 he enlisted in the Regular Army, Second United States Cavalry, and
served three years on the plains. In 1868 he located in Wheatland, and was
employed on the railroad. In 1870 he entered the employ of James Wood,
Son & Co. as time-keeper, subsequently, in 1873, engaging in mercantile busi-
ness at Wheatland, which he conducted until 1880. In 1876 Mr. Perry was
elected a member of the school board, which office he has filled up to the
present time. In 1878 he was elected justice of the peace and filled that office
for two years. In 1880 he was elected representative from Mercer County, and
served in the session of 1881-82. Our subject was married in 1869 to Miss
Kate, daughter of Jenken and Esther Reese, natives of Wales. Mr. Perry is
a member of Lodge 347, I. O. O. F., of Sharon, Penn., also K. of P. 387,
of Wheatland, and is the present grand chancellor of Pennsylvania, and a
member of the K. of E. No. 11, of Sharon. Politically he is a Republican.
Hon. David Robison, farmer, post-office Hermitage, Penn., was born in
1818, in Huntington, now Blair County, Penn., upon the farm where his
grandfather, a soldier of the Revolution, first settled. The parents of our
subject were Col. Abraham and Margaret (McCune) Robison. David was
educated at the common-schools, and in 1849 he removed to Mercer County,
and settled at his present place of residence, in Hickory Township, about four
miles from Sharon. He was elected in 1868 to represent this county in the
State Legislature, and served in the session of 1868-69, his brother represent-
ing the county of Blair at the same time. Mr. Robison has always taken an
active interest in the public affairs of his township, having filled many offices
of trust and honor. In 1849 he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah J. ,
daughter of Charles Gibson, of Blair County, Penn., and by this union they
have had eleven children: Margaret (Mrs. James Tenant, deceased), John M.
(who married Miss Emma Graham, of Hickory Township), David W. (deceased),
Mary (Mi’s. Wesley Sloss, of Lackawannock Township), Abraham, Lucy J. ,
Emma (Mrs. Joseph McGingan, of Montgomery City, Mo.), George, Charles
(deceased), Alice (deceased) and William. Mr. Robison is a member of the
HISTORY OF litERCER COUNTY.
873
F. A. M. , Sharon Lodge No. 250. In politics he is a stanch Republican,
and one of the most progressing and best informed citizens of the^township.
James Satterfield, farmer, post-office Wheatland, is a son of Rev. James
and Anna (Gibson), Satterfield. The grandparents of our subject were James
and Margaret (Mead) Satterfield. The former was a native of Queen Ann
County, Md., where the father of our subject was born in August, 1776. After
the death of James, Sr., his widow married a Mr. Davis, and removed to
Washington County, Penn. The Rev. James Satterfield was licensed to
preach in 1800. He was then sent as a missionary to the Indians, and
traveled as far- west as Detroit. In 1801 he removed to Mercer County,
and settled upon the land where his son, James, now resides. In March,
1802, he was ordained and icstalled as pastor of the two churches of Moore-
field and Upper Neshannock by the Presbytery of Ohio. He subsequent-
ly had charge of the church in Brookfield, Ohio, in connection with Hub-
bard and Moorefield. His death took place at his homestead November 20,
1857, in his ninety-first year. He was thrice married; his first wife was Polly
Orbison, of Washington County, Penn. He married for his second wife Miss
Anna Gibson, who died September 12, 1815, leaving two sons and three
daughters. His third wife was Miss Sarah, a daughter of Gen. David Mead,
the founder of Meadville. She was the first white child born on the site of
that city. She died in 1823, leaving one son and one daughter. Our subject
is the only living representative of this family in the county, and was born in
1815. He was reared and educated in Mercer County, and has always followed
farming as an occupation. He was united in marriage in 1839 to Miss Mar-
garet, a daughter of Elijah Satterfield, of Maryland, who died March 11,
1888, leaving two children, Edw'ard C. and Laura N.
Thomas B. Satterfield, deceased, was born in 1831 in Maryland. He
was the son of Peter and Martha (Smith) Satterfield, natives of the same State.
On the death of his father, which occurred when he was four years of age. he
was brought to Mercer County, and reared and educated by his uncle, E. D.
Satterfield, who resided near West Middlesex. Upon reaching his majority he
engaged with his uncle in the purchase of horses and cattle and general farm-
ing, which he continued until his death, July 23, 1887. Mr. Satterfield’s
death was occasioned by the kick of a horse while bringing a number to his
home. He was a man of unusual ability, of sterling integrity, a kind father
and a true friend, and his untimely death was regretted by all who knew him.
He was married in 1866 to Addie, a daughter of Robert and Phoebe (Newkirk)
Donthitt, of Beaver County, Penn. He left to mourn his loss eight children:
Charles D., Sarah H., Helen P., Ida H., Robert W., Thomas R., Mary A.
and George Me. The children are all at the home of his widow, known as
Sunny Side Residence, in Hickory Township, which she purchased since his
death.
The Shilling Family were among the first settlers of Hickory Township,
and are noted for longevity. The parents, George and Elizabeth (McBride)
Shilling, were natives of Westmoreland County, Penn. The former was born
February 24, 1781, and learned the blacksmith trade, and also served an
apprenticeship to shoemaking in early youth, but after he was married he fol-
lowed farming and blacksmithing. In 1814 he removed with his mother, wife
and four sons, George, Andrew, Samuel and Henry, to Mercer County, and
settled on a tract of 500 acres whereon the borough of Wheatland now
stands. Here three children, Mary, William and Sarah, were subsequently
born. The four eldest were born in Westmoreland County, Penn. George
was born September 4, 1808, was married to Eliza Davis, of Meadville, Penn.,
874
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
January 1, 1829, and with his wife resides in Lackawannock Township. They
have reared three children, viz. : Amanda, wife of Robert Rankin, of Lacka-
wannock Township; Henry A., lives near Hadley, and Gabriel D. , of Findley
Township. Andrew was born October 19, 1809, and lives near Wheatland.
Samuel was born February 7, 1811, and was married November 26, 1835, to
Mary, daughter of William G. and Elizabeth Welch, pioneers of Hickory
Township. She was born in this township January 17, 1809, and reared two
children, Dr. George W. and Elizabeth, both of Sharon. A few years after
their marriage Samuel and wife moved to Ohio, where they resided until the
spring of 1862, when they located in Sharon, and are still residents of that
borough. Henry was born April 7, 1812, and on reaching maturity married
Mary, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Hann, who settled in Hickory Town-
ship in 1830. She was a native of New Jersey, was born December 11, 1816,
and reared live children: Elizabeth, wife of B. A. Williams, of Mercer; Albert
L., of Wheatland; Jacob H., of Findley Township; MaryL., of Wheatland,
and W. W. , an attorney of Sharon. The parents spent their lives on the old
homestead at W^heatland, where Henry died September 16, 1882, and his widow
February 10, 1885. He was one of the substantial and respected pioneers of
Hickory Township. Of the three youngest children of George and Elizabeth
Shilling, Mary was born June 17, 1815, and married Seeley Castor, both of
whom are dead; William was born December 30, 1816, and is now living in
Iowa, and Sarah was born June 1, 1822, married Andrew Small, and both are
dead. Elizabeth, wife of George, Sr. , died in the Presbyterian faith in Decem-
ber, 1836, and he married Mrs. Jane (McFarland) Canon, who died without
issue. He was again married, to Anna Lawton, who bore him one son. Miller,
since deceased. George Shilling was a member of the Baptist Church, in poli-
tics a Democrat, and died on the old homestead in February, 1860. He was
highly respected, and is still kindly remembered by many of the citizens of Mer-
cer County. His mother resided with him until her death at the remark-
able age of over one hundred years. George Shilling, Sr., was a man of won-
derful energy and determination, and was the principal in the great land suit
with the Bedford Land Company,
Andrew Shilling, farmer, post-office Wheatland, son of George and Eliza-
beth (McBride) Shilling, was born October 19, 1809, in Westmoreland County,
Penn. He was reared upon the homestead at Wheatland and educated in the
district schools. He early engaged with his father in farming, and has always
followed that calling, and now resides upon the old homestead. He was mar-
ried October 16, 1836, to Salina, daughter of Andrew Satterfield, and by this
union they had six children : William, of St. Louis; Porter, deceased; James K.,
John, Sarah, wife of William Fulton, of Allegheny County, Penn.; Amanda
E., wife of Milton Troutman. Mr. Shilling’s wife died in 1874. He is a.
member of the Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex. In politics he is a
Democrat, and is a representative of one of the pioneer families of the Shenango
Valley.
Albert L. Shilling, farmer, post-office Wheatland, Penn. , son of Henry
and Mary (Hann) Shilling, and grandson of George and Elizabeth (McBride)
Shilling, was born September 25, 1841, and reared on the old Shilling home-
stead, where Wheatland now stands. He was educated in the common schools
of the Township. In 1863 he was united in marriage to Miss Josephine,
daughter of Alden Woodward, of Hickory Township. By this marriage they
have two children: Virgie, wife of William Laird, of Westmoreland County,
Penn., and Mary B. Our subject early in life engaged in farming, and has
followed it as an occupation. Politically he is a Democrat.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
875
S. C. SiMONTON, Je. , farmer, post-office Clark, Penn., son of Maj. S. C.
and Silva (Gleason) Simonton, was born February 27, 1851, in Clarksville,
Penn. ; was educated at the Edinboro Normal School, in Erie County, Penn.,
and completed his education and graduated from the Iron City College, of Pitts-
burgh, in 1870. In the same year our subject located at Sharon and engaged
in the insurance business. In 1881 he was elected prothonotary of Mercer
County, and at the expiration of his term of office he resumed his insurance
business at Sharon, which he continued until 1886, when he removed to his farm
in Hickory Township, on the line of Pymatuning, and is now engaged in gen-
eral farming. Mr. Simonton was married February 19, 1879, to Alda, daughter
of Alonza Alderman, of Sharon, and by this union they have one child, Will-
iam W. Our subject is a member of the K. of P., Lodge No. 398, of Sharon,
and in politics is a stanch Democrat.
M. Heney Staunton is a son of William and Mary (Evans) Staunton,
natives of England, who settled in Allegheny City in 1818. Our subject was
born September 23, 1831, in Allegheny City, and received his education in the
public schools of that city. He early engaged as a clerk in a drug store, and
subsequently engaged in that business for himself, conducting stores in New
Castle, Sharon and Wheatland. In 1854 he married Miss Teresa, daughter of
Isaac and Nancy (Quinby) De Forest, and by this marriage they have six chil-
dren: Teresa, Isaac D. , Harry L., Adoniram, May and Birdie. In 1882 he
bought the farm of his father-in-law, and since that time has been engaged in
farming.
John Stevens, farmer and carpenter, post-office Sharpsville, Penn., son of
John and Hannah (Madox) Stevens, was born in 1824, in Pymatuning Town-
ship, Mercer Co., Penn. The father of our subject was a native of Crawford
County, Penn., and about 1813 removed to Mercer County, and settled in
Pymatuning, on the line of Hickory Township, about two miles southeast of
Clarksville. He was a carpenter and farmer. His family consisted of nine
children: Mary A., Lewis M. , Elizabeth, John, Jesse, William V., Hannah, Car-
oline and Angeline. Our subject was reared in Pymatuning Township, learned
the carpenter’s trade, and was engaged in that business for three years after
serving his time. Pie then engaged in farming and followed it for thirty years.
In 1884 he purchased his present place on the Sharpsville and Mercer road,
in Hickory Township, and is engaged in the carpenter business in connection
with farming. He was married in 1847 to Miss Sarah J., daughter of Berton
Bust, of Pymatuning Township, and by this marriage they have seven chil-
dren: Armelda J., wife of A. K. Mattocks, of Pymatuning Township; Will-
iam H. , James W., Mary, wife of John Blaney, of Hickory Township; John
AV., Maggie M. , Nannie L. Mr. Stevens has been a member of the Clarks-
ville Methodist Church for forty years.
Chaeles Stewaet, a native of AVestmoreland County, Penn., married Miss
Fannie Stockton, of the same county, and settled in Hubbard, Ohio, about
1812. He was the progenitor of the Stewarts of Mercer County. They had
twelve children: John, Robert, Margaret, Mi's. Jesse AA^elch; Sarah, Mrs.
Benjaman Love; Charles, Joseph, Elizabeth, Mrs. Samuel Dennison, of Ohio;
Fannie, Mrs. Henry Dennison, of Ohio; Thomas, Samuel C., deceased, of
California; James G. and William S. The father died in Ohio, about 1840.
James G. , the seventh son, was born July 4, 1807, in AVestmoreland County,
Penn. He was a tanner by trade, and in 1831 located in Hickory Township,
erected a tannery and carried on the business for twenty years, and then
engaged in farming. He was married in 1831 to Miss Margaret, daughter of
William Porter, of Lawrence County, Penn., and by this marriage they had
876
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
four children; William F., Francis, deceased, Linus and Emma. Linus
enlisted, in 1862, in the One Hundi-ed and Forty-second Pennsylvania Volun-
teers, and died from wounds received at the battle of Fredricksburg. William
F., the eldest son, was born in 1834, in Hickory Township, upon the farm
where he resides with his mother and sister Emma. He was educated in the
common schools of the township and at Kingsville Academy, in Ohio, and
turned his attention to teaching, following it as an occupation for some years,
in connection with farming. He is unmarried, is a member of the Presbyte-
rian Church of Clarksville, and in politics is a Hepublican. Thomas Stewart,
the fifth son of Charles Stewart, was born in 1801, in Westmoreland County,
Penn. He came to Mercer County about 1827, and settled in Hickory Town-
ship, five miles east of Sharon, and was a farmer by occupation. He married
Esther, daughter of William Porter, of Lawrence County, Penn. They had
eleven children; Samuel P., of Pymatuning Township; William, deceased;
Amanda J., Mrs. Lawrence Lightner, of Mercer County; James, deceased;
Margaret E. , Mrs. Hon. James W. Ormsby, of Hickory Township; Alexander,
deceased; Charles, deceased; N. Coe, of Cleveland, Ohio; Emeline and Anne,
deceased, and John W., of Cleveland. Thomas Stewart died in 1875, his
wife having previously passed away, in 1861. The simple home lives of such
pioneers are well worthy of preservation in the annals of local history.
Archibald Titus was born in the State of Delaware in 1770, son of a
Scotch immigrant, and was married to Nancy Hartford, who was born in New
Jersey in 1778, and immigrated to Hickory Township in the year 1802. He
had a family of eleven children, five sons and six daughters; Isaiah, Martha,
William, Lucy, John, Annie, Mary, Samuel, Sarah, James, Eliza. The
descendants of the family now embrace ninety-five families and 447 persons,
at present scattered over thirteen different States and Territories. Eliza (wife
of Elijah Baker), the youngest, is living on the old place, and eating of the
fruit planted by her parents eighty years ago. Archibald Titus did his full
share of the pioneer duties of his day, was a stockholder of the first turnpike
roads built in Western Pennsylvania, and was a member of the militia regi-
ment called out to defend the building of the fleet of Commodore Perry, at
Erie, in 1813, accompanied by his son-in-law, James Morford. The family
had eleven representatives in the war for the suppression of the rebellion, and
one now sleeps in an unmarked grave on a Southern battle-field. Of the orig-
inal eleven children only two remain, Sarah and Eliza (October, 1888). Isaiah
Titus, the oldest son of Archibald Titus, was born May 15, 1804, settled on a
claim of his father’s, four miles east of Sharon, where he resided the remain-
der of his days. He was one of the founders of the first Methodist Episcopal
Church in tbis section of the country, and was a consistent member up to the
time of his death. He married Elizabeth Boyer July 10, 1828, and by this
marriage ten children were born to them; Archibald (mari’ied Jane Stambaugh,
who died in 1868, leaving three children), Deliah (Mrs. Hiram Young, of Kan-
sas), John (who lives in Allegheny County, Penn., married Sarah Best, and
has eight children), Samuel (who was born December 1, 1837, died April 24,
1858), Mary M. (Mrs. James Jones, died June 1, 1873), Belinda (Mrs. Sam-
uel Hewitt, died March 15, 1881), Margaret (Mrs. John Eberhart, of Iowa),
Isaiah (w'ho married Mary Moyer, has one child, and owns and lives on the
old homestead), Wilford (married Marilla Alderman, who died in 1873, leaving
one child, married for his second wife Angeline Moyer, and has five children),
James (married Margaret Wilson, has six children). Isaiah Titus, the father
of the above children, died March 25, 1855, and his widow February 7,
1874.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
877
Trout Family. — Michael Trout, a Lutheran minister, emigrated from
Germany, and settled near Hagerstown, Md. , and subsequently removed to
Westmoreland County, Penn. He had five sons: George, Michael, Philip,
John and Jacob. The last mentioned was a saddler by trade, and came to
Mercer County in 1811. He settled on a tract of land situated where George
Trout, his son, now lives. Here he engaged in farming in connection with
his saddler business. He married Mary, a daughter of George Shilling, of
Westmoreland County, and there were born to them seven children. He died
January 18, 1829, and his widow Juno 1, 1842. George, the eldest son of
Jacob, was born in 1807, in Westmoreland County, Penn., and came to this
county with his father, and was reared and educated in Hickory Township.
He married, in 1837, Mary, a daughter of James and Jane (Christy) Ward, of
Shenango Township, and by this marriage he had three children, two of whom
are living, Della and Jacob C. Michael C., the second son of Jacob, was
born September 30, 1810, and died in 1873. He learned the hatter’s trade,
and followed it for three years. He then engaged in the carpenter and build-
ing business, and while thus engaged he built the Shenango House at Sharon.
He was elected, on the Democratic ticket, recorder of Mercer County in 1843,
and served one term. He was immediately elected prothonotary, which posi-
tion he filled for six years. He removed, in 1852, to a part of the homestead
farm, and erected the residence where his son, Conrad C. , now resides with
his widowed mother. The same year he was elected, on the Democratic ticket,
a member of Congress, and served in the session of 1853-54. After his term
of Congressional labor expired he engaged with the Sharon Iron and Steel
Rolling Works as its manager. He subsequently engaged in the machine
business, under the firm name of McGilvray, Trout & Carver. He was also
engaged in the planing-mill business, the firm being known as Carver & Trout.
Mr. Trout was connected with the Sharon Banking Company as one of the
directors. He also obtained the charter for the Sharon Gas Works. He
opened the coal banks on his own property, and was extensively engaged in
real estate operations. Mr. Trout was always alive to public affairs, and was
president of Hickory Township School Board for over twenty years. He was
married January 14, 1835, to Margaret J., daughter of Gabriel Carkhuff, a
native of New Jersey. By her he had two children: William E. (born July 3,
1838, and died June 16. 1841) and Conrad C. (born July 29, 1845). The
latter was educated in Sewickley, Beaver Co. , Penn. , Poland, Ohio, Agricul-
tural College of Ohio, and at the Iron City Business College of Pittsburgh.
Mr. Trout is now engaged in farming and dealing in real estate. Henry, the
third son of Jacob, is dead. Mary, the eldest daughter of Jacob Trout, was
married to James Hann, and they reside in Hickory Township. Sarah, the
second daughter, married Christopher Hann. Olivia, the third daughter, is
single, and resides with her sister, Mrs. Sarah Hann. Jacob, the fourth son,
was born June 22, 1823, learned the trade of a carpenter, and follows farming
in connection with his trade. He married Sarah, a daughter of William and
Ann (Hofius) Titus, and has six children: William H. (a banker of California),
Alfaretta (Mrs. Reuben Howell), Michael (of Colorado), Mary (Mrs. E. R.
Powell, of Montana), Ida and George.
Troutman Family. — George Troutman, a native of Northumberland County,
Penn., was a descendant of a German of that name, who came to this country
at an early date. George married Catherine Muse, and in the year 1823 they
came with their family of six children and settled at Brookfield, Ohio. George,
their eldest son, was the only one who made this county his permanent home;
he was born in Northumberland County, Penn., in the year 1792, married
878
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mary Boyer, of Berks County, and in 1823, when his father came to Ohio, he
located at Sharon, where he followed his trade as carpenter until he pm’chased
his farm in Hickory Township, where he resided until his death, which occurred
February 7, 1875, his wife surviving him until February 24, 1886. They had
ten chilch’en : Lemuel, Joseph, Caroline, Mrs. P. Dunham, of Sharpsville; Sarah,
Mrs. John Dennison, of Jamestown, Penn. ; George F., of Lackawannock Town-
ship; Valentine, of Hickory Township ; John P., of Ohio; Elizabeth, Mrs. A. R.
Dunham; Luther, and Henry M., of Sharon. Lemuel and Luther are deceased
long since. John P., of Trumbull County, Ohio, recently deceased, leaves a
family of nine orphaned children, his wife having died some four years pre-
vious. Joseph Troutman, the second son of George and Mary Troutman, was
born in 1821, in Clarion County, Penn., and was reared and educated in Mer-
cer County. In the year 1848 he married Miss Nancy, daughter of the late
James Clark, a well-known citizen of Hickory Township, and one of its early
settlers. In the same year he purchased the farm where he now resides, and
has followed farming and dealing in stock ever since. In the year 1886 he
met with a sad bereavement; in the short space of four months, his mother,
wife, only son. Perry B. , and little grandson, child of Perry B., all died and
were interred atMoorefield Cemetery. He has a daughter living, wife of G. C.
Hofius, at Hermitage, Penn. His son Perry B. Troutman was aged thirty-six
years at the time of his death, and had resided at Jamestown, Penn., for about
fifteen years, being for a^long time agent of the Union Express Company, after-
ward engaging in the mercantile business with Carr, Dennison & Co. ; a few
months prior to his death he came to Sharon, and entered the firm of T. J.
Gillespie & Co. He was married September 15, 1881, to Miss Grace McCart-
ney, of Jamestown, Penn., who, with their little son Carl, still survives him.
John Welch, deceased, was a son of William G. and Elizabeth (Flenni-
ken) Welch, and was born in 1806 and died in 1881. His father was a native
of Washington County, Penn., and settled in Hickory Township about two
miles north of West Middlesex in 1801. William’s family consisted of five
children, one of whom died in infancy: Jane (married Luke Porter and is
dead), John (deceased), Mary (wife of Samuel Shilling, of Sharon) and Sarah
(widow of James Mathers, of Greenville). John was reared and educated in
Hickory Township, and was married in 1833 to Miss Eliza, a daughter of
Andi’ew Satterfield. By this union they had ten children, seven of whom sur-
• vive: William (resides in Ohio), DeKalb (lives in Hickory Township), James
(a resident of Montana), Elizabeth, C. D., Selina and Emma. Mr. Welch
was a life-long member of the Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex. His
widow resides with the four last mentioned children upon the old homestead
in Hickory Township.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
879
CHAPTER XXXIV.
BIOGRAPHIES OF LACKAWANNOCK, EAST LACKAWAHNOCK AND
WILMINGTON.
%
LACKAWANNOCK TOWNSHIP.
George ALLEN, deceased, was born November 13, 1823, in Shenango
Township, this county. His father, Joseph, was born September 19,
1794, in Ireland, and came to America when nine months old, with his par-
ents. They settled in Ohio. Joseph remained with his parents until
June, 1820, when he married Miss Mary Irwin. He then purchased a
farm near "West Middlesex, on which they settled. There were six chil-
dren born to them. Christopher I. and Esther are the only ones living.
Joseph’s wife died May 5, 1833, at the age of thirty-three years. He was
married the second time to Agnes Stewart, of Shenango Township, to whom
were born two children: Robert (deceased) and Margaret J., wife of Thomas
B. Porter, of Wilmington Township. Joseph obtained a good common
school education and taught school for a few terms. In politics he was a
Whig and Republican. They were members of the United Presbyterian Church,
and he was a ruling elder for thirty-seven years. About three years before
his death he was disabled by a stroke of paralysis. He died August 24, 1871,
in the seventy -seventh year of his age. His wife died August 20, 1845.
George, our subject, was married November 2, 1852, to Rachel J. , daughter
of Thomas and Betsey (Waugh) Porter, of Wilmington Township, this
county. They located in Wilmington Township, where he worked at car-
pentering for a few years, and then lived on a farm in Lackawannock for
eight years. Returning to Wilmington Township, they lived there a few
years, when they went back to Lackawannock Township. His wife died
March 20, 1854. He was married the second time, in 1856, to Martha Ran-
dolph, of Wilmington Township. By his first marriage there was one child,
Elizabeth, now living in Youngstown, Ohio, and by his second marriage there
were six children, four of whom are living: Joseph W., John C., Maggie A.
(wife of G. W. Davis) and Charles S. The subject of our sketch was a firm
Republican, and filled the offices of poor director, justice of the peace, school
director and constable. He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church,
and died May 2, 1888, in his sixty-fifth year.
James R. Blackstone, farmer, was born May 24, 1849, in Mercer County.
His great-grandfather, Samuel Blackstone, was one of the first pioneers of
Wilmington Township, whose son James was born November 2, 1798, in Wil-
mington Township, and was married to Nancy Waugh in 1822, and purchased
200 acres of land in Lackawannock Township at a sheriff’s sale, which was
afterward sold to secure back taxes, and he made a second purchase. Here
they lived until death, which occurred November 8, 1865, and February 12,
1871, respectively. They had four children: Thomas, Samuel, John and Han-
nah. They were of Scotch-Irish descent, and members of the Presbyterian
Church, and he was a Democrat. Thomas, the father of our subject, was born
July 8, 1824, in the old Whistler house in Mercer. He was married April 19,
1848, to Nancy, daughter of John and Nellie (Wilson) Reed, of East Lacku-
880
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
wannock Township. Their children were James, Ella A., the wife of Samuel
Thompson, and Villa. Nancy Blackstone died January 9, 1866, and he was
again married March 5, 1867, to Mary, a daughter of William and Elizabeth
Pew, and by her has had Lillie I. They are Presbyterians. James R. was
married April 2, 1874, to Lizzie, daughter of Hanson and Margaret Camp-
bell, resulting in three children: Ethel, Cora and Richard N. His wife died
May 15, 1887, of brain fever. He is a stanch Democrat.
Jacob S. Boetz, farmer, post-office Hill, was born November 12, 1816, in
Westmoreland County, Penn. His father, Jacob, was born in Northampton
County, Penn., April 24, 1790, and settled in 1822 on a piece of land of 160
acres, purchased of Joseph Junkin, in Lackawannock Township, all a solid
wood lot, on which he erected a cabin. He afterward returned to Greensbui’g
for his family, having formerly married Anna M. Fry, of Greensburg, West-
moreland Co., Penn. She was born December 15, 1794. There were four-
teen children born to this union: Elizabeth, Mary, Jacob S. (these were born
in Westmoreland County, Penn.), Simon, Leah (widow of the late David
Kamerer, of Delaware Township), Jessie, David, Andrew, Sallie, Caroline,
Sarah, George, Lydia and Hiram. He followed the occupation of a farmer
and shoemaker. The parents were members of the Lutheran Church. Jacob
died October 3, 1865, in Clarksville, and his wife died March 17, 1874. Our
subject, Jacob S., was married May 1, 1848, to Anna M. Gangaware, of Py-
matuning Township, and with her located on a farm in that township, which
he purchased at the orphan’s court sale, where they lived until 1854, when he
bought the homestead in Lackawannock Township, of his father. The follow-
ing are the names of his children: Leah, married William Zahniser; Aaron G. ,
married Maggie H. Bye; Sarah, wife of William Bartholomew; Phyette, mar-
ried Edward Zimmerman; Lucinda H., wife of Ephraim Zahniser; Martin L.,
John J., Lydia S., Ella E., Phcebe R., Elias M. , Rachel R. and Anna M., de-
ceased. Jacob S. is independent in politics, and he and wife belong to the
Lutheran Church.
William H. Buegess, farmer, post-office Worth, was born December 24,
1847, in Lackawannock Township. His father, James, was born April 6,
1817, in Ohio, where he grew up to manhood and was there married to Miss
Agnes Hogg. Both were of Irish descent. They located on a farm of fifty
acres in Lackawannock Township, Mercer Co. , Penn. There were seven chil-
dren born to this union: Mary A., born in Ohio, now the wife of Robert
Strain, of Kansas; Elizabeth J., died, at the age of seventeen years, of diph-
theria; William H. , Sarah E., wife of Samuel Ross; Andrew (deceased),
George V., Flora L. James, the father, acquired a superior education. He
taught school several terms, and was also engaged in book-keeping. He was
justice of the peace for many years, and was employed as clerk in Pollock’s
store, at Jones ville, for many years, at the same time carrying on the
farm work. He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church, of Leba-
non, was one of the founders thereof, and a deacon and leader of the singing
for many years. He died September 23, 1859, in his fifty-ninth year, and
his widow in December, 1870, in her forty-eighth year. Our subject was mar-
ried April 20, 1871, to Maggie A., daughter of Robert and Martha (Mc-
Williams) Lusk. He purchased the old homestead ' and settled thereon.
There were two children born to them, Cora A. and one who died in infancy.
He obtained a good education at the common schools. They are members of
the First United Presbyterian Church, and he is a Republican, and has held
the offices of constable, collector, assessor and school director.
D.iNiEL C. Byeks, deceased, settled in Lackawannock Township at an
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
881
early date. He was married to Miss Maria McBurney, of Deer Creek Town-
ship. They located in a log house in the woods, and on the grounds now
occupied by the Greenfield Hotel. He engaged in farming, hotel keeping
and merchandise business, and was extensively known as the auctioneer.
He dealt heavily in stock and country produce. Shipments of produce
and merchandise were made to Pittsburgh by a six-horse team, loading both
ways. There were ten children born to them: Alexander M. , president of
the Iron City National Bank of Pittsburgh, also manufacturer of gas pipes
at the same place; Levina, died April 29, 1880, in her forty-ninth year, wife
of Thomas Jones, of Clarksville; Sebina, single, lives with her brother at
Greenfield; Julia, widow of Dr. Benjamin Love, of Sharon; Samuel, lives in
Pittsburgh; Jennie, wife of William Miller, of Allegheny City; James W.,
deceased; William H. H. , Ebeneser, of the firm of A. M. Byers & Co., of
Pittsburgh, and Thomas H. Daniel C. , their father, obtained a good common
school education. Politically he was an old-line Whig. They were members
of the United Presbyterian Church. He died February 11, 1854, in his fifty-
eighth year, from the result of being thrown out of his carriage and fractur-
ing his skull. His widow died March 9, 1879, in her seventy -seventh year.
William H. H. was born in 1846 and Thomas in 1850. J. W. , H. H. and
T. H. began business in Greenfield, under the firm name of Byers Bros. , in
1866, conducting a general merchandise store, and in addition carrying on an
extensive business in shipping stock, grain, wool and farm products to Pitts-
bui’gh and other markets, now carried on by H. H. and T. H. , under the same
name, Byers Bros. Politically they are both Republicans.
Moses Byler, farmer, post-office West Middlesex, was born in 1827 in
Centre County, Penn., to Christian and Magdalen (Yoder) Byler, natives of this
State. Of their children, six are living: Christian, Jr., lives in Lawrence
County, married to Mary Caffman; Solomon, married Anna Cafiman, also lives
in Lawrence County; Samuel, lives in Kansas; Jonas, Mary and Moses live
in Lackawannock Township. Christian died in 1851 at the age of sixty-seven
years. His widow died in 1874 at the age of eighty-three years. Jonas was
born in 1818 and Mary in 1823. Moses and Mary purchased a farm of lOO
acres, known as the Samuel Sweezer farm, in Lackawannock, where they now
live, and with them live their brother, Jonas, and a niece. Miss Barbara Byerly.
They are members of the Menonite Church, and hold their worship from house
to house. In politics they are Republicans.
R. T. Ceeen, farmer, post-office Hill, was born Jidy 12, 1833, in Chester
County, Penn. , son of Richard and Martha Creen, to whom were born three
sons and one daughter: John, Catharine, Henry, Richard T. The parents
came to Lackawannock Township in 1849, and located on the Kelly farm, in
what is extensively known as the old “Red Tavern,” on the State road.
They remained here until he retired from business. The father died October
16, 1868, and the mother September 28, 1873. Richard T. continued the same
business until 1864, after which he was in a hotel at Delaware Grove three
years, at Greenville one year and at Hamburgh twelve years, in what is known
as the Washington Hotel. In 1871 he returned to the old Red Tavern stand,
which had been converted into a private house, and has since followed the
occupation of a farmer. He was married July 14, 1854, to Rachel, daughter
of Aaron and Anna (Davis) Vanatta, of Lackawannock Township. Three chil-
dren have been born to them: M. Virginia (wife of Ed. Mayer, of Allegheny
City), Mary (wife of J. L. Vandeventer), Anna Maud. His education was
completed at the Fairmount boys’ school, Philadelphia, and at the Coots ville
High-school. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcojial Church, and
he is a Democrat, and a member of the I. O. O. E.
882
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Andrew J. Dunlap, post-office Wheeler, was born in Mahoning County,
Ohio, October 9, 1837, and is a son of Alexander and Eliza (Burgess) Dunlap.
The father was born December 11, 1806, and after his marriage lived in Ohio
until 1851, when they came to Mercer County and purchased a farm of Squire
Graham, near Greenfield. Of his ten children, seven are living: John P. ,
Andrew J., Josiah, Mary, wife of Robert Taylor; William, Jennie and Zan-
nie. Alexander is a Democrat, and is eighty-one years of age. His wife died
September 23, 1878. Andrew remained with his parents until January 1,
1861, when he was married to Margaret, daughter of Alexander and Mary
(Hemphill) McGufFey, formerly of Washington, Penn. He went to Ohio for
a few years, and then settled in Mercer County. Alexander McGuffey was a
native of Scotland, born in 1767, and died in March, 1855. He was the father
of the publishers of McGuffey’ s series of school books. Mrs. McGuffey
resides with her daughter, Mrs. Dunlap, at the advanced age of ninety-five
years. Our subject, after his marriage, settled on a farm of fifty-three acres
near Greenfield, where they still reside. He enlisted in the late war on Octo-
ber 2, 1862, under Capt. L. C. Morrow, of Company H, One Hundreth Penn-
sylvania Volunteers. He was soon stricken down with typhoid fever and in-
flammatory rheumatism, and after six months was honorably discharged and
returned to the farm. He is a Prohibitionist, and with his wife belongs to
the United Presbyterian Church.
Dr. Thomas Elliott, post-office Worth, was born in Fayetteville, Lawrence
Co., Penn., March 1, 1851, to John and Hannah (Barr) Elliott. His parents
came from Castle Fin, Ireland, and settled in Fayetteville in 1849, where they
remained until 1853, when they located at Elliott’s flouring-mill, in this county.
Here he settled on a farm, which he managed in connection with the mill.
They had six children; Thomas, Samuel E. , who is a Presbyterian clergy-
man at Mount Pleasant, and was married to Catherine, daughter of James
Clark, an attorney of W'ashington County, Penn.; Latetia, John W. , attend-
ing medical college in Cleveland; Lydia A., and James, drowned when a boy
in the mill-dam. The parents were members of the Presbyterian Church of
Neshannock, where John was an elder for many years. They were of Scotch-
Irish descent. Politically he was a Democrat. The children have all had the
benefit of a collegiate education, three of them having graduated from West-
minster College, and Samuel at Princeton Theological School. Dr. Thomas
attended the Westminster College, and was in his first term of the junior class
when his health failed him. He then spent one season in Ireland, and
returned to New Wilmington, where he read medicine with Drs. Popino &
Brugh until the winter of 1874, when he went to Jefferson Medical College, in
Philadelphia, and graduated in 1877, in the meantime spending one winter
in Bellevue Medical College, New York. He located in Greenfield, Mercer
Co. , Penn. , in the practice of his profession, in 1878, where he still remains,
and by prompt attention to professional demands, coupled with his energy,
ability and success, he is gaining a host of friends within the circle of his
extensive practice. On October 24, 1878, he was married to Miss Maud, only
daughter of Thomas and Emeline (Carson) Johnson, of Wilmington Township,
this county. They are members of the United Presbyterian Church, and
politically he is a Republican.
Stewart Hodge, farmer and stone-mason, post-office Worth, was born in
1822, near Clarksville, this county, and is a son of Robert and Rebecca Hodge,
both natives of this State, Robert being born in Fayette County. The Hodge
family were old pioneers of the county, having settled near Clarksville before
the War of 1812. They came from Fayette County via Pittsburgh, where
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
883
they took passage in a canoe, which they paddled up the Shenango with poles.
They purchased a farm of 200 acres from Mr. Rankin, and, after having it
well improved, found the title was deficient, consequently they had to pay for
it the second time. While assisting to raise a barn Robert had his leg broken,
and after suffering from it eighteen years, finally had it amputated. There
were sixteen children born to them, of whom Stewart was the seventh son.
The parents lived to a ripe old age, the father being eighty-two years and the
mother seventy-nine years of age at the time of their deaths. They were mem-
bers of the United Presbyterian Church for many years. Stewart was mar-
ried in 1847 to Eliza, daughter of James and Rebecca (Thatcher) Terrance, of
this county. He purchased thirty acres of land near Clarksville, where they
remained for a time, but he subsequently sold it, and followed the occupation
of a furnace keeper for twenty -one years, during which time he enlisted under
Capt. Chapman, Company K, Sixty third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers.
He served two and a half years, thirteen weeks of which time he was a prisoner
in Libby and Belle Isle. His wounds were confined to a fractured bone in the
right arm. There were six children born to them: William, James, Cynthia
A., wife of James Titus, of Ohio; Stewart and Celone, died young, and Frank,
lives in Ohio. His wife died in 1865, and in 1870 he was married to Mary M.,
daughter of John and Mary A. Cron, by whom he has four children: Freddie
R. , Edward E. , Saddie I. , and one other who died in infancy. He was edu-
cated in the district schools and worked at the stone-mason trade until 1887,
when he purchased a farm of forty acres in Lackawannock Township, from Will-
iam J. Miller, where they are now living. They are. members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, and he is a Democrat.
S. J. Gordon, farmer, post-office Worth, was born April 23, 1843, and is
a son of Samuel and Jane (Pinkerton) Gordon, of Mercer County, Penn.
Thomas Gordon, the great-grandfather of our subject, was born in Ireland in
1754, and the great-grandmother in 1751. They were married in 1774, and
two children were born to them in Ireland: John and William. The family im-
migrated to America in 1790, and located in Westmoreland County, where they
lived a few years. They made their final settlement in East Lackawannock
Township. One child, Thomas, was born to them after their arrival in this
country. William, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Ireland in
1783, and came to this country with his parents. He was married October 31,
1805, to Miss Agnes Hawthorn. They settled on a forest farm of 200 acres,
^in Lackawannock Township, where their nearest neighbor was two and a half
miles distant. He served in the War of 1812 for some months under Gen.
Harrison. To William and Agnes were born nine children: Jennie Y.,
Samuel, Margaret, Nancy, William, Thomas, Joseph, Sarah and Jane.
William’s wife died July 28, 1846, in the sixty-third year of her age. He was
again married November 17, 1847, to Elizabeth Me Vey, of Beaver County.
William died January 7, 1872, in his eighty,-ninth year. His widow still lives,
with Scott MeVey, in East Lackawannock Township. Politically he was a
Democrat, and was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Mercer. Samuel
Gordon, father of our subject, was born November 8, 1808. He was reared
at home and educated in the local schools. He was manled May 7, 1835, to
Jane Pinkerton, of Lawrence County. They located on his paternal home-
stead, where they remained until 1839, when they purchased a farm of
eighty acres in Lackawannock Township, to which they subsequently added
thirty-six acres, where he spent his remaining days. There were four chil-
dren born to them: James W. , deceased; Elizabeth J. , wife of W. D. Hughes;
Nancy M. , wife of Albert G. Dilley, and Samuel J. Politically Samuel was a
884
HISTOKY OF MERGER COUNTY.
Republican. He and his wife were members of Unity Church. Samuel
died September 25, 1877, aged sixty-nine, and his wife died February 5, 1884,
in the seventy-sixth year of her age. Samuel J., our subject, was married
November 15, 1871, to Martha, daughter of William and Elizabeth Pew, of
Clarksville. They settled on the parental homestead, where he still lives.
There were four children born to this union: Carl W., May E. J., Ina L. and
Eva Z. Politically our subject is a Republican. He has held many of the
local township offices. He and his wife and two children are members of the
Presbyterian Church.
Adam Hope, deceased, was born Mai-ch 23, 1808, in what is now Law-
rence County, Penn. He was married in March, 1836, to Margaret White,
of Lawrence County. They located on a farm in Lackawannock Township,
this county, purchased of William Hays, containing 106 acres, which was an
entire wilderness. There were three children born to them: AdamH. , who
died at the age of eighteen years; John W. and Joseph R. The parents were
members of the United Presbyterian Church. Politically Adam was a Repub-
lican. He died July 3, 1868. John W. was married December 15, 1887, to
Sarah M. Allen, of Lawrence County. Joseph R. was married February 13,
1879, to L. W. Hays, of Lackawannock Township, and there have been two
children born to them: Guy C. and Margaret M. Both of the brothers remain
on the homestead. Politically they are Republicans, and members of the
United Presbyterian Church.
Moses D. Hughes, farmer and painter, post-office Worth, was born June
20, 1841. His father, Moses, was born June 6, 1802, in this county,
and was of Welsh descent. He was married to Elizabeth Humphrey, of
New York State, and settled on a farm in Springfield Township, of seventy-
eight acres, where he lived till 1854. They then bought a farm in
Findley Township, of William Carpenter, containing sixty-eight acres.
Here he remained till 1867, when he purchased a farm of thirty acres
in Cool Spring, where he remained till 1870, when he settled in Mercer
Borough. There were ten children born to them: Joseph E., John, Moses D.,
David H. , Samuel L., James B. , Leonard, Peter S., AnnM. , wife of H. B.
Croy, and William Henry. Moses obtained a good education at the common
schools. Politically he was a Democrat. They were members of the United
Presbyterian Church. His wife died September 18, 1878, at the age of sixty-
eight years, followed by her husband April 6, 1886. Moses D. was married
January 1, 1868, to Patience E., daughter of James Parcell, of Jackson Town-
ship. They lived in New Lebanon, Springfield Township, and Pittsburgh,
one year each, and in Mercer four years. There were born to them four chil-
dren: Samuel, William E., Maude E. and Maggie E. His wife died January
26, 1876. He was again married November 14, 1878, to Mrs. Elizabeth Ray,
daughter of Samuel Gordon, of Lackawannock Township. They settled on a
portion of the Samuel Gordon farm. They have one child, Frank D. They
are members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and he is a Demo-
crat.
William Hunter, deceased, was born in Huntingdon County, Penn., in
1800, and came to Mercer County when four years old with his parents, who
about one year later settled on a farm which he purchased in Lackawan-
nock Township, containing 142 acres. William was one of twelve children,
and the fourth son. He was married to Elizabeth, daughter of James Thomp-
son, of Shenango Township; they remained on the paternal homestead and fol-
lowed the occupation of farming. There were seven children born to them:
James T., Catherine, Charlotte J. and William, all of whom remain on the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
885
homestead and unmarried; Elizabeth, wife of William Crill, who lives in Iowa;
Sadie A. (deceased), and one died in infancy. Politically Mr. Hunter was a
Democrat. His wife died in February, 1857. William died in April, 1879.
They were members of the United Presbyterian Church of Bethel.
R. T. Hunter, farmer, post-office Worth, was born in 1845, son of Edward
and Mary (Thompson) Hunter, of Lackawannock Township. Edward was born
in Huntingdon County, Penn., November 13, 1795, and came to Mercer
County with his parents in 1805. He was married in 1824, and located on a
farm near Sharpsville, which he afterward sold, and purchased a farm of 100
acres on the Middlesex road, known as the William Rankin farm. There were
seven children born to them: Jane, died aged twenty-one years; Catherine, wife
of W. A. Ward; Elizabeth, wife of Alexander Chambers; Mary A., wife of
John Mercer; Rebecca, wife of David Sloss; Isabell and Robert. He obtained
his education at the common schools. In politics he was formerly a Whig, and
afterward a Democrat. They were members of the United Presbyterian Church
of Bethel. He died September 7, 1809, in his seventy fourth year, followed
by his widow September 11, 1869. Robert wms married January 29, 1874,
to Mary E., daughter of James and Nancy (Lesle) Ward, of this county,
formerly of Law’rence County. They settled on the homestead, where five chil-
dren have been born to them; Harry E., Noble F., Annie E., Allie L. and
Sarah J. Robert obtained his education at the common schools. They are
attendants of the United Presbyterian Church, and he is a Democrat.
Samuel C. Love, farmer, post-office Wheeler, was born in 1826, in Hickory
Township, and is a son of Benjamin and Sarah (Stewart) Love, natives of West-
moreland County, and of Scotch-Irish descent. They located in Hickory
Township in about 1818, on a farm of about 200 acres, known as the McBride
farm. There were thirteen children born to them: Margaret, wife of Emanuel
Milliken, of Ohio; Hugh; Mary A., deceased; Charles S., of Hickory Town-
ship; Robert, of Ohio; Joseph S. , deceased; James, died aged sixty four;
John, of Hickory Township; Samuel C. ; Dr. Benjamin, died at the age of
fifty; Florilla, deceased; William and Thomas B. , both of whom live in
Alleghany County, N. Y. Benjamin, their father, received a good common school
education; both he and wife were members of the Presbyterian Church, and he
was a Republican. Samuel C. was married in 1869, to Esther M. , daughter
of John and Jane Stewart, of Hickory Township. They located on a farm of
fifty acres, purchased of the Rev. John Armstrong, in Lackawannock Township.
One child was born to them, John S. , who died in infancy. They adopted a
girl, one year old, Pearl L. Samuel C. , received his education at the common
schools. He is a Republican, and with his wife belongs to the United Pres-
byterian Church. Benjamin Love died in February, 1872, and his wife in
June, 1871.
Robert Madge, farmer, post-office Wheeler, was born in Devonshire,
England, May 20, 1806, and immigrated to America with his father in 1816.
They settled in Northumberland County, Penn. , where they remained until 1820,
when they sold and removed to Mercer County, and settled in Shenango
Township on a farm of 100 acres, in the midst of a dense woodland. Six chil-
dren were born to his father in England: John, died in England; Robert;
Mary A., deceased, wife of Andrew Glendenning, who lives in East Lackawan-
nock Township; Samuel, deceased, who married a sister of Dr. Dowling, of
Jamestown, Penn.; Thomas, lives in Lackawannock Township; Harriet, de-
ceased, wife of William Richards, of Iowa, who is also dead. After com-
ing to America they had two children: William and James, both of whom are
dead. The father was a member of the Church of England, and a Democrat.
886
HISTORY OF BIERCEE COUNTY.
He died in 1822, and his widow was afterward married to James Dick, and
died May 9, 1868, aged eighty-nine years. Our subject was married January
7, 1836, to Sarah, daughter of James and Sarah (Gailey) Gilkey. of Shenango
Township. Mrs. Madge was born in Mercer County September 22, 1809.
After their marriage they settled on a farm of 160 acres, in the midst of a dense
forest. Here eight children were born to them: J ames, married Maggie Mar-
tin, of New York; Anna, married Robert Lowry, lives in Ohio; Sarah, dead;
Robert G. , lives in Mercer; Mary W. , married David McFarland, lives in Law-
rence County, Penn. ; Margaret J., married David Thompson, of Kansas; David
W., died in Kansas, aged twenty-four years; Elizabeth, at home. Robert, Sr.,
obtained his education partly in England and partly in Mercer County, where
he taught school six terms. He and all his children are members of the United
Presbyterian Church, of which his son James is a minister. In politics he is
a Republican, and has held the following township offices: Auditor, collector,
town clerk, assessor and school director.
William Marquis, farmer and carpenter, post-office Worth, was born in
November, 1829, in Lackawannock Township, this county, and is a son of Sam-
uel, Jr., and Margaret (McComb) Marquis. Samuel Marquis, the grandfather
of our subject, was one of the old pioneers of this county, but the exact date of
settlement we are unable to designate. He purchased and located on the farm
now owned by the family descendants. Samuel, Jr., was the second son, and
was born in Washington County in 1792. He was married in 1818, and settled
on a portion of the homestead left him by his father. There were nine chil-
dren born to them: Robert, Samuel, John, Andrew, William, James, Joseph,
Elizabeth and Sarah, wife of Mr. Williams, of Ohio. Samuel. Jr., was for
many years a member and elder in the Presbyterian Church. He was a Whig
in politics. He died February 7, 1851, and his widow died July 4, 1881, at
the age of eighty -four years. Three of the children remain on the homestead:
James, John and Elizabeth, none of whom have married. John was born Feb-
ruary 7, 1825. He was afflicted with erysipelas in his youth, and was crippled
for life. Elizabeth was bom August 28, 1838, and James was born Novem-
ber 25, 1831. William, our subject, was married May 28, 1857, to Mary E.,
daughter of Ira and Caroline E. (Weaver) Johnson, of Cincinnati. They
located on a farm in Lackawannock Township. There were four children born
to them: Frank E. (who died in youth), James E., Mary M. and J. Chester
R. Our subject obtained his education at the common schools. They are
members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically he is a Republican. J ames
and Joseph served three years each in the War of the Rebellion.
John McWhieter, farmer, post-office Hill, was born November 15, 1809, in
County Derry, Ireland, son of Samuel, who was born in Ireland in 1785, and
was married to Mary McCune, to whom were born the following children
in Ireland: John, Jane, Margaret, Mary A. and Charlotte. They came to
America in 1822 and located near New Wilmington, where were born to them
Samuel, Sarah. Joseph, Alexander and Nancy. Samuel, Sr., was a weaver,
which occupation he followed through life. He died October 16, 1840, at the
age of lifty-tive years. His widow lived to the ripe old age of seventy-five
years. They were members of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, and of the
Seceder Church at New Wilmington. Politically Samuel was a Democrat.
John, our subject, came to Lackawannock Township in 1839, and purchased
the Kelly farm of 100 acres. He was married to Jane Black, of Washington
County, August 25, 1842, and located on the farm. Samuel A., now living in
Texas, was born to them. Mrs. McWhirter died June 30, 1844. He was mar-
ried December 15, 1817, to Margaret Clark, of Harlensburg, bj^ whom he had
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
8S7
two children: Kobert, living in Findley Township, and Margaret J. . living in
Illinois. His second wife died February 27, 1850. He was again naarried
July 31, 1851, to Mary J. Garvin, a cousin of the Hon. W. S. Garvin, of
Mercer. To this union were born seven children : David, Nancy L., deceased;
Joseph A., Elizabeth A., James B., William S. and John. In politics he is a
Democrat. They are members of the United Presbyterian Church of Bethel.
Babnhart Pilgrim, farmer, post-office Neshannock, was born August 24,
1820, at Harford, Gernjany, and is a son of Zacharias and Frambrooks Pilgrim.
Barnhart emigrated from Germany, and arrived in New York September 10,
1849. From there he went to Greenville, Penn., where he remained one win-
ter, when he moved to Hickory Township, this county. Here he met Mary
Bymus, who also came from Germany, and to whom he was married Decem-
ber 25, 1850. They remained here, he working as a coal miner, until October,
1871, when they purchased a farm of Mr. Linn containing fifty-one acres, in
Lackawannock Township, on which they settled. There were five children
born to them: Barnhart, Peter, Jacob, who lives in Neshannock; John and
Frederick. Barnhart received an education at the district schools. They were
members of the Lutheran Church. In politics he is a Republican. His wife
died December 17, 1887.
John W. Porter, farmer, post-office Hill, was born in February, 1846.
Thomas, his father, was born in 1790 in County Down, Ireland, came to Amer-
ica in 1816, and located on a farm in what is now Wilmington Township, this
county. He was married about 1822 to Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas and
Elizabeth Waugh, of Wilmington Township. There were five children born
to them: Sarah A., Rachel J. (both of whom are dead), Elizabeth (wife of
Allen Watson), Robert M. and Thomas Jr. His wife died, and he married
Hannah Pomroy, of Lawrence County. To this union only one child was
born, John. They were members of the Unity Church of Greenfield. In
politics he was a Republican. In about 1856 they purchased a farm of 100
acres in Lackawannock Township, where his wife died December 18, 1877,
and he died April 5, 1886. John was married, July 4, 1867, to Caroline,
daughter of Michael and Amelia (McClain) Zahniser, of Jefferson Township,
this county. They remained with his parents until their deaths, when the
homestead became their property. They have three children: Anna, Amelia
and Mary A. Mr. Porter was drafted in the late war, but sent a substitute.
He is a Democrat, and with his wife belongs to the Unity Church of Greenfield.
Thomas P. Seidle, farmer, post-office New Wilmington, was born Febru-
ary 5, 1842, near Clarksville, this county. His father, John, when a boy, was
bound out to Dr. Whipple, of New Castle. At the age of maturity he was
married to Martha Beggs, of Clarksville, and settled on a farm near there,
where nine children were born to them: Mary E. , Thomas P., Catharine (wife
of David Hoagland, of Jefferson Township). Jane (wife of William Rickart,
of Jefferson Township), Annettie (wife of Albert Leonard, of Trumbull
County, Ohio), Charles W. (a physician in Harrisville, Butler Co., Penn.),
Martha A., Nancy A. and Altha; the last three are deceased. The parents
were members of the United Presbyterian Church of Clarksville. His wife
died in the spring of 1860. He was one of the assistants of Dr. Whipple in
locating the Erie Canal and also the Wabash Canal. Thomas P. enlisted in the
War of the Rebellion in August, 1861, under Capt. S. C. Simonton, of the Fifty-
Seventh Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers. He served in this regiment six-
teen months, during which time he was sick with yellow fever, and was taken
prisoner and cast into Libby Prison, but was afterward transferred to Castle
Thunder, where he remained seven weeks. During this time his hearing was
888
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
entirely destroyed in liis left ear and badly damaged in his right. He was
then returned to the Union lines and discharged. In 1863 he enlisted in the
State Militia, and was out about four months, when he was discharged. He
was married, February 11, 1869, to Mary E., daughter of Henry and Lucy
(Brazee) Davis, of JefPerson Township. They remained five years on his
father’s farm, six years in Crawford County, Penn., and then purchased from
Joshua Bentley a farm of 116 acres in Lackawannock Township, where they
located. The following children have been born to them: Nannie A., John
H. , Frank E., Clara E., Thomas B., David M. and Charles B. His education
was obtained principally at the common schools, one term being spent at Kings-
ville College, Ashtabula County, Ohio. In politics he is a Republican.
Mnason Standley, farmer, post-office Worth, was born March 3, 1844, in
Lawrence County, Penn. His grandfather, Nathaniel, located in Lawrence
County many years ago, and while cutting timber a tree fell on him, and he
was killed. William R., the father of our subject, was married September 10,
1839, to Mary, a daughter of Philip and Sophia (Wagoner) Matthews, of
Lawrence County, and settled on his father’s homestead. There were fifteen
children born to them, of whom eleven are living: Mnason, Gideon, Elizabeth,
Angeline, Mary J. , Milo, Joseph H., William, Essie V., Austin and Sereno.
Their father obtained a good common school education, and was a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a Republican. Mnason was married
March 3, 1870, to Frances B., daughter of Leonard D. and Elizabeth (Brom-
ley) McCullough, of Cool Spring Township. They settled on the Robert
Coyle farm in Lackawannock Township. They had seven children: William,
Lester L. , Elizabeth M. , James M. , Sarah R. , Fannie D. and Dora B. Our
subject was a volunteer in the late war, under Capt. B. Spence, in Battery G,
First Pennsylvania Light Artillery, enlisting February 24, 1864, and serving
till the close of the war. He is a Republican. He and wife are members of
the Presbyterian Church.
J. H. Thompson, post-office Worth, was born January 10, 1830, in Pulaski
Township, Lawrence County. His father, George, was born in Washington
County, Penn. , and was married to Miss Martha Scott, of Pulaski Township.
They settled about three miles southeast of Pulaski on a farm, where twelve
children were born to them, of whom six are living: Francis, lives in Iowa;
Ebenezer, lives in Lackawannock; David, lives in Lawrence County; Nancy J. ,
wife of Israel Tuthill, lives in Nebraska; James M., lives in New Wilmington;
J. H. , our subject. The parents were members of the Presbyterian Church.
The father died April 25, 1842, and his widow in 1861. Joseph H. was married
March 4, 1851, to Nancy, daughter of James and Anna (Byers) Pinkerton, of
Pulaski. They lived in Pulaski Township for three years, when he purchased
a farm of forty acres of Kennedy Black, in Lackawannock Township, where
they settled. They have since added seventy acres more to their first pur-
chase. They have seven children born to them: Anna M. , wife of B. G.
Miller; James F., Sarah J., wife of C. K. Peters; Nellie, Westley R., Maggie
F. and one who died in infancy. Our subject obtained his education at the
common schools. In politics he is a Republican, and has held nearly all the
local offices of his township. The family are all members of the Presbyterian
Church.
George F. Troutman, farmer and carriage-maker, post-office Hill, was
born April 22, 1826. His father, George, was born in 1792, in Northum-
berland County, Penn., and followed various pursuits in his younger days.
He was married to Miss Mary Boyer, of Reading, Penn. They lived a few
years near Parker’s Landing, where he was engaged in a grist-mill. They
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
889
then went to Sharon and remained for a time, and in 1834 bought a farm of
160 acres near Sharon, on which they settled. There were eleven childi’en
born to them; Lemuel, deceased; Joseph; Caroline, wife of Phineas Dunham;
Sarah, wife of John Dennison; George F. ; Elizabeth, wife of Azariah Dun-
ham; Valentine; John P. ; Jeremiah L., deceased; Henry M. , died in infancy;
Henry M. (2), lives in Sharon. The father, George F. Troutman, obtained
his education at the common schools, and was a Democrat. They were mem-
bers of the Lutheran Church, and he died in 1875, followed by his widow in
1886. George F., our subject, obtained his education at a log school-house,
and left home at the age of eighteen years and went to Sharon, where he
learned the carriage-maker’s trade, at w'hich he worked twelve years. He was
married November 25, 1849, to Wilhelmina, daughter of Thomas and Sarah
(Mattox) Guthrie, of Mississippi, formerly of Mercer County Penn. They
resided in Clarksville four years, where he worked at his. trade, after wFich he
went to Hickory Township and followed butchering for six years. In 1865 he
purchased a farm of seventy-five acres of Richard Lowry, in Lackawannock
Township, on which they settled. There were six children born to them:
Mary H. , wife of Henry Yarian; Thomas L. ; Eva, wife of IVilliam Davidson,
of Akron; Emma, wife of John Ray; Milla M. , wife of E. Cozad, of Cool
Spring; Harry K. They are members of the Unity Church, of Greenfield, and
he is a Democrat.
Robert Wallace, farmer, post-office Hill, was born October 5, 1836. His
father was born in County Down, Ireland, in 1801, immigrated to America in
1822, and located at Milton, near Boston, where he was engaged in a morocco
tannery for eight years. August 12, 1825, he was married to Miss Agnes
McKelvy. While living in Milton there were three childi’en born to them :
Elizabeth, wife of Robert Fife, of Ringo County, Iowa; John(l ) and John (2),
both died in infancy. In the spring of 1830 he purchased a farm of 200 acres
in Lackawannock Township, this county, on which they settled for their future
home. Having no way with which to start their first fire, they went to their
nearest neighbor, one and one-fourth miles away, lighted a torch and carried
it home. There were seven children born to them here: James, living in
Kansas; Mary J. , wife of James Lytle, live in Sharpsville; Robert; William
H., married to Melissa Thompson, lives on part of the old homestead;
Nancy A., wife of Hugh Mounts; Thomas, deceased; Maria, widow of F.
Botsford. The father died November 3, 1871, aged seventy years, and
his widow died April 2, 1882, at the age of seventy-six years. Our sub-
ject was married October 19, 1865, to Margaret, daughter of William and
Harriet (Madge) Richards, of Henderson County, 111. They remained in Illi-
nois about two years, when they went to live with his parents, where they
remained, and at the death of who?n one-half of the farm was left to each of
the brothers, Robei’t and William H. Our subject has two children; Agnes
H. , who was born in Henderson County, 111., and is the wife of George W.
Campbell, of Lackawannock Township, and Mary M. Our subject was edu-
cated at the common schools of the township. Politically he is a Democrat
and has filled the offices of school director, assessor and road supervisor. His
wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Benjamin Yarian, farmer, post-office Hill, was born June 10, 1816. His
parents were among the very early settlers of Columbiana County, Ohio.
Benjamin was the sixth child, and when he reached the age of maturity he
married Mary Sheets, of Ohio, to which union were born four children;
Franklin, deceased; Martha, wife of Moses Sitler; Reuben and Catherine,
deceased. He lost his wife about 1844. She was a member of the Lutheran
890
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Church. He was married a second time, to Salome Miller, of Columbiana
County, Ohio, where they remained six years, when they purchased a farm of
141 acres in Lackawannock Township, on which they settled. There were
eight children born to them: Maria, wife of John Wolf, of Youngstown,
Ohio; Lizzie, wife of Thomas Harris, of Colorado; Henry; Lovina, deceased;
Sarah, wife of W^. C. Bell; Binier, wife of John W. Richard; Emma, Martin,
deceased. He was a Democrat, and his last wife died April 2, 1879. Henry
Y'arian was born March 31, 1850; was educated at the common schools of the
township, and at the age of twenty-two years was married to Miss Mary H. ,
a daughter of George F. and Wilhelmina (Guthrie) Troutman, of Lackawan-
nock Township. They located on a farm of fifty acres adjoining his father’ s.
They have five children: Otis C. , Codie E., William R. , Benjamin E. and
Lula M. He is a Democrat, and he and wife belong to the Presbyterian
Church.
Mathias Young, farmer and machinery agent, post-office Neshannock, was
born July 10, 1834. His grandfather, James Young, settled on a tract of
200 acres of land in Lackawannock Township in 1798. He was twice mar-
ried. Of the first marriage we can obtain no definite information. His
second marriage was to a Mrs. Simpson. There were seven children born to
him and his first wife, of whom Jonathan, the father of our subject, was the
eldest. James died about 1837, and his wife in about 1852. Jonathan was
born January 8, 1800, and was among the first white male children born in
Mercer County. He grew up to be a farmer, and was married in 1828 to Mary,
daughter of Mathias and Dorothy (Fry), Zahniser, and settled on a portion of
the old homestead, where to them were born three children: Hiram, Wilson
and Mathias. The parents were members of the United Presbyterian Church,
and politically the father was a Democrat. Jonathan died June 3, 1863, and
his wife January 14, 1856. Mathias was born July 10, 1834, and mar-
ried March 20, 1856, to Caroline, born May, 1837, daughter of Jeremiah and
Elizabeth (Cray) Hollenbeck, of Jefferson Township. They remained on a
portion of the homestead left him by his father. They have eight children:
Frank J. , born in February, 1857, an attorney in Dakota; Helen J. , born
March 20, 1859, wife of J. B. Clark, of Shenango Township; Milton M.
railroad conductor in New Mexico; Nettie E., wife of C. N. Winger, now
principal of government schools, of Washington Territory; Chauncy, deceased;
Clara P. , Justice H. , born in 1871, and Myrtle E. Our subject has been engaged
for many years in the sale of agricultural implements. He is an attendant of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his wife is a member of the Free Meth-
odist Church. He is a Republican.
EAST LACKAWANNOCK TOWNSHIP.
Feed Amon, farmer, was born near Pulaski, Lawrence Co., Penn., March
11, 1830. He is a son of Jacob and Barbara (Gundy) Amon. The father
was a cripple, yet he worked at the cabinet-making business, milling and
farming. He settled on the Button farm of 100 acres, in East Lackawannock
Township. He and his wife were of German extraction. They were the parents
of seven children: George, Andrew W. , Mary A., wife of Abram Faulk;
Richard, Fred, Margaret, Lovina, wife of Levi Kaser. Jacob Amon was a
Whig and Republican. He died in 1871, at the age of seventy-seven years,
and his widow died in 1883, at the ripe old age of eighty-two. She was a
member of the Lutheran Church. Fred Amon was educated in the common
schools, and was brought up on a farm. He was married February 22, 1860,
to Margaret, daughter of John Moore, of this township. He is farming the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
891
homestead. He has been blessed with three children; Aogeline, Mary E.,
wife of James H. Stewart, of Sharpsbnrg, Penn., and Anson B. In politics
he is a Eepublican, and has filled many of the local township offices with
credit.
George W. Bunn, farmer, post office Indian Run, was the grandson of
John C. Budd, a sea captain, who was born in England. In 1802 he landed
in Philadelphia, and while changing his clothes was bitten by a black spider,
and died in a few hours. About six months thereafter, John C., Jr., the
father of our subject, was born. In his youth he was educated in Philadel-
phia, and learned the silversmith trade. In 1826 he was married to Caroline,
daughter of Philip and Mary (Bouckins) Painter, of New Castle. He bought
a farm near New Castle, and settled thereon. There were eleven children
born to them: George W., Andrew B. , William P. , John C., Philip, Eliza-
beth, wife of Samuel Hammond; Mary J., wife of Charles Johnson; Daniel
B., Joseph, James H. (deceased), and Florence M. , wife of P. M. Dix. He
held many of the local township offices. He was a member of the F. & A. M.
Lodge of Philadelphia. He died in 1847, followed by his widow in 1876.
George W. was married September 24, 1868, to Mary J., daughter of Joseph
and Mary (Johnson) Dunn, of Crawford County, Penn. They settled on a
farm of 100 acres left to her at the death of her father and brother. There
were two children born to them: Anna M. and Robert K., both deceased. He
enlisted in the War of the Rebellion in 1861, under Capt. Stewart, Second
Ohio Cavalry, and served two and one-half years, and then re- enlisted under
Capt. Waters, and was in Company F, Second Ohio Cavalry, which was after-
ward commanded by Capt. Rand. They were in engagements at Shenandoah
Valley, Snicker’s Gap, the raid around Richmond, battle of Culpepper Court-
House, Ashland and Stony Creek. After re-enlistment he served twenty-one
months. He lost the hearing of his left ear by the discharge of a shell at
Cedar Creek. His brother John was killed at the battle of the Wilderness,
and Joseph was shot in the arm at Richmond. George W. and wife are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Democrat.
John P. Brest, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born August 14, 1840, son
of David and Catherine (Remley) Brest, of Lawrence County. Andrew Brest,
the grandfather of John P., was one of the pioneers of Mercer County. He
was a native of Washington County, Penn., of German descent, and came to
Mercer County in about 1797. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, under
Capt. Denniston, having served on two separate occasions about six months
in all. He married Mary, daughter of Nathaniel Rodgers, of Lawrence County.
Among the children was David, the father of our subject. At manhood he
married and settled on a portion of his father’s farm in Springfield Township,
this county. He remained here until 1840, when he purchased a farm in Dela-
ware Township, where he remained until 1856. He returned to Springfield
Township, where he lived one year, then went to French Creek Township and
remained two years, then to Plain Grove Township, Lawrence County, where
he resided nine years, In 1868 he came from Lawrence County and settled in
Jefferson Township, Mercer County. There were twelve children born to this
union : John P., Lewis F., Elizabeth A., David W., Martha J. (wife of John
Soliday, of Sharon), William H. , Mary E. (wife of William Richel, of Jeffer-
son Township), Catherine E. (wife of Martin Coxson, of Stoneboro), Flora K.
(wife of Andrew Craig) and Alexander W. His wife died September 2, 1865.
He was again married, to Nancy A. Brest, widow of Washington Brest, who
was killed at the battle of Gettysburg. There were six children born to them:
Lilly, Burton, Zeddie E. , Lotie, Clara and Floyd. David held the office of
892
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1
justice of tlie peace and some of the local offices. They were members of thn
Methodist Episcopal Church, the father being noted for his proficiency in
Bible teachings. In politics he was a Whig and Republican. He died
October 12, 1879. -John P. was married March 4, 1864, to Ruth A., daughter of
Thomas and Eva (Wise) Rodgers, of Plain Grove Township, Lawrence County.
He enlisted in the War of the Rebellion August 28, 1861, under Capt. Bentley,
in Company E, One Hundredth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, for three
years. At the expiration of the time he again enlisted as a veteran under
Capt. Book, of the same company and regiment, where he served until June
2, 1864, when he was wounded at the battle of Cold Harbor, La., by a minie-
ball in the left leg, just below the knee. About twenty-four hours afterward
his leg was amputated in the field hospital. The night of the 3d he was
hauled eighteen miles, to the White House landing on the James River, and,
remaining ten days, was sent to Harwood Hospital, Washington, D. C. He
was honorably discharged from the service May 5, 1865. He lived in various
places in the county, and in 1883 located on the Swoggar property, in East
Lackawannock Township. There were nine children born to them: Elden E.,
Harvey T. , Clarence O., Elmira E., Perry N. , Scott S., Johnnie, Maggie and
Blaney. The oldest and the youngest are deceased. He was constable in
Jefferson Township for three years, and held various township offices. He is
a member of the G. A. R. and of the I. O. O. F. While in the army he was
promoted to corporal.
Joseph Carter, farmer, post-office Indian Run, was born August 6, 1827.
His grandfather, Barzillas, was born in New Jersey, but moved at an early
day into Mercer County, now Lawrence County, where he spent the rest of his
days. There were six children born to them, of which Nathaniel, the father
of Joseph, was the youngest and only son, and who was married in 1826 to
Elizabeth, daughter of Robert and Elizabeth (Colwell) Carlon. He settled on
the old homestead, and there were eleven children born to them: Joseph,
Barzillas, William, John, Rebecca (wife of Richard Rice), George, Elizabeth
(wife of Thomas Hannah). Nathaniel, Newton B. , Sarah (wife of George
Bunny), Hannah (wife of Matthew Irving). Politically he was a Democrat,
and died in 1860 at the age of fifty-five years, and he and wife were members
of the Presbyterian Church. Joseph was married in 1850 to Eliza J., daugh-
ter of Christian and Eliza (Teter) Welker, of Lawrence County. He pur-
chased a farm of John Cunningham of 100 acres, in East Lackawannock
Township, where he engaged in farming and stock raising. They have had
twelve children: Clara, William, John A., Susan, Welker, Nathaniel, James,
Austin B. , Elizabeth (wife of Charles Johnston), Joseph P. , David and Mary L.
John A., Susan and James died young. Joseph was drafted in the late war,
but was released on account of his health. He was formerly a Democrat, but
is now a champion of the Greenback principles. He and wife are members of
the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
James W. Cozad, farmer, post office Mercer. His grandfather came from
New Jersey in the first decade of the nineteenth century, and settled in East
Lackawannock Township. Joseph, the father of our subject, was the tenth
child, and at the age of fifteen years his father died, and he began for him-
self, At the age of twenty-one ho was married to Elizabeth McElvain, of
Mercer County, now Lawrence County. There were eight children born to
them: Anna M., James W., John A., Mary E., Joseph A., Marcissa M.. Win-
field S. and Noble A. Mr. Cozad first located in Sharon, where he followed
stone- cutting, and worked on the Beaver & Erie Canal. In 1842 he bought
seventy- five acres of land of Thomas Rodgers, in East Lackawannock Town-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
893
ship, on which they settled. The parents attended the Presbyterian Church
of Mercer, of which the mother was a member, He was an old line Whig, and
died in 1859, and his widow in 1876. J. W. was married April 24, 1871, to
Kate V., daughter of Ebenezer and Phoebe (Bowman) Stark, of Baltimore,
Md. He inherited fifty acres of his father’s homestead. There were four
children born to them : Cora B., Kate, Josephine B. and James M. He was
a volunteer in the 100-days’ service in the late war, also served nine months in
Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Regiment. He is a Methodist,
and his wife a Baptist. Politically he is a Republican.
Hieam Cozad, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born October 8, 1824, in
East Lackawannock Township, to Jacob Cozad, born, 1794 and died October 30,
1877, and Hannah, his wife, who died September 15, 1881, and was the mother of
Elias, born April 12, 1823; Julia, born January 19, 1828; Elias, born May 3,
1826; Aaron, born December 14, 1829; Carver, born August 23, 1831;
Phoebe, born May 27, 1833. Jacob Cozad was a farmer and an intimate friend
of William S. Garvin, whose manuscripts appear in this volume. Our subject
was educated at Sharon, and at the age of nineteen he bought a team and
hauled coal, being among the first to haul it from the mines to the canal, for
three years. He then run on a canal-boat for J. B. Curtis for three years,
and was entrusted to carry all the money back to the company. In 1851 he,
in company with Hugh Hildebrand, John and Wash Berry, H. Reynolds, John
Rankin, went by team and boat to St. Joe, Mo., and thence overland to Cal-
ifornia, where he remained seven years, returning in 1858, and November, 29
1859, was married to Rachel Gibson, daughter of William and Jane (Nicholson)
Gibson, the parents of Elizabeth, Mary, Rachel and Jane. Mr. Gibson died in
1845. His widow subsequently married William Mounts, who with her died in
New Castle, being the parents of Margaret, Caroline, Brunetta and Ansty. Mr.
Cozad settled at his marriage on land now in the northern part of Sharon,
and in 1864 he bought his ’present farm of 160 acres in East Lackawannock
Township, and he recently bought another large farm in Cool Spring Town-
ship. His children are Elmer E., married William M. Troutman; Fred, Lizzie,
Charles and Laura. He has served as school director, and he and wife are
Methodists. He is a Democrat.
John B. Denniston, farmer, post office Mercer, was born October 26, 1847,
on the old homestead one-half mile west of Mercer. He was the son of James
and Rebecca (Breckenridge) Denniston. George, the grandfather of our subject,
came from Ireland in an early day and settled on a farm near Leesburg, this
county. He was drafted in the War of 1812, from which he returned unscathed,
and soon after, while in the woods cutting a small tree, his ax caught in a
limb and at one stroke detached his leg just above the ankle. They had reared
a family, of which James, the father of our subject, is one. James was married
to Rachel Hamilton, of Pittsburgh, by whom he had three children : George,
William H. and Joseph F. His wife died November 23, 1838. The two sons,
W. H. and J. F. , served in the late war one and three years respectively. J.
F. was wounded in the right arm, and lost his right leg; he was a private,
lieutenant, captain and brevet major. William H. enlisted as a lieutenant.
Both are living in Pittsburgh. George died February 26, 1856, of typhoid fever,
aged twenty-one years. James was again married in 1841, to Rebecca Breck-
enridge, and settled near Mercer, where the family now reside. To them one
child was born, John B. Thej^ were members of the First Presbyterian
Church. James died May 11, 1886.
Eeastus C. Deake, farmer and stock grower, post-office Mercer, is a son
of Samuel and Lydia (Orrick) Drake, who are mentioned in Springfield Town-
52
894
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ship. Erastus was married in 1869 to Esther, daughter of James C. and
Eliza (Denniston) Johnston, of Springfield Township, where they resided four
years, when he purchased a farm of sixty-nine acres in East Lackawannock
Township, known as the Cook farm, on which he built a house and extensive
out buildings. He also purchased ninety-four acres known as the Philip
White farm. They have four children: Maria E., Mary S., Samuel J. and
James C. In politics he is a Republican. Thej* are members of the First
Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
William Edwards, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born April 27, 1814, in
Merthyr Tydvill, South Wales, and is a son of Daniel and Mary (Williams)
Edwards. His father was born in 1786 in South Wales, where he followed
coal and iron ore mining, and was married in 1808, immigrated to America
in 1817, and located at Parker’s Landing, Penn., where he was joined by
his wife in 1819. There were eight children born to them: Mary, wife of
Benjamin Springer, of Lawrence County; William, Edward, John; Phoebe,
deceased; Elias, Daniel and Amelia, wife of Hull Hoagland, living in
the West. The parents were members of the Baptist Church. In politics
Daniel was a Whig. He died January 12, 1839. His widow died March 8,
1863, at the residence of Joseph Wright, in East Lackawannock Township,
this county. William was married May 6, 1839, to Elizabeth, daughter of Lewis
and Jane (Parry) Griffith, natives of Merthyr, Tydvill, South Wales, and who
immigrated to America and settled in Baltimore, where Elizabeth was born
February 28, 1818. William purchased a farm of forty acres in East Lacka-
wannock Township, on which he now lives.. They are the parents of ten chil-
dren: Mary J. , wife of William Livermore, of Cool Spring Township; AnnL.,
Edward S., Phoebe, Isabell, Caroline, Daniel, Amelia, William and John, of
whom only Mary J. , William and Edward are living. Politically Mr. Edwards
is a Democrat. He has filled many of the local township offices, and has been
constable and collector for many years. He and' wife have been members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church of Mercer for more than forty-six years, and
are among the most respected citizens of the county.
S. W. Hawthorn, farmer and stock grower, post-office Hoagland, was born
April 12, 1853. His grandfather, Alexander, was born in 1780, near the Scotch
and English boundary line, and immigrated to America at an early day, locating
near New Castle. He enlisted in the War of 1812, but was not called into active
service. He remained on the farm during his life excepting a few years when
he kept hotel at New Castle. He died in 1864, preceded by his wife many
years. James, the father of our subject, was the oldest son, born September 11,
1808. He worked at the shoemaker’s trade in Pittsburgh, until the cholera
broke out, when he returned to New Castle. He was married to Hannah Mc-
Farland. who lived only one year, and was afterward married to Mrs. Marga-
ret McJunkin, nee Cross, of Butler County, Penn. In 1852 they purchased a
farm of fifty acres of John S. Thompson, in East Lackawannock Township,
on which they settled, and were the parents of five children, Samuel W. and
Anna Mary being the only living ones. His second wife died in 1860. In 1862
he was again married, to Sarah A. Thompson, of East Lackawannock Township,
daughter of John and Sarah (Bell) Thompson. In 1878 he left the homestead
and moved to Mercer. In politics he was a Republican. He was assessor and
auditor of his township several terms. Samuel W. was married September 14,
1875, to Florence B. , daughter of John and Mary (Carmon) Thompson, of
Lawrence County, but who were born in Mercer County, and moved to Law-
rence County in 1852. Samuel lY. has three children: John B., Nellie M.
and Mary L. His early education was obtained at the old stone pile school-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
895
house, but he afterward attended commercia] college at New Castle. Polit-
ically he is a Republican. He and wife are members of the First United Pres-
byterian Church of Mercer.
Seth Hoagland, merchant, was born October 16, 1822, in Mercer County,
to John and Catherine (Hull) Hoagland. John Hoagland was born in Wash-
ington County, Penn. , and came to Mercer County when four years old, about
the year 1797, with his father, Henry Hoagland, who settled on the Shenango,
near Sharon, on land now in possession of some of his posterity. His children
were: John, Samuel, Joseph, Jesse, Mary, Matilda and Druzilla. John Hoag-
land was born October 31, 1792, and died October 3, 1872. His wife Cath-
erine, whom he married January 21, 1826, was born October 20, 1799, and
died January 11, 1881. Their children were: Seth; Mary A., born May 6,
1825; Hiram, born June 13, 1828; Hull, born November 11, 1829; Almira,
born October 15, 1832; Jesse, born November 26, 1836. Our subject and
Elizabeth Phillips were married October 3, 1843. Their children are: JohnP. ,
Alonzo S., Hiram W., Almon P., Austin E., George W., Almira, Ida Caro-
line, Emma May and Susannah. Our subject being born and reared on a
farm, was trained to habits of industry and hard labor from youth to man-
hood, and having chosen the occupation of a farmer has obtained a promi-
nence of which he may well be proud. By indefatigable labor, untiring per-
severance and excellent management he is now the owner of one of the largest
and most beautiful farms in Mercer County. His well painted buildings, slate
roofs, patent gates, agricultural implements and machinery indicate thrift and
prosperity. He was among the first farmers who introduced fertilizers and
improved breeds of stock in Mercer County. For many years he gave special
attention to bee culture, and has been eminent in apiarian conventions. When
quite young he was elected justice of the peace and served twenty- five years.
He was formerly a Democrat, but since the nomination of Seymour for Presi-
dent he has not acted with that party. In 1882 he was nominated by the
National Labor Party for Congress from the Twenty-sixth Congressional Dis-
trict, then composed of Butler, Crawford and Mercer Counties. He is now
engaged in a general store on his farm, and is postmaster at Hoagland Post-
office. In religion he is an outspoken Eestitutionist, believing in Adam all
died and in Christ all will be made alive. Just what was lost in Adam is being
found in Christ. He condemns the opposing creeds and rival sects composing
the heterogeneous mass of baptized professions, and claims the only way to
immortal bliss is through faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
William Hutchison, farmer, post-office Hoagland, Avas born February 8,
1831, in East Lackawannock Township. His father, John Hutchison, was
born in County Down, Ireland, in 1794. He married Margaret McKelvy, of
the same place, and in 1824 immigrated to this county, and purchased a farm,
of 200 acres in East Lackawannock Township, on which they settled. There
were six children born to them: Jane, wife of James Forsythe; Alexander,
Richard, John, who married Susan Shannon, and lives in Mercer; Andrew, and
William, our subject, who was married to Jane E., daughter of Amos and
Susan (McWatty) Taylor, of Mercer County, Penn. The father was a Demo-
crat in politics. William is extensively engaged in farming, operating 150
acres which was left to him by his father. He is an attendant of the Second
United Presbyterian Church of Mercer. Politically he is a Democrat.
John H. Lees, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born September 27, 1827, in
Macclesfield. England. His father, James Lees, was born at the same place,
June 16, 1792. The father was married to Charlotte Birttenshaw, June 6,
1813. His trade was that of a silk weaver, which he followed for many years.
896
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
His union gave him nine children: William, James, Mary A., Charles, Han-
nah, Samuel, Samuel (2), Robert and John H. The family immigrated to
this county in 1829, and settled in East Lackawannock Township, where the
father was engaged in farming. He obtained an education by attending night
schools. The parents were identified with the Presbyterian Church. The
father died February 5, 1845, and his widow died September 21, 1878. Our
subject was married December 17, 1867, to Kezia Smith, daughter of William
and Catharine (Black) Smith, of Liberty Township. By her he has three chil-
dren: James W., Hannah E. and Jessie M. Mr. and Mrs. Lees and their
daughter, Hannah, are members of the Second Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
He served in the late war as a member of Company I, Fifteenth Pennsylvania
Militia. He was corporal of that regiment. He has filled the office of school
director for his township for three years, and in politics is a Republican. Fur-
ther mention of his father is given in another part of this work.
Monnie Miller, farmer, post-office Hoagland, was born March 6, 1809, in
Somerset County, Penn. In 1839 he was married to Leah Mishler, daugh-
ter of Peter and Susan (Berky) Mishler, of Holmes County, Ohio. In 1841
they settled in East Lackawannock Township on land which he purchased of
the estate of his father, containing 225 acres, and known as the Levi Griffith
farm. There were twelve children born to Mr. and Mrs. Miller: David,
Jacob C. , Ann, wife of Philip Bruch, of Indiana; Fanny, wife of Henry
Yarian, of East Lackawannock Township; Benjamin, Nannie, Elizabeth, wife
of W. W. Johnson; Mary, wife of William B. Roupe; Zachari^h H., married
Sadie A. Virtue; Susie, Phoebe and John are dead. In politics Mr. Miller is
a Democrat.
Wilson Miller, farmer, was born July 22, 1838, in Pine Township, to Hugh
and Adaline Miller, the latter a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Rambo) Wil-
son. John Wilson was born in Westmoreland County. The children of Hugh
Miller and Adaline were: Infant, died small, and Wilson. Mrs. Miller died in
1840, and our subject lived with his grandmother Miller and daughters, Nancy
and Mary, until about 1844, when he was taken home by his father, he having
married again. Wilson Miller began learning carpentering in 1857 with Will-
iam Lamar, of Pine Township, which he followed until 1885, when he bought
a farm of seventy-four acres, and devotes his principal time to its cultivation.
He was married to Margaret J. McCord, daughter of Matthew and Margaret
(Nelson, a niece of Daniel Nelson) McCord. Mr. and Mrs. McCord had seven
children: Mary, John, Margaret J. , Harriet, Matilda, Ida and Della. Our
subject has ten children: Albert K. , married Mina, daughter of J. G. Gilfil-
lan; Clarence G., attending a Presbyterian seminary at Chicago; Harry M.,
married Ida Vanhorn; Lillie J. , Addie M. , Mary F., Bessie, John, Maud A.
and Carl. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are members of the Second Presbyterian
Church of Mercer. He is a Republican.
Alexander McCollodgh, farmer, post-office Mercer, son of Alexander,
Sr., and Eleanor (Smith) McCollough, was born May 14, 1829, on the home-
stead on which he now lives. He completed his education in the Mercer
Academy. In the spring of 1851 he went west and engaged in farming and
stock raising on a rented farm for three years, thence to Iowa and continued
the same vocation for seven years. He was married, June 12, 1856, to Har-
riet, daughter of James and Amelda (Bean) Stinson, of Hempfield Township,
this county. Three children were born to them in Iowa: Amelda (deceased),
Abby A. and William A. In 1862 they returned to the parental homestead
to care for and protect his aged parents and an invalid sister, Mary E.
Three children were born to them in Mercer County: Ellen E., John S. and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
897
Mary M. His family are all members of tbe First Presbyterian Church.
Politically he is a Republican. He has tilled the office of school director and
road commissioner in his township. He was formerly identified with the Mer-
cer County Agricultural Society. His sister, Mary E., died March 31, 1864,
and his mother February 19, 1869, and his father July 19, 1869. In the year
1883-84 he erected a commodious brick house, and has materially improved
the out-buildings and barns, which are well filled with stock. His son, Will-
iam A., lives in Nebraska, where he has a situation as superintendent of a
large ranch. He has been a ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church for
thirt}’’ years, led the singing in said church for twenty- five years, has been
assistant superintendent of the Sabbath-schools of the church for fifteen years,
and was one of the delegates to the general assembly of the Presbjderian
Church which met in Cincinnati in May, 1885.
Abel S. McVey, farmer, post-office Worth, was born May 26, 1839, and
is a son of Abel and Elizabeth (Copper) McVey, of East Lackawannock Town-
ship. Abel was born in Lawrence County in 1793, and was married May 22,
1817. In 1831 they settled on the William Aspy farm of forty-nine acres, in East
Lackawannock Township. There were eight children born to them, of whom
Abel S. is the only surviving one. They were Martha, Nancy, Hannah, Ben-
jamin, Maria, Alexander, Joseph and Abel S. Abel S. obtained his educa-
tion at the common schools. He was drafted near the close of the war, but
paid the amount of money necessary for a substitute. Politically he is a
Democrat. He is the father of four children: Martha E., William Y. ,
Lorenzo H. and Anson C. His father, Abel, died February 15, 1844. The
widow is still surviving. Both were members of the Old Seceder Church of
Mercer.
Adam Rogers, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born September 22, 1835,
son of Thomas T. and Eva (Wise) Rogers, natives of Lawrence County, Penn.
The father was of Irish and the mother of German descent. They had nine
children: Andrew, George T. , John, Adam, Catherine J. (wife of Jacob
Steiner, of Cool Spring Township), Ruth A. (wife of J. P. Brest), John B. ,
Mary M. (wife of Jacob Grimm) and Sarah E. (wife of James Eastlake, of
Jefferson Township). Thomas T. was a farmer, and in politics a Whig and
Republican. He and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. He died in March, 1859. Adam was married March 27, 1864, to
Harriet, daughter of David and Rebecca (McChesney) Roberts, of Lawrence
County, Penn. They settled on a farm of ninety -two acres, purchased of
John P. Hoagland, in East Lackawannock Township, where they reared a
family of four children: Elizabeth K. , Robert AV. , Edwin S. and Leota. The
land was partially cleared, but the buildings have been erected by his own
labors. He served seven years as school director. He was a volunteer in the
late war in Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volun-
teers, under Capt. James McCune, and served nine months. They are members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Republican.
Andrew Stranahan, farmer, was born in 1837. His father, Andrew Stran-
ahan, emigrated from his native country. County Down, Ireland, in 1828,
and lived three years in New Jersey, and in 1835 he went to Philadelphia,
where he was married August 5, 1835, to Mrs. Elizabeth Shaw, and remained
in that city until 1851, when he purchased 121 acres in East Lackawannock
Township of the Dickson heirs. Here he died November 17, 1869. He and
his wife were members of the First United Presbyterian Church of Mercer,
and he in his younger days was a member of the I. O. O. F., having been
admitted to the Amity Lodge of Philadelphia in 1842, and to a lodge in
898
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mercer in 1851. Andrew Stranahan, our subject, was married April 4, 1866,
to Jeannette, daughter of Thomas and (Merideth) Parsons, of Clarion County,
who bore him three children: Thomas, Elizabeth and Harry L. Mrs.
Stranahan died August 2‘2, 1877, and he was again married, to Maggie J. Pat-
terson, of Logan County, Ohio, May 25, 1880. He was for many years
identified with the Democratic party, but is now an earnest Prohibitionist, and
with his wife is a member of the Covenanter Church of Mercer. He was
drafted in the service of his country, and after serving a short time secured a
substitute, and subsequently enlisted in the 100-days’ service, and remained
until the close of the war.
Robert Stranahan was born April 22, 1841, in Philadelphia, and is a brother
of Andrew Stranahan, whose sketch appears elsewhere. He came to Mercer
County with his father, and on July 17, 1861, he enlisted in Company Gl, Tenth
Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps, under Capt. A. J. Warner.
He participated in the battle of Drainsville, the seven days fight under McClel-
lan befm-e Richmond, South Mountain, Antietam, the second battle of Bull
Run, Fredericksburg, the Wilderness, and returned to Pittsburgh, in 1864,
where he was mustered out of service. His injuries received in the war are
total deafness in the right ear, and hernia in the right side. He was married
December 19, 1864, to Julia, daughter of Jacob and Wilhelmina (Brenaman)
Hess, of Ohio. Robert W., Julia A. and Mary L., their only children, are
dead, and their mother died May 21, 1870; she was a member of the Unity
congregation o-f Lackawannock Township. He was again married, February
28, 1871, to Elizabeth J. , daughter of Euphema (Linn) Wallace, of Espyville,
Crawford County, and has had five children: Euphema H. (dead), Ella M. ,
Jennie E. , James A. and Mary L. He settled in 1865, on a farm of fifty- five acres
given him by his father. In 1887 he purchased twenty-eight acres of- the
McConnell farm adjoining. He and wife are members of the First United Pres-
byterian Church of Mercer, and he is a Democrat. He has served as school
director for several terms. He is a member of the A. O. U. W. of Mercer.
Robert K. Wallace, deceased, farmer and stone-cutter, was born April 26,
1815, in County Antrim, Ireland, son of Hugh and Ann (Kerr) Wallace, who
immigrated to America at an early day, and settled in Jackson Township,
this county. Robert K. followed them in 1839, and also purchased a farm of
sixty acres in Jackson Township, at that time a dense forest. With his ax he
commenced the clearing for his future home. He was married February 21,
1844, to Euphema daughter of John and Elizabeth (Collins) Linn, of Espyville,
Crawford Co. , Penn. They then settled on his farm in a house he had previously
erected. There were eleven children born to them: Elizabeth (wife of Robert
Stranahan), Hugh C. (died at the age of thirty years), John L. , James S., Will-
iam C., Robert K., George, Anna E. (wife of Milton Stephenson), Mary L.
(widow of John J. Wharton), Phemie (wife of S. Hazen, of Crawford County,
Penn.) and Talitha. The parents were members of the United Presbyterian
Church of Springfield. Politically the father was a Democrat to the breaking
out of the War of the Rebellion, after which he became identified with the
Republican party. He died on his old homestead February 1, 1870, in his
fifty- fifth year. After his death the family sold the farm and purchased a
portion of the Cozad farm, in East Lackawannock Township, where they still
reside.
B. A. Williams, farmer, was born October 10, 1831, in Center County,
Penn., to William and Mary (Poorman) Williams, natives of the same place,
and who married in Center County, Penn., in 1818, where they remained five
years, and then moved to Clarion County, Penn. ; remained there a number of
HISTOKY OP MERCER COUNTY.
899
years, and then moved to Trumbull County, Ohio; remained there five years,
then moved to Mercer County, Penn. They had ten children: Barbara A.,
married Henry Thompson; Sarah, married Eichard Arthurs, an attorney at
Brookville; Ithamer B., died in Eock Island County, 111. ; Mary E., married
Harrison Clover; Benton A., resides in Mercer County, Penn.; Daniel P.,
farmer in Eock Island County, 111.; Maria, deceased; John Z. , lives in
Mitchell County, Kas. ; Princetta, married William McLaughlin; Gifford is a
resident of Mercer County, Penn. The father of the above named children was
born in 1800 and died March 23, 1876, and their mother was born in 1797 and
died October 9, 1885. Our subject attended the common schools, and was
brought up at farm labor. He began for himself at the age of twenty-three
years, renting a farm of 175 acres in Hickory Township, of Everhart, Satter-
field & Co. , for seventeen years. He kept the cattle for this company, and
after awhile became a partner in the stock. In 1868 he began cultivating a
farm, known as the “ Truesdale Farm,-” which he continued for five years.
In 1872 he bought a farm in Jackson Township, and five years later he pur-
chased the J. P. Kerr farm of 285 acres, in East Lackawannock Township,
paying for the same $28,000 cash. He deals especially in cattle, sheep and
hogs, and raises the finest of each. He was married to Lizzie Shilling, a
sister of W. W. Shilling, a rising young attorney of Sharon. This union has
given him fom’ children: Mary E., married Austin Hoagland; Charles G., John
F. and Jennie M. The family attend the United Presbyterian Church at
Mercer, and he is a Democrat.
Joseph H. Weight, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born on his present
homestead July 10, 1818. George Wright, his grandfather, was married in
1778 to Margaret Simon, of the eastern part of the State. They settled in
1806 on a farm of 130 acres, which they bought from Samuel Hawthorn, when
it was all a wilderness, in what was then Lackawannock, but now East Lacka-
wannock, Township. Their family consisted of four boys and four girls:
George, died in infancy; Maria, wife of John McCullough, of Cool Spring
Township; John and Susannah, both deceased; William, deceased; Catharine,
widow of Jacob Zahniser, of Mercer; Elizabeth and Adam, deceased. Their
names are recorded in a Bible which has been in the family for 137 years.
John, the father of our subject, was born in Franklin County, Penn., in
1783. At maturity he was married to Sarah, a daughter of Cyrus Beck-
with, of Cool Spring Township. They remained on the old homestead, where
five children were born to them: Sarah, married Benjamin McWilliams;
George, died in infancy; Sabina, wife of William Stephenson, of East Pal-
estine, Ohio; Joseph H. and Caroline, the latter deceased. They followed
farming and coal operating. The subject’s father was an elder in the United
Presbyterian Church for many years, being such at the time of his death. His
wife belonged to the same church. Politically he was a Democrat. He served
a short time in the War of 1812. He was county treasurer one term and com-
missioner several terms, and served in various local township offices. He died
in 1845, and his widow in 1846. At the death of the parents Joseph H. suc-
ceeded to the ownership of the farm. He was married September 3, 1846, to
Phoebe, daughter of Daniel and Mary Edwards, of Armstrong County, Penn.,
and they are the parents of nine children: John, deceased; Mary, wife of
James H. Allen, of New Castle, Penn.; Caroline, deceased; George, deceased;
James E. ; Sarah, deceased; Phoebe, still at home; Amelia and Emma, the lat-
ter deceased. Mr. W. obtained his education at the common schools and Mer-
cer Academy. Politically he is a Democrat. His wife was a member of the
Presbyterian Church, and died October 1, 1884, in her sixty-second year. Mr.
W. and his three daughters are members of the United Presbyterian Church.
900
HISTOEY or MEECEK COUETY.
WILMINGTON TOWNSHIP.
Austin B. Caetee, merchant, post-office Indian Run, was born June 18,
1859. He is a son of Joseph and Jane (Welker) Carter, of East Lackawan-
nock Township. Our subject was married June 7, 1884, to Emma, daughter
of John Montgomery, of Springfield Township. He purchased the store owned
by R. J. McClain, at Indian Run, Wilmington Township, where he lives and
continues the mercantile business. His wife was appointed postmistress in
1885, which she conducts in the store-room. One child. Pearl, is born to
them. Our subject attended school at Grove City College, and graduated at
the Iron City College, of Pittsburgh. They are members of the United Pres-
byterian Church.
John W. McCeumb, farmer, post-office New Wilmington, Penn., w'as born
January 12, 1840, on the old homestead where he now resides. The paternal
grandfather, John McCrumb, was a native of the County Down, Ireland, and
immigrated ^o Chester County, Penn., and subsequently removed to Fayette
County, Penn., and in 1799 to Wilmington Township, what is now in Law-
rence County, Penn. In 1818 he removed to Wilmington Township, Mercer
County, and purchased a tract of 400 acres, upon a portion of which our sub-
ject now resides. John, Sr., was married in Ireland, to Jane Bell, and the
result of this union was seven children: one died on the passage to America;
Sarah, married James Waugh; William, John, Samuel, Robert and James, all
of whom are dead excepting John, who resides in Philadelphia, Penn. John,
Sr., died February 6, 1842, and his wife in September, 1832. Robert, the
father of our subject, was born in 1798. He was a farmer and spent his life
upon the homestead. He was married July 20, 1836, to Prudence A. Craw-
ford, and by this marriage they had five children; Harriet, wife of James Don-
aldson; John W., Martha R. , wife of J. F. Caldwell, of Allegheny City, Penn. ;
Sarah E. and Valentine. The latter died at the age of seventeen. Robert
McCrumb died February 13, 1864; his widow died July 20, 1881. Onr sub-
ject was educated in the common schools of the township. He was reared a
farmer, which occupation he has always followed. In 1887 he purchased the
extensive tlouring-mills formerly owned by Swogger Bros., in Wilmington
Township, which he conducts in connection with his farm. Our subject has
never married, and is one of Wilmington’s most progressive and wealthy
citizens. Politically he has followed the footsteps of his ancestors, and is a
stanch Republican.
David G. McWhietee, farmer, post-office New Wilmington, was born June
19, 1852, in Lackawannock Township, to John and Mary (Garvin) McWhirter,
and is a second cousin of the late Hon. W. S. Garvin, of Mercer. David
was married February 18, 1875, to Margaret, daughter of William and
Alice (Spratt) Crocker, of Butler County. They settled on a farm of eighty
acres in Wilmington Township, purchased of his father. Seven children have
been born to them; John S. , Charles A., William H. , Frederick, Mary A.,
Leroy and Pearson, deceased. David obtained his education at the common
schools. Politically he is a Democrat.
James Meecee, deceased, was born July 14, 1819, in Wilmington Township,
and was the oldest son of William Mercer, who came from Ireland, in company
with his brother Henry, in 1788. James, our subject, was married October
29, 1850, to Joanna, daughter of James and Elizabeth Reed, of East Lack-
awannock Township. They settled on a tract of land which was willed to him
by his Uncle Henry. There were three children born to them: James W.
(deceased), Lizzie E. and Sarah B. James, our subject, received a common
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
901
school education; was a volunteer in the late war in Company B, One Hundred
and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three and one-half months,
when he was taken sick and died January 21, 1863, in the forty-fourth year
of his age. He was a Republican. His daughter, Lizzie E., was married
September 19, 1878, to John Stein, and resides in AVilmington Township,
Mercer County. Mr. Stein is a Republican, and was elected justice of the peace
in 1886. Sarah B., the other daughter, was married May 25, 1886, to
George AAh McFarland, and also lives in AATlmington Township.
Lyle Mercer, farmer, post-office New AATlmington, was born January 20,
1825, in AA'ilmington Township, this county. AATlliam, his father, was born
in Ireland, and came with his parents in 1788, and located in Lancaster
County, Penn. William came to Mercer County in 1801, and purchased a
tract of Ian in AA^ilmington Township containing 500 acres, on which he
settled in 1802. He was married to Martha Waugh, of Carlisle, Cumberland
County, but she died in about eleven months after they were married. Will-
iam married for his second wife, in 1818, Jane, daughter of William Moore,
of Washington County, Penn. To them were born eight children : Catherine,
wife of Samuel Young; James, died in the army; William, died at the age of
fifty; Sarah, wife of John P. Thompson; Lyle; John, lives on part of the
homestead; Mary A., died at the age of nineteen; Josiah, died at the age of
five. The parents were among the original members of the Presbyterian
Church of Neshannock. In politics the father was formerly a Democrat, then
a free soiler, and later a AVhig. He died May 13, 1852, and his widow died
October 30, 1871. Our subject was married November 4, 1851, to Elizabeth,
daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Thompson, of Lackawannock Township.
They settled on a portion of the old homestead. There were five children born
to them: Margaret J. , wife of William AVoods; Joseph W., James C., Syl-
vester T. and Flora. The parents are members of the Presbyterian Church.
He is a Republican, and was drafted in the late war, for which he furnished a
substitute.
AV. L. Merger, farmer, post-office New Wilmington, was born March 12,
1846, on the premises on which he now lives in Wilmington Township. He
was the eldest son of AA'illiam and Sarah Mercer, and was married September
29, 1885, to Iris, daughter of AATlliam and Nancy Junkin, of Fayetteville,
Lawrence Co., Penn., by which union there is one child, William A. Will-
iam Junkin was a soldier in the late war; was taken prisoner, and cast into
Libby Prison, where he died September, 1864, from starvation. He was to
have been exchanged the next day if he had lived. Our subject settled on
the old homestead, in which he purchased the interests of the other heirs.
He completed his education at AVestminster College. Politically he is a
Republican. He was elected to the office of county auditor in 1881, served
for three years, and was re-elected in 1884. He was a volunteer in the late
war under Capt. J. C. Vincent, Company I, Fifty-fifth Regiment Pennsyl-
vania Volunteer Militia. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church.
J. C. Van Orsdell, farmer, post-office New Wilmington, was born December
9, 1847, in what is now Pulaski Township, Lawrence County, and is the sixth
son of Ralph L. Van Orsdell. Our subject was married December 23, 1869,
to Mary E., daughter of John and Nancy (Jack) Barnett, of Mercer. They
lived on a farm in Pulaski Township, Lawrence County, until 1882, when he
purchased a farm of forty acres of F. T. Davis, in AAulmington Township,
Mercer County, on which they now live. Five children have been born to
them: Ralph M., A. Belle, Cora, Nannie and Maud. Our subject attended
school at AVestminster College for three years, after which he taught school
902
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
for three years. He was elected justice of the peace in 1888 for a term of
five years. His mother died April 30, 1887, at the age of seventy-four years.
His father is spending his declining years with him. They are members of
the Presbyterian Church.
Thomas B. Poetee, farmer, post-office New Wilmington, was born March
25, 1835, in Wilmington Township, this county. His father, Thomas, was
born in County Donegal, Ireland, in 1791. At the age of twenty-six he im-
migrated to America, and worked for four years on a farm for Squire Abrams,
near Philadelphia. He then visited Mercer County and purchased a farm of
sixty acres of Mr. McConnell. He soon after returned to Philadelphia, where
he was employed by Stephen Girard, as overseer of his farm hands, where he
remained two years. He then returned to Mercer County. He was married
in 1820, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth Waugh, of Wil-
mington Township. They located on a farm, where they lived about ten years,
when they sold it to Joseph Douglass, and bought 100 acres of Dr. Smith, near
Wilmington. There were six children born to them: Sarah A., deceased
wife of William Glendenning; Robert M. , Rachel J., wife of George Allen;
Thomas B., Elizabeth, wife of Allen Watson, and one child died in infancy.
His wife died in 1838, and he married for his second wife Hannah Pomroy,
of Lawrence County. To them has been born one child, John W. , of
Lackawannock Township. In 1856 he purchased a farm of 100 acres in
Lackawannock Township, on which they went to live. He was a Democrat.
They were members of the Presbyterian Church. His wife died December
18, 1877, and he died April 15, 1886. Thomas B. , our subject, was married
September 18, 1860, to Margaret J. , daughter of Joseph and Nancy (Stewart)
Allen, of Wilmington Township. They located on a farm which was given to
him by his father, in Wilmington Township. To them were born eight chil-
dren: Joseph S., Thomas M. , William E., Nannie L., Lizzie M. , Sadie M. ,
Emma R., deceased, and Robert B. Our subject obtained his education at
the common schools. He is a Democrat, and the family are members of the
Presbyterian Church.
BIOGRAPHIES OF PYMATUNING, DELAWARE AND JEFFERSON.
AVID ARTHERHOLT, deceased, was born in Brookfield Township,
Trumbull Co., Ohio, December 12, 1820, and in 1828 removed to
Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., with his parents, Samuel and
Sarah (Bibighans) Artherholt. They were born and reared in Berks County,
Penn. , and lived for a few years in Northampton, Luzerne and Union Conn
ties before their removal to Trumbull County, Ohio, about 1815, whence they
came to this county. Both died upon the old homestead in Pymatuning Town-
ship, having had a family of four sons and three daughters. David grew up
in this township, and married Miss Mary Ann, daughter of John H. Speir,
of West Salem Township, April 15, 1841. He settled on a tract of uncleared
land, deeded to him by his father, to which he added by purchase. He
CHAPTER XXXV
PYMATUNING TOWNSHIP.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
003
cleared up and resided on this farm till his sudden death by accident, June
18, 1887. Nine children were the fruits of this union: Curtis H., of Kent,
Ohio; Smith S., of West Salem Township; Sarah E., wife of James P. Sim-
cox, of Pymatuning Township; Silas A. and John R., of Greenville; Marilda,
deceased; Myron I)., of Pymatuning Township; Ida, wife of Charles A. See,
of Butler, Penn., and Levoid D., of Greenville, Penn. His wife died Septem-
ber 4, 1867, and he was married again in the fall of 1808, to Mrs. L. (Miller)
Splitson, but left no children by the second marriage. Mr. Artherholt and
wife were members of the Reformed Church, and he was an ardent supporter
of the Democratic party. He was a quiet, earnest and obliging neighbor, and
belonged to the old school of honest, industrious and square-dealing citizen-
ship. He was kind, considerate and hospitable toward all, and was recognized as
one of the wealthiest and most highly respected citizens of Pymatuning Town-
ship. Myron D. inherited the old homestead, upon which he was born Decem-
ber 19, 1854, and was reared and educated in this township. He married,
September 24, 1878, Miss Vesta, daughter of John and Caroline (Chestnut)
Kelly, of Pymatuning Township. Two children have been born to them, Ida
and Ruby C. Politically Mr. Artherholt is a Democrat, and both he. and his
wife belong to the Reformed Church.
Andrew Byeely, farmer, post-ofi&ce Sharpsville, was born December 17,
1812, in Westmoreland County, Penn. He is the son of Joseph and Mary
(Smith) Byerly, natives of Westmoreland County, and of German descent.
They came to Mercer County in 1832, and settled on a farm in Pymatuning
Township. . They were the parents of Andrew, Fanny, widow of J. Mc-
Dowell; Joseph, died in California about 1860; Catherine, wife of Robert
Hodge ; Lovina, widow of H. Sharp ; George and Lebious, now of W isconsin ;
Phoebe, wife of Mr. Klingensmith, of Crawford County. Their parents
lived on the homestead until their deaths. They were consistent members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. Joseph was politically a Democrat. He
died August 19, 1865, in his eighty-third year. His wife died June 6,
1861, in her sixty-ninth year. Andrew, our subject, was married March 13,
1834, to Ruth, daughter of George and Lydia (Gill) McDowell, of Hickory Town-
ship. There have been born to them George, Joseph, Isaac, Andrew, James,
Sarah, wife of James Reed; Lile, married; Julia, wife of J. W. Lindsay, and
Smith, who died in the service of his country in the late war. George and
Isaac were also in the service four and three years respectively. Andrew pur-
chased a portion of his father’s farm, on which the family lived about twenty-
five years, when they bought a farm of 140 acres of Mr. Hull, in Pymatuning
Township, on which they still reside. Our subject and his wife are members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and politically he is a Democrat.
Joseph Byeely, wagon manufacturer, post-oflice Sharpsville, Penn., is a
son of Andrew and Ruth (McDowell) Byerly. He was born in April, 1837,
in Pymatuning Township, and was educated at the common schools. He was
taught the trade of wagon manufacturing, serving his time with S. Runser,
of Hickory Township, and was employed for three years, after he served his
time, in the shops of Sharon, Pittsburgh and Warren, Ohio. In 1859 he
established himself in business in Pymatuning Township, and is engaged in
the manufacture of wagons and buggies and general blacksmith business.
In 1862 he engaged in the livery business in Sharpsville, which he conducted,
in connection with his manufacturing business, for fourteen years. Our sub-
ject was married in 1859, to Miss Sophia, daughter of Henry Lightner, of
Huntingdon County, Penn., and to them have been born six children: Maud,
Elizabeth, Mrs. Justius Hum, of Sharpsville; Palenia, Ruth, Harvey and Mary.
904
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Our subject is a member of the A. O. U. W. lodge of Sharpsville, and is also
a member of the Baptist Church of that borough.
Godfrey Carnes, a native of Westmoreland County, Penn., and of Ger-
man extraction, settled in Mercer County in 1801, on the place where his grand-
son, Godfrey G., now resides, in Pymatuning Township. He purchased first
200 acres, and subsequently added several hundred more. He was a Bevolu-
tionary soldier and served through the entire war. He married Mary McDow-
ell, and reared twelve children: Edward, William, Robert, George, Samuel,
John, Margaret, married Robert McCord; Mary, married Samuel Ingram, and
died; Jane, married Samuel Ingram as his second wife; James, Elizabeth, married
George Snyder; Ruhanneh, married Henderson Turner, all of whom are dead
but Mrs. Ingram, of Kentucky. He was one of the enterprising men of that
day, was a Democrat and held many of the township olfices. His wife died
in 1839 and he in 1842. John, the youngest son, was born in 1803 and
reared on the old homestead, always followed farming, and was married in
1828, to Miss Sarah, daughter of John Kepner, of Hartford, Ohio. By her
he had the following children: Godfrey G., Kepner, Seth, James, William
Elizabeth, married Thomas McCord, and Mary. The mother died in 1871, and,
the father in 1873. Godfrey G. Carnes was born December 25, 1830, and was
reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. In 1856 he engaged
with Allison Chew as clerk in a store in Brookfield, Ohio. He subsequently
engaged in the mercantile business, under the firm name of Chew, Carnes &
Bowden. He was engaged in the lumber business for a few years. He is now
located on the old homestead, engaged in farming and stock raising. He is a
Democrat, and has filled some of the township offices.
Charles Chestnut, farmer, post-office Sharpsville, Penn., was born in
1830, in Pymatuning Township, and is a son of Andrew and Mary (McKnight)
Chestnut, she being a daughter of David McKnight. The father of our sub-
ject came to Mercer County, Penn., in 1798, with a relative, Robert McCord,
from Westmoreland County, Penn. He was a soldier in the War of 1812,
and died in 1807, aged ninety years. His wife died in 1854. Mr. Chestnut’s
family consisted of nine children: David, of Grant County, Wis. ; Robert, of
Lee County, Iowa; Sarah, Mrs. Isaiah Armstrong, who died March 11, 1888,
in Lee County, Iowa; Andrew J. , who died in Lee, County Iowa; Caroline,
Mrs. J. B. Kelly, of Pymatuning Township; .Hannah, Mrs. Henry Clark, who
died in Grant County, Wis. ; John, who died in Clear Lake, Iowa; Mary A.,
Mrs. E. J. Bean, who resides on the old homestead in Pymatuning Township,
and our subject, who was the youngest. He was reared and educated in his
native township, and learned the trade of a farmer, and followed it for twenty-
five years, excepting five years spent in Iowa. He was married in 1853 to
Miss Sarah, a daughter of Jacob Klingensmith, of Pymatuning Township, and
by this marriage they have ten living children: Andrew W., Mary K. (wife of
Jacob Reimold), Byron F., Laura M., Charles C. , John J. , Annie, Horace,
Maud and Elsie. Mr. Chestnut is identified with the schools of his township,
and engaged in general farming.
The Clark Family. — Samuel Clark was born near the Lehigh River, in North-
ampton County, Penn., January 17, 1770. Some seven months after his father’s
death, which occurred in the latter part of 1771, his mother (Mary) removed
to Walpack, Sussex Co., N. J., where she had been reared. Her people be-
ing Germans, Samuel first spoke that language. His mother, having one
sister living, and being poor, supported her family in infancy and through
the tedious War of the Revolution. The Indians being on the north and
west, the British army on the south and east, her family was compelled at
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
905
times to liee and at others to seek the nearest fort. At the age of fourteen
Samuel was bound out to John Dimon, a carpenter and wagon-maker, and
served seven years in hard drudgery. On April 18, 1792,he married Mary Custer,
by whom he had ten children, as follows: William, born June 8, 1794, in Sussex
County, N. J. , still living at Clarksville; Samuel, born in New Jersey August 13,
1796, died near Sharon; Catherine, deceased, born in Jefferson County, Ohio,
April 12, 1798, married James Simonton; Abraham, born in Jefferson County,
Ohio, May 21, 1800, died in Clarksville in October, 1888; Mary, deceased,
born in Jefferson County,. Ohio. March 10, 1802, married John Conley; Sarah,
deceased, 'born in Jefferson County, Ohio, April 11, 1804, married J,ohn Gill-
espie; Susannah, born in Pymatnning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., July 15,
1800, married John Fruit, and lives in Clarksville; Jane, deceased, born in
Mercer County December 17, 1808, married John McDowell; Jacob, born in
Mercer County January 8, 1811, still living in Clarksville, and Nancy, born
in Mercer County September 6, 1813, the wife of Joseph McClure, of Clarks-
ville. Samuel Clark, Sr., died October 29, 1860, aged ninety years, nine
months and twelve days. His wife, Mary (Custer) Clark, died October 7,
1863, aged ninety-one years, eleven months and twenty-three days. Her family
gave to the world the brave Gen. Custer, killed by the Sioux Indians in June,
1876.
Fell Family. — Among the pioneer families of Mercer County were the
Fells, William and Nathan, who were sons of John and Elizabeth (Hartley)
Fell, natives of Bucks County, Penn. In the fall of 1796 William and his son
George came from Westmoreland County, Penn., to Mercer County, and made
a selection of a tract of land in the south part of West Salem Township, and
then returned to their home. They again came out in the spring of 1797,
built a cabin, and made a permanent settlement. In the spring of 1798 Will-
iam moved his family to his new home in the wilderness of IVIercer County.
He was accompanied by his brother, Natkan, who was born in 177.5, and was
a weaver by trade. He made his settlement in what is now Pymatuning Town-
ship, purchasing a tract of 400 acres of land, and built his log cabin opposite
to where the residence of his grandson, Aaron Fell, now stands. Nathan
married Ann Smith, a native of Bucks County, March 8, 1780, and to them
were born twelve children: John, who died in 1837; William, who died in
infancy; George, who died June 12, 1853; Elizabeth, who married Joseph
Morford; Martha, wife of Thomas McFarland; Eachel, wife of Philip Wald-
ruff; Anne, who never married; Rebecca, who married E. Fox; Benjamin;
Esther, who married John McFarland; Nathan, who died in 1813; Mary, who
died in infancy; Cynthia, who married Michael Yeager, and Jesse. Nathan
died October 12, 1835, and his widow in 1842.
Jesse, the youngest child of Nathan, was born in Pymatuning Township
in 1801, and was reared on the old homestead, where he continued to live
until his death, which occurred in April, 1886, his wife having died in 1882.
His wife was Esther, daughter of Thomas Coulson, of Mercer, Penn. , and by
this marriage they had eight children: Nathan, who lives in Green Township;
Amanda, who married George Smith, of Mercer, Penn., and died in 1856;
Emeline, who married J. B. Campbell, of Delaware Township; Oleand, who
died in infancy; Lorena, who married Jerome Allen, of Delaware Township;
Mahlon, of Pymatuning Township; Aaron, of Pymatuning Township, and
Allen, who was killed in his saw-mill in Pymatuning Township in 1859.
Mahlon, the second son of Jesse, was born February 23, 1832, in Pyma-
tuning Township, on the old homestead of his grandfather. He received his
education in the common schools, has always been engaged in farming, and
906
HISTOKY OF MEKCEK COUNTY.
now lives upon a portion of the land that was accumulated by his father,
which at his death amounted to 2,400 acres. He was married, April 16, 1854,
to Miss Julia A., daughter of David Lininger, of AVest Salem Township.
She died Januaiy 16, 1876, leaving four children: James, who lives in Pyma-
tuning Township; Jesse, of Iowa; Mahlon and John, both of whom live in
Pymatuning Township. Mr. Fell married for his second wife, in 1880, Miss
Sarah, daughter of Albert Hays, of Hartford Township, Trumbull Co. , Ohio,
and by this marriage they have one child, Edwin D.
Aaron, the third son of Jesse, was born in Pymatuning Township in 1834.
He received his early training at the common schools of that time. He was
bred a farmer, and was engaged in that business until he was twenty-five years
of age, when he engaged in the lumber business in connection with farm-
ing, which he has continued to follow. He is extensively engaged in farming,
operating some 700 acres of land. Mr. Fell was united in marriage in 1861
to Emeline, daughter of Thomas Mossman, of AVest Salem Township, and to
them have been born five children: Jesse A., who is engaged in the lumber
business at Erie, Penn.; Frances; Allen M. ; Charles A., who died in infancy,
and Aaron, Jr. Mr. Fell is a member of the F. & A. M., Eureka Lodge No.
290, of Greenville, and also of the K. of H. of the same place.
David A. Feamptox, farmer and contractor, post-office Transfer, Penn.,
was born December 3, 1837. in Clarion County, Penn., and is a son of
Maj. Jonathan and Matilda (McDowell) Frampton, whose family consisted
of five children: David A., Hannah J. , John H. , Mary E., wife of J. C. Dun-
can, and Matilda. Our subject was reared in Clarksville, where he was also
educated. He early engaged in business, his first venture being transporting
of coal and merchandise, running a line of boats upon the Beaver & Erie
Canal, in which business he was engaged from 1855 to 1870. He was also
extensively engaged at the same time in the lumber business. He is at pres-
ent largely engaged in railroad contracting, and is one of the most extensive
farmers of Mercer County, operating some 1,100 acres. Mr. Frampton has
never held ’any public office, his extensive business and farming operations
demanding his entire time. Politically he is an ardent Democrat, and one of
Mercer County’s enterprising and successful citizens. His residence in Pyma-
tuning Township is one of the most substantial and elegant in the county.
He married, in 1869, Miss Delora, daughter of Robert Stewart, of Hickory
Township, and by this union they have had nine children: Pearl, Prescot,
AA'ade H., Edith, David A. J. , Eva M. , Carrie C., Gracie and Robert S. ,
deceased. Mr. Frampton and family are members of the Baptist Church of
Transfer.
Seth Fedit, merchant, post-office Clark, was born in May, 1838, in Clarks-
ville. His father, John. Fruit, was a native of Northumberland County, Penn.
His grandparents, Richard and Sarah (A¥ilson) Fruit, came from Northum-
berland County and located in Jefferson Township [see sketch]. John was a
son of Richard, and was born in 1805. He was married in 1829, to Susan,
a sister of the venerable AVilliam Clark, of Clarksville, and they had three
children: Seth, Frances, wife of Theodore Hofius, and John R. John en-
gaged in mercantile business in Clarksville, was the first postmaster of that
place, and died in 1835, aged thirty years. He and his wife were members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. Seth obtained his education at the common
schools, and spent his younger days at home. In 1853 he went to California,
where he spent four years farming, mining, etc. He was married March 31,
1857, to Miss Harpolissa. daughter of Nathaniel and Elizabeth (Egbert) Hazen,
of Hickory Township. They have four children: Mary, wife of C. Mali, of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
907
New Brighton; Fannie, Thomas S., and Eliza, who died in infancy. They
located in Clarksville and engaged in mercantile business. He was postmaster
of Clark from 1874 to 1885. He filled nearly all the local offices in the
borough of Clarksville. Politically he is a Republican.
James B. Gill, farmer, post-office Sharpsville, Penn., was born January
3, 1847, and is a son of Thomas and Rachel (McCord) Gill, of Pymatuning
Township. Thomas was born in the last decade of the eighteenth century,
and when young he learned the cabinet-maker’s trade, with his wife’s father.
He was manned in 1816, and soon after purchased a farm of 100 acres in
Pymatuning Township, on which he spent the remainder of his days. There
were fourteen children born to them, of whom four are living; James B,,
Mary, widow of J. Koon; Jane, wife of J. C. Sample, and Prudence, wife of
J. H. Kidd. The parents were of Irish descent, and were members of the old
Seceder Church. Politically Thomas was an old-time Whig, and served in the
War of 1812. He died October 19, 1849, in the fifty-sixth year of his age.
and his widow July 3, 1886. James B. was married June 27, 1867, to Matilda
H., daughter of George D. and Mary J. (McMurray) Hotius, of Pymatuning
Township. They settled on the old homestead, which he afterward purchased
and still lives upon. They are the parents of ten children: George B., Thomas
McM., Florence J., William H., James F., John R., Walter S., Samuel S.,
Eliza, Matilda and Millie E. Politically Mr. Gill is a Republican.
David Gilliland, farmer, postoffice Sharpsville, Penn., is a son of David
and Sarah (Moreland) Gilliland, and was born in 1827, in Indiana County,
Penn. The father of our subject was a native of County Derry, Ireland, and
immigrated to this country in 1791. His first settlement was in York County,
Penn. He learned the trade of a weaver in that county, and removed to Arm-
strong Township, Indiana Co., Penn., where he married, his family consisting
of seven children: Elizabeth, Mrs. James Gailey; James, John, Rachel, Mrs.
Robert Calhoun; Mary, Sarah and David. Our subject was reared in Indiana
County until he was fifteen years old, when he went to Pittsburgh, and was
taught the stone-cutting trade, and followed it for an occupation in that city
until 1847, when he removed to Chicago, 111. , and remained there until 1859,
when he removed to West Middlesex, Mercer County. In 1861 he enlisted in
Company B, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserves, and served two years, when he
was discharged for disability. While in the service he participated in the
following engagments: Drainsville, seven days fight. Fair Oaks and Antietam.
On his return he followed his trade in West Middlesex until 1879, when he
purchased his present place and is engaged in general farming. He was mar-
ried in 1863, to Miss Emily, daughter of John Thompson, of Pymatuning
Township, who died October 12, 1872. By this marriage they had one son,
John D., who died April 9, 1872. Our subject was again married, to Miss
Jennie, daughter of John Porter, of Pymatuning Township, and by this union
they have one child. Mr. Gilliland belongs to Post 234, G. A. R., of Sharps-
ville, is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, of Clarksville, and in
politics is a Republican.
Samuel L. Hendrickson, miller, post-office Orangeville, Ohio. The sub-
ject of this sketch is a son of Richard and Martha (Long) Hendrickson, she
being a daughter of Samuel Long, of Mercer County. Penn. The father of
our subject was born in New Jersey, and removed to Mercer County, Penn., in
1835, and settled in Hempfield Township, where he died in 1847. His widow
survives him, and lives with our subject, who was born in Hempfield Town-
ship April 6, 1839. He was reared in Hempfield Township by his grand-
father, who had settled in that township previous to the settlement there of the
908
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY,
father of onr subject. Mr. Hendrickson received his early education in the
common schools of that township, and at the age of fourteen was employed by
T. G. Van Lew as a clerk in his store in Sheakleyville, where he remained un-
til 1860, when he formed a copartnership with Dr. Packard, and engaged in
the crockery and glassware business in Greenville, which they conducted until
1873, when the death of Dr. Packard occurred, and he was appointed his
executor and had charge of his estate until 1879. He then removed to his farm
in Hempfield Township, and engaged in farming, where he remained until
early in 1885, when he removed to Orangeville, and commenced operating his
flour and grist-mill, which he had purchased in 1876. Mr. Hendrickson was
married May 12, 1864, to Teressa, daughter of Harvey Stephenson, of Gus-
tavus, Ohio, and they have had born to them eight children: George, Harvey,
Kichard, Katie, Clara, Samuel, Annie and Birt. Our subject is a member of
F. & A. M. , Lodge No. 290, of Greenville.
Edwaed O. Kamerer, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born July 3, 1852,
in Delaware Township, this county. His grandfather, Samuel, settled in
Hempfield at an early date, where he remained until his death. David was
married to Leah Bortz. They commenced housekeeping on his father’s farm,
in Hempfield, where they remained a few years, when they settled on a farm
in Delaware Township. There were seven children born to them: Levi T. ,
Edward O. , Mary Adaline, Samuel S., David L., Franklin W. and Tillman
E. He was secretary of the Pymatuning Mutual Fire Insurance Company for
twenty-seven years. Edward O. obtained his education in Delaware Town-
ship, and was married September 23, 1875, to E. C., daughter of Jacob and
Catharine (Artherholt) Klingensmith, of Pymatuning Township. Edward first
located on the homestead, where he remained for three years. They then
moved to the farm of Mrs. Klingensmith, mother of Mrs. Kamerer, where they
remained four years. They then purchased a farm in Pymatuning Township,
on which they still live. Before his marriage he was clerk at Hecker & Fry’s,
in New Hamburg, and for Packard & Co. and Henry Keck, in Greenville. In
politics he is a Republican. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church at
Transfer.
Samuel C. Koonce, farmer, post-office Clark, is about forty-five years old.
His father, Charles Koonce, was born in Bedford County, Penn., July 9, 1808,
where he obtained such educational advantages as could be secured at the com-
mon schools of that day. In 1808 he came with his parents to Mercer County.
By strict application he acquired a fund of general information which quali-
fied him for the various positions of trust and honor which he so efficiently
filled. The early portion of his life was spent in agricultural pursuits. He
was subsequently identified in mercantile pursuits, and in speculation in coal
lands, in which he was very successful. In 1835 he was appointed postmaster
at Clark, under Gen. Jackson’s second administration. He filled the office of
justice of the peace for two terms of five years each. He was married Febru-
ary 25, 1834, to Miss Hannah Haywood, by whom he had six children: Emily,
Sarah, William H., Samuel C., Cyntha A. and Alfred H. His wife died in
May, 1845. He was married again, in 1846, to Miss Rachel Vernon, to whom
was born one child, Rachel V., now Mrs. G. W. Phillips, of Clarksville. His
second wife died in May, 1847. He was again married, to the widow of David
Thompson, of Hickory Township. In 1863 he was elected a representative in
the Legislature, and was re-elected in 1864, which duties he discharged with
honor to himself and satisfaction to his constituents. During the late war he
was a stanch supporter of Union principles, and ably supported the admin-
istration in its efforts to crush out the Rebellion. He always led an active and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
909
industrious life. Politically he was a Democrat until the breaking out of the
late war, after which he became identified with the Republican party. He was
an elder in the Presbyterian Church about forty years. He died September 17,
1880, in his seventy-fifth year. His widow died in 1884. Samuel C. , our
subject, remained at home during his early years, obtaining an education at
the public schools and at the academy at Clarksville. He graduated at Duff’s
Commercial College in Pittsbirrgh in 1860, after which he attended Westmin-
ster College at New Wilmington for two years. He spent one year in the
service of his country in the late war as private, lieutenant and assistant pay-
master. In 1864 he entered into mercantile business in Clarksville, where he
remained for twelve years. He was married September 12, 1865, to Miss
Amanda E., daughter of A. M. Black, D. D., of Monmouth, 111. They are
living on the old homestead oh which he was born. He was appointed post-
master at Clark May 30, 1867, which office he filled till June, 1875, when, on
account of failing health, he resigned the official position and went west, and
spent about a year in Colorado. Politically he is a Republican, and has filled
numerous positions of trust in the party. He was chairman of the Republican
County Committee, and has been State and National delegate to the Republi-
can conventions, and was a member of the State Central Committee two terms.
Joseph McCluee, retired, Clarksville, was born in the parish of Convoy,
County Donegal, Ireland, in April, 1810, and is a son of Nathaniel and Cath-
arine (Noble) McClure, natives of the same place. In 1831 Nathaniel and
wife, and three sons, Joseph, John and Thomas, immigrated to Little Beaver
Township, Beaver Co. , Penn. , where they settled on a farm, and where the
father resided till his death. During the construction of the Beaver & Erie
Canal our subject began working on that improvement in Beaver County, and
while engaged at his labors on the canal learned the stone-cutting trade. He
continued working and contracting on the same public improvement till arriv-
ing at Clarksville, Mercer Co., Penn. He there met and married Miss Nancy,
daughter of Samuel and Mary Clark, pioneers of the village. He soon re-
turned to the old home in Beaver County, where he remained till 1840, when
he sold the farm and removed to Clarksville, where he engaged in merchan-
dising, while also conducting stores at other points in Mercer County. His
mother, with his brothers John and Thomas, afterward removed to Girard,
Penn., where John and the mother resided until their decease, and where
Thomas still lives. In 1846 our subject and his brother John formed a part-
nership with B. B. Vincent and David Himrod, and under the firm name of
Vincent, Himrod & Co. erected the first blast furnace in Sharpsville, Penn.,
and Joseph located at that point. After a trial of several years, this venture
proving unsuccessful, he returned to Clarksville and resumed the mercantile
business in connection with farming and contracting. About 1859 he gave
up the mercantile trade, but continued farming and contracting up to a recent
date, when he retired from active business. To Joseph and Nancy McClure
have been born ten children; Samuel, Catharine, Joseph N. , Thomas, Mary,
Nancy, Sarah, John, Nathaniel and Rebecca, all of whom are living excepting
Catharine, who died after reaching womanhood. Mr. McClure was a IVhig
until 1854, when the growth of Know-nothingism made him a Democrat, which
he remained until the breaking out of the war. He then voted with the
Republicans until 1863, when he again became a Democrat, and has since sup-
ported the principles of that party. He is a member of the Enited Presbyte-
rian Church, and has been connected with the growth and development of
the Shenango Valley for nearly half a century.
Smith McFaeland, hotel keeper, post-office Orangeville, Ohio, is a son of
S3
910
HISTORY OF MEKCEE COUNTY.
Thomas and Martha (Fell) McFarland. The grandfather of our subject was
Robert McFarland, a native of Washington County, Penn., who settled in
Trumbull County, Ohio, on the State line road, two a^d one -fourth miles south
of Orangeville, in 1806, and purchased a tract of 100 acres of land. He died
May 1, 1815. His family consisted of three sons and four daughters : Thomas,
Archibald. John; Martha, Mrs. William Dugan, and afterward Mrs. Azariah
Dunham; Jane, Mrs. John Canon; Polly, Mrs. Hugh McDowell, all of whom
are deceased. Thomas, the eldest son and the father of our subject, was born
in 1794 near Harrisburg, Penn. He served as a soldier in the War of 1812.
He married Martha Fell, and by this marriage they had five children, viz. :
Nathan, deceased, Robert, of Sharon, whose sketch appears in that chapter;
Smith, our subject; George, who is deceased, and Cynthia, who married Lewis
Holland, of Trumbull County, Ohio. Our subject was born in 1818 in Trum-
bull County, Ohio, where he was i-eared, and was bred a farmer, which occu-
pation he followed until 1873, when he built the McFarland House at Orange-
ville, on the Pennsylvania side of the State road, and has been engaged in the
hotel business up to the present time. He was married, in 1846, to Miss Sarah
Varnes, of Trumbull County, Ohio, and by this union they have three chil-
dren: Dr. W. S. McFarland, of Sharon, Penn.; Dwight, of Pymatuning
Township, and Lizzie, who is the wife of Madison Russell, of Meadville, Penn.
McKnight Family. — Among the early families of Mercer County were the
McTvnights. David McKnight, a native of Washington County, Penn., was
born in 1786, and in 1804 he removed to Mercer County and located on the
Clarksville and Hartford roads, three miles north of Sharpsville. He married
Hannah Gill, and by this union they had twelve children: Robert, lives in
Pymatuning Township; Mary, who married Andrew Chestnut; Anna, who
married Joseph Woods; Elizabeth, married William Carnes; William G.,
David, John, Margaret, married Daniel McCord; Hannah, married Lewis
Mattocks; Andrew, James and Joseph, all of whom are deceased excepting
Andrew. Mr. McKnight was one of Mercer County’s enterprising farmers.
He was appointed by Gov. Shulze a justice of the peace for his township in
1824, which office he held until his death, November 16,1839. James, the sixth
son, was born September 14, 1811, in Pymatuning Township. He was reared
upon the old homestead, where he lived until 1842, when he removed to Mercer
and engaged in hotel business. He was landlord of the Forest House, and
subsequently kept the old Red Tavern on the Mercer and Sharon road. In
1848 he purchased the farm where his son, John C., now resides. He mar-
ried, March 10, 1840, Miss Grizzila, daughter of David Garvin, of Mercer,
Penn., and by this marriage they had two children: James and John C. . His
death occurred February 29, 1880, his widow surviving him until April 17,
1883. John C. was born September 21, 1844, in Lackawannock Township,
and was reared in Pymatuning Township. He was bred a farmer, an occupa-
tion he has always followed. He married Helen, a daughter of Albert
Herriott, of Pymatuning Township, and by this union they have two children:
Mary M. and Albert C. Mr. McKnight is one of Pymatuning Township’s
progressive farmers, and is one of the present school directors. In politics
he is a Democrat.
John L.Reno, farmer, post-office Clark, was born November 2, 1841, in Jeffer-
son Township, this county. His parents, Jesse and Elizabeth (Bebout) Reno, were
natives of Beaver County [see sketch in Jefferson Township]. Our subject was
educated in the common schools and academy at Clarksville, and was married
September 21, 1865, to Hester, daughter of George W. and Mary (Robinson)
Magargee. There have been four children born to them : Lizzie P. M. , Frank A. ,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
911
Lewis M. and P. H. Tack. They lived one year on a farm, after which he was
engaged in a drug store in Orangeville, Ohio, two years, in Toledo two years,
and in Erie about eight years. While in Toledo he became interested in the
manufacture and sale of mineral paints in Pulaski, Penn., which he con-
ducted for ten years, and in which he was very successful. After leaving
Erie he located in Clarksville, and spent much of his time traveling in the
interest of his paint works, and looking after the interest of a farm which he
owns, near Clarksville. He was a volunteer in the first call for troops in the
late war. He enlisted in Company B, Seventy-sixth Regiment Pennsylvania
Volunteers, as a private, and was promoted to first lieutenant, and served
till the close of the war. He received a wound in his breast at Deep Bottom,
Va. , which has deterred him from active labors ever since.
Edward, Daniel .and Alice Rickeet, post-office Transfer, are heirs of
Charles Rickert, who was married in 1843, to Susannah Holler, daughter of
Jonathan and Catharine Holler, of Hickory Township. They rented the Rob-
ert Campbell farm, in Pymatuning Township, for a short time, when they
settled on a farm of eighty acres in the same township. Charles was born
October 4, 1810, in Northampton County, Penn., and came to Mercer County
with his father, Peter, in 1834. Charles was the father of ten children:
Albert, Samuel, Sarah E., wife of William Everett, of Ohio; Edward. Lewis
S. , Daniel P. , Alice S., Simon H. , Jonathan C. and Milton B. His education
was limited. He was a Republican, and with his wife were members of the
Reformed Church. He died October 19, 1886, and his wife died February 15,
1886. The three children named at the head of this family notice reside on
the old homestead, and are enterprising and intelligent citizens.
Samuel C. Simonton, postmaster of Clarksville, was born April 29, 1822.
His father, James T., was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1800, and was
married to Catharine, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Custard) Clark, of Clarks-
ville. They settled on a part of the Clark estate, where he followed the occu-
pation of a farmer and shoemaker. They reared three children: Jemimia,
wife of William Stilling.s; Samuel C. , and Mary A., wife of Israel Garritson.
They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics he was
a Democrat. James T. Simonton was captain of a militia company for many
years, and died in 1872, his wife dying in 1867. Our subject grew up on the
old homestead, and was married October 13, 1842, to Sylvia A. Gleason, of
Portage County, Ohio, They located in Clarksville, where Mr. Simonton
worked at the mill-wright trade until 1850, when he took charge of a division of
forty-nine miles in the superintending of the Beaver & Erie Canal, and
was employed on that work until 1872, e.xcepting two years spent in the
war. He owns the farm of 100 acres near Clarksville, and some property in
the borough. He has reared a family of four children: Samuel, Mary C. ,
wife of Thomas Stewart; George W. and Charles C. Politically he is a Dem-
ocrat, and has filled the office of justice of the peace twelve years, resigning in
1886 to accept the postmastership at Clarksville. Mr. Simonton was elected
captain of a company organized at Clarksville during the War of the Rebell-
ion; was afterward promoted to major and served two years.
Daniel Stambaugh, farmer, postoffice Sharpsville, Penn., was born July
14, 1815, at Campfield, Ohio, and is a son of Samuel and Rebecca (Ritter)
Stambaugh. The parents of our subject came from Ohio in 1824, and located
upon a farm of 200 acres in Hickory Township. Previous to their removal to
Mercer County four children were born to them: Daniel, Israel, Maria,
widow of George Palmer, of Sharon, Penn.; Catherine, wife of Mr. Sylvester,
of Iowa. Subsequently two more were born: Julia, who died in infancy, and
912
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Rebecca, who died at the age of thirty. Samuel’s wife died December 24,
1827. In 1829 he married Margaret, daughter of Robert Hodge, of Pyma-
tuning Township, and by this marriage they had nine children: John, William,
Jane, Mrs. Archie Titus, who is deceased; Samuel F., Martin, who was killed
in the late war; Sarah, David C., Robert, and Lydia, Mrs. Samuel John-
son, of Youngstown, Ohio. The father of our subject died February
28, 1860, his wife surviving him till 1881. Our subject received his edu-
cation in the common schools of the township, and was bred a farmer. He
located near Sharon in 1836, and engaged in operating coal mines until 1844,
when be purchased the Nathaniel Hazen farm, in Hickory Township, where he
lived for fifteen years, when he purchased the farm of Lewis Lightner, con-
taining 275 acres, in Pymatuning Township, where he lived for fifteen years.
He then purchased his present place, known as the Budd farm, in Pymatuning
Township. He was married June 14, 1836, to Miss Margaret, daughter of
Benjamin and Orpha (Heath) Castor, of Peters Creek, near Petersburgh,Penn. ,
and there has been born to them eleven children: Orpha, deceased, Samuel
R., Benjamin K. , Rebecca, wife of J. W. Stewart, of Cleveland, Ohio; Aman-
da M., widow of John Hope; Israel, Hiram, deceased; Julius, of Texas; Will-
iam E., of Colorada; Loresta, of California, and Lawrence, of Colorado. In
politics our subject is a Prohibitionist, and is connected with the Methodist
Episcopal Church.
Samuel Stoyee, farmer, post-office Transfer, was born July 11, 1834, in
Delaware Township, this county. His father, Daniel, was born September
17, 1795, in Berks County, Penn., and his mother, Christinia Miller, was
born in 1795 in Lehigh County, Penn., both of German descent. They were
married about 1818, and settled in Berks County on a small farm, where he
followed the occupation of a shoemaker. There were nine children, four of
whom are living: Priscilla, wife of Joshua Homer; Daniel M. , of New Ham-
burg; Christinia, wife of T. Hengist, of Kansas, and Samuel. They moved
to Delaware Township, this county, in 1833, and settled on a farm, where he
continued his trade, and his sons conducted the work on the farm. He
remained on the farm and in that vicinity for many years, when he sold it and
spent the remainder of his days with his children. He died October 11, 1885,
in the ninety-first year of his age, and his wife died about 1875, at the age of
eighty years. They were members of the Lutheran Church, and in politics
he was a Democrat. Samuel was married December 23, 1858, to Lydia Bar-
tholomew, daughter of Philip and Lydia (Donner) Bartholomew, of Hickory
Township, this county. They located in Hickory Township on a farm, where
they lived until 1869, when he purchased a farm in Pymatuning Township of
forty-one acres. They have seven children: Franklin A., Permilla (wife of
Frank Moyer, of Greenville), Hiram (of Pymatuning), Daniel P., Clara V.,
Walter S. and Charles E. He and wife are members of the Lutheran
Church. Politically he is a Republican, and has held the office of assessor
one term and assistant assessor two terms.
Anthony Struble, farmer, post-office Clark, was born June 3, 1828, in
Sussex County, N. J. , and is the third son of David and Hannah (Woodhill)
Struble. His parents moved to Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1834. His father
was killed while crossing a railroad track, in 1878, at the age of seventy-seven
years. His mother died in Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1886, in the eighty-
fourth year of her age. Anthony, our subject, attended school at Cottage
Hill, Ohio, and remained at home, teaching and attending school, till he was
about twenty-five years of age. He was married September 15, 1853, to Miss
Julia A., daughter of Samuel and Mary (Thompson) Koonce, of Hickory Town-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
913
ship. They have had seven children: Walter S., Frank F., David C., John
T. , Anna L., Wallace (who died in infancy), Mary E. (died at twenty years
of age, the wife of S. O. Ewing, of Canfield, Ohio). They located in Pyma-
tuning Township, on a farm that was a portion of the Koonce estate. In
November, 1859, he moved to Delaware Township, and settled on a farm pur-
chased of Peter Free, containing 100 acres, to which he afterward added, by
purchase, ninety acres adjoining, which property he still retains. He also
owns fifty acres in Pymatuning Township and eighty acres in Summit Town-
ship, Crawford Co. , Penn. He was extensively engaged in buying and selling
stock. He moved into the borough of Clarksville in 1884. He was a volun-
teer, and captain of Company D, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and served nine months in the late war. Politically he is a
Republican. He was county commissioner for three years, and has filled the
offices of school director and councilman in the borough. He was elected jus-
tice of the peace in 1887. He is a member of the G. A. R., Post No. 557, of
Clarksville, and his wife and himself are members of the Presbyterian Church.
Dwight Willson, saw and planing-mill, post-office Orangeville, Ohio, is a
son of Nathaniel and Betsey (Brockway) Willson, and was born in Hartford
Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, October 10, 1840. He was reared and edu-
cated in his native township. At the age of sixteen he was employed in the
saw-mill business with his father, and at the age of nineteen he purchased a
half interest in a saw-mill in Vernon Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, where he
remained three years. In 1865 he was employed as engineer at E. B.
Ward’s coal mine, three miles east of Orangeville, where he remained for
three years. In 1868 he purchased the saw- mill at Orangeville, and operated
it till 1887, when he erected his present saw and planing-mill. Our subject
was married in 1863 to Miss Lizzie J., daughter of Eli and Jane Myers, of
Hartford Township, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, and by this marriage they have
three children: Ada V., Jennie E. and Lyle M. Mr. Willson is one of the
members of the school board of Pymatuning Township, and in politics he is
a Republican.
Rev. Samuel E. Wingee, post-office Clark, was born December 3, 1850, in
Venango County, Penn., and is a son of David and Catherine (Smith) Winger,
both of whom are of German descent, and to whom were born eleven children,
seven of whom are living: William, Henry, Josiah, Frederick, Jennie, Tillie
and Samuel E. The parents moved to Oil City in the fall of 1862, where the
father died December 17, of the same year, at the age of fifty-four years.
Samuel, our subject, remained on Oil Creek , where he relied upon his own efforts
for a livelihood until he was seventeen years of age. He then attended school
at Oil City two years, and afterward the Allegheny College at Meadville for
three years, and a theological seminary in New Jersey. In 1872 he joined
the Erie Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was mariied
January 1, 1873, to Miss Eva F., daughter of Rev. James and Sabina (Muse)
Clyde, of Mercer County. He received his first charge on the Clapp farm,
near Oil City, where he preached one year, and then at Brady’s Bend, Water-
loo, Venango, Sunville, one year each. He then attended school at Allegheny
College, in Meadville, for one year. He then preached at New Bethlehem,
Clarion County, two years, Luthersburg one year, Helena, Montana, two
years, Salem, Mercer County, three years, and located at Clarksville in 1888.
He was ordained deacon by Bishop Peck in 1874, and as elder in 1876. He
has seven children: Merril C., Rose F., Clare M., Samuel H. , Eva M.
(deceased), Bessie, Pearl and Cecil B. He is a Republican of Prohibition
proclivities.
914
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
Joseph K. W omee, farmer, was born July 5, 1857, in Mercer County,
Penn., and is the seventh child of John and Margaret (Keiser) Womer, of
Clarion County, Penn. The family settled at Harry of the West furnace, in
1851, and moved to Findley Township about 1855. Here they remained eight
years, and then moved to a farm owned by Wilson Ormsby, in Pymatuning
Township. Seven years later they moved to the farm of John Frampton, and
the year following to the farm of Maj. Frampton, and after a period of farm-'
ing for Vance Stewart they bought a farm of thirty acres. They have had nine
children: Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Weller; Emily F., wife of A. G. Cron;
Harry B., Kev. John C., William H., Amos M., Joseph K., Edward G., and
Beva C., wife of C. J. Law. The parents are still living in Pymatuning
Township. Joseph K. was married June 28, 1881, to Julia, a daughter of
Joseph and Eliza (Weaver) Eickert, of Pymatuning Township, who have lived
there for nearly half a century. The Kickerts are the parents of seven children:
Abraham, Joshua, Lydia, Emeline, Sophia, Julia and Henry P. Joseph pur-
chased a part of the Eickert estate and resides thereon. He has one child,
Essie E. Joseph obtained his education at the common and select schools,
and spent seven years in teaching in Mercer and Venango Counties. He
served as school director for three years, is a Democrat, and a member of the
Presbyterian Church. His wife is a member of the German Eeformed
Church.
UELAWAEE TOWNSHIP.
Dr. Daniel Achee. post-office Kremis, was born October 3, 1821, in Union
County, Penn., and is a son of Daniel and Eebecca (Eeichard) Acher.
The father of our subject was a native of Lehigh County, Penn., who removed
to Enion County about 1819. In 1834 he settled in Salem Township, Mercer
County. His family were six sons and three daughters: Daniel, David, Will-
iam, James and Henry; Elizabeth, Mrs. Joseph Humphrey; Margaret, Mrs.
David Baxter, and Lucy. The early education of our subject was received at
the Mercer Academy. He commenced the study of medicine under Dr. John
Eodgers, of Mercer, Penn., and completed his medical studies at the Eclectic
College of Cincinnati, Ohio, and commenced the practice of medicine in 1857,
in Middle Lawrence, Butler Co., Penn., where he remained until 1863, when
he located at Mount Jackson, Lawrence Co., Penn., remaining thereuntil
1867, when he removed to Bellefontaine, Ohio, and pursued the practice of his
profession until 1871, when he returned to Mercer County, and settled at
London, where he remained until 1885, when he returned to Kremis, Penn.,
where he enjoys a lucrative and growing practice. In 1843 the Doctor was
married to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Peter Cribbs, of Findley Township, and
by this marriage they have live children: William H. , of California; C. J. , of
Greenville; Prudence, wife of C. E. Bellows; Ellen J. , at home, and Salena
A. , Mrs. H. D. Hecker, of Kremis, Penn. The Doctor is a member of the P.
of H. , Delaware Grange 463, also the Lutheran Church of Delaware Town-
ship. Politically he is a Eepublican.
The Biglees. — One of the prominent families of Mercer County, to which
reference has been made, was that of the Biglers, who lived in what is now
Delaware Township, a few miles from Fredonia. The family resided there for
a number of years. Two of the sons, John and William, became prominent in
public affairs. John Bigler was born in Cumberland County January 16,
1804, and died November 13, 1871. He was of German descent. Learning the
printers’ trade, he became a journalist, but subsequently a lawyer. He spent
some of his youthful years on the parental farm in Mercer County. In 1846
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
915
he removed to Illinois, and three years later went with emigrants to Califor-
nia, where he became prominent in the Democratic party, and was known as
“honest John Bigler. ” From 1852 to 1856 he served as governor of that
State. William Bigler, his brother, was born in Cumberland County in 1814,
and died in Clearfield, Penn., August 9, 1880. He assisted his brother John,
in 1829, to publish the Centre Democrat at Belief onte. In 1833 he removed
to Clearfield, and established the Clearfield Democrat, a Jackson paper, which
became prosperous and notable. In 1836 he sold it and began lumbering.
His editorial career, however, marked him as a public leader. He was elected
to the State Senate in 1841, and its speaker in 1843-44. In 1849 he was
appointed a revenue commissioner, and in 1851 was elected governor of Penn-
sylvania, the same day that John was chosen to a similar position in California.
He was renominated in 1854, but was defeated by the Know-nothing swell. In
1855 he was chosen a member of the United States Senate. He was a member
of the Charleston Convention in 1860, and temporary chairman of the Dem-
ocratic National Convention in 1864, and a member of the same body in 1868.
He was a member of the Centennial Commission in 1874. These two distin
guished sons, as well as their noted Christian mother, are well remembered by
citizens of Mercer County still living.
Aaron Blumee, farmer, post-office New Hamburg, Penn., is a son of
Henry and Mickly Blumer. He was born in Whitehall Township, Lehigh Co.,
Penn., September 29, 1809. The grandfather of our subject was a German
Reformed minister, a native of Switzerland, who immigrated to this country
previous to the Revolutionary War, and settled in that part of Lehigh County
which at that time was Northampton County. Our subject was the third child
of a family of seven children. He was taught the trade of blacksmith. At
the age of twenty- four, in 1833, he came to Delaware Grove and purchased
200 acres of land, erected his blacksmith shop, and began the clearing of his*
farm, which was a wilderness for miles surrounding. At the expiration of five
years he gave up his business, giving his attention entirely to his farm and its
development. In 1838 he married Elizabeth, daughter of John and Sarah
Haas, natives of Northampton County, Penn., who had settled in Delaware
Township, and by this union they had three children: Thomas, John and
Edwin, who was a member of the Tenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserve
Volunteer Cavalry, and was killed at Fredericksburg. Mrs. Blumer died Jan-
uary 15, 1888. Mr. Blumer has been a life-long supporter of the Democratic
party, and has always taken an active interest in educational matters, and was
a school director for nine years. He is a member of the German Reformed
Church of Delaware Township.
Samuel Busch, farmer, post-office Fredonia, is a son of Andrew and
Louisa F. (Greiner) Busch. The father of our subject was a native of Ger-
many, who immigrated to this country about 1812 or 1813, and settled in
Green Township, Mahoning Co., Ohio. He subsequently came to Mercer
County and located in Otter Creek Township. He was twice married; his
first wife bore him a family of two children: Beva, who married James
Moyer, of Lake Township, and Margaret, the widow of Andrew Bowman, of
Ohio. Andrew died in 1865 in Otter Creek Township. His second wife
survives him and resides upon the old homestead in Otter Creek Township.
Their family consisted of nine children, seven of whom are living: Mina, Mrs.
Michael Groh, of Delaware Township; Samuel, of Delaware Township;
Louisa, Mrs. Fred Shoner, of Fairview Township; Andrew, of Otter Creek;
Leah, Mrs. M. E. Pauly, of Transfer, Penn; Rev. William L., of Otter Creek,
and Joseph, of the same township. Our subject was born April 16, 1839, in
916
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
•Jackson Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio. He was reared and educated in Otter
Creek. In 1863 he married Mary Ann, daughter of Amos Ruhlman, of Perry
Township, and settled in Delaware Township, where he now resides. By this
union they have four children, viz.; Levida, Emma, Lester and William.
Our subject was bred a farmer, an occupation he has always followed. He is
an ardent Democrat, and was one of the candidates for the Legislature in
1887, on the ticket with the Hon. Norman Hall. Mr. Busch is a member of
the Lutheran Church of Otter Creek, of which his brother, the Rev. Will-
iam L. Busch, is the pastor.
Eichaed Fruit, post-office Clark, the second son of Robert Fruit, was born
August 12, 1826, in Jefferson Township, where he was reared and educated, and
where a sketch of the ancestry will be found. His early life was spent upon
the old homestead farm. In 1854 he engaged in droving, in which business he
operated in very extensively for twenty years. He has since been engaged in
the saw and grist-mill business, purchasing the old mill property that belonged
to his father. He is also one of the most extensive farmers of Mercer County,
managing some 800 acres. In 1874 he was ajrpointed sheriff, by Gov. Hart-
ranft, to fill the unexpired term of Sheriff Pew, and at the expiration of his
appointment was elected to the same position and filled the office three years
longer. He has also served in all of the important offices of his township.
He was married June 24, 1858, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of John Zahniser,
of Jefferson Township. Their children are: Robert, of Jefferson Township;
Ellen M. , Margaret, wife of D. W. Bactress, of Delaware Township; Caroline,
Jennie and Walter. Politically Mr. Fruit is a leading Republican, is a mem-
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and one of the most enterprising
citizens of his native county.
John W. Fruit, post-office New Hamburg, son of Robert Fruit, was born
m 1837, in Jefferson Township, where he lived upon the old homestead until
the breaking out of the Rebellion, when he enlisted in Company G, Tenth
Pennsylvania Reserves, in which he served until June 30, 1862, and on
that day, at the battle of Charles City Cross Roads, he received a gunshot
wound in the right knee, was taken prisoner, and confined in Libby Prison
three months, when he was exchanged and sent to the general hospital, at
Philadelphia, Penn. , from which place he was discharged in October, 1 862,
when he returned home, where he remained until Lee’s raid into Penn-
sylvania, when he was commissioned by Gov. Curtin, and raised a com-
pany, which was attached to the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. On his
return from the war Mr. Fruit was engaged in farming until 1876, when he
was appointed deputy sheriff under Sheriff Pew, which position he filled from
that time until the expiration of his brother, Richard Fruit’s term of office.
He also filled two terms of justice of the peace while residing in Jefferson
Township. In 1879 he established himself upon his present place, and in
1882 was elected justice of the peace, and served one term, and has also served
as school director for both Jefferson and Delaware Townships. Mr. Fruit
has been identified with the National Guards, having had command of Com-
pany A, Fifteenth Regiment Pennsylvania National Guards, for ten years.
He wms married in 1864, to Sarah, daughter of Daniel Lowell, of Erie
County, Penn. , and to them have been born five children : J ames, Frank A. ,
"William, Mary and Robert D. Mr. Fruit is a member of the G. A. R., Post
No. 234, of Sharpsville, Penn., also Sharon Lodge No. 250, F. & A. M. , and
politically he is a Democrat.
Charles Hecker, general manager and treasurer of the Kremis Milling
Company, post-office Kremis, was born in Seneca County, N. Y., February
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
917
15, 1828. He is a son of Daniel and Catharine (Haas) Hecker, natives of
Lehigh County, and who removed to Seneca County, N. Y., after marriage.
Mrs. Catharine Hecker died in 1828, and was the mother of Stephen, Daniel.
Joseph and Charles. The father was again married, and had the following
childi'en: Franklin, Levi, and Mary, the widow of Edwin HofPman. Daniel
Hecker removed to Mercer County in 1839, and here died in August, 1886, at
the age of ninety-three years. His last wife died in 1883, at the age of seventy-
seven years. Mr. Hecker was a justice of the peace for Delaware Township
for fifteen years, a prominent member of the German Reformed Church, and
in politics a stanch Republican. Our subject was taught the carpenter’s
trade, and for fifteen years was engaged in that business. He then estab-
lished himself in the lumber business and farming. In 1883 he organized
the Kremis Milling Company, and is its treasiu-er and general manager.
The mill is a prominent industry of Delaware Township, and its capacity is
fifty barrels of flour in twenty-four hours. He is also extensively engaged in
farming, and is one of the stockholders of the Kremis Co-operative Store.
Mr. Hecker is an energetic business man, enjoying the confidence and esteem
of the people of his county. He is a member of the P. of H. , Delaware
Grange 463, also of the Reformed Church of Delaware Township. In poli-
tics he is a Republican. He married, in 1849, Caroline, daughter of Jacob
and Elizabeth Reinhart, early settlers of Delaware Township, and to them
have been born a family of four children: George M., Henry D., Lizzie,
wife of William Limber, and James E., manager of the Kremis Co-
operative store.
David Kameeee (deceased). — Among the early settlers of Mercer County were
Jacob and Samuel Kamerer, natives of Westmoreland County, Penn. , who located
in what is now Hempfield Township in 1812. Samuel, the father of our subject,
here married Elizabeth Lininger, who was born in Maryland in 1790, and came
to Mercer County in 1802. They reared a family of four sons and four daugh-
ters, five of whom are living. David, the eldest, was born on the old home-
stead January 7, 1819, and spent his early life under the parental roof,
receiving the meager advantages which the pioneer schools of his youth
afforded. On the 6th of January, 1848, he married Leah Bortz, a native of
Westmoreland County, Penn., born February 16, 1821. In May, 1822, her
parents, Jacob and Anna M. Bortz, removed to this county and settled in Lack-
awannock Township. Immediately after marriage Mr. Kamerer located on a
part of his father’s farm, where he resided until 1852. He then purchased
and settled upon the homestead in Delaware Township, where the balance of
his life was passed. This farm at that time was principally covered with the
original forest, and it required a great deal of toil ere it was brought to its
present well-improved condition. Mr. Kamerer reared seven children, all of
whom are living, viz.: Levi T., Edward O., Mary Adaline, Samuel S., David
L., Franklin W. and Tillman E. He watched over his family circle with loving
consideration, and his kind, paternal heart always tempered justice with mercy.
Though a farmer by occupation, he had not been able to perform much physi-
cal labor for the past thirty years. He therefore turned his attention to other
matters, and in 1860 was one of the leading spirits in the organization of the
Pymatuning Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He was chosen its first secre-
tary, and filled that position with commendable zeal, ability and honesty from
1860 up to January, 1887 — a period of nearly twenty-seven years. Under his
careful management this company has had a substantial growth and a prosper-
ous career. Mr. Kamerer was succeeded by his son David L. In early man-
, hood he united with the Lutheran Church, and ever since lived a consistent
918
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Christian life. He possessed a kind and charitable disposition, and was ever
ready to assist the needy and succor the afflicted. His aim was always to be
right, and hosts of friends gladly testify to the unimpeachable integrity of his
character. He was a Republican in politics, and though filling several town-
ship offices he had little political ambition beyond exercising the duties im-
posed by American citizenship. He was not a strong partisan, and accorded
to his neighbor the just privilege of believing as conscience dictated on all mat-
ters relating to religion and civil government. For many years he had been
troubled with weak lungs, and while attending the funeral of his brother Ben-
jamin, a short time since, was attacked by the illness which ended in death on
the 9th of October, 1888, at 5 o’clock A. M. , aged sixty-nine years, nine
months and three days. His remains were followed to their last resting place
in Delaware cemetery by his aged widow and family, and a large funeral cor-
tege, the services being conducted by Revs. William Rehrigand J. A. Kunkle-
man, D. D. In the death of David Kamerer the community lost a worthy
citizen, the church a stanch adherent, and his family a kind and affectionate
protector.
Joseph McCleeey, farmer and surveyor, post-office Kremis, was born May 14,
1823, in Hempfield Township, and is a son of Thomas and Margaret (Wilson)
McCleery. The parents of our subject were natives of Donegal County, Ire-
land, who immigrated to this country about 1814. His first settlement was
made in Lancaster County, Penn. He subsequently lived in Crawford County,
in the vicinity of Jamestown, Penn. In 1823 he located in Mercer County, on
the Dumars farm, in Hempfield Township, afterward on the Bigler and Flock
farms, in Delaware Township. In 1827 he purchased a tract of 200 acres,
known as Lot 974, in the northeast corner of Delaware Township, upon a part
of which our subject now resides. He was a plain, unassuming farmer, but a
man who took a deep interest in educational matters, and it was through his
exertions that the first school was established, and a building erected for
that purpose, in that neighborhood. His family consisted of nine children,
two of whom were born in Ireland: Thomas, who resides in Wilmington,
Lawrence County, Penn., and William W. , of Oakland, Cal., the balance
being natives of Mercer County; Solomon, of Livingston County, Mo.; our
subject; Alexander, who died in Delaware Township; James, who was in the
late war, and was killed near Medley, Va., in a skirmish in 1864; Wilson, who
died in Delaware Township in 1862; Nancy, widow of Henry Ewing, of Craw-
ford County, Penn.; Elizabeth, widow of Jackson Hurst, of Delaware Town-
ship. Mr. McCleery died in 1858, and his widow in 1860. Our subject was
reared upon the homestead, and received his education at the select schools of
the township. He was taught the trade of a printer, in the office of the Mer-
cer Laminary, which was published by William F. Clark in the last year of
his apprenticeship. Mr. McCleery felt desirous of obtaining a better educa-
tion. and he entered the Mercer Academy, then taught by Hon. Samuel Griff-
ith, completing his education under the private tuition of Prof. McLean, of
Greenville, Penn., and for eighteen years taught in the schools of Mercer
County. Mr. McCleery also taught about three years in the schools of Dor-
chester County, Md. While in Maryland our subject pursued a course of
studies in mathematics, and on returning to Mercer County he engaged in
the business of surveying in connection with farming. In 1860 he was
elected county surveyor, which position he filled for three years. In 1869 he
was elected justice of the peace for his township, and filled the office for five
years, and has been a school director in his township. He married, in 1856,
Miss Elvira, daughter of W. W. Greenman, of New Hamburg, Penn., and by
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
919
this union they have five children: Arthur G. , James O. (of Montana),
Lottie, Sarah (Mrs. Herman Early, of Jefferson Township) and Nettie. Mr.
McCleery is a member of the P. of H. , Delaware Grange 463, of Delaware
Township.
Patrick McConvill, farmer, post-office New Hamburg, Penn., was born in
1827, in Ireland, and is a son of Peter and Mary (O’Hare) McConvill, natives of
County Down, Ireland, who immigrated to this country in the spring of 1847,
and settled in Delaware Township, upon the land where our subject now lives.
His family consisted of seven children, all of whom were born in Ireland.
They were Patrick, Michael, who died in 1870; Eose, deceased, who married
John McCann; Mary, the widow of Patrick McGrath, of Delaware Township;
Alice, Mrs. James Hughes, of Delaware Township; Sarah, and Eliza, Mrs.
Daniel Hurley, of Cool Spring Township. Peter died August 27, 1862, at
the ripe old age of eighty-five, his wife surviving him, dying March 11, 1883,
at the age of ninety -three. Our subject was reared in Ireland, where he re-
ceived a common school education, and engaged in farming with his father,
an occupation he has always followed. Mr. McConvill is unmarried, and re-
sides on the old homestead farm with his sister Sarah, both of whom are mem-
bers of All Saints Catholic Church, of Jefferson Township. In politics our
subject is a Democrat.
George W. Magee, farmer, post-office Kremis, Penn., is a son of George
and Sarah (Cross) Magee. The father of our subject was born in 1806, in
Mitfiin County, Penn. In 1812 he removed to what is now Lawrence County,
Penn., and lived in that and Butler County for thirty-five years. He was a
carpenter and wheel-wright, in which business he was engaged in Centreville,
in the latter county. In 1841 he moved to Jackson Township, Mercer County,
and purchased the land upon which is now located the Fox Coal Mine. He
developed the mine, and subsequently disposed of it and removed to Fairview
Township, and engaged in farming. Mr. Magee died January 6, 1887. His
widow is a native of Butler County, Penn., and a daughter of David Cross,
of that county. Mrs. Magee survives her husband, and resides in Fairview
Township. Their family consisted of eleven children: Mary, Mrs. Joseph
Infield, of New Vernon Township; John, of Ohio; Eliza, Mrs. A. P. Page, of
Fairview; David, who died in infancy; Emeline, widow of E. E. Crooks, of
Wheatland, Penn.; Margaret, Mrs. J. F. Boyd, of Cool Spring Township;
* William, of New Vernon Township; Henrietta, Mrs. F. B. McCormick, of
Fairview Township; Herman, who died in infancy; Melinda, Mrs. E. N. Jones,
of Kidder County, D. T. , and our subject, w^ho was born October 7, 1851, in
Jackson Township. He received his education in the common schools, and
was taught telegraphy, and was employed for several years by the N. Y. P.
& O. E. E., and was located at Freedom, Ohio. In 1875 he engaged in the
planing-mill business at Ashtabula, Ohio, where he remained for two years,
subsequently entering the employ of the S. & A. E. E. as an operator. In
1878 he purchased his present farm in Delaware Township, and has since
been engaged in general farming. Our subject was married in 1874, to Miss
Vila, daughter of Harris and Fannie Bowen, of Trumbull County, Ohio, and
by this marriage they have seven children: Minta M. , Maggie, Jennetta,
Florence, Earl, Millie and George Grover. Mr. Magee was elected, in 1888,
justice of the peace for his township, which office he now fills. He is a mem-
ber of the P. of H. , Delaware Grange No. 463, of Delaware Township. Our
subject in politics is a Democrat, and is connected with the schools of his
township as a member of the board of school directors. Mr. Magee, while
still a young man, is an enterprising citizen, and has the confidence of his
920
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
fellow citizens. He is master of Delaware Grange No. 463, and deputy for
Mercer County P. of H.
George Mowry, constable and tanner, post-office New Hamburg, Penn.,
son of Jonas and Esther (Lesher) Mowry. The grandfather, George Mowry,
settled in Delaware Township in 1823. He was a native of Berks County,
Penn., and was the father of the following children; Jonas, George, Jacob,
Jesse, John, Kate, Michael, Grover, Sarah, wife of Mandis Bortz; Mary,
wife of Benjamin Foulk; Louisa, wife of Benjamin Griner; Elizabeth, wife
of William Grim; Eliza, wife of Samuel Beil. George Mowry, Sr., died in
1875, and his wife is also dead. The father of our subject was born in
Lehigh County in 1813, and came with his parents to Mercer County.
His family consisted of Jonathan, James, Alvin and our subject; Matilda,
Mrs. Allen Saul; Mary, Mrs. Joshiia Wheeler; Eliza, Mrs. Clint Russell;
Louisa (single). Our subject was born in 1852. He received the advantages
of a commou school education, and was taught the trades of a stone-mason,
plasterer and brick-layer, which business he followed for twelve years. In
1886 he located on his present farm and engaged in general farming. He was
married in 1872 to Miss Maria J., daughter of James Heckman, of Delaware
Township, and by this union they have five children: Edwin, Cora, James,
William and Frederick. In 1878 our subject was elected constable, which
office he has filled up to the present time, an unmistakable evidence of his
popularity in Delaware Township. He is a member of the Reformed Church
of Delaware Township, and in politics a Democrat.
Henry M. Reichard, farmer, post office New Hamburg, Penn., is the son of
George and Hannah (Moyer) Reichard, and was born in Lehigh County, Penn. ,
in 1830. His father came to Mercer County in 1832, and purchased a farm
of 132 acres two miles north of New Hamburg, where he died in 1862. His widow
died May 10, 1888. Their children were; James, deceased; Henry, Daniel,
George, Benjamin, deceased; William, deceased; Sarah, Mrs. John Weaver;
J ane, Mrs. Lewis Haws, both deceased, and Mary Ann, deceased. The grand-
father of our subject came from Lehigh County in 1833, and settled upon the
Greenville and Mercer road. He built the Reichard Tavern, which he con-
ducted for several years. It then passed into the hands of his son Joshua, who
conducted it for some forty years. In 1872 the hotel property was purchased
by his son Peter, who removed the hotel building and built upon the site his resi-
dence, where he now resides. Henry Reichard, Sr. , married Mary M. Acher,
of Lehigh County. Their children were: Henry, George, Rebecca, Mrs.
Acher; Polly, Mrs. Daniel Saul, both deceased; Benjamin, David, Betsey,
Mrs. Moyer; Jonathan and Peter. Mr. Reichard, Sr., died in 1845, and
his widow in 1847. Our subject was reared upon the homestead farm, and
early engaged in farming. In 1858 he purchased his present home, half a
mile west of New Hamburg. He was married in 1855, to Miss Mary Ann,
daughter of Joseph Raber, of Delaware Township, and to them have been born
five children, of whom two are living: Laura, wife of Henry Moyer, merchant
of Cleveland, Ohio, and Elsie, who resides at home. Mr. Reichard is now serv-
ing as one of the school directors, and assistant assessor. In politics he is a
Democrat, and Delaware contains no more useful and influential citizen than
our subject.
Adam Wagoner, farmer, post-office Kremis, Penn., son of Philip and Lu-
cinda (Rheinhart) Wagoner, was born July 8, 1840, in Delaware Township.
His father was a native of Lehigh County. He settled in Delaware Township
in 1836, and reared a family of foirrteen children, nine of whom are living:
Moses, Adam, Aaron, Henry, Mary, Mrs. John Reimold; Catharine, Mrs.
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
921
Bernard Reiiuold; Lavina, Mrs. Jeremiah Will; Daniel and William. Mr.
Wagoner, Sr. , served his township as a member of the school board and super-
visor. He was a consistent member of the Lutheran Church of Delaware
Township, and held the offices of deacon and elder for many years, and in poli-
tics a life long Democrat. He died March 15, 1878. His widow survives him
and resides upon the homestead farm. Our subject’s opportunity for an edu-
cation was limited. He remained at home until he was twenty-six years of
age. With limited capital Mr. Wagoner started in the world to do for him-
self, and by frugality and hard work has succeeded in establishing for himself
the reputation of being one of the most successful farmers and enterprising
business men of his native township. In 1883 he associated himself with
Charles Hecker and erected the Kremis Mills, of which company he is one of
the stockholders. He is also identified with the Kremis Co-operative Store
Company as one of its stockholders. He takes an active interest in public
affairs, having filled all the important offices of his township. Politically he
is a Democrat. He was married in 1868 to Miss Eliza, daughter of Joseph
and Judith Haas, of Delaware Township, and by this union they have six
children : Edwin A. , Albert, Sadie, Mary, Ellen and Clara. Mr. Wagoner
is a member of the P. of H. , Grange 463, and himself and family are members
of the Lutheran and German Reformed Churches of Delaware Township.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP.
Isaac Anderson, deceased, was born April 1 , 1813, in Beaver County, Penn.,
and was carried to Mercer County by his mother when a child through a deep
snow. He was a son of Isaac and Lydia (Warner) Anderson. His parents
settled where F. C. Bagnall now lives. Here the Indians used to congregate,
sing, dance and drink until nearly daylight. His parents had fourteen children :
William, Joseph, David, Isaac, Cynthia, James, Peter, Enos, Sallie, Nancy,
Mathias, Eliza, Milo, Hannah. Our subject attended the country schools
three months. He married, December 10, 1844, Anna C. Soawash, a sister of
Mrs. W^illiam Bagnall. The ceremony was performed by Esquire Graham.
She was born April 16, 1824, and bore him Milo W., born November 19,
1845; Joseph H., born February 13, 1847; Sarah A., born July 22, 1848;
infant son, born April 15, 1850; Isaac, born March 11, 1851; Hannah, born
May 9, 1853; infant daughter, born September 19, 1855; Catharine, born
August 25, 1856; John, born December 28, 1857; infant daughter, born
September 9, 1859; Lincoln, born October 11, 1860; infant daughter, born
October 26, 1861; Lewis, born January 19, 1864; infant son, born May 12,
1867. The two sons, Lewis and Lincoln, manage the home place. Mr. A.
died August 18, 1883. He was a kind and affectionate husband and father,
and a Republican. His widow, who toiled with him through the many trying
scenes of his life to lay up something for old age, is yet living in good circum-
stances, a consistent member of the Methodist Church. She recently gave each
of her eight children a large family bible, costing $9 each.
William -Bagnall, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born January 19, 1811,
in Draycot, England, and is a brother of Thomas Bagnall, whose sketch
appears elsewhere. He attended school in his native country. He was mar-
ried October 24, 1835, to Susan Soawash, born August 24, 1814, in Pittsburgh,
to Isaac and Mary (Weaver) Soawash. Her father was born in Westmoreland
County, Penn., and her mother was a daughter of John W. Weaver, a min-
ister of the Lutheran organization, a native of Germany, and who preached
his last sermon at the age of eighty- four years and while sitting in a chair.
Mrs. Bagnall came with her father and brother, William, to Mercer County,
922
HISTOBY OF MEBCER COUNTY.
when eleven years old, in the spring of 1826. They slept first in the county
at the Junkin Mills, and the second night in a log cabin on his farm in Lack-
awannock Township. On arriving at the cabin in the evening Mrs. Bagnall
says they found it to be a log structure with roof, but no floor or windows. They
crept under the bottom log, and with brush prepared a bed for the night. Mrs.
Bagnall, then a very young cook, arranged the kettle on a pole laid in forks,
and made coffee and prepared a supper. Soon after Mr. Soawash constructed
a better house. He worked some days for Mr. Robert Fruit, and while his
little daughter was attending to the household duties, and alone in the woods,
wild hogs surrounded the cabin, and she climbed upon the joists for safety, and
hurled stones at them, driving them away. One season she stacked nine stacks
of hay, thus helping her husband to get a start in life. Mrs. Bagnall says she
walked four miles to hear the Rev. Tait preach. In August, 1826, Mr.
Soawash with his two children went for the remainder of the family. They
soon returned to Mercer County. The family then consisted of father, mother
and children: William, Eliza, Frederick, Susannah, Hannah, Mary, Margaret,
Catharine. Another, Caroline, was born in this county. Mr. Soawash was
a soldier in the War of 1812, having served under William H. Harrison. Mr.
and Mrs. Bagnall when married came to the farm where they now reside, and
began keeping house in a cabin 16x16 feet. They subsequently built a better
residence. By economy and hard labor they have secured a large competence
to sustain them in their old age. Their children are Beriah S., Mary J.,
Elizabeth (married William Arbuckle), Christian (married Henry Allison), Isis
(deceased), Susan (deceased), Isaac W., John W. and James A. William
Bagnall has been a member of the church fifty-five years, and his wife since a
small girl. They are now members of the Second Presbyterian Church of
Mercer.
Thomas Bagnall, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born February 9, 1826,
in England, to Thomas, born October 25, 1785, same country, who married
Ann Hudson, born January 16, 1782. Their children were: George, William,
Mary, Sarah, Jane, Thomas. The entire family came to Mercer County from
England in 1829, and settled permanently on the farm where our subject now
lives. Here the father died March 18, 1850, and the mother January 3, 1852,
both in the Methodist faith. Our subject attended the country schools and was
brought up on the farm. He began for himself in 1850, and was married Sep-
tember 9, 1849, to Mary Cozins, born April 9, 1825, to Frederick and Mary
(Yocum) Cozins, natives of Philadelphia, and the parents of Rebecca, John,
Catharine, Sarah, Jacob, John, Abram, Mary. Her father was one of the
original members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer. Mr. and Mrs.
Bagnall had eight children: Thomas M. , married Susan Anderson, lives in
Michigan; Benton, married Mary Duncan; Jane, married John Nicklin; Fre-
mont, died February 14, 1864; Alcott, died March 3, 1859; Lucinda, born
November 19, 1861, married Lewis Patterson, a teacher at Cadillac, Mich;
Fremont (2), born February 29, 1864, died February 5, 1881, in the West,
whither he had gone seeking his health, and his body was brought home by
his father and mother and buried; Chandler, born April 3, 1868. In I860
Mr. and Mrs. Bagnall took charge of the agricultural department of the
Manual Labor School at Amherst, N. H. , but owing to the lack of funds the
institution suspended, and they returned to their farm in 1861. He has served
as school director; was at one time a member of the I. O. O. F., and was secre-
tary of Mercer Grange Lodge, once in existence in Mercer, Penn. He is a
Republican.
F. C. Bagnall, farmer and justice of the peace, post-office Kile, was born
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
923
October 24, 1842, in Jefferson Township. He is a son of George Bagnall, born
September 1,*1808, in England, and Rebecca Cozins, born April 14, 1811, in
Philadelphia. Mention of the Bagnall and Cozins families is to be found else-
where. George and Rebecca have three children: F. C. ; Mary, married
George Bowles, and Thomas H. They are members of the Presbyterian
Church. F. C. Bagnall was educated in the common schools. He enlisted in
Company H, Fifth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, at its organization, and was
mustered out with it at the close of the Rebellion. On his return from the war
he resumed farming, and was married in 1871 to Doratha Ann Zahniser,
daughter of Samuel T. Zahniser. She was born May 7, 1851, and they have
two children, Samuel W. and Edith R. He owns two good farms. He was
elected justice of the peace in 1888, and is a Republican. His wife is a con-
sistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Big Bend.
Jesse Beringer, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 9, 1850, in
Venango County, to George Beringer, born in Indiana County, and Margaret
E. Davis, a native of Cambria County. The parents settled in Franklin soon
after marriage, where George engaged in teaming, chopping cord wood and
various other labors. He is now among the wealthy men of Venango' County.
He was offered at one time $80,000 for his farm. He had twelve children:
John, deceased; James, killed in a coal bank; Elizabeth, married James
Shiner; George W. ; William, crippled in a coal bank and died three weeks
later; David; Samuel, died in a hospital during the war; Mary A., deceased;
Sarah C., married David Hoves; Jesse; Margaret, deceased; Martha M. , mar-
ried John Henderson. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and
was married the 8th of February, 1872, to Hattie Layton, born February 11,
1855, in Butler County to Thomas and Mary (Vernum) Layton, natives, the
former of Washington and the latter of Butler County. They were the
parents of twelve children: Hollister; Nancy J. ; Margaret, married John Mc-
Nerney; Harriet; Martin; Elizabeth, married Washington Kelley; Elmer,
James, William, Clara, Della and Bertha. Jesse Beringer came to Mercer
County in 1877, and farmed in East Lackawannock Township till 1879, when
he moved to his present residence. He owns 227 acres of good land. His
children are Thomas G. , Anna V., William L. He is a Democrat.
Andrew Brest, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born August 1, 1823, in a
portion of Mercer County which is now attached to Lawrence County. His
father, Andrew, was born in 1791, and came to Lawrence County when a child
with his parents, David and Catharine (Wise) Brest, from Washington County,
Penn. David and Catharine had three children: John, died with the dropsy;
Elizabeth, married Henry Richel, and Andrew. Catharine (Wise) Brest was a
well-known herb doctor during her early residence in this county. Andrew'
Brest, Sr., married Mary Rodgers, a native of Mercer County, and by her he
had David, Nathaniel, Elizabeth, John, Andrew, William, George, Cath-
arine, Washington, who was killed at the battle of Gettysbirrg, and is buried
there; James and Alexander. The latter was poisoned when small by tea made
from steaming an old pipe by a doctor named Cribble, who prescribed the tea
to force a vomit. William was scalded to death by falling into a kettle of
water. Andrew, Sr., died in 1870, and his wife in 1882; both were members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject was educated in Springfield
Township, and at the age of sixteen years began working for himself by the
day at from 25 cents to 50 cents. He bought his first piece of land in 1846,
and in 1862 he moved to Jefferson Township. He was married August 29,
1844, to Jane Roberts, daughter of Rev. David Roberts, born October 17,
1791, and died October 18, 1879, and was a distinguished minister of the
924
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Methodist Episcopal organization in New Castle and surrounding neighborhood
for over forty years. He married Rebecca (McChesney), who bore him Sarah,
Jane, Susannah, William, Moses, Enoch, David, Mary, James, Rebecca, Har-
riet, Robert and Watson. Mr. and Mrs. Brest had Mary J., born July 23,
1846, who married William A. Noble, who died in the war; infant, born Au-
gust 11, 1848, died soon; John Z., born January 21, 1850, entered the war
at the age of fourteen years and died with the measles; Sarah R., born
January 14, 1852, died August 10, 1854; Jasper N., born May 15, 1854; Will-
iam W., born July 6, 1856, died November 14, 1859; Jasper N., married Sarah
Gilson, of Hickory Township, and has two children, Isabella and Milroy E.
Mr. Brest united with the Methodist Church when young, and has been class-
leader and steward in the same, and his wife has been a member of said church
since the age of fifteen. Andrew Brest enlisted in Company E, Fifty-sixth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, as did also his brothers, Washington and James.
His brother John was confined in Libby Prison for nearly three years.
Nathaniel was also in the war, as were also David W. and Frank, the sons of
David Brest. Mr. and Mrs. Brest have reared John L. Young from the age of
five years, and Della Layman, taking the latter from the industrial schools of
Cleveland. He is a Republican.
H. A. Broadbent, county treasurer, post-office Mercer, was born January
1, 1844, in Worcester County, Mass., to Ammon and Elmira (Wadsworth)
Broadbent. Ammon was a native of England, and came with his parents,
Ammon and Martha (Briley) Broadbent, to America when he was ten years
old. Our subject was educated in the common schools of Oneida County. N.
Y. , and at IJtica, N. Y. He was engaged with his father in a woolen factory
in Jefferson Township, when he was elected county treasurer, in 1887. The
family came to Mercer County in 3857. He enlisted in Company B, Fifty-
fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia, re-enlisted in the Two Hundred and
Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served with the Fifth Heavy Artillery.
He was married in October, 1865, to Miss Maggie Anderson, daughter of
William Anderson, of Jefferson Township. This marriage resulted in five
children: William W. and Joseph (both type-setters in the Dispatch Repub-
lican office, Mercer), Jesse F., Harry A., Anna J. Our subject has served
as justice of the peace and school director. He is a member of Mercer
Post, G. A. R. , and is a stanch Republican. He and wife are members of the
Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
John Clark (deceased) was born in 1817 in County Tyrone, Ireland, and
came to Pittsburgh about 1850, and in 1854 he brought his family to Mercer
County. They lived for a number of years in Lackawannock Township. In
1864 they moved to the farm where the family reside, in Jefferson Township.
Here John Clark died, on June 25, 1876. He married Mary McWilliams, a
native of Ireland, who blessed him with nine children: John, died in Pitts-
burgh; Jane, married Isaac W. Bagnall; Margaret, taught school a number
of years, and became the first wife of R. M. Smith; Mary, deceased; Eliza-
beth A., married William H. Womer; Thomas A., deceased; Rachel, John
W. and Charles C. Mr. Clark’s family belongs to the First Presbyterian
Church at Mercer (Charles excepted). John Clark taught school in Ireland
and in Mercer County. His estimable widow resides with her sons, John W.
Charles C., and daughter Rachel, on the home place, known as the “Old Law”
farm, consisting of 125 acres. The father was assessor and school director.
John W. Clark was elected constable of Jefferson Township in 1887, by a
majority of thirty, and collector by twenty-four. In 1888 he received forty-
eight majority for the same offices. In June, 1887, he was appointed school
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
925
treasurer, and still serves. The Clark brothers are Democrats, and enterpris-
ing young men, and the family is one of the most respected in the community
where they live.
Henry Davis, farmer, post-office Clark, was born June 17, 1824, in what is
now Lawrence County, to Adam and Elizabeth (Steiner) Davis, natives of West-
moreland County. They came to Lawrence County about 1818. The father
died at Big Bend in 1866, and his widow still lives, and blessed her husband
with Kate, John, Henry, Susannah, Joseph, Nancy and Hannah. The parents
were Free Will Baptists. Henry Davis was educated in the country log cabin,
and learned carpentering. He was married February 5, 1846, to Lucy, daugh-
ter of Francis and Mary C. (Davis) Brazee (no connection). Her parents
were natives of Connecticut, and settled in Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1838.
She was born November 10, 1827. Mr. Davis settled on his present farm
March 8, 1864, and now owns eighty acres, through a portion of which the old
canal passes. He bought the canal-boat “Compromise,” and operated it for
a number of years transporting lumber, coal, pig iron, tan-bark, etc., to Pitts
burgh and Erie. He and wife are Free Methodists of Jefferson Hall. He is a
Republican. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Davis are: Lewis A., -married
Mary Young, and has had Clyde, Birt (deceased), Lillian (deceased). May, Vic-
tor, Glenn, Clifford, Olive; Francis A., married Sarah DeGarmo, children, John
W., Jennie, James (deceased), Washington, Harriet and Lizzie; Theodore P.,
married Jane McIntyre, children, Thomas and an infant; Mary E. , married
T. P. Seidle; Alfred, married Ida Fisher, children, Eddie, Charles, Mack,
Pearl and Walter; Robert, married Susannah Uber, children, Mont, Blanche,
Gladdis, Jesse; Hannah, married Mathias Adams, children. William, Callie,
Birt, Fred, Oren (deceased) and Harry; Charles, married Hannah Uber, one
child, Harry; Lucinda J. , married William Hinckston, children. Myrtle
Maud, Hiram; Levi B. , deceased; John M. and Isophenia.
James Forsythe, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born April 21, 1811, in
County Antrim, Ireland, to John and Rose (Hamilton) Forsythe, the parents
of John, James, Jane, Sarah, Andrew and Ann. Only Ann, Andrew and
James came to America. Ann married Samuel Fyffe, and Andrew is dead.
James received his education in his native county. Here he began very poor,
by working out by the day at as low as 50 cents. He finally became able
to buy twenty acres, on which he erected a log cabin and lived two years
before he married Jane Hutchison, a sister of William Hutchison, of East
Lackawannock. He brought his wife to his log cabin, where they lived for
five years. He now owns 200 acres, of which he is the artificer. His only
son, John, married Lizzie Treffinger, of Pittsburgh, and has two children,
James H. and Margaret. He farms the place for his father. Mr. and Mrs.
Forsythe are members of the Second United Presbyterian Church at Mercer.
He is a Democrat, and contents himself in his old age by reading the Western
Press, Pittsburgh Post and the Ohio Farmer.
Thomas Fruit, deceased, was born in 1800, in Northumberland County,
Penn., and came to this county with his parents, Richard and Sarah (Wilson)
Fruit, when quite small, and the family settled on land now owned by the Fruit
heirs. Here Richard and Sarah died, he in 1822, she in 1844, and were the
parents of Robert, Elizabeth, Catharine, Thomas, William and John. They
were Presbyterians. Thomas Fruit was married in 1826 to Anna Campbell,
the daughter of Edward and Margaret (Satterfield) Campbell, the parents of
William, Margaret, Eliza, James, Anna, Mary and Jane. Mr. and Mrs.
Campbell were Presbyterians, and he was a justice of the peace for many
years. Thomas Fruit was blessed by his union with six children; Wilson,
54
926
HISTOKY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
died small; Mary, Lizzie, Wort; Edward, died small, and James S. William
Fruit, a brother of Thomas, shipped the first boat-load of coal over the canal
to Erie. Thomas Fruit died March 26, 1852, and his wife January 27, 1888.
WoKT Fruit was born January 15, 1837, on the farm where he now lives.
He was brought up on the farm, and married Anna B. Jamison, daughter of
William and Matilda Jamison, and by her he has had two children; Anna,
died when quite small, and Seth T. Mr. Fruit and his sisters own the old
homestead of 400 acres. He has been school director a number of years, and
is a Eepublican. His estimable wife is a consistent member of the United
Presbyterian Church at Clarksville.
Edward C. Fruit, farmer, post-office Hill, was born October 9, 1822, on
the farm where Frank Fruit now lives. He is a son of Robert Fruit and a
grandson of Richard and Sarah (Wilson) Fruit. Robert was born in Union
County, and Sarah Wilson in Eastern Pennsylvania. The children of Richard
and Sarah were Robert, Elizabeth, Thomas, Catharine, William, John.
Robert Fruit was educated in one of the pioneer log cabins described in this
book. He married Margaret Campbell, born in 1801 and died March 1, 1866.
Robert was born in 1795 and died November 25, 1879. Their children were:
Edward C., Sarah, Richard, Enoch, Jane, Frank A., Margaret, Harriet, Mar-
tha, John, Caroline and Maria. Robert Fruit was once poor director. He
began for himself poor, and owned at his death over 600 acres in Jefferson and
Delaware Townships, also a grist mill. He was a Whig and Republican. Our
subject attended the country schools of his boyhood. From 1865 to 1872 he
clerked for Gundy & Peters, Gundy & Persh, Charleston, and Enoch, his
brother, at Clarksville. He was married November 28, 1856, to Kate Garner,
daughter of Jacob Garner, born in 1799, and Elizabeth (Louck) Garner, born
February 19, 1802, and the parents of Henry, AnnaM. , Elizabeth, Kate, Jacob,
J. L., George, William, John, Sarah E. He has by her Jessie, married John
Magargee, and Robert E. He was once elected a justice of the peace, but did
not qualify. He was school director for seven years, assessor, and for two
years a director of schools at Clarksville. He was a member of I. O. O. F. at
Mercer, a charter member of same at Charleston, Clarksville and Hamburg,
and was once an A. F. & A. M. He is a Republican, a representative citizen,
and owns 117 acres of well-improved land.
Stephen Horne, farmer and blacksmith, post-office Mercer, was born January
8, 1821, in Delaware County, Penn., to William D. , born in the same county
December 22. 1777, and Sarah (Pyle) Horne, born in same place July 5, 1785.
The family came to Neshannock Township, now Lawrence County, in 1824,
and there the father died April 2, 1862, and the mother August 12, 1872;
They were Friends in religious belief, and had Edward, Hannah, Hiram,
Eliza, Ann and Stephen. Stephen was educated in Lawrence County. At the
age of sixteen he began learning the blacksmith trade with his brother-in-law,
James McConahay, at New Castle, where he remained three years. He then
worked at various places until 1845, when he formed a partnership with Jacob
Shaffer, of Mercer, which continued until 1847. He then conducted the busi-
ness by himself until 1851, when he farmed and followed smithing in Lawrence
County. In 1862 he located at Big Bend, where he followed his trade and
farmed. In 1873 became to his present farm, and the following year removed
to Mercer. In 1875 he bought forty- one acres where he now lives, and has
since farmed and conducted his blacksmith shop. He was married in 1843 to
Elizabeth Boyd, who died February 5, 1858, leaving three children : Henrietta,
married William Forbes and lives in Pueblo, Colo.; William H. , married Clara
Wade, and resides on a farm near Morning Sun, Iowa; Helen, married
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
927
N. W. McKay, aud lives iu Wapello, Iowa. He was married again, to Mary
A. Gross, daughter of Henry and Catharine Fair, and the widow of John
Gi’oss. By her he has Hannah, a teacher; Stella, married William McCullough;
Ida, married Newman Cozad; Crissie, Edith and Charles. The present Mrs.
Horne was born December 15, 1833, in York County, Penn., and mar-
ried John Gross, by whom she had one child, Matilda. Her father, Henry
Fair, was born in Berks County, came to Lawrence County in 1850, and died
in Mercer County October ‘25, 1873, in the Lutheran faith. His widow lives
with her daughter, Mrs. Horne, and was the mother of Philip, Mary, Hannah,
Sarah, Elizabeth, Christiana, William and John. Mr. and Mrs. Horne are
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Big Bend, and he is a
Republican.
James H. McDowell (deceased). By the decree of the immutable laws of
nature. Death wielded his sceptre and took from the midst of a dutiful wife
and obedient children one of the most venerated and esteemed citizens of Jef-
ferson Township, James McDowell, who departed this life on September 15,
1888, with the honors of a well spent life around him, and the tender, minis-
trations of friends and relatives to comfort his last moments. The deceased
had been in failing health for a few years prior to his death, the principal af-
fection being the failure of the eyesight, which necessitated his close con-
finement to the house, which, because of his indomitable will to be doing some-
thing, was very trying to him. He had, however, a wonderful degree of vital-
ity and strength even to the last, and the active business and farm life he led
since he attained manhood brought him in contact with many people, and a
certain frankness and unaffected courtesy of manner made friends of all with
whom he transacted business or exchanged civilities. In this volume will be
found a portrait of the worthy deceased, which speaks more for his personal
traits than any amount of language that might be framed together. He was
born September 10, 1810, in Pymatuning Township. His parents, Robert and
Jane (Lodge) McDowell, were natives of Westmoreland County, Penn., and
who settled at an early period where their son, James, was born. During
James’ boyhood days he had the advantage of only two weeks at the old log
cabin school-house, for which he paid a small tuition. By securing good
books and studying at spare moments, he acquired a fair business education,
such as warranted his neighbors to solicit his service in public office, which
he, however, refused, because of a pressure of farm duties. He early learned
the arduous trade of a stone cutter, and followed that for many years. He
finally bought a farm in the woods, and went through the various hardships
that go to make up the life of the pioneers. By careful attention to his duties,
strict economy and frugal dealings, he accumulated -a large amount of personal
property, together with a farm of 230 acres, which he brought into a high state
of cultivation, before receiving his last summons. The family can pride them-
selves that he and his estimable consort were the artificers of all they possessed,
for they began their matrimonial career with but little else than willing hearts
and strong hands. Early in life he identified himself with the Presbyterian
Church, and the living of a life of an earnest Christian, added to his natural
inclinations, made him one of the best of citizens, the kindest of husbands and
a cherished father. He was married in 1834 to Miss Fannie, daughter of
Joseph and Mary (Smith) Byerly, natives of Westmoreland County, Penn.,
and early residents of Pymatuning Township. The result of this union was
the following children: George, married Rebecca Columbus; Joseph, married
Alice Carr; Mary A. married Daniel Hay ; Jane, married James Branaugh; Julia,
married Ferdinand Vansicklin, a merchant of Brooklyn, N. Y. ; James C., mar-
928
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ried Sallie Holstein, and Emma, married Hiram W. Hoagland. In politics
tlie deceased was an earnest Democrat.
Samuel T. McCullough, farmer, post-office Hill, was born March 3, 1827,
in East Lackawannock Township, and is a brother of F. S. McCullough. He
was educated in the country schools and the Mercer Academy; his teachers
in the latter being Samuel Griffith, Geoi’ge W. Zahniser and others. He was
married, in 1859, to Martha Carpenter, daughter of Thomas Carpenter and Jane
(Hunter) Carpenter, the parents of James, Joseph, John P. , Martha and Sarah.
Mrs. McCullough died July 27, 1871, a member of the Pi-esbyterian Church,
and the mother of Mary A., Flora J. , Robert F. and Alonzo S. He was mar-
ried again, to Elizabeth Bean, of Delaware Township. When a boy Mr.
McCullough came to the farm where he now lives, the gift of his father, and
has experienced the hardships that go to make up the life of the pioneer. He
is serving his third term as school director, and he and family are Presbyte-
rians.
F. S. McCullough, farmer, post-office Hill, was born September 19, 1820,
' in Lackawannock Township, on the farm where Alexander McCullough now
lives. ^ He is a son of Alexander and Eleanor (Smith) McCullough. Our sub-
ject was educated in the common schools, and by Rev. « Geo. W. Zahniser in
Mercer. In 1844 he began in the wild woods on the farm where he now lives,
erecting a cabin 16x16 feet out of round logs. He and his brother, Samuel T. ,
“ batched” until 1847, when on August 27 of that year our subject was mar-
ried to Louisa Bean, of Hempfield Township. He brought his bride to this
cabin, and subsequently built a commodious house, which he has recently
i-epaired, making a beautiful residence. He has owned 400 acres, a portion of
which he has divided between his sons. His children are: Mary E., Susan E.,
married Thomas H. Miles; James A., married Clara Miles; Samuel F. ;
Jennie M. ; William I., married Emily Dickson. Mr. McCullough owns a saw-
mill now located in Delaware Township, and his sons have run a threshing
machine for sixteen years. He and wife and children are members of the
Presbyterian Church of Clarksville, in which he has been an elder for twenty
years. He is a Republican.
Thomas Ray, farmer, post-office Hill, was born November 23, 1823, in
County Down, Ireland, to John and Eliza (Hurley) Ray, the parents of John,
George, Thomas, James, William and Jane. George Ray came to Hope
Valley, Rhode Island, in 1848, and was for four years manager of a weaving
establishment owned by a man by the name of Darling. In 1852 he hired to
Gen. James, of Providence, to superintend a weaving shop in Reading, Penn.
Eight years later he went into a machine shop at the same place. Our subject
came from his native country in 1850 to where his brother was in Rhode Island,
and was employed in a cotton machine shop for three years. He then came to
the home of his uncle, Thomas Ray, of Butler County, and worked one year
on his farm. In 1854 he settled in Mercer County, and rented a farm of Will-
iam Gordon, of Lackawannock Township, for three years. The next two years
he was on the farm of Robert Gallagher, of Shenango Township. He spent
the six subsequent years on the farm of a Mr. Thompson, which was composed
of 300 acres. At the close of this period he bought a house and lot in W est
Middlesex, and was there engaged in dealing in cattle for six years. In 1870
he bought a farm in Lackawannock Township, which he traded in 1883 to
Kimmell for his present farm. He was married in 1845 to Margaret Boal, of
Ireland, and has Eliza, married John Boals; John, married Emma C. Trout-
man, and is the present postmaster of Hill; Thomas, deceased; Sarah, de-
ceased; George; William G. , deceased; Sadie, married W. P. Morrow: Susan
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
929
M., married Z. S. Dunlap; James, attending Grove City College; Maggie,
married William Lesher, a carpenter of Sharon. Mr. Ray is now an elder in
the United Presbyterian Church of Sharon, and is a Democrat.
Abner L. Reno, farmer, post-office Hill, was born September 13, 1832, in
Beaver County, to Jesse and Elizabeth (Bebont) Reno, natives, the former of
Beaver and the latter of Washington County. The parents came to Mercer
County in the fall of 1836, and settled on a farm in Jefferson Township, yet owned
by the heirs. They moved to Lawrence County in 1879, where the father died*
December 31, 1880. His widow resides with her daughter, Mrs. Addie E.
McNish. They had Abner L., Henry B., Frank A., Kate J., Anna L. , John
L., Perry A., principal of a university at Mitchell, Dakota; Luella, Addie
and Rebecca M. The father established a tannery in Jefferson Township in
1813, and operated it for twelve years. He and wife were Methodists. Abner
L. Reno attended the common schools, and spent two terms at Beaver College,
Beaver, Penn. He was engineer at the Clay Furnace for eight years, and at
Youngstown, Ohio, some time. He went to California in 1853, in company
W. W. Williamson, Moses Blank, William and Harry Ash, making the trip
from Saint Joe, Mo., by ox team. He returned in 1855, and March IT, 1856,
was married to Margaret C. Davis, born October 28, 1836, near Painesville,
Ohio, a daughter of Carson Davis, born March 28, 1809, in Armstrong County,
Penn. , to Ebenezer and Mary (Moore) Davis, natives of New Jersey. Mr. Davis’
parents had James, Nancy, Carson, Rachel and Ebenezer. Carson Davis was
married to Harriet Carman, of Meadville, December 1, 1831. This marriage
resulted in five children: Emeline, Margaret C., William, George H. and
Albert. Mr. Davis engaged, after his marriage, in moulding at a furnace in
Ohio, and seven years later he was employed at the same in Meadville. In
1841 he went to Erie, and moulded until 1845, when he was transferred to
the Clay Furnace, in Jefferson Township, which was erected that year by
David Himrod and B. B. Vincent. He acted as their foreman until 1858.
In 1859 he was employed by the above firm in Youngstown, Ohio. He retired
principally in 1870, having lost the sight of one eye that year, and in 1877 he
lost the sight of the other. His wife died March 25, 186l, a member of the
Presbyterian Church. He now resides with his daughter, Mrs. Reno, the
mother of three boys: Charles C., George L. and Wilbur H.
Ralph M. Smith, farmer and stock raiser, post-office Mercer, was born July
18, 1848, in Cool Spring Township. His father, Richard W. Smith, was born
in England February 20, 1816, to Richard and Phoebe (Wooduff) Smith,
natives of England. The family, consisting of father, mother and eleven
children, John, Mary, Elizabeth, Phoebe, Richard W., Samuel, William,
Ellen, George, Ann and Jane, came to America in 1831, and settled in Mer-
cer, where the father engaged in butchering for twelve years, and also bought
and sold wool. He bought eight acres where William Fry lives, and there he
died about 1839, and is buried in the old Mercer graveyard; his wife died at
the home of her daughter, Elizabeth Livingston, in Illinois, in 1865 ; she was
a Baptist. Richard attended the common schools, and some time at Mercer
Academy, his teachers being Levi Arnold and others. His class-mates were
such men as J. H. Wright and George W. Zahniser. Mr. Smith has, however,
taken a deep interest in buying and reading books, theology, history, etc.
He learned chair making, wheel-wrighting, spinning wheels and painting with
James McKean. He was married, 1835, to Elizabeth Johnston, a sister of the
‘ ‘ twin J ohnston girls, ’ ’ who died in Cool Spring Township suddenly, and within
an hour. In 1836 he moved to Franklin, and engaged in chair making, house
and carnage painting; he remained nearly four years. In 1840 he moved to
930
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mercer County, and bought and cleared forty acres of land in Cool Spring
Township. In 1859 he sold this, and bought where William Nickol lives, and
there he lived about sixteen years, and followed butchering, in connection with
his farming, for thirteen years. He then sold that, and bought twenty-iive
acres where he now lives, where he has remained since. He has had ten chil-
dren, five of whom grew up: Samuel, Richard, George H. , Ralph M. ; Lucy,
married Albert Merchant. Mr. Smith has held township offices, and seven
years as school director, and in 1865 was elected county commissioner, and
two months from the time he entered upon official duty the court-house was
burned, and he took an active interest in building the present court-house; he
was also commissioner when the jail was constructed. He was once an Odd
Fellow. He has been a member of the agricultural society. He is a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church; joined that organization when seventeen
years old. He was an early advocate of free soilism, and when the Republi-
can party came into existence he was among its earliest supporters. He
started poor, and has owned considerable property.
Henry Steingeebe, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born August 8, 1826,
in Hanover, Germany, to Henry and Christina (Brummer) Steingrebe, the
parents of Earnest, Charles, Henry, and two who died small. Henry was
educated in his native country, and, because of the death of his father when he
was but twelve years old, he was compelled to work with Frederick Stein-
grebe until he was eighteen years old, when he was employed as a laborer
on an 800-acre farm for ten years. He received for the first two years $18
per year, and for the next five years he got $36 per year, and the remaining
three years he was driving the government hack for the proprietor of the
farm, who had the contract to carry the mail and was allowed to carry pas-
sengers. For these years he got $45 yearly. In 1854 he, with his wife,
whose name was Cena Heisterman, came to West Virginia. In the fall of
1854 they came to Jefferson Township, and lived with Henry Wagner. In
1868 he and Mr. Wagner bought a tract of land, which they subsequently
divided, and of which Mr. Steingrebe got seventy- four acres. By economy
and hard labor he has earned considerable property. He was numbered in
the last draft, but owing to the close of the war did not respond. His chil-
di'en are Charles, Lewis, William, Henry, Hannah, married David Anderson.
His son Lewis lost one leg while working in a saw-mill, and is an agent for
various farm implements and reapers, and is the present assessor of Jefferson
Township, having been elected to that important office in 1888. Mr. and
Mrs. Steingrebe are Lutherans and he is a Democrat.
Samuel Steister, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born about 1816, in Union
County, Penn. He is one of ten children: Susan, Betsey, Valentine, Jacob,
John, Levi, Ann, Catharine, Sophia, Samuel. The father of the above was
Barnhart Steister. Samuel Steister attended the log cabin schools in Mercer
County a short time. He began learning the blacksmith trade at the age of
eighteen years with John Moyer, in Union County, which business he fol-
lowed for nine years. He was married in 1841, to Mary A. Ross, a native of
Sandy Lake Township, and the daughter of David and Elizabeth (Fowler)
Ross, the parents of Abigail, Mary A., Elizabeth, Sarah J. , David, Ellen.
Mr. and Mrs. Steister have five children: Lizzie, married William Wright;
AVilliam, married Lizzie Wright; John, died in a hospital while in the service
of his country; Samuel, and Levi, deceased. Mr. Steister resides on thirty -eight
acres of well improved land which is owned and cultivated by his son Samuel,
who is growing berries with good success. Our subject and his son are Re-
publicans.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
931
Samuel T. Zahnisek, farmer, post-office Hill, wasborn August 1, 1821, on the
farm which he now owns, son of Mathias Zahniser, born in W estmoreland County,
Penn. , and came to Cool Spring Township when about twenty-four years old. He
married, in Cool Spring Township, Doratha A. Fry, and by her had eleven
children: John and Michael, dead; Polly, married Jonathan Young; Mathias;
Hannah, married James Young; David; Julia, married James Anderson; Jacob;
Samuel; Susan, married Adam Merchant; Catharine. The father was road
supervisor, and was once an elder in the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
His wife was also a member of the same church. The subject’s father gave
each of the boys, except Samuel, the value of 100 acres of land, and our sub-
ject was to have the old home place, he to maintain his parents. Samuel
was educated in a log cabin school-house, and was married January 16, 1844,
to Mary W. Walker, born May 15, 1819, a daughter of Andrew and Esther
Walker, by whom he had nine children: Jane, Jeremiah, Dorotha, George,
Sophia, Albert, and three others who died small. His wife died December 5,
1887, and was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Charles-
ton. Our subject has been township supervisor. He is a farmer, and has been a
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church thirty-three years. He has always
been a Democrat, and has taken the Western Press for forty-six years. Mrs.
Zahniser was blind for twenty-five years before her death. On December 3,
she went from the home of her daughter, Mrs. James E. Nelson, to her own
home, and on the fifth day following, as she was sitting on a chair knitting,
the needles fell from her hands and her eyes were opened in the world beyond
where there is no blindness.
Amos Zahniser, farmer, post-office Hill, was born January 17, 1837, in
Jeiferson Township, and is a brother of Josiah, whose sketch appears else-
where. He was educated in the common schools. He was married September
17, 1861, to Hannah Blackstone, daughter of James and Nancy (Waugh)
Blackstone, the parents of Thomas, Samuel, John and Hannah. Her father
died in 1865, and her mother in 1871, both Presbyterians. Her father was
once county collector. Mrs. Zahniser was born July 20, 1835, and at mar-
riage settled with her husband in a log cabin on the farm of 160 acres where
they now live, 100 acres of which were given him by his father. Mr. and Mrs.
Zahniser have, Nannie A., dead; John E. , Lizzie M., Frank W., Thomas M.,
Montrose, and an infant, died small. He has been justice of the peace for
five years, and assessor, school director and road commissioner. He was a lead-
ing member of the Grange Lodge once in existence in the township. He and
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Charleston, and he is
a stanch Eepublican.
Josiah Zahniser, farmer, post-office Hill, was born December 10, 1841, in
the house where he now lives, to John and Mary A. (Bernhard) Zahniser,
natives, the father of Cool Spring Township and the mother of West Salem.
They were the parents of Dollie A. Levina, married Cornelius Shaffer; Levi,
dead; Elizabeth, married Eichard Fruit; Amos, John A., Mary A. and Josiah.
The father died September 15, 1869, and the mother February 14, 1882; they
were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Charleston. Josiah re-
ceived his education in the common schools, and has always been a farmer.
He was drafted for the late war, and insisted on going, but his father, rather
than give up his only son then at home, hired a substitute. He was married
February 25, 1868, to Mary J. Broadbent, a sister of H. A. Broadbent, county
treasurer, and has by her Ammon, Ella M., Ida J., Willis H., Verne W. and
Herbert. He settled at marriage on a portion of the old homestead. He and
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is a stanch
932
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Republican. An extensive history of the Zahnisers appears among the Jackson
Township biographies.
D. N. Zahnisee, farmer, post-office Hill, was born April 16, 1856, in
Jefferson Township, to David and Rachel (Tice) Zahniser. David was a brother
of Samuel T. Zahniser, whose sketch appears elsewhere. Rachel was born in
Canada, and came to America with her parents many years ago. The children
of David and Rachel were Catharine, Jacob L., M. R. , lives in Sharpsville;
F. T., lives in Mercer County, 111. ; H. N. , lives near Greenville; A. J. , farm-
ing on the old place; D. N. The father died in 1878, and his widow in
1883. The latter was a Methodist. Our subject was educated in the common
schools, and brought up on a farm. He kept a grocery store at Charleston for
about eighteen months. He was married May 1, 1884, to Chloe Weller,
daughter of Samuel and Lizzie (Womer) Weller. Her mother is a sister of
Rev. John C. Womer, who preached in this county, but is now located at
Wampum, Penn., in charge of a Methodist Episcopal congregation. The
parents of Mrs. Zahniser had Chloe, T. G., J. C. , Liola, Effie, Roy and
Willie. By his marriage our subject has one child, Frank Logan. He owns
125 acres of good land and a house and lot in Charleston. He has served
as assessor two terms, road commissioner two terms, and in 1887 was elected
a justice of the peace by 100 majority. He is an I. 0.0. F. at Greenfield,
a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Big Bend, and a stanch
Republican.
S. ALEXANDER, farmer, post-office Indian Run, was born January 26,
, 1850, in Findley Township, and is a son of ex- Commissioner M. W.
Alexander, whose sketch appears elsewhere. He was educated in the common
schools, and has always been a farmer. He was married February 11, 1872,
to Anna M. Eats, daughter of George and Nancy (Miller) Eats, and is one of four
children: Mary, married J. J. Covert; Anna M. , George A., engaged in the liv-
ery business at Grove City, and Lydia, married I. V. Covert, of Grove City.
Mr. Alexander has by his marriage five children: Harry E., Robert M. , Celia
J. , William M. and John H. He settled on his farm of sixty- three acres,
known as the Daniel Nelson farm, in 1881. He was a delegate to the State
convention which nominated Judge Williams and William B. Hart. He and
wife are members of the Second IJnited Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and
he is one of the progressive farmers and enthusiastic Republicans of the
W. N. A RBUCKLE, farmer, post-office Balm, was born December 11, 1835,
in Hickory Township. His father, Joseph, was born in Berks County, Penn.,
and married Eliza Moore, a daughter of John Moore, an early settler of Hick-
ory Township, and who is mentioned in another part of this work. Joseph
Arbuckle died in Shenango Township in 1871, his wife had died on her way
home from a visit to a neighbor’s in November, 1856. They were buried in
CHAPTER XXXVI.
BIOGRAPHIES OF SPRINGFIELD AND FINDLEY.
SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP.
county.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
933
the Clarksville cemetery, and had ten children: Isabella, Culbertson, John,
Rebecca, James, William N. , Elizabeth, Maria, Harriet and Joseph S. , who, in
his seventeenth year, enlisted in the Fifty-seventh Regiment of Pennsylvania
Volunteers. The father was a stone and brick-mason. He walked from his
native locality to this county, carrying all he had on his back. He said ‘ ‘ that
when he arrived he found his feet were blistered.” He did his first mason
work in this county for a Mr. Pearson, it being the old stone woolen-mill which
stood on the site of the “Broadbent Woolen Mills,” in Jefferson Township.
He also built a furnace for John and Joseph McClure at Sharpsville. Our
subject was educated in the country schools, and was married February 23,
1860, to Elizabeth Bagnall, daughter of William Bagnall, of Jefferson Town-
ship, whose sketch appears in this work. She was born October 20, 1841.
Mr. Arbuckle was drafted in the first draft made on Mercer County, served a
short time, and then hired a substitute, and in the second draft he was called
upon again. He paid his fine, and after having secured a little home for his
family he enlisted in Company H, Fifth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, and
served until the close of the war, and is a sufferer from the effects of that serv-
ice in the cause of his country. On his return from the war he resumed
farming, and subsequently engaged in the real estate business with W. J.
McKean, of Mercer. In 1873 they bought their present farm in Springfield
Township, where they have since remained. Their marriage has given them
five children: Minnie A., married J. M. Vanhorn, a carriage manufacturer.
Balm, Penn. ; William P., attended the common schools, and graduated at
Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio, preached one year in the Centerville Circuit,
married Anna W^hieldon, and is attending Boston University Theological
School, preparing for the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while
his wife is pursuing her musical studies in the same city; May, manned Charles
Brown, a merchant of Pittsburgh; S. Carrie is at home; Jesse E. entered
Boston University College of Liberal Arts in the fall of 1888. He and his family
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he has been a steward.
He is a Republican, and one of the enterprising farmers of Springfield Town-
ship, and every member of his family have the advantage of commencing life
with college instruction.
W. C. Black, farmer, post-office Balm, was born December 13, 1843, on
the farm where he now resides. His parents, A. H. P. and Eliza (Christley)
Black, were natives of Springfield Township. The mother died in 1864 and
the father in 1865. They were members of the Presbyterian Church, and had
three children: Anna, deceased; Helen, married Dr. G. W. Burnes, who lives
in White Hall, Greene Co. , 111. and W. C. Our subject was educated in the com-
mon schools and at New Wilmington College. He taught two terms of common
school, and has followed farming. He was married April 9, 1868, to Ellen
Pearson, daughter of William Vb and Sophronia (Loveland) Pearson. Her
father is dead, and had a large family. Mr. Black settled on the present
farm of 180 acres at the time of his marriage. He has one child, Grace.
He enlisted in Company D, Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volun-
teers, and served nine months, and was in the battles of Fort Steadman and
Petersburg. Mr. and Mrs. Black are members of the Center Presbyterian
Church, of which he is a ruling elder. He makes a specialty of raising fine
stock. He is a Republican. Mention of the Black family is made in another
part of this work.
A. U. Christley, farmer, post-office Balm, was born August 31, 1826, in
Springfield Township, to William, who was born in 1796, to George and Eliz-
abeth (Snyder) Christley, natives of Westmoreland County, Penn., from whence
934
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
they came to this county in 1812 and settled in Liberty Township. There the
grandparents of our subject died, and had William, John, Polly, married
Stephen Cooper, and is the only one of the children living; Catharine, Michael,
Elizabeth, George, Samuel B. and Curtis. William Christley was educated
at the country cabin schools in Westmoreland County, and learned the trade
of a cabinet-maker, which he followed until 1832. His father was also a cab-
inet-maker. Our subject has in his house several pieces of furniture which
were made by his father and grandfather. William was married September
25, 1817, to Magdalene Tiber, who settled at an early day where Benjamin
Tiber now lives. William located on a farm near London, in Springfield Town-
ship, at his marriage, and in 1832 came to the farm where our subject now
resides. He built a log cabin, and later a small frame house, v/hich is yet
standing. He died March 4, 1858, and his widow February 2, 1867. They
were members of the German Reformed Church at Blacktown. Their children
were: Catharine, married Thomas Courtney, April 11, 1843, died January 17,
1804; Mary E., married A. H. P. Black, December 15, 1840, died January
30, 1864; Sarah A., married W. J. Tinker, September 24, 1863, died
December 23, 1879; Margaret, married A. T. Black, October 3, 1846, died
April 24, 1875; George S., died August 10, 1869; and A. TJ. Our subject was
educated in the district schools and the log cabin. One of his early teachers
was James Mathers. This man used the old Western Calculator, and when he
could not get the answer in the book in his solution of a problem, he would put
his answer on the work and write ‘ ‘corrected by James Mathers’ ’ . Mr. Christley
worked for his father until 1850, when he formed a partnership with Jacob
Snyder, in the general mercantile business, at North Liberty. In four years
he sold to Snyder, and after a period of a few months in the employ of Mr.
Snyder engaged in farming on the old place. He was married January 21,
1864, to Martha W. Morris, daughter of George and Harriet (Wunton) Mor-
ris, natives, the father of Westmoreland County and the mother of Onondagua
County, N. Y. Mrs. Morris was born March 4, 1817, and married October
16, 1839, in Mercer County." Her husband died in 1881. They had Martha
W., born August 26, 1840; Albert, married Mary Hosack, and lives in Mercery
Mary, married Cyrus Hosack; Isabella, dead; Sarah, married George Snyder,
and lives in Buffalo, N. Y. ; Wdlliam. Mr. Morris was a member of the Con-
gregational Church, and Mrs. Morris lives with our subject. Mr. and Mrs.
Christley have three children: Anna E., Ida B. and William G. , all at home.
Mr. Christley is the owner of over 300 acres of good land, and is one of the
wealthiest and most respectable citizens of the township. He is a stanch
Republican, and he and his family are members of the Center Pi’esbyterian
Church.
W. A. Coulter, merchant, London, was born July 14, 1827, in Wolf
Creek Township, Mercer Co,, Penn., and is a son of Andrew and Sarah
(McCoy) Coulter. The father was born in Chambersburg, Penn. , and came to
this county at an early day with his parents, Richard and Catharine Coulter,
and settled in Wolf Creek Township, where the parents died, having been
blessed with the following children: Andrew, James, William and Samuel.
Andrew got his education in Franklin County, and was in the War of 1812.
He married Sarah McCoy, by whom he had two children: Mary J., married
Edward Denniston, and W. A. The parents died in Wolf Creek Township,
were Presbyterians, and the father held some of the small township offices.
Our subject was educated in the common schools and the old Mercer Acad-
emy. and taught two terms in the public school. He was educated in vocal
music, receiving his instructions under Dr. Mason at Chicago, George F.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
935
Root, Bradlej, and one term under Bassina, the noted Italian musician.
He taught music in Mercer, Lawrence and Venango Counties. He enlisted
in the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and after 100 days’ service he
re-enlisted in the Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and
was colonel of the latter, commanding that regiment the last year of the
war. On his return from the war he resumed teaching music, and in 1870 he
purchased a stock of dry goods of Mrs. E. C. Breck, at London. He suc-
ceeded David Gilson in this business at this place in 1849, and conducted it
until 1860. In 1872 he erected a fine building, which was destroyed by fire
in 1886, together with the entire stock of goods and his household goods also.
He at once rebuilt and put in a line of goods, and carries a stock of about
$6,000, under the firm name of W. A. Coulter & Sons. He was married in
1851, to Caroline M. Smith, daughter of John C. and Charlotte (Croy) Smith,
by whom he has five children; Willis and John S., of the firm; Clara, married
P. N. Painter; Sadie, married William Munnell; Lucia, married B. E. Robb.
Mr. Coulter was appointed postmaster at London in 1849, and served until
1860. He was again appointed in 1870, and resigned in 1886 in favor of his
son, Willis, who conducts the office in his store. Mr. Coulter was appointed
notary public in 1883, and re-appointed by Gov. Beaver. He, W. C. Davis
and G. C. McCracken established a creamery at London in 1885, which was
one of the first in Northwestern Pennsylvania. He and wife belong to the old
Center Presbyterian Church, and he has led the music for this organization
forty years, and has been superintendent of the Sabbath -schools for sixteen
years. In politics he is a Prohibitionist.
Samuel Drake, farmer, post-office Leesburgh, was born January 12, 1803, in
W estmoreland County, Penn. , to Moses and Susan (Beneman) Drake. The father
was born in New Jersey, and came to what is now Lawrence County in 1815,
and finally settled in Wilmington Township, this county, with his second wife.
By his first wife he had four children: Fannie, Samuel, Daniel and Betsey;
and by his second wife he had Sarah, Susan, James, Anna, Jane and William.
Samuel Drake was educated in the log cabin schools, which were much nn -
like those in which his children were educated by his means. He attended
only twenty-three days in all, but by secirring good books and papers he has
become a well-informed man. He early learned the art of making brick, and
made those used in the construction of the first Second United Presbyterian
Church edifice in Mercer. He was married in 1831 to Elizabeth Orr, a sister
of John Orr, and by her had only one child, Mary J. , who lived with her grand-
mother until the latter’s death, when she came back to the home of her father.
Some time subsequent to the death of his first wife, he was married to Lydia
Orick, of Ohio, by whom he has four children: Erastus, Margaret M. , mar-
ried William McCracken; Julia A., Samuel W., married Martha Robinson, and
has two children, William and Jane. Mr. Drake was married a third time,
his last wife being Martha, the widow of Robert Donley, by whom he had
four children; Robert, Rebecca, Margaret and Lucetta. He has been an elder
of the Leesburgh Presbyterian Church for over twenty years. The two wives
who lived with him in this county were also attached to that church. Mr.
Drake began in this world with only a willing heart and strong hands, and by
economy and frugal dealings he has accumulated 160 acres, which he yet
manages. He has always contributed to every enterprise that goes to help
build up and retain the good name of Mercer County, and at the time of
furnishing the data for a sketch of his life to appear in this volume he ex-
pressed the hope that he might live long enough to peruse the history of the
county he has labored so earnestly to help make ‘ ‘ blossom as the rose, ’ ’ that
936
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
those coming after him might enjoy what he helped to make with his willing
hands. At the ripe old age of eighty- live years he attends to his own busi-
ness, and a part of that of the church of his choice. He has always been an
ardent Republican since the organization of that party.
T. S. Elliott, miller, post-office Leesburgh, was born September 21, 1849,
and is a brother of J. G. Elliott, of Mercer, whose sketch appears elsewhere.
He was educated in the common schools, Beaver Female Seminary and a select
school at Grove City. He began the milling business several years ago, buy-
ing the property of John Campbell. He subsequently built a new mill at a
cost of $8,000, which burned two years later, but he got only $4,000 insurance.
In 1880 he rebuilt a three-story mill, 30x36, and put in five sets of rollers,
one pnriher of the Wolfe & Hamaker make, of Chambersburgt Penn., four
centrifugals, two cleaning machines, all costing about $6,000. The mill is
run by water power, the water being conducted to the wheel by means of a
tube, which is 300 feet long, and has its source from never failing springs.
Indeed it is one of the most complete small mills to be found anywhere. He
was married in 1875 to Elizabeth Stuart, daughter of William Stuart, of Law-
rence County, and has by her five children: Hallie, Jessie, Kate, Clara and an
infant. He is an elder of the Leesburgh Presbyterian Church and superin-
tendent of the Sunday-schools. His wife is a member of the same church.
He is a Republican, and the owner of 102 acres of land. Since the above
was written Mr. Elliott took pneumonia, and on May 31, 1888, he resigned
his spirit to the God who gave it, and his widow and little ones are left to
mourn his loss as a severed tie that no lapse of time can restore, but they were
left in good financial circumstances.
David Gilson, farmer, post-office London, was born July 9, 1812, in West-
moreland County, Penn., to David and Elizabeth (Wier) Gilson, natives, the
father of IVestmoreland, and the mother of Adams County, Penn. William
Gilson, the grandfather of our subject, bought a large tract of land in West-
moreland County, and at a time owned the famous “ Trindle Springs” prop-
erty in Cumberland County. William Gilson had three sons:, William, John
and David. Our subject attended the common schools in the log cabin. His
father died when he was nearly eight years of age, leaving seven children:
William (who lives on the old homestead in Westmoreland County), Dorcas,
Robert, James, David, Mary and Samuel. Those living are Mary and David.
The parents were strict Presbyterians, never leaving any work for Sunday
that could be done on Saturday. Because of the death of his father, David
had to do for himself while quite a boy. He, however, remained with his
mother until twenty-one years old, and in 1833 came with his brother-in-law,
Dixon Hall, to Butler County, to where his sister, Dorcas, and her husband,
Mr. Hall, lived. Here he remained one summer. July 14, 1836, he was
married to Rebecca, a daughter of Thomas and Esther (Robinson) Courtney,
born September 8, 1812, and, after a short period of renting, he went with her
to his farm of 125 acres in Butler County. In the fall of 1839 he came to
London, this county, and opened the first store in that place. He was thus
engaged for a period of ten years, and during this time was instrumental in
establishing a post- office, of which he was the first postmaster, and to which
he gave the name of London. In 1849 he sold his stock of goods, and engaged
extensively in buying and selling cattle, which he continued for thirty years.
In 1854 he bought a farm of 125 acres near London, and added to it until he
had about 554 acres, on which he raises and grazes cattle; 150 acres of this
he gave to his son, Thomas, and 87 acres to his daughter, Elizabeth. He
is one of the wealthiest citizens in the township, and is the artificer of his
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
937
fortune. He became a member of the Center Presbyterian Church in 1857,
also his wife and eldest daughter. He has always taken a deep interest in
this organization, the financial interests of which are much benefitted by his
relationship as well as otherwise. He and wife have had five children:
Melissa, Thomas, William, Elizabeth (dead), and Matilda, wife of Isaac
Ketler, president of Grove City College. Mr. Gilson cast his last Democratic
vote for President Jackson, is now a stanch Republican, and is largely in-
terested in the First National Bank of Mercer. In 1833 he bought up his
first drove of horses, took them East and sold them.
James T. Glenn, farmer, post-office Balm, was born July 27, 1812, in Pine
Township. His parents, William and Jane (Cunningham) Glenn, were natives
of Pennsylvania, and from the eastern part of the State. They came to this
county about the year 1800, and settled in Pine Township. In 1823 the
family moved to Circleville, Ohio. In one year they returned to Mercer
County and bought a farm of 280 acres, a part of which is owned by our subject.
Here he died about 1832, and his widow in 1839. They had Margaret, Samuel,
Rebecca, married Abram Vanhorn; Elizabeth, William, James T., Charles,
married Rachel McCleary; Robert, married Sarah Young, and Hannah, mar-
ried Marcus Rodgers. The parents were members of the Presbyterian Church,
of which he was an elder. Our subject was educated in the log cabin schools.
He married, May 29, 1834, Sarah E. Kerr, daughter of John and Polly (Agee)
Kerr, natives of Adams County, Penn., and early settlers of Springfield Town-
ship. The father died in 1833, and his widow in 1854. Their children were
Mary J. , William, Sarah, Nancy E. and Margaret. Mr. Glenn settled on his
present farm at marria_ge. He owns fifty- seven acres, and has been auditor of
the township. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church. His
children are: Peggy J., married H. T. Vanhorn; John K. , married Christina
Reeher, daughter of Abram and Catharine (Michael) Reeher, and has two
children, Lola K. and James A. John K. and wife are members of the Pres-
byterian Church at Centre. He and his father are Republicans. Mr. Glenn
was captain of a militia company for eight years.
Benjamin F. Gordon, retired physician, Leesburgh, was born August 29,
1822, in Lackawannock Township, this county. His grandparents, Thomas
and Jane (Young) Gordon, the former born in 1754 and the latter in 1751,
were married in 1774, and emigrated from Ireland to America in 1790 and
settled first in one of the eastern counties of Pennsyvania, but subsequently,
about the year 1802, in Lackawannock Township, Mercer County, on Tract
No. 581, in the third district of donation lands, which they had purchased.
Their children were: Mary, born October 25, 1776; John (father of Benjamin
F.), born April 27, 1779; William, born October 2, 1783; Jane, born November
25, 1786; Agnes, born April 29, 1790, and Thomas, born April 11, 1793. The
first four were born in Ireland. Agnes was born on the sea as the family were
coming to America, and Thomas was born in this country. Thomas Gordon,
Sr., died October 16, 1822, and Jane, his wife, on August 27, 1835. John
Gordon was married August 27, 1801, to Amelia Barton, born in 1775. He
died at Pulaski, Penn., in the year 1839. His wife survived him, and died at
the home of her son, Benjamin F. , on July 24, 1853. To John and Amelia
Gordon were born ten children, viz., Thomas, born July 2, 1802; Daniel, born
April 5, 1804; Rachel, born May 5, 1806; Jane and Susan (twins), born July
4, 1808; Nancy, born July 24, 1811; John, born June 29, 1813; Joseph, born
January 22, 1816; Emily, born in March, 1820, and Benjamin F. The latter
was educated in the country schools and the old Mercer Academy. He taught
school in Mercer in 1840-47 in an old building which stood near the present
938
HISTOBY or MEKCEE COUNTY.
site of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1846 he began reading medicine
with Dr. Baskin, of Mercer, and completed his studies at the Cleveland
Medical College in 1849. In February of that year he began the practice of
his profession at Leesburgh, and continued the same at that place for thirty-
seven years. He was the examining surgeon for the county at the time the
first draft was made during the war of the Rebellion, and was a member of
the Legislature in 1879. His wife, Mrs. Isabel M. Gordon, to whom he was
married November 12, 1850, was a daughter of James and Nancy (McDowell)
Brandon, early settlers of Pine Township, this county. The Doctor and his
wife have five children: Quincy A., William B., Mary A., Laura B. and
Hettie M.
Akthue J. Johnston, farmer, post-office Leesburgh, was born September 13,
1840, on the farm now owned by John W. Nelson, to James and Eliza (Den-
niston) Johnston, natives, the father of Ireland and the mother of this county.
Arthur Johnston, the father of James, married Eleanor Campbell, a descend-
ant of the Highlands ‘of Scotland, with whom he came to this county in an
early day, and settled on the farm where Joseph Masters now lives, where he
remained as a renter for five years. He then built the stone house where John
W. Nelson now resides, and from 1831 to 1842 he kept tavern to accommodate
the traveling public. He also kept a post-office there for years. He died in
another stone house on his farm of 200 acres in 1844, aged sixty-eight years.
Hiswidow died in 1862, aged eighty-nine. Their children were: Mattie E.,Mary,
Eleanor and James C. Arthur was a Democrat. The children of James C. and
Eliza Johnston were nine: William, deceased; Ellen, deceased; Mary E., married
James S. Collins; Esther A., married Erastus C. Drake; A. J. , William H. ,
Joseph, died small; Margaret, killed by the horses running away when the
family were going to church; infant, died small. The parents of the above
children were members of the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer at the
time of their death. A. J. Johnston was educated in the common schools,
and was brought up on the farm. He was married in 1864 to Hannah, a
daughter of Alexander Campbell, of Lawrence County, Penn., and had by her
four children: William, deceased; Mary, married John W. Nelson; Anna M.
and Ora C. Mr. Johnston is the owner of seventy-five acres of good land, part
of which he inherited. He has taken a deep interest in the Democratic party,
to which he is attached, has served as delegate, and was assessor of Spring-
field Township for three terms. He and family are members of the Presby-
terian Church of Leesburgh, of which he has been deacon.
Alexandee Kennedy, farmer, post-office Balm, was born September 17,
1835, in Butler County, to David and Mary (Armstrong) Kennedy. The
father was a native of Ireland, immigrated to America about the year 1800,
and settled in Allegheny County. He was a brick maker, and finally located
in Butler County, where he engaged in the milling business. He died July
5, 1858, and April 30, 1858, his wife died. They had ten children: James
(deceased), Jane (married Ethen Kelley), Catharine (deceased), David, Alex-
ander, Margaret, Melissa, George G., Robert A. and John E. George,
David and Robert were in the war. Our subject was educated in the common
schools and was brought up at farm labor. He enlisted in Company D,
Fourteenth Pennsylvania Reserves, for three years, but after being wounded
at South Mountain, in the right leg, he was discharged. He thus served only
nineteen months. He was in the battles of.his regiment, in the seven days’
fight, was taken prisoner the second day, confined in Libby and Belle Isle
prisons for thirty-nine days, and was exchanged at the second battle of Bull
Run. Ho married Maria, daugliter of Samuel Shaffer, a native of Hunting-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
939
don County, Penn. Her mother, Elizabeth Simenton ShafPer, was a native
of Center County, and lived with her husband in that county until his death,
1871. Since then she has been a resident of New Castle. Mr. and Mrs.
Kennedy have two children: Florence and William. He and wife and Florence
are members of the First United Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and he is a
stanch Kepublican. About five years ago he sold his farm in Butler County
and bought where he now resides, and is engaged in farming and stock grow-
ing. Although not long a resident of this county, his name is to be seen at the
head of every enterprise that tends to build up and sustain the good name of
Mercer County.
Ezekiel W. Love, farmer, post-office Indian Bun, was born October 10,
1824, in Butler County, Penn., to John and Margaret (Wilson) Love, natives,
the father of Ireland and the mother of Beaver County. The father came to
America at the age of ten with his parents, Patrick Love and wife. After a
short residence in New York they came to Butler County, where the father
was employed as a miller. He also served in the War of 1812. He died
June 3, 1876, at the age of eighty-four years. His wife died in 1853. Their
children were: Ezekiel W., Sarah J., married James Rodgers; David, lives at
New Castle; William (deceased), John, in Oil City; Charles, in Pittsburgh;
James, died small; Martha (deceased), Thomas (deceased). The parents were
members of the Covenanter Church. Our subject was educated in the com-
mon schools, and learned the carpenter’s trade, which he followed until 1878.
He bought a part of his present farm in 1853, and has now ninety-five acres,
with a fine field of raspberries. He was married December 17, 1850, to Mar-
garet Montgomery, whose family is mentioned elsewhere. She was born June
3, 1826, on the farm where they now reside. He has by her seven children:
John A., dead; Nannie A., dead; Lizzie M., married December 13, 1887, to
Robert Breckenridge, of North Liberty; Mary J. , James M., Sibbet A., dead;
Samuel T. A. Lizzie and Nannie have taught school. He has been a school
director, and he and family are members of the Second United Presbyterian
Church of Mercer. He is an elder of that church, and is a stanch Republican.
He is a man of unimpeachable character and a good citizen.
Nathaniel McConnell, farmer, post-office London, was born August 14,
1841, in Lawrence County, Penn. , to John and Martha (Carlon) McConnell. He
was educated in the common schools, and began for himself at the age of twenty-
one years. He was married to Flora, a daughter of Alexander Campbell, of
Lawrence County. He enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Twenty-
sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served nearly three years. May 6, 1864, he
was taken prisoner at the battle of the Wilderness, was confined for a few
days in a prison in Danville, Va., and with seventeen others he was trans-
ferred to Andersonville. The only two of this number to get out of the prison
alive were Mr. McConnell and William O. Wood, of Ohio. They were taken
from there to Florence, S. C., and in December, 1864, were paroled. After
returning from the war, and somewhat recovering from the evil effects of horrible
prison confinement, he engaged in farming. He bought, in 1867, 125 acres of
land in Springfield Township, and has lived thereon ever since. He served as
constable for one term, and has been school director. They have one daughter,
Mary, and are rearing Joseph Campbell, a son of Mark Campbell, a brother of
Mrs. McConnell. They are members of the Presbyterian Church of Leesburg,
and he is a Democrat. Alexander Campbell was born in Huntingdon County,
and married, in Lawrence County, Mary McWilliams, by whom he had John,
Robert, Flora, Joseph, William, Hannah and Mark. The last named married
Elizabeth, daughter of David Gilson, and had three children: Herman, dead;
940
HISTOKY OF MERCEK COUNTY.
David A. and Joseph T. Mr. McConnell is a good citizen, and daily sufPers
the severest pains from the effect of his services in the defense of his country.
(Note: Since the above sketch was written Mr. McConnell died May 20,
1888).
James Michaels, soldier and farmer, post-office London, was born October
29, 1845, in East Lackawannock Township, to George and Sarah (McCormick)
Michaels. The father was a native of Westmoreland and the mother of
Dauphin County, Penn. They came to Mercer County about the year 1842,
and the former died in Springfield Township, January 16, 1885, and the
mother, June 14, 1871. They were members of the Center Presbyterian
Church, and the parents of ten children, seven of whom are now living;
Francis M;, married Ellen Dunwiddy and lives in Butler County; James T. ,
Isabella, the wife of William Black, of Pine Township; Amelia, married Jacob
Stillwagon; R. S., Lovina (dead), Rebecca (dead), Thomas S. (dead), Jacob,
married Minnie W^aldron, lives in Pittsburgh, and Lovenia, who lives with our
subject. Our subject was educated in the common schools and Greenfield,
West Lackawannock Township. He enlisted in Company F, Fifty-seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served sixteen months. At the battle of Deep
Bottom a ball struck his right eye, passed through the nose, and took out
the left eye with the right. He is, therefore, blind. He was confined in
prison in Richmond for eight days, was paroled and discharged at Pittsburgh.
There was no time that he was not rational. He is a member of the Center
Church, is a stanch Republican, and is the only soldier in Mercer County who
gets a full pension. He can do his feeding and gather eggs with seeming
ease. He is the owner of 103 acres of good land, on which he has erected
good buildings. His sister, Lovenia, lives with and cares for him. He has
never married.
J. A. Montgomery, farmer, post-office Indian Run, was born November
14, 1823, in Jamestown, Penn., to James and Elizabeth (Andrews) Mont-
gomery, natives of County Antrim, Ireland, who came to Jamestown, Penn.,
in 1822, and later to Springfield Township. Here the father died in 1857,
and his widow in 1880. They had Mary, married Samuel Smith; Elizabeth,
married James English; J. A.; Margaret, married E. W. Love; Nancy M. ,
died in 1850, and James. The parents were members of the United Presby-
terian Church. Our subject obtained his education by walking nearly three
miles to a log cabin school-house, where he experienced all of the ancient ways
of school instructions. He was married, November 27, 1849, to Jane Akin,
daughter of Andrew and Rachel (Adams) Akin, natives of Westmoreland
County, Penn., and early settlers of Lawrence County, where she was resid-
ing when married. She was born October 7, 1823, di^d June 25, 1882, and
was a consistent member of the Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
He is a member of the same church. He settled at marriage where he now
lives, on his farm of ninety- two acres, which is the result of his own labors.
His children were seven: Melissa, married Noble Cozad, of Mercer; Mary,
teaching in Washington Territory; Andrew A., Jennie, Anna, Emma, married
A. B. Carter, a merchant at Indian Run, and William J. He is a stanch
Republican, and one of the enterprising men of the township.
James L. Moore, post-office Balm, farmer, was born in Hickory Township,
November 20, 1836. His parents, Joseph and Eliza (Dawson) Moore, were
both brought to this county in their mothers’ arms, the former from West-
moreland County and the latter from Washington County. John Moore
(father of Joseph) settled three miles east of Sharon, w’as Hie founder of the
old Moorefield Church, and wr.s elected elder at its organization. Joseph was
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
941
the oldest of the family, born in 1797, died October 2, 1865, married 1821,
and had twelve children, viz. : Matthew D., Isabella, John J. , Calvin, Wylie
A., Robert R. , Nancy J. , William W., James L., Mary C., Amanda E. and
Joseph W. The parents were members of the Clarksville Presbyterian Church,
of which he was an elder. He was justice of the peace, and five of his children
were school-teachers. Eliza (Dawson) Moore was born July 31, 1802, and
died November 3, 1884. She was a daughter of Matthew Dawson, who came
to Mercer County at an early day, and, with his wife, whose maiden name
was Wylie, settled, lived and died in Lackawannock Township. They were
members of Neshannock Presbyterian Church, of which he was an elder. Our
subject was educated in the common schools and in the Clarksville Academy.
He taught school for four years, and was married December 22, 1860, to Cornelia
E. Robison, born June 28, 1840. Her father, Abram Robison, was born Sep-
tember 12, 1805, and her mother, Mary (Hamilton) Robison, was born October
22, 1800. They were married December 16, 1830, and were natives of Blair
County. They came to this county in the spring of 1840, where they died, he
June 24, 1870, and she April 25, 1867. They had six children; Elizabeth H.,
Margaret J., Martha S., Emma A., Cornelia E. and Winfield S. They were
Presbyterians, belonging to the West Middlesex Church, of which he was an
elder. Mr. and Mrs. Moore have four children, viz.: Harry A., born Janu-
ary 6, 1862, married September 8, 1885, to Sarah L. Freeman, of Crawford
County, who is agent and operator for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company at
Shenango, Penn.; Wilbur W. , born April 22, 1866; Mary E., born May 8,
1870; Anna E., born February 18, 1873. Mr. Moore resided in Hickory
Township until 1872, when he bought what was known as the Esquire Black
Farm, in Springfield Township, where he now lives. He is a member of the
P. of H. , and with his wife belongs to the Center Presbyterian Church, of
which he is an elder. In politics he is a Republican.
Nicholas Moul, deceased, was born March 2, 1812, in Hessen, Germany.
He came to America with John, his father, his mother and two sisters when
he was eighteen years of age, and settled for awhile in Butler County. He
afterward came to Mercer County, where he, December 22, 1836, married
Elizabeth Sager, who was born December 2, 1815, in Crawford County, Penn.
The Sagers were natives of Westmoreland County, and in 1818 settled on the
farm where Alexander Kennedy now resides. This farm was afterward sold,
and they moved to the farm where Jacob Shuler now resides. There the
mother died in 1857, the father in 1860. There were eight children: John,
Jacob, Mary, Abram, Daniel, Elizabeth, Andrew and Barbara. The parents
were members of the Lutheran Church. Nicholas Moul settled on a farm in
Findley Township, where Mr. Moul was killed by a limb of a tree October 6,
1855. His sad and untimely death was mourned by all who knew him. He
was possessed of many noble traits of character. He was a member of the
Lutheran Church. By his union with Elizabeth Sager he had eight children:
Clarissa, married George Cribbs; John, married Hannah Glenn; Jacob, died
when four years old; Reuben, married Ettie Trout, and, after her death, Mrs.
Mary George; Salome, lives with her mother; Melissa, died when three years
old; Amos, died when one year old; George, a member of Company A, One
Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, killed at Cold Harbor
June 7, 1864, having been shot in the head; he died the same evening at 9
o’clock, and was buried on the 8th near the Cold Harbor and White House
Landing road. Mrs. Moul settled in Balm in 1857, and has since led a quiet
life, deeply mourning the loss of her worthy companion. She is a consistent
member of the German Reformed Church.
55
942
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Thomas P. Munnell, farmer, post-office Indian Run, was born July 8, 1835,
in Armstrong County, Penn. , son of Adam and Mary (Risher) Munnell, na-
tives of Mercer and Armstrong Counties, respectively. The father was reared
near New Castle, learned the trade of a stone-cutter, and while working on the
construction of a canal through Armstrong County he became acquainted with
his future wife. After marriage he removed to Mercer County, and was em-
ployed on contract to build locks on the Beaver & Erie Canal, at or near
Greenville. He afterward removed to the farm where our subject now resides,
and three years later to another farm, in Lawrence County, where he died
September 13, 1851. His widow is still living at the ripe old age of eighty-
one years, and is the mother of the following children; Eliza J. . married
William H. Crooks, she is a widow with four children; Mary, wife of James
Thorn; Calvin, Effie, married William Simmison and resides in the West, and
W. H. , who is engaged in the general book business; Peter R. Munnell married
Maria Oakley, of Lawrence County; Thomas P. , Mary K., married James M.
Rice, who is dead, and she resides in Oil City and has three children: Effie,
Edwin and Anna; William Munnell is a resident of Springfield Township;
Lizzie married W. H. Harper, an oil producer of Venango County. Adam
Munnell was the owner of about 400 acres of land at the time of his death,
which was the result of his labors, economy, and frugal dealings. Thomas
P. Munnell was educated in the common schools, and was married to Lizzie
Young, a daughter of John and Margaret Young, natives of Washington
County, and who came here during the early settlement of this county. Mrs.
Munnell was one of four children: Jane, William, Mary and Lizzie. Her
father was a strong anti- slavery man, and took an interest in the under- ground
railroad transportations. He made public speeches against the evil of slavery,
and his son, William, served in Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth
Pennsylvania Volunteers. Our subject enlisted in Company H, One Hundred
and Thirty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was out eight months, and
was wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg in the left leg. He has six
children: John, Charles W., Herbert, Anna, Mabel M. and Freddie. He is
the owner of ninety acres of tbe old homestead, and is a stockholder of the
Mercer Central Agricultural Association. In politics he is a Republican.
John A. Nelson, farmer, post-office Indian Run, was born on the farm
where he now lives, August 26, 1839, and is a son of James Nelson, whose
sketch appears elsewhere. Further mention of the Nelson family is made in the
notice of Daniel Nelson, of Mercer, hence it is useless to repeat it here. Our
subject was educated in the common schools of the neighborhood where he
lives, and was brought up on the farm. He has always been at home, conse-
quently he helped his father in the nursery business, and is engaged in the
berry cultivation and general farming. He is a member of the Presbyterian
Church of Mercer, and is an intelligent, enterprising gentleman and a Repub-
lican.
J. W. Nelson, fruitgrower, post-office Indian Run, was born March 3, 1844,
to James A., born in Pennsylvania, and Lydia (Holman) Nelson, who came to
Mercer County after marriage, and settled on the farm where our subject now
resides. They erected a log cabin, in which they lived for many years before
building the residence yet standing. Here the father died April 22, 1887,
and his widow still resides on the farm. They had nine children: Adonin J.
(engaged in the fruit business in Kansas), Sophia A. (deceased), John A.,
Jonas (enlisted October 10, 1862, in Company I, Tenth Pennsylvania Vol-
unteers, was taken prisoner August 19, 1864, and confined in Salsbury prison,
and died March 27, 1865, a few days after being released from confinement
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
943
in that terrible prison), J. W., Susan J. (deceased), Margaret E., Mary L.,
Elizabeth and one died when young. The father began the nursery business
about 1857, planting out from 2,500 to 5,000 trees. After 1870 he made a
specialty of small fruits. About this time, however, he retired, leaving the
business to his sons, J. W. and John A., who are running an extensive busi-
ness in small fruits. The father was a Democrat, and was a member of the
First Presbyterian Church of Mercer. Our subject was educated in the com-
mon schools, and was married in 1879 to Kate Grubb, a native of Erie County,
Penn. Her father, T. P. Grubb, came to this county in 1854, and settled
where his son now resides. Mrs. Grubb died in 1855, and Mr. Grubb in 1886.
Mr. Nelson enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, and served fourteen months. He belongs to the G. A. R. ,
is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the First Presbyterian
Church of Mercer. He is one of the enterprising, progressive men of the
township.
Hiram Orr, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born January 30, 1832, in
Springfield Township. His father, John M. Orr, was born February 4, 1804,
to William and Mary (Orrick) Orr, natives of Ireland, from whence they immi-
grated to America in 1794, and settled in Washington County, Penn. In
1803 they came to this county, and died in Springfield Township, he in 1843,
and she in 1863. They had seven children: James, William, John, Robert
Jane, Elias and Elizabeth. John M. Orr married Elizabeth Jamison, by
whom he had ten children: Mary J. , William, Isabella, Hiram, John, Eliza-
beth, David P. , Margaret, James and Joseph S. He married a second time,
his wife being Mrs. Martha Denniston, who died September 7, 1871. His first
wife died October 7, 1854. Our subject, Hiram Orr, was educated in the
common schools, and was brought up on a farm. He began for himself at the
age of twenty-five years, on a farm of forty acres given him by his father.
This he owned about nine years, when he sold and bought the farm where he
now lives. He has in all 192 acres, mostly the result of his own labors. He
was married November 24, 1856, to Mary J. Carlon, of Lawrence County, by
whom he had three children: H. M. , married Jane Ramsey, and lives in
Butler County; George C., died at the age of eighteen months; John C., mar-
ried EmmaFithian, and is a jeweler in Sharpsburg, Allegheny County. Mrs.
Orr died May 18, 1863, and he was again married June 30, 1864, to Mary J.
Barnes, born June 29, 1832, a daughter of John Barnes. By her he has five
children: Ida E. , a teacher, of this county; Eva J. ; infant, dead; Melvin B.
and Hattie E. The first Mrs. Orr was a consistent member of the Leesburg
Presbyterian Church. He and his last wife are members of the First Pres-
byterian Church at Mercer. He has taken a deep interest in the Democratic
party.
G. W. Palmer, farmer, post-office Leesburgh, was born March 6, 1835, in
Springfield Township, to Thomas and Catharine (Guist) Palmer, natives of
W ashington County, Penn. , where they were married, and in 1827 they came
to Springfield Township, and settled in the green woods on the farm where
our subject now resides. They moved to different farms in the township
before they died on the farm where Mr. Galloway lives, that event in his career
occurring April 7, 1875, and in hers December 12, 1877. They had eleven
children: Daniel, Elizabeth, Alexander, G. W., Andrew J. , was in the service
of his country, and died with congestive chills after the siege of Vicksburg;
James S., Nancy, Sarah A., Maria, Thomas, Mary. The parents were mem-
bers of the Seceder Church. He began poor, and at death was the owner of
considerable property. Our subject attended the common schools, and was
944
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
married January 9, 1862, to Willielmina, daughter of Henry and Catharine
(Lewis) Baughman, natives of Germany, who came to America in 1847,
settled in the neighborhood of Clarksville, and in 1854 came to Springfield
Township. Here he died in 1877 and she in 1868. Their children were:
William, Christina, John, Henry, Albert, Louesa and Wilhelmina. Her
parents were Lutherans at Blacktown. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer have ten
children: Archie E., Ida L., Cora, Quincy, Harry, Frank B., Charles W.,
Anson L. , Minnie E. and Floyd C. He and wife are members of the United
Presbyterian Church at Leesburgh, of which he is an elder. He is also super-
intendent of the Sunday-school, and is a Democrat.
Thomas Eeed, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born June 15, 1835, in East
Lackawannock Township, to John and Eleanor (Wilson) Keed, natives, the
father of Washington County, and the mother of Westmoreland County, Penn.
The father came to Mercer County when a single man and married here. He
died April 23, 1870, and his wife November 26, 1855. Their children were: Mary,
James, Nancy, Elizabeth, Wilson, John and Thomas. The father and mother
were members of the Old School Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and he was a
Democrat. Our subject was educated in the country schools, and was brought
up at farm labor. From 1859 to 1862 he was principally engaged in buying
and driving stock. He was married in 1867 to Sarah J. Crawford, a sister of
L. I. Crawford, and daughter of Hugh D. Crawford, whose sketch appears in
this work. Mr. Keed settled on the home place in East Lackawannock Town-
ship at marriage, and remained there until 1872, when he came to the Craw-
ford farm, which he bought in 1883. Their children were: Infant, dead;
Lizzie C., Willie D. , Matilda E. ; infant, dead; and T. Herman. Mr. Reed is
the possessor of 220 acres in Springfield, and eighty acres in Findley Town-
ship. He has been assistant assessor of Springfield Township, and school
director. He and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church of
Mercer, and he is a stanch Prohibitionist. He is an enterprising citizen, a
progressive farmer, and an intelligent gentleman.
G. W. Williams, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born June 24, 1826, in
Erie County, Penn., to Enoch and Mary (Graham) Williams, natives, the
father of Centre and the mother of Beaver County, Pa. In about the year 1830
the family came to Hope Mills, where Enoch was engaged in milling. He
fought under Gen. Harrison in the battle of Tippecanoe, and died on a farm
in Springfield Township. His wife died while the family were at Hope Mills.
Their children were : James and Hugh, who died in Erie County; Jane, married
Socrates J. Johnston; Margaret, married Edward Irwin; G. W. ; Nancy, mar-
ried Jackspn G. Baird; Mary M. , married Frank Miles; Enoch, died when
young. Our subject attended the common schools and was brought up on a
farm. He was married, June 25, 1850, to Caroline G. Carpenter, daughter of
James Carpenter. By her he has had four children: Mary F., married J. M.
Smith; James C. , married Elizabeth Moore; Loretta, married John Moore;
Samuel A., married Frances Laura Smith, and has one child, Mary C. Sam-
uel assists his father on his farm of 105 acres, upon which he has twelve acres
of fine raspberry plants. He and wife are members of the United Presbyte-
rian Church at Mercer. He is a Republican, and one of the worthy citizens
of the township. Mrs. Mary Smith has an infant child, William G. ; James
C. has one son, George A. , and Loretta J. Moore has one child, Bennett W.
James Williams was born July 3, 1818; Enoch was born January 2, 1787;
Mary, born February 10, 1797; James, born March 23, 1820; Hugh, April
17, 1822; Margaret, April 21, 1824; George W., June 24, 1826; Nancy,
October 9, 1828; Mary M., March 29, 1832; Enoch, December 20, 1834;
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
945
Mary F., born January 18, 1852; James C., May 10, 1850; Loretta J., March
27, 1858, and Samuel A., April 26, 1863.
FINDLEY TOWNSHIP.
David Achre, farmer, post office Mercer, was born August 10, 1823, to
Daniel and Rebecca (Richard) Achre, natives of Lehigh County, Penn,, who
came to this county about the year 1836. They settled near Greenville, and
six years later moved to the farm adjoining that of our subject. Here the
parents died after having been blessed with the following children: William,
Daniel, David, Elias, Elizabeth, married Joseph Humphrey ; Margaret, married
David Baxter; James, deceased; Henry, deceased, and Lucy A. The parents
were Lutherans. David Achre was educated in the country schools, and was
married in 1851 to Salome Miller, who died in 1857, leaving two children:
Gilbert W., born May 16, 1852, married Eva S. Reed, and Newton, born
February 2, 1858. He was subsequently married to Mary E. , a sister of his
first wife, and by her had: Eva, born May 21, 1868, died August 24, 1865:
Victor D., born April 28, 1873, died December 28, 1874, and an infant, born
July 6, 1877, died July 10, 1877. Mr. Achre settled on his present farm in
1861. He and wife are members of the Second Presbyterian Church of
Mercer. He is a Republican. Peter J. Miller, the father of Mrs. Achre,
was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., September 6, 1807, and grew to
manhood in that county, where he learned the art of coverlet weaving. In
October, 1829, he married Miss Sarah Cribbs, of the same place, and for
several years followed the occupation of weaving as a trade. In 1836 he
moved with his family to Mercer, Mercer County, and engaged in’ weaving
coverlets, carpets, table linen and all kinds of fabrics, some of which will be
kept and handed down to future generations as mementoes of his workman-
ship. He also held offices of trust, having been elected justice of the peace
two terms in succession. In 1866 he moved to Minnesota, and there died
August 14, 1886. Ml’, and Mrs. Miller reared a family of ten children, five
sons and five daughters, eight of whom are now living: Susannah was for
many years an efficient teacher in the common-schools of Mercer County,
married Jacob Beighley, of this county, and in 1857 settled with her husband
in Minnesota, where he is a prominent and prosperous grain merchant. She
has one daughter, named Ruth E., who man’ied William Buchannan. Mr.
and Mrs. Beighley are Methodists; Sarah married David Cook and lives in
Mercer County; Louisa married S. P. Beighley, and with him lives in Minne-
sota. She is the mother of ten children: Samuel M. , Mary E., Harvey F.,
Joseph E., Ellen E., Maggie L., James A., Agnes B., Ruth E. and Grace E. ;
Michael P., married Oleanna Alson and resides in Minnesota. Joseph H.
married Rachel J. Burnes and lives in Minnesota. John L. married Mary
Buchannan and resides in Minnesota, where also his single brother, Samuel,
lives. Joseph H. was in the service of his country from Mercer County, and
was taken prisoner and confined in Andersonville and Libby prisons for about
six months. Peter Beighley, the father of Jacob and Simon P. Beighley, came to
Mercer County with his family in 1846. They settled in Lake Township, but
his sons soon became tired of clearing away the large timber and prevailed
upon their father to allow them to take Greeley’s advice “to go West and
grow up with the country. ’ ’ Accordingly the family went to Minnesota in
1857, where he died in 1876. His widow died in 1878. Their son, Simon P.,
was engaged in fighting the Indians in Minnesota in the early part of the
Rebellion, and later came to the support of his country in Company C, Fifth
Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. He was in the service about three years, and
fought in the battle of Gettysburg.
946
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
James S. Alexander, farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born April 8, 1823, to
Benjamin and Rebecca (Simpson) Alexander, wbo are mentioned in tbe biography
of M. "W . Alexander. Our subject was educated in a log cabin which stood on
the John Grill farm, and two of his schoolmates were Judge McDermitt and
Clinton McCoy. His life has been that of a farmer, and he was married in 1850
to Sarah A. McChesney, whose parents are mentioned in the sketch of M. W.
Alexander. She died in 1861, and was a member of the United Presbyterian
Church, and he was again married, to Mary Caroll, a native of Worth Town-
ship, and a daughter of John and Mai’garet (Rhodes) Carroll, January 1, 1868.
The children of James S. Alexander are Carrie M. , Charles, Maggie S. and
John B. He settled at his first marriage on the old homestead, and in 1884
moved to where he now lives. He is the possessor of excellent property, is a
Republican, and he and his wife are consistent members of the Second United
Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
M. W. Alexander, ex-county commissioner and farmer, post-office Mer-
cer, was born March 21, 1826, in Findley Township. His father, Benjamin
Alexander, was born in W ashington County, Penn. , and came to this county in
1816, and worked for awhile for Benjamin Stokeley. He died April 18, 1869,
in his eighty- eighth year. He was married to Mary Elizabeth Hosack, by
whom he had six children. W^illiam H., of Mercer, is the only living child.
He was married again, to Rebecca Simpson, a native of Washington County,
who came to this county when young with her father, Robert, and settled one
mile from Mercer, in Cool Spring Township. By his second wife, who died in
1868, he had four children: Elizabeth N., James S. , Mathew W. and Prudence.
The last named married Patterson Findley, and lives in Jackson Township.
The father was one of the first surveyors of this county, and served one term
as commissioner. He served two terms as county sirrveyor, and was a strong
Republican, and an elder in the Second United Presbyterian Church at his
death. Our subject attended the common schools, and ihas always lived on the
old homestead. He began for himself on reaching his majority, and was mar-
ried in 1848 to Celia McChesney, a native of Findley Township, and the daugh-
ter of Samuel McChesney, a native of Washington County, Penn. She was
one of six children, three of whom survive: Mary J. , married Archibald Craw-
ford; Sarah A., married James S. Alexander, and Thomas, who lives in Wheel-
ing, W. Va. M. W. Alexander has seven children, all living: B. S., married
Anna Eats; J. L., married Ella Cummings; Annie, married Benjamin E. Run-
kle; T. E., married Myrtle Hosack; Janetta B., married F. S. Morrison; Mary
G. and Jennie S., who are unmarried. He was elected county commissioner
in 1884; was director and president of the Mercer Agricultural Association; is
a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Second United Presby-
terian Church of Mercer.
James Barnes, deceased, was born in County Armagh, Ireland, and came
to America with his parents, John and Mollie (Boyd) Barnes, in 1803. Mollie
Barnes died in 1850, in her eighty-fourth year, and her husband, John Barnes,
died January 9, 1809, on the farm where John L. Barnes now resides, in
Jackson Township. Their children were John, George and James. George
married Margaret Zeigler, and died December 4, 1866. He was a miller in the
early times, and operated a mill on Mill Creek, in the eastern part of the
township of Findley. George had by his union Susannah, who married Archie
McBride; Sarah, married William Paxton; Martha, married John J Hosack;
Margaret, married William Garvey, and John L. married Eliza J. Barnes.
John Barnes was married to Betsey Miller, and had three children: John;
Robert, died March 9, 1870, in Mercer; Mary J., married Hyram Orr. James
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
947
Barnes married Margaret Vincent, a sister of the Rev. George C.Vincent, once
a teacher in the Mercer Academy. John’s children were: James, married
Julia Rose, lives in Nebraska; Thomas, married Elizabeth Greenlee, lives on
the old farm; John G., for many years a minister of the United Presbyterian
Church, died in Monmouth, 111., in 1880; Maria, married William Seidley;
William V., died during service in the war with Company C, Second Ohio Vol-
unteer Cavalry; Samuel, married Elizabeth Baker, a sister of J. R. W. Baker,
whose family history appears in this work; Charity J. , died in 1851; Rev.
Robert H., married Belle Cook, who died six weeks after marriage, and he subse-
uently married Mattie Kilgore; George E. , died small. John Barnes, Sr. ,was in
the War of 1812, and his two brothers, James and George, were, like he.
Democrats. Samuel Barnes enlisted in Company C, Second Ohio Volunteer
Cavalry, August 22, 1861, and served with this company two years. He was
captured at Greenville, Tenn., October 2, 1863, and was confined on Belle
Isle and in Libby Prison until April, 1864. He was paroled and commis-
sioned as lieutenant of the Forty-seventh United States Cavalry Troops, and
was mustered out in the summer of 1865. He fought in several battles. He
was married January 21, 1869, and his children are: Morgan, a teacher; Kate,
a student in the Grove City College; Bailey, Joseph and Letitia. Mrs.
Barnes was born June 2, 1843, and her husband May 18, 1841. Mrs. B.
taught seven terms of school, and Mr. B. was also a teacher. He was
appointed postal clerk on the S. & A. R. R. in 1877, and resigned the posi-
tion in 1888. He and wife are members of the First United Presbyterian
Church of Mercer, and he is a stanch Republican.
D. S. Bastress, farmer, post-oflice Mercer, was born December 16, 1818,
in Lycoming County, Penn. , to Solomon and Elizabeth (Slonaker) Bastress,
natives of Montgomery County, Penn., and the parents of six children: Peter,
Margaret, Harriet, Elizabeth, D. S. and Sarah. Our subject was educated in
the schools at Jersey Shore, Penn. He began to learn the silversmith’s trade
at that place, and finished at Williamsport, where he followed the business
until 1838, when he went to Columbus, Ohio, and prosecuted his trade. It
was then the custom to put teeth in gold plates, and Mr. Bastress was em-
ployed by dentists to make the plates, and in that way learned dentistry. In
1840 he came to Mercer, and soon after opened up a shop for himself. He
practiced dentistry in Mercer for thirty years, and did work for citizens at
Warren, New Castle, Franklin, Sharon, Butler and Greenville. He was mar-
ried in 1846 to Mary A. Satterfield, daughter of Elijah and Sarah A. Satter-
field, by whom he had eight children: Elizabeth, Fidderman, David, Emeline,
Henry, Maggie and two deceased. Mrs. Bastress died December 7, 1883, and
a Mercer paper said the following in giving a notice of her death: “We can-
not chronicle the death of this lady without a word of tribute to her worth.
She was born August 11, 1827, near Milford, in the State of Delaware, and
when quite young her father removed with his family to Mercer County, where
the deceased had resided ever since. She was a woman remarkable for her
quiet, uniform Christian spirit, patient under all the cares and labors incident
to a large family, thoughtful, prudent and kind in everything. She was
greatly beloved in all of the relations of life. She had long been a member
of the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and her life was a continual tes-
timony of the genuineness of her faith and the power of divine grace. Her
experience during her illness was of profound peace with her Maker, and her
death was like her life, in quiet trust. Her memory is very precious to her
family and a large circle of friends. ’ ’ Mr. Bastress came to his present farm
in 1870, and has resided here since. He owns the house in Mercer where
Hon. John A. Bingham was born. In politics he is a Democrat.
948
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Adam Boston, deceased June 16, 1886, was born in Butler County, Penn.,
February 18, 1818. He was the son of John and Elizabeth (Albert) Boston,
who were of German descent. His father enlisted in the War of 1812 from
Butler County. February 24, 1842, Adam Boston was married to Christeena
Crill, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Coon) Crill, who are mentioned in the
biography of James Hosack. Adam Boston and his wife lived for three years
on his father’ s farm in this county, and then, in 1845, settled on the farm
where he died, and where his widow still lives. Seven children blessed their
home, all of whom are living at present: Jane Elizabeth was born March 20,
1843, and was married to Cyrus J. Montgomery December 31, 1873; they are
the parents of eight children. Sarah was born January 14, 1845, and was mar-
ried to J. M. Albin December 30, 1869; they are the parents of seven children.
Mary Adaline was born October 22, 1846, and lives with her mother, being
an invalid. Melda Malissa was born October 30, 1848, and was married
October 6. 1887, to Kev. H. H. Houston, pastor of the United Presbyterian
Church at Struthers, Ohio. John A. Boston was born June 27, 1851, and
was married January 10, 1884, to Maggie M. Buxton, who died June 28,
1887. William B. Boston was born May 17, 1854, and was married to Mary
Fry January 27, 1881; they are the parents of three children. Samuel L.
Boston was born November 8, 1859, and was married July 29, 1886, to Jen-
nie P. Keifer; they are the parents of one child. Samuel L. has entered the
profession of the ministry, and will have further notice in his own biography.
Religiously the Bostons are Presbyterians, and Adam Boston served for many
years as an elder in the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer, which office he
held at death. Politically they are all Democrats, except Samuel L. , who is a
zealous Prohibitionist.
Geoege W. Beandon, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 22,
1822, in Lawrence County, Penn., to James and Elizabeth (Stewart) Brandon,
natives, the father of Kentucky and mother of Pennsylvania. They were
married in Beaver County, and lived there about fifty-six years. The father
died in 1875, and his widow in 1876, the parents of Thomas; Margaret, mar-
ried William Patterson; James, G. W. , William; Sarah, married John Alex-
ander; Samuel, Franklin; Elizabeth J., married Joseph McBurney; Benjamin F.
and Mary. G. W. Brandon was educated in the log cabin schools of his day;
was brought up at farm labor, and was married April 6, 1843, to Eleanor,
daughter of Matthew Alexander, of Lawrence County. She died in 1863, and
had two children: One died in infancy, and James S., was educated at New
Wilmington College; taught school at Grove City; studied for the ministry at the
Theological Seminary of Allegheny City, and preached five years in the Alle-
gheny Presbytery; was married to Helen M. Moon, a daughter of Dr. Moon, and
had one child, Ella S. He enlisted in Company I, Sixty-fourth Pennsylvania
Heavy Artillery, and served about one year. He died November 28, 1879.
Mr. Brandon was again married March 31, 1864, to Isabella P. (Alexander)
Morrison, widow of William S. Morrison. Mrs. Brandon’s first marriage gave
her one son, Francis S., who married Nettie B., daughter of M. W Alexander,
and has two children: Eva B. and William C. Mr. Morrison died January 1,
1862, a member of the United Presbyterian Church. By his last marriage
Mr. Brandon had three children: William I., died January 26, 1866; Burton
R. , died October 2, 1867 ; and Edwin E. , died September 1, 1869. Mrs.
Brandon is a daughter of James and Martha (Barnes) Alexander, natives, the
father of County Tyrone, Ireland, and the mother of Armagh, Ireland. They
came to America before they were married with their respective parents, James
and Mary (Hamilton) Alexander, and Thomas and Mary Barnes. The chil-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
949
dren of James and Martha Alexander were : Mary, Rebecca, Susan, Margaret,
Elizabeth, Martha, James H., Sarah, Ellen, Isabella P., and one who died
young. Her parents were members of the old Springtield Church at the time
of their death, and he was an elder. Mr. and Mrs. Brandon are members of
the same church of which he is an elder, ^e is a strong advocate of
Prohibition.
Edward Buckham, justice of the peace, Pardoe, was born August 29, 1884,
in England. His parents were Edward and Mary (Scott) Buckham. Our
subject was educated in his native country, and there early learned the art of
coal mining. He came to America in 1870, and engaged for a while in min-
ing coal in Washington County, Pehn. He then, in 1871, came to Pardoe,
where he engaged in mining coal until 1880, when he opened a store at Par-
doe. This he conducted with good success for four years, and only withdrew
because of affliction. He was elected a justice of the peace in 1888 and is the
present incumbent. In 1886 he passed an examination for mine boss, and
secured a situation at Leechburg, Armstrong Co., Penn., but gave it up because
of lameness. He was married in 1856 to Jane Hall, a native of England, by
whom he has had fifteen children; Mary A., married Augustus Freldhaber;
Edward, married Elizabeth Peters; George, Matthew W., Charles B., Maggie,
John W., Augustus H. and Thomas J. The others are dead. He and his
wife are members of the Episcopal Church, which holds meetings in a small
building near his residence. In politics he is a Republican.
Thomas Courtney, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born December 8, 1814,
in what is now Liberty Township, to Thomas and Hadessah (Robinson) Court-
ney, natives, the father of Chester County, Penn. , of Scotch-Irish extraction, and
the mother of Franklin County, Penn. They came to Mercer County in 1809 and
settled in the woods, where they built a log cabin. The mother died in 1815,
and had blessed her husband with two children; Rebecca, married David
Gilson, and Thomas. The father was married a second time, to Catharine
McDowell, and had by her; D. F., Nancy J., married Hugh Miller; Catha-
rine, married Alexander McCoy, and Amanda, married James Tiber. The
father was a soldier in the War of 1812. He was a captain, and died in 1841,
a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, to which his wives Avere
also attached. Thomas, our subject, attended the schools of his time, his
early teachers being Alexander Riddle and Joseph Sterrett. He was brought
up at hard farm labor. He was married in April, 1848, to Catharine Christley,
a daughter of William and Mary Christley, of Springfield Township, and had
by her; William, killed in the battle of the Wilderness; T. A., Mary, dead,
was the wife of Samuel McClelland; Sarah A., John A., professor in the
Grove City College; George F. Mrs. Courtney died in 1864, a member of the
Presbyterian Church. He was again married, to Mary E. Breckenridge, in 1870,
and has by her, James P. Mr. Courtney came to his present farm of 200 acres in
1848. It was the gift of his father. He is a ponsistent Presbyterian, an up-
right man, and a stanch Republican.
James Cribbs, farmer, post-office Balm, was born September 18, 1882, in
Findley Township, to Peter and Catharine (Millison) Cribbs, natives of West-
moreland County, where they were married, and came to this county about
1825, settling on the farm where George Cribbs now resides. Here they
began in a little shanty which was erected by some hunters. This farm of
200 acres in the green woods was given him by his father, who had obtained
it from the government. Peter Cribbs died in this county in March, 1878,
and his wife died in April, 1868. They were members of the German Re-
formed Church, and the parents of Elizabeth, who married Dr. Daniel Acher;
950
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mary M. , married John Moon and afterward Henry Wagner; Susan, married
Andrew Reher: John C. G., James; Clarissa, married Andrew Boyer and after-
ward Elias Pauley ; George W., and Hannah, married Benjamin Tiber. James
Cribbs attended the country schools. He followed carpentering for twenty-
five years in connection with farming. He was married in 1853 to Christina
Heasley, daughter of George and Mary (Beighley) Heasley, natives, the father
of Westmoreland and the 'mother of Butler County. The father died in
Findley Township in 1864, and his children were: John H. , Rebecca, married
Henry Walls; George, Daniel, Mary, married John Hamilton; Elias P.,
Christina, Elizabeth, married William Guist; William, and Amelia, married
Alfred Hardy. Her father was a Presbyterian and her mother a Lutheran.
Mr. and Mrs. Cribbs have the following children; Amanda R. , married James
C. Thompson, and has four children ; Albert E. , Austin G. , married Agnes
Shannon; Laura, married George McCullough; Mary E., Elmer E., Ella,
WTlliam R., and Sadie A. Mr. Cribbs and family attend the German Reformed
Church. He has served in some of the offices of his township, and is a stanch
Republican. He has an evaporator, and engages during the fruit season in dry-
ing fruit for himself and the general public. He has in good cultivation about
six acres of raspberries, and an almost endless quantity of fine fish are to be
found in the ponds he has arranged for them around his residence.
John T. Crill, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born March 18, 1853, on
the farm where he now lives, to Lewis and Susan (Todd) Crill, natives of this
county, and the parents of seven children; Jane E., married William Houston;
Mary A., died small; Catharine; John T. ; Mary, married Hiram Worley,
and an infant who died small. Mrs. Crill died August 1, 1856. Her husband
has been an invalid since 1873, and has been afflicted with spinal disease for
over thirty years. He is a Presbyterian, to which organization his wife was
attached. John T. Crill was educated in this county and brought up at farm
labor. He was married to Charlotte, a daughter of Henry and Susannah W’^or-
ley, and has by her four children, Lewis H. , Samuel W. , James E. and Ida
M. A coal bank was opened up on his farm in 1847 by his father, and John
is now operating it in connection with his farm. Mr. Crill is serving as
school director, road commissioner and justice of the peace. He and wife are
Presbyterians, and he is a Democrat. On his farm, which is the old home-
stead of John Crill, are to be seen the remnants of an old distillery and saw-
mill which were erected by the elder Crill during his early residence in this
county. A more extended mention of John Crill, Sr., will be found in the
historical chapters and in the sketch of the Hosack family.
Rev. J. P. Davis, post-office Pardoe, pastor of the old Springfield Church,
was born October 31, 1842, near Hartstown, Crawford Co., Penn. His
father, Andrew Davis, came from his native country, Ireland, to Philadelphia
when he was twenty- one years of age. He was a weaver by trade, and while
thus engaged married Hannah Porter, a native of Ireland, who immigrated to
Philadelphia two years after her parents. The marriage ceremony, which
occurred December 11, 1825, was performed by the Rev. Dr. Potts, he being
twenty- seven and she eighteen years of age. In 1829 he came to Pittsburgh
to look up a home, and later his wife and three children followed by means of
a six-horse team. They were eighteen days making the journey, which was
multiplied in the hardships by the driver, who was a colored man, being
drunk the greater part of the way. In a few weeks they removed to Warren
County, Penn., and there operated a farm for three years. They then moved
to Mercer County, and subsequently bought a farm in South Shenango Town-
ship, Crawford County, where he died September 21, 1884, leaving a widow
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
951
and seven childi’en; John S. , Ann, Walter L., Margaret I., James P., Thomas
D. and Mary E. The following are dead: William, William (2), Andrew,
Andrew (2), Hugh 0. and Emma J. He was at a time a Seceder in church
relations, but died a member of the United Presbyterian Church. His wife
was one time a member of the New Light Covenanter Church, but united with
her husband in his religious beliefs. Our subject attended the common
schools, and was graduated at Monmouth College, Monmouth, 111., in 1871.
He taught district schools before entering college. He entered the theological
seminary at Allegheny City in 1870, and graduated from that institution in
1872. He was licensed May 3, 1871, by the Lake Presbytery, was ordained
and installed by the Frankfort Presbytery September 3, 1872, as pastor at
Hookstown and Tumlinson’s Run, and served there until 1874. He was
installed pastor of Mt. Prospect, in Chartier’s Presbytery, June 29, 1875. He
was released from this in 1880, and on December 1, 1886, he was given charge
of the old Springfield congregation. He is well worthy to follow the much-
beloved Rev. Edward Small, who has gone to his reward. He was married,
June 26, 1872, to Maggie McMichael, by the Rev. Dr. H. H. Hervey. She is a
sister of Judge McMichael, of Lawrence County. By this union he has five
children: Walter H., Eva M. , Sarah E., J. Paul and Howard M. His wife is
a consistent member of his church. Rev. Davis has by a vast amount of
labor prepared a very interesting history of the Davis and Porter families,
which is, of course, too long for a general work of this kind.
Washington Davis, farmer, post-office Balm, was born April 16, 1837, in
Butler County, to Joseph and Mary Jane (Morrison) Davis, natives, the father
of Bedford, and the mother of Butler County, Penn. The parents came
to Mercer County in 1856, and settled on the farm in Findley Township now
owned by Davis Shilling. Here the father died in February, 1880, and the
mother is still living. They had the following children: Harriet, married
William Crothers; Morrison; Washington; Clarissa, married John Snyder;
and three are dead. The father was previously married to Isabella Oliver,
by whom he had Anna, married Thomas Clark, " and John. The pres-
ent Mrs. Davis was the widow of a Mr. Stewart when she married Jos-
eph Davis. The parents were members of the Presbyterian Church. Wash-
ington Davis was educated in the common schools, and was brought up
on a farm. He was married in 1860 to Mary Johnson, born November 25,
1842, daughter of James and Agnes (Gray) Johnson, natives of Ireland and
Scotland, respectively. Her parents immigrated to Pittsburgh about the
year 1831, and to Mercer County in 1852. Here the father died in 1884, and
his widow survives. Their children were as follows: Margaret, John
(deceased), Lizzie, Mary, Jane (wife of George Shannon). Mr. and Mrs.
Washington Davis have four children: James J. is clerk at the transfer depot,
Pittsburgh; Pearson, Ella and Agnes. James J. ,the eldest, is married to Hat-
tie Holmes, of Rochester, Penn. He is a part owner of the old Findley farm,
near Mercer; his brother, Pearson, is interested with him in the same. Mr.
Davis settled on his present farm of fifty-three acres in 1861, and has been
successful. He is a Republican, and he and wife are members of the Second
United Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
Jacob Eberle, retired farmer, post-office Mercer, was born December 7,
1810, in Wittenburg, Germany. His parents, George Leonard and Doratha
(Munce) Eberle, immigrated to this country in 1829 and settled in Columbiana
County, Ohio, where the father engaged in farming and making baskets. They
subsequently settled near Sandy Lake, where they died, he in 1860 and she in
1841. Their two childi-en were Jacob and Doratha, who married Stephen
952
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Yoiirdan and lives in Noble County, Ind. The parents were Lutherans.
Jacob Eberle was educated at a seminary in his native country, and learned the
trade of shoemaker. August 28, 1828, he engaged at his trade in Philadel-
phia, where he continued with earnest efforts till 1830, when he was married
to Mary A. Aberle, and at once the happy couple set out on an extended wed-
ding trip to Petersburg, Ohio, a distance of over 500 miles, every foot of
which they walked. Mr. Eberle carried his shoemaker’s tools with him, and
when a job could be secured on the way availed himself of the opportunity to
make a few pennies. When they landed in Petersburg they had about |5. He
at once secured work at his trade, and in three years they went to Milltown, in
what is now Mahoning County, Ohio, where he worked at his trade. Six years
later they came to Mercer County, and settled near Sandy Lake. In 1847
they moved to the farm where he now resides. Mrs. Eberle died in March,
1887, and was the mother of the following children: Elizabeth, born July 2,
1834; William, born March 15, 1836, was in Company F, One Hundred and
Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was killed at the battle of the
Wilderness; Louesa, born December 20, 1837; Charles, born September 29,
1839, was in the Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers; Mary, born May
24, 1841; Emily, born December 23, 1842; Henry, born February 8, 1845;
Amanda, born December 17, 1847; David, born November 18, 1849; James
A., born December 25, 1852, and Joseph, born October 28, 1854. John
Eberle married Kate Rice, a daughter of Daniel Rice, of West Salem Town-
ship, and has four children : Lizzie, Charles, Carrie and Fred. He has worked
some at the shoemaker’s trade and at carpentering. The latter trade he fol-
lowed awhile at Greenville where he was working on wagons. He now
conducts a farm of sixty-three acres, and he and his wife are members of the
Second Presbyterian Church of Mercer. Jacob Eberle has served as town-
ship treasurer, collector and school director. He was for twenty years an
agent for the Pymatuning Insurance Company, and resigned said position in
1887. He is a stockholder in the First National Bank of Mercer.
Henry Giles, farmer and manager of a coal bank, post-office Mercer, was
born August 4, 1836, in Franklin County, Penn., to James and Elizabeth
(Parsons) Giles, natives of America, and of English and German extraction, re-
spectively. The father died in Clarion County, Penn. , and the mother in this
county. His death occurred in 1844 and hers in 1876. They had seven chil-
dren: Samuel, deceased; George, Sarah A., widow of David Carbaugh; Jack-
son, who went West in 1861 and died there; Elizabeth, married Joseph Platt;
Catharine, married Joseph Call, and Henry. The last named was educated in the
common schools and was brought up on a farm. He was for awhile employed
by the Erie & West Middlesex Blast Furnace Company. He came to Mercer
County in 1854, and was married in 1857 to Leah Rupert, daughter of Philip
and sister of Reuben Rupert, whose sketches are to be found elsewhere. By
his marriage he has had: Sarah M. , married Albert Cribbs; Anna, married
John Platt; James, deceased; William, married Mattie Hart; Ella, Emma,
Edwin, Nettie and Laura. Mr. Giles settled on his farm of sixty-two acres
in 1877, and farms it in connection with his management of the John T. Crill
coal mine, which employment he took under William Houston in 1873. He
believes in the doctrines of the Methodist Church and is a Republican.
James G. Gilfillan, farmer, post-office Balm, was born December 21, 1816,
in Mercer County, to John and Mary (Glenn) Gilfillan. The father was a
native of County Derry, Ireland, born October 14, 1783, and immigrated to
America when eleven years old, with his parents, James and Martha (Wiley)
Gilfillan. The family settled in Lawrence County, where James and Martha
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
953
died after having been blessed with the following children: John, Alexander,
a physician, drowned near New Castle while fishing; Ebbie, married Joseph
Law; Sarah, married James Gill; Thomas; Nancy, married John Green; Mar-
tha, married Abraham Green, and James, a blacksmith, who learned his trade
with Robert Stewart, the father of the distinguished William Stewart, and
married Jane, a daughter of William Adams, once the owner of the “Ranals
Mills.” These became the property of James Gilfillan, and were afterward
known as the ‘‘Gilfillan Mills.” John Gilfillan and his father, James, were
among the prominent members and founders of the ‘‘Slippery Rock” Church.
The former was in the "War of 1812, was educated in the country schools,
and brought up on a farm. When he was about sixteen years of age, and at
home by himself in a log cabin, an Indian came and took dinner with him.
-John was married in 1814 to Mary Glenn, and settled on the farm, where he
died May 20, 1857. His first wife died in 1828, and her children were:
Martha, married Thomas McClemen; James G. , Robert, Isabella, married
Samuel Adams; John, Mariah, married George Mathers; Robert (2). His sec-
ond wife was Jane Lowry, and she, as well as his first wife, was a member of
the United Presbyterian Church, to which he also was attached. James G.
Gilfillan was educated in Mercer and Lawrence Counties, and studied survey-
ing with Samuel McDowell, now deceased, but once a well-known character
of Lawrence County. He began surveying in 1840, and has surveyed the
greater part of the roads in the southern portion of Mercer County and many
in Lawrence. He bought a farm of 100 acres in the woods in Liberty Town-
ship in 1839, the greater part of which he cleared. In 1878 he sold it for
$10,000, and bought the place where he now resides in Findley Township. He
was married December 15, 1842, to Mary A. Brewster, a daughter of Robert
and Mary (Tonnihill) Brewster, the parents of eight children : John T. , James,
Rebecca, married Robert Tigert; Tonnihill, died young; Robert, Mary, Eme-
tine, who died small, and the parents named their next Emeline. The children
of our subject are: R. A., graduated at Westminster College and at the The-
ological Seminary of Allegheny City, is now in charge of a United Presbyterian
congregation at Turtle Creek; Emma, married William Wilson; and John N.,
died young; R. Brewster, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
dropped dead with heart disease at Stonebore; J. Calvin, a farmer and an
agent for evaporators; A. J. , engaged in the millinery and dress making busi-
ness in Fairview, Butler County; Flora P., teaching at Turtle Creek; Lulu M. ,
Ella M. , married A. K. Miller, and Charles, who died at the age of nineteen
years. He and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church, and he
is a Prohibitionist.
Aechibald Glenn, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born August 15, 1835,
in Pine Township, to Valentine and Eliza (McCune) Glenn. The father was
born in Pine Township, near Center Church, March 17, 1804, and his father’s
name was Robert. Eliza was born in what is now Lawrence County, and her
children were: Mary, married James Breckenridge ; Catharine, married Har-
ris Armstrong; Archibald, Maggie, Robert, Thomas C. , William D. The
parents are members of the Presbyteriap Church. Archibald Glenn attended
the common schools, and for years was engaged in lumbering in Pine, Cool
Spring and Lake Townships. He enlisted in Company F, Fifty- seventh
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served two years. He was in the seven days’
fight, was wounded in the shoulder at Charles City Cross Roads, and was
in the battle of Fredericksburg. He was married December 30, 1869, to
Anna M. Albin, and had four children: Charles C., died small; Nannie E.,
John A. and George V. In 1875 they came from his saw-mill to their present
954
HISTOEY OP MERCEK COUNTY.
farm, a part of which is the old homestead of her father. They are members
of the Center Presbyterian Church. He is a Republican. John Albin, the
father of Mrs. Glenn, was born October 3, 1819, in Pine Township, to William
and Martha (Walker) Albin. His father was born in Ireland, and came to
Mercer County with his father, John Albin, in 1803. The children of John
Albin, Sr., were: William, Amy, John, Sallie, Margaret, Reuben and Isa-
bella. The children of William and Martha Albin were: John, Mary A.,
Margaret J., Sarah, Elizabeth, Caroline, Rebecca, Maria and James. John
Albin was educated in the common schools and one term at the academy at
Greenville. He taught school several terms in this and Butler Counties. He
was manned in 1843 to Nancy Lightner, and their children are: John G. ,
read law with Hon. Samuel Griffith, and practiced law' till his death, June 28,
1875, was married to Lillie Day and left two children; Anna M. , James M. ,
married Sarah Boston and has a son, Samuel M. , who clerks for A. J. McKean,
and Laura, Gertie, Emma, Mary and John A.; Maria J. , married Dr. L. G.
Meyers. John Albin has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church
for over forty-nine years, and his wife is a member also. He is a Democrat.
William Glendening, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 13,
1818, in County Derry, Ireland. His parents, Andrew and Elizabeth (McMillan)
Glendening, came to Mercer County in 1828 with their children, Mary A. , Will-
iam, Elizabeth, Andrew, Jane and Sarah. They settled in Springfield Town-
ship in the portion that is now in Findley. After fifteen years they moved to
Delaware Township. Ten years later they moved to Cool Spring, where the
father died August 28, 1873, and his wife November 24, 1871. They were
members of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Our subject was edu-
cated in the country schools in Ireland and Mercer County. He was married
in 1844 to Eliza A. Linn, daughter of James and Jane (Williamson) Linn,
early settlers of this county. By this union he had four children. Eliza, the
wife of James Keck, is the only one living. His wife died in 1858, and he
married Sarah Walker, daughter of William and Jane (Hazlett) Walker, also
early settlers in the county. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Walker were:
Ebenezer; Robert, killed in front of Petersburg in the seven days’ fight;
William and Sarah. By his second wife Mr. Glendening has Jennie, mar-
ried A. C. Slater; Lewis, married Julia Bolton; Lizzie, Emma, Maggie and
Leroy. Mr. Glendening settled, when first married, in Delaware Township,
and in 1883 located where he now resides, in Findley Township. He is the
owner of a good farm and other property. He and wife are members of the
First United Presbyterian Church, and he has been a Republican since 1862.
William J. Graham, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born July 11, 1827,
in Mercer, to James and Jane (Patterson) Graham. The father was born in
Ireland, and came to the eastern part of Pennsylvania when two years old with
his parents, William and Mary (Ewart) Graham. There William died, and
Mary married .John Patterson. She and her second husband subsequently
came to Mercer County. Her two sons, James and John, were bound over to
a ’ Squire Irwin, of Buffalo Valley, east of the mountains, with whom they
lived until they were young men. Two brothers of William Graham, Thomas and
Dr. Graham, came to Mercer before Mr. and Mrs. Patterson. The doctor
practiced only a few years, and returned to Philadelphia. Thomas kept what
was known as the Graham Hotel in Mercer for many years. Thompson Gra-
ham, the son of Thomas, was the proprietor of a drug store in this city for
many years. Mrs. Forker and the mother of C. W. Whistler were also chil-
dren of Thomas Graham. John and Mary Patterson had four children: Jane,
married Andrew Todd; William P. , married Catharine McClure; Robert, mar-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
955
ried Milche Turner; Mary A., married Thomas McElree. John and James
Graham came to this county when sixteen and eighteen years old, respectively,
and John took up his home with his mother and step-father, Patterson. In 1823
he was married to Mary Barnes, a daughter of John Barnes, and subsequently
died. His widow died at the home of our subject. James Graham went to
Philadelphia, and there learned carpentering. He returned to this county, and
married Jane Patterson, daughter of Hugh Patterson, of Ireland. She came
to America at the age of twenty with her brother, J ames Patterson, and his
wife. James Graham settled with his wife in Mercer, and helped to build the
old Dr. Magoffin property, where the Magoffin sisters now reside. He died in
Mercer in 1828, and his widow married Samuel Cleland, of Butler County,
Penn. Both are deceased. By her first husband she had three children:
Martha, married Samuel Moore; John, died small, and William J. , married
Lavina J. Kelty, daughter of David and Catherine (Fisher) Kelty. By her
second husband she had three children: Eleanor, married Joseph McKee;
Patterson, married Mary J. Patterson, and Mary A., married Joseph Moore.
Mrs. Graham and her two husbands were members of the United Presbyterian
Church. Mr. and Mrs. Graham have six children: John C., married Celia
Newbury; Emma K, , married James Hughes; Mary J., Clara N., Lewis K.,
Violet N. The parents of Mrs. Graham are dead. Their children were
Arthur, Mary E., Thomas I., Nancy J. and Lizzie Ann. Mr. Graham farmed
in Butler County from 1862 to 1873, when he settled on the farm where he
now resides. He has served as school director, assessor, collector and town-
ship auditor; is a Prohibitionist, and he and his wife are members of the First
United Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
James M. Geaham, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 21, 1842,
in Mercer County, on the farm where he now lives. His father, Mark Gra-
ham, was born in a house which stood exactly on the line between Washington
County, Penn., and Virginia. Arthur Graham, the father of Mark, bought
the farm where James Graham now lives of John Hinelight, who got it for
services in the Revolutionary War. Arthur came to the county when his son
Mark was about sixteen years old. Arthur Graham had three children: Mark,
Samuel, and Isabella, who married William Cummins. Mark Graham was
born August 30, 1813. He was married May 11, 1837, to Nancy Reed,
daughter of William Reed, who settled in East Lackawannock Township, but
died in Jackson Township. The children of Mark and Nancy were: Samuel,
born March 20, 1838, and died May 14, 1880; Alexander E., born October 31,
1839; Martha E. , born October 5, 1841; William R., born August 20, 1843,
died October 19, 1861; James A. and Arthur W. The father died April 9,
1870, and his widow March 1, 1885. They were consistent members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. Their deaths occurred in the house where
Arthur W. now resides. Mark was a strong Abolitionist, a Republican, and
was once poor director. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and
brought up at farm labor. He was married in 1872 to Ella Douglass, and has
three boys: Francis, Joseph L. and Herman D. Mr. Graham has been school
director and township auditor, and is a stanch Republican. Archibald Doug-
lass, the father of Mrs. Graham, was of Scotch extraction, a native of Pennsyl-
vania, and married for his first wife Maria Parks, by whom he had seven
children: Joseph, deceased; Dr. Thomas J. , lives in Ottumwa, Iowa; Mary,
the wife of Dr. Joseph Lusk, of Butler; Milton, deceased; Sarah, deceased;
Nettie, married Col. George Noble, lives in Dallas, Tex., and Lizzie, who lives
in Ottumwa, Iowa. Mr. Douglass was married again, to Mary Weaver, a
native of Maryland, and had three children: One died when six weeks old;
956
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Maria, married Joseph Cochran, and Ella. Her father died in 1869. He was
for many years connected with the official business of Mercer County, and is
mentioned in the historical chapters of this volume. His last wife died in
1861. They were members of the First Presbyterian Church.
Arthur W. Graham, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born February 1, 1848.
He is a son of Mark Graham, whose sketch appears in connection with that of
James M. Graham in this work. Arthur was educated in the common schools
and at a graded school at Mercer. He was brought up on a farm; was married
April 16, 1885, to Melinda E. , daughter of Robert and Mary (Dunlap) Taylor,
natives, the father of Trumbull County, Ohio, and the mother of Mercer County.
Her parents live in Lackawannock Township, and have had seven children.
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Graham have one son, Fred W. They live in the house
where his parents lived for many years and died. Arthur Graham is an en-
terprising farmer and is a Republican.
W. H. Harrison, carpenter and farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born Sep-
tember 15, 1837, in Jackson Township, this county, and his parents, William
and Sarah Harrison, were natives, the father of England and the mother of
either Scotland or England. The father came to America about the year 1808,
and bought 200 acres of land, now on the site of BufPalo, N. Y. He was a
cabinet-maker, and was induced by John North, an acquaintance, to locate in
Mercer County, Penn., and to give up his claim in New York. He finally set-
tled on land in what is now Cool Spring Township, and died in Jackson Town-
ship, on the farm where his son, Jesse, resides, in 1880. His wife died in
1869, having blessed him with eleven children: Joseph H. , Anna J. , George W.,
Isaac J. , W. H. , John J., Lizzie E., Sarah J., Jesse, Thomas L. and Mary L.
The parents were members of the Wesleyar^ Methodist Church. W. H. Har-
rison was educated in the common schools, and learned the trade of a carpen-
ter with George Moon, and has followed that the greater part of his time since.
He bought thirty acres where he now lives, and has farmed it in connection
with the manufacture of doors and sash. He was married in 1863 to Nancy
E. Evans, daughter of J ames and Barbara (Truxell) Evans. Her father came
from Ireland to America in 1806, and settled in Findley Township, where
Hugh Evans now resides, where he and his wife died, the parents of six chil-
dren: Sarah, married William McKay; David, Hugh, James was in the war;
Mary J. and Nancy E. Our subject and wife have had six children: HughE.,
farming; Sarah A., Nettie D. and Anna M. are dead; John L. and James B.
Mr. Harrison enlisted in Company I, Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served three months. His brothers, George W., John J., Jesse and Isaac
J., were in the service of their country ; John J. died during the battle of the
Wilderness, and Isaac J. was in a New York cavalry regiment. Mr. Harrison
and wife are members of the Methodist Church at Pardoe, and he is a Repub-
lican.
Andrew Highbarger, blacksmith for the Mercer County Coal Company at
Pardoe, was born November 27, 1837, in Clarion County, Penn. He was
educated in the common schools, and began learning his trade at the age of
nineteen years in Clarion, where he continued for four years. He then went
to Oil City, where he combined his trade with drilling until 1862, when he
came to Mercer County and enlisted in Company H, One Hundredth Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and served for three years. He was wounded in the
left hip at Spottsylvania, and was laid up for several months. Excepting
this loss he was with his regiment in every battle they fought. On his return
from the war he engaged in smithing at Pardoe, where he has since continued.
He does the smithing work for the Mercer County Coal Company. He was
HISTORY- OF MERCER COUNTY.
957
married to Margaret Wilson, a sister of David Wilson, whose sketch appears
elsewhere in this work. Mrs. H. died, leaving two children; John and
Albert. He was married again, to Mary Parks, and has three children: Ada,
Irene, James Arthur and Floyd Morris. He and wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church of Pardoe, and he is a Reimblican. John and
Betsey Highbarger had six children; Jacob, Eliphas, Henry, Amos, Jonas
and Andrew. The parents are both dead, and were consistent members of the
Lutheran Church. Mr. Highbarger is one of the representative citizens of
this county, and one of the most efficient blacksmiths in the State.
James Hosack (deceased) was born May 25, 1817, in what is now Findley
Township, to David and Rebecca (Paxton) Hosack, the parents of James,
Jane, Thomas, Margaret, the wife of A. C. Amberson; Martha, the wife of
Sylvester Harrison, of Ashtabula County, Ohio; Mary, married Lewis Moon;
John, Henry, Rebecca, married James McKay; David, Emily M. and Ewing.
James Hosack was educated in the common schools, and was married May 20,
1841, to Mary Crill, born October 13, 1818, who was a daughter of John
Crill, who was born in Franklin County, Penn., where he was married to
Elizabeth Coon. In the spring of 1806 he came to this county and bought
land where John T. Crill now lives, in Findley Township. In the fall of the
same year he brought his family to the county. They came by team, and
stopped at the old Herrington Hotel in Mercer long enough for Mrs. Crill to
bake a quantity of bread. They slept the first night on their farm in the
wagon-bed, and the next day erected a log cabin. Here the father died
November 9, 1849, and his faithful wife May 13, 1842. Their childi-en were:
Catharine, Elizabeth, Catharine (2), John, Elizabeth (2), Nancy, Sarah, Mary,
Christina and Lewis. The parents of the above children were Lutherans.
James Hosack was the father of six children; Cyrus, married Mary Morris
and has Hattie B. ; James, deceased; George, Anson, Minnie and Charles;
Jane, married Peter H. Ebert; Rebecca, deceased; Mary, married G. A. Morris;
Samuel, Angeline, married M. H. Black, son of Matthew and Jane Black,
and he and wife have Mary J. , Eva M. and Frank M. James Hosack was a
Democrat, and his estimable widow is a consistent ^member of the Second
United Presbyterian Church of Mercer. Further mention of the Hosack
family appears in this volume. Matthew Black, the father of M. H. , married
Jane Billingsley, and had Susan, who married William Buchannan; James,
died while serving in the Twenty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers; Lizzie, Jos-
eph, M. H., Sarah J. , deceased; Maggie and Samuel. Mr. and Mrs. Black
live in Pine Township, and are members of the United Presbyterian Church.
John J. Hosack, farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born March 2, 1833, in
Mercer County, to David and Rebecca (Paxton) Hosack. David Hosack was
a brother of James Hosack, whose sketch appears previously. Our subject
was educated in the pioneer schools of this county, and brought up on a farm.
His father died when he was eleven years of age, and one year later he started
out in the world for himself. He hired out to his neighbors at anything he
could get to do. At the age of fifteen he engaged by the month and took his joay
in store goods. He was married in 1857 to Martha Barnes, a daughter of George
and Margaret (Zeigler) Barnes. Her father was a native of Ireland, and came to
America when six years of age. Margaret Zeigler was a daughter of George
and Susannah (Lear) Zeigler, who immigrated to America at an early period.
George B. Barnes, a brother of Mrs. Hosack, was in the One Hundred and
Forty-second Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was killed at the battle of Fred-
ricksburg. Mrs. Hosack’ s father was an elder in the Seceder Church. Mr.
and Mrs. Hosack have had ten children; James L., married Jennie Donakl-
56
958
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
son, a native of Scotland, and is the engineer for the Mercer County Coal
Company at Pardoe; Margaret R. , married J. W. Banister, of Sharpsville;
Mary A., married T. E. Armstrong, of Venango County; Jennie S., married
Albert Nelson; Susa L., Wild a A., Tillie E., Nellie B., Esta and Fred, both
dead. Mr. and Mrs. Hosack are United Presbyterians, and he is a Republi-
can. David Hosack, father of J. J. Hosack, was born in Adams County, near
Gettysburg, Penn., in 1790. In the year 1802 he, with his father’s family,
immigrated to Mercer County, settling on a tract of land on the south branch
of Mill Creek, now a part of Findley Township, where they became the pos-
sessors of a large tract of land, a part of which became the property of David.
On this farm J. J. Hosack was born, and he is now the resident owner. In 1852
J. J. , being of a somewhat rambling disposition, desiring to visit new country,
traveled to Pittsburgh by stage and canal. He then took deck passage on the
river from there to Fort Madison, Iowa. The first business he engaged in
toward gaining a livelihood was chopping cord-wood on an island in the Mis-
sissippi River, two and one-half miles from Fort Madison, where he with three
other boys ‘ ‘were monarchs of all they surveyed, ’ ’ they being the only occu-
pants on the island. While thus engaged it became necessary to take their
first lesson in baking bread. While here the enjoyment of the situation was
interrupted by the subject of this sketch receiving a severe blow on the head
from a falling cotton-wood limb, which caused a fracture of the skull, and
which caused him to vacate the happy surroundings. From here he went to
Livingston County, Ilk, traveling a greater part of the distance on foot. Here
he spent most of the summer of 1853, and witnessed the execution of George
L. Gates, at Ottawa, 111. In the following fall, receiving word of the serious
illness of his mother, he returned home, and has since made his home in
Mercer County.
Thomas Houston, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born in September, 1810,
in Antrim, Ireland, to John and Mary (McBroom) Houston. He was educated
in Ireland, and was married there to Nancy, born November 15, 1810, daugh-
ter of John and Jennie (Rankin) Adair, natives of the same country. Mr. and
Mrs. Houston came to Pittsburgh, Penn., in 1832, where he engaged as a
laborer until 1840, when they came to the farm where he now lives. They
made the trip by team, and settled in a hewed log house in which Daniel
Moon had resided. By hard labor and strict economy he obtained a good farm.
He had ten children; Mary, married David Wilson; John, William and Robert
(all farmers), Hugh H. , a minister of the United Presbyterian Church; Thomas
A., also a minister of the same church; James H. , a farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Hous-
ton are consistent members of the United Presbyterian Church, which organ-
ization they have attended for over forty years. He is a stanch Democrat.
William Houston, post-office Mercer, proprietor of the Mercer Grist Mills,
was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., May 18, 1839. A mention of his parents and
family is to be found elsewhere in this work. He attended the district schools
of his boyhood days, going through the woods at a great inconvenience. He
was brought up at rural pursuits, and helped his father to clear away the
heavy timber on his farm. He was engaged in the coa\ business twelve years
in the coal bank now owned and operated by John T. Crill. In 1882 he, in
company with W. R. Packard, erected the Mercer Roller Grist Mills. He
subsequently bought Packard’s interest, and, with his son, now operates the
business. The mill has a capacity of 125 barrels per day. He employs seven
men regularly. If running continually they can grind about 28, 000 bushels per
month. The mill contains twelve eighteen-foot reels, three of Martin’s cen-
trifugals, fourteen sets of Steven’s rollers, one Richmond Empire bran duster
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
959
aud bolt, six of George T. Smith’s purifiers, one Richmond bust machine,
one Eureka separating and scouring machine, one H. A. Bernard dustless
wheat separator and extractor, one Babcock & Ewing warehouse cleaner, one
meal bolter, and the following, made by the John T. Noyes Manufacturing
Company, of Buffalo, N. Y. : The improved bolting chest, two four-reel chests
and two two-reel chests. Mr. Houston was married February 6, 1868, to Jane
E. Crill, whose family history is found in another part of this volume. By
this union he has four children: Lewis C. is engaged with his father in the
mill, and Mary A, , Ella J. and T. A. are at home. Mr. and Mrs. Houston are
members of the First United Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and he is a
Democrat.
Jacob Ifft, farmer, post-office Balm, was born August 8, 1838, in Beaver
County, Penn. He was educated in that county, and was brought up at farm
labor. He married Miss Mary Shalt, daughter of Michael Shalt, by whom he
has had four children: Anna (deceased), Charles, Albert and John. He came
to Mercer County in 1869, and settled on his present farm, where he has been
very siiccessful. His wife is a member of the Lutheran Church, while he is
a member of the United Presbyterian Church. He is*one of the enterprising
citizens of the county, and is taking a deep interest in the education of his
children.
Joseph Junkin and His Family. — It was in 1805 that John and Joseph
Junkin, sons of the subject of this memoir, came to Mercer County to com-
mence improvements on a property purchased by the father in 1800. This
property was about two and a half miles south of the county town, and is
known as the Hope Mill property. In 1806, Mr. Junkin came out himself,
bringing along with him the balance of a large family, consisting of wife, sons
and daughters. In a biography of his son George it is related that at what
is now the foot of Federal Street, in Allegheny City, dwelt a Mr. Robinson,
who had threshed rye for him in Cumberland County, and who offered him the
farm on which the central part of the city now stands, from the second bank
to the foot of the great hill, for |4,000. Mr. Junkin was well convinced of
the speculation offered him, had the money wherewith to purchase, and
although preparations had been made for his reception at Mercer, on land
already owned by him, would probably have closed with Robinson’s offer, had
not his son-in-law, John Findley, who was then prothonotary, etc., of Mercer
County, strongly dissuaded him from entertaining the proposition. The
result was that Junkin prosecuted his journey to Mercer, contenting himself
to remain in moderate circumstances, while Robinson retained his farm, and,
by the proceeds derived afterward from the sale of lots from it, lived and died
a millionaire. The subject of this sketch was a soldier of the Revolution, and
the commander of a company in the battle of Brandywine, a few days after
which, in a skirmish, he received a musket ball through his right arm, shat-
tering the bone. The torture arising from the wound, or perhaps loss of
blood, caused him to faint and lie as one of the dead when the enemy passed
over the ground. A shower of rain falling on him in the evening he revived,
and sought by crossing fields and woods to get outside of the British lines
unperceived. Providence directed his steps to the kitchen door of the resi-
dence of a Quaker named George Smith, who met and gently pushing him
back said, “Friend, thee is in great danger; my house is full of British
officers, and there in my meadow is encamped a squadron of British horse;
but I will try to save thee.” He took the wounded Junkin to his hay-loft, but
in a short time returned, saying that the British officers demanded hay, and
that their soldiers would be presently there to take it, so another hiding-place
960
HISTOEY OE MERCER COUNTY.
must be found. The loft over the spring house vras the next place, where a
bed was made of some bundles of flax for his resting place. Mrs. Smith
soon afterward supplied him with a supper of scalded bread and milk, and
with some linen cloths, with which he dressed his wounds. Before daybreak
his host routed him out, and leading him past the sentries of the British
encampment, and giving a hunting-shirt to cover his continental uniform,
pointed the way of Washington’s retreat. This was not to be the end of his
trouble. Soon after sunrise he was captured by two dragoons dressed in
English uniform, who compelled him to march forward between the heads of
their horses. Their questions as to who he was, and to what brigade he
belonged, he answered truly. They marched him along for about a mile, he
in the meantime determining to attempt escape when they reached a piece of
woods in advance. When within a short distance of the thicket at which he
contemplated making the attempt his captors said, pointing the way, “^ou
will And your regiment encamped in a field just beyond this wood — we are
Americans in disguise.” The enfeebled man sank to the ground from the
revulsion of feeling caused by this declaration, but with the assistance of the
perpetrators of this ropgh jest played upon him was soon enabled to rejoin his
company. A horse was then procured for him, a saddle improvised out of a
knapsack stuffed with hay, with a rope bridle, he made his way home, a dis-
tance of ninety miles, in three days. Mr. Junkin was a valuable acquisition
to Mercer County. He had means to enable him to put up a fine grist mill,
saw-mill, fulling-mill and a carding machine, besides building what at that
time was perhaps the finest residence in the county, which was recently torn
down. He soon took quite an active share in the public affairs of the county, in
both church and politics, and was very active during the War of 1812 in
sustaining the administration. In politics he was a Democrat, and being a
ready and strong writer, was frequently pitted against Benjamin Stokely, who
was a Federalist in his political views. He was not an office-seeker, but in 1818
was appointed county treasurer. It was in the fall of 1812 that his wife acci-
dentally fell through the hatchway in his flouring-mill, dislocating the spinal
column, and causing her death in a few days afterward, on the 17th of Sep-
tember. He died in February, 1831. Both father and mother were Scotch-
Irish, and devotedly attached to the religious views taught by Calvin, not only
to the dry doctrines of that faith, but cherishing in their hearts the warm and
fervent feelings of a sincere, evangelical piety that impelled to activity and
industry in the cause of Christianity. Eleven of their children reached adult
life and married. Two of their sons, George and David, became ministers in
the Presbyterian Church. Two of their daughters, twins, were married to
ministers of the Associate Reformed Church, Revs. Galloway and Buchanan.
Including these, with other sons and sons-in-law, and grandchildren, the
Christian ministers among his descendants, in 1876, numbered no less than fif-
teen, and ruling elders, sixteen. But it was in Capt. John Junkin that the
people of Mercer County, of that day, took the deepest interest. From his
engaging manners, probity and talents he secured the esteem, confidence and
respect of his fellow citizens, both young and old, to a very great extent.
When Hull’s surrender threw Ohio and Western Pennsylvania into consterna-
tion, he was first lieutenant of the Mercer Blues, a rifle company composed of
men drawn principally from Mercer and the eastern side of the county. This
company determined to answer the call of their country by volunteering for
six months. The captain, who was John Findley, for a domestic reason that
reflected credit rather than discredit, could not then leave his home, and
resigned his command. John Junkin was then made captain, and Walter
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
961
Oliver, a brother-in-law, succeeded to liis place as first lieutenant, Joseph Jun-
kin, a brother, being ensign. This company was remarkable in many respects.
With scarce an exception they were Presbyterians, and connected with some
one or other of the organizations of that faith. In camp every tent, with the
exception of two, in which the officers officiated occasionally, family worship was
regularly kept up. They numbered eighty-four persons, wore their own uni-
forms, carried their own rifles, powder horns, shot pouches, tomahawks, knives,
blankets, bibles and psalm books. They rendezvoused first at Pittsburgh,
whei’e they were joined by others, and thence, through the wilds of Ohio, their
march was directed toward Fort Meigs. They were accompanied by another
company from Mercer County, drawn from the Shenango and Mahoning
region, commanded by Capt. Dawson. At Mansfield, Ohio, containing but a
few log cabins, they rested a few days. This place was then considered in the
Indian country, and the troops were cautious and careful in guarding them-
selves. On one occasion there was an alarm. Capt. Junkin had his men in
line without delay, and while going among them to steady the ranks, and incite
their courage, his sleeve was plucked by one of his men, John Feltsbarger,
who whispered, “Capt. Junkin! Capt. Junkin! may I go back to turn my pone
“Oh, yes, John; but get back as soon as you can,” was the reply. John left his
gun with a comrade, hastened to his tent, turned his pone so that it could be
baked properly, and speeded back to his place in the ranks. On resuming his
gun he said, “ Now let them come on!” The incident afforded a great deal of
fun afterward for his companions, but it was the act of a simple-hearted, cool-
headed and brave man, who could be depended upon to do his duty whenever
emergencies were to be met.
The Mercer County men did not get away from Mansfield without disaster.
One of Capt. Dawson’s men, John Gibson, of Mahoning Township, died from
disease on the 20th of November, at Wooster, and on the night before they
left Mansfield, the 28th, a violent storm arose, by which an oak tree was blown
down on one of the tents, killing Jeremiah Ralston, breaking a thigh for Sam-
uel Patterson, dislocating a limb for Jacob Poole, dangei’ously wounding John
Bean and slightly William Beatty and William Clark, all of the Dawson
company.’
In garrison at Fort Meigs Capt. Junkin and his company were assiduously
attentive to their duty as soldiers, taking good care, also, that their Christian
duties were not neglected in the camp-life they were leading. On one occa-
sion, while some of the Virginia troops were pitching quoits on a Sunday for
amusement, Capt. Junkin found a few of his men among the spectators. He
spoke to them kindly, saying: “Boys, what would our pious relatives at home
think if they heard that we were thus dishonoring the Sabbath day ? Let us
retire, so that we may give no countenance to the desecration.” They all fol-
lowed him from the ground. The attention of the commanding general, Har-
rison, was soon arrested by the way in which Capt. Junkin performed his
duties, and he appointed him to the command of a perilous expedition, having
for its object the capture of the British vessel, the “ Queen Charlotte,” then
supposed to be lying ice-bound near to Malden. Capt. Junkin had authority
to pick his own men, and he took all of them from his own and Capt. Daw-
son’s company. It was expected that a considerable quantity of military
stores would be found in the vessel, and the party took with it hand-sleds for
the removal thereof, if successful. The lake was reached, the ice traversed
until the situation of the vessel was seen, 'When the party found a quarter of a
mile of open water between them and the desired prey. They had no boats,
and were constrained to return without other effort to effect the object for
962
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
whicli they had started. The return was perilous. The ground swell that
prevented their reaching the vessel, after their passage forward, had opened
the ice in their rear, but not to such a great extent that in the use of
the planks carried on their hand -sleds they could bridge the chasms, and thus
escape the perils threatened in the breaking up of the ice on the lake before
they reached the shore.
At the end of the time for which the Pennsylvania troops had volunteered
their services there seemed to be a necessity for their continuance. At the
expiration of their engagement the Virginia troops left Port Malden, and the
Pennsylvanians determined to remain until the army preparing for the recap-
ture of Detroit could be brought up by Gen. Harrison, which detained them
another month. In the end Capt. Junkin returned home with every man in
his company with whom he left Mercer. His indefatigable and tender care
for the health, morals and comfort of his men, as well as his industry in per-
fecting their military drill and knowledge, not only made him a very valuable
officer, but so endeared him to his men and fellow citizens as to cause his idol-
ization among them as long as he lived. His mother’s death, caused by acci-
dent, occurred but a few days before his march, and while absent his wife,
who was a daughter of Hon. William Findley, of Westmoreland County, also
died, so that his domestic afflictions while in the service of his country were
very great.
The succeeding summer Capt. Junkin went to aid in the defense of Erie
and the vessels preparing for Com. Perry. The British fleet paraded itself
before the mouth of the harbor for several days, and the difficulty was to
get the American fleet over the bar at its entrance and out to sea. Perry, as
soon as over, called for volunteers from the landsmen for his first cruise, and
Capt Junkin, along with fifty others from this county, whose names are men-
tioned elsewhere, promptly placed themselves on board his vessels. The
cruise lasted four days, without sighting the enemy, when the fleet returned
to port. A re-enforcement of sailors, that had in the meantime arrived at
Erie, enabled the commodore to dispense with his Mercer County volunteers.
It is quite probable that on the report of Gen. Harrison a captain’s com-
mission in the regular army was afterward tendered him by the' General
Government, and so, also, an unsolicited nomination for the Legislature by
the Democrats. Whether he thought the country was in more need of sol-
diers than legislators, or that he was better qualified for the field than a legis-
lative hall, is unknown, but he declined the civil and accepted the military pro-
motion. He was directed to open a recruiting office in Mercer, and was rapidly
getting his company filled out when a malignant fever broke out in the bar-
racks. More mindful of the health and comfort of those under his care than
of his own safety, he gave such a personal attention to the sick that the dis-
ease was contracted by himself, resulting in his death on the 27th of April,
1814. The writer, then a lad of about eight years, well recollects the public
sorrow on that occasion, for the praises of Capt. Junkin, without detractors,
were in the mouths of all. Old and young, men and women alike, respected
and loved him for the tender care he so uniformly exercised over those under
his command, as well as for the engaging manners, high talents and unbend-
ing probity that marked his intercourse with his fellow citizens. He was buried
with military honors from a house that stood on the Kline corner of the public
square. The muffled music, playing a mournful measure, led the way, followed
by the military, and then the body borne by pall-bearers, the relatives and a
large number of citizens closing the procession. After the corpse had been
lowered to its resting place, and the usual religious observances performed, a
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
963
tile of soldiers on each side fired blank cartridges into the grave, after which
the nnmuftled drums struck up a lively measure, when the procession re-
formed and returned to the place of starting. Capt. Junkin left but one liv-
ing child behind him, a daughter, who afterward became the wife of William
M. Francis, of Wilmington, Lawrence County, who not many years back so
well and ably represented Mercer and Lawrence Counties in the State Senate.
Other sons of Joseph Junkin became eminent, particularly George, who
had been devoted by the thoughts and prayers of his parents in early life to the
gospel ministry. He was the founder of several educational establishments,
the greatest and most permanently successful of which was LaFayette College,
at Easton, Penn., that now rivals all the other great schools of the country.
He was very prominent in the Barnes’ conflict in the Presbyterian Church, in
1833, being, in fact, the prosecutor on that occasion, and which finally re-
sulted in a split in the church, now happily reunited. When the Civil War
broke out Dr. George Junkin was president of the Washington and Lee
University at Lexington, Va. Two of his daughters had married Virginians,
professors in the Military Institute, Col. Preston and Maj. (Stonewall) Jack-
son. They took the side of their State, he, that of the Federal Government.
He abandoned his post as president of the university, and came north, and \
when the war was over Gen. Lee was elected to the vacancy. In 1862, while
the war was raging, he delivered an address on the 4th of July to the people
of Mercer. Fifty years before, after the War of 1812 commenced, he had
addressed the Mercer Blues at a 4th of July celebration held on the farm of
John Findley, near town. He died in 1868.
Dr. D. X. Junkin, the youngest son of the family, also arose to consid-
erable distinction as a Presbyterian divine, and died at New Castle. He
was a very elegant and ready writer, logical and strong in argument, and
devoted to the cause of Christianity. — Garvin.
Adam Knauff, farmer, post-office Balm, was born June 3, 1824, in Ger-
many, to Nicholas and Anna (Vining) Knauff, natives of the same country,
who came to America in 1831. Michael, the grandfather of Adam, started
on the same vessel, but died on the way and was buried in the ocean. The
parents settled first in the woods of Butler County. There the father died in
1855 and the mother in 1834. They had five children: Nicholas, Michael,
John, Michael (2), Adam and Margaret, who married Michael Senkan. The
parents were members of the German Lutheran Church. Adam Knauff was
educated in the German schools of his native country and in Bxrtler County.
He learned the tailor’s trade with his brother, Michael, and followed it for
some time. He was married April 7, 1846, to Elizabeth Ifft, daughter of
Peter and Anna (Ginter) Ifft, natives of the same country, and who came on
the same vessel with the Knauff family. Her parents settled in Beaver
County, Penn. They had six children: Peter, Jacob, John, Eliza, Barbara
and Gertrude. Our subject has had ten children, seven of whom are living:
Adam, married Susannah Uber, and has Anna, Maggie, Ida, Joseph, Clara,
Rosa and Mary; John, married Helen Reeher, and has Freddie, Harry, Mabel
and Dennis; Herman, married America Harman, and has Willie and Lestie;
Jacob, married Magdalena Blumenshine, and has Clarence and Hattie; Anna,
married Martin Bortz, and has Walter and Freddie; Mary and Charles are at
home. Mr. Knauff came to his present farm of 126 acres in 1866. He and
wife are members of the Lutheran Church of Balm, and he is a Democrat.
Philip Masson, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born March 10, 1837, in
what Js now Findley Township, to Lewis and Christina (Martin) Masson,
natives of France. They came to this county in 1835 and settled where our
964
HISTOKY OP MEKCEK COUNTY.
subject was born. Here the father farmed the greater part of his busy life,
although he was by trade a carpenter. He died in 1851, and was buried in the
Catholic Cemetery in Jefferson Township. His wife died in 1876, and had
blessed him with four children; Joseph; Mary J., deceased, after becoming
the wife of A. Besancon; Philip and Lewis, deceased. The father was in the
militia until he was fifty years old. Philip Masson was educated in the com-
mon schools, and was married in 1861 to Rebecca McDonald, a daughter of
Alexander McDonald, who was born and reared in this county and married
Rebecca Jennings, by whom he had four children; Mary A., Ellen, John and
Rebecca. Her parents were Catholics. Her father died June 14, 1851, and
her mother May 29, 1862. Mr. Masson has eight children; Christina R.,
Mary A., married Newton Robinson; Ellen A., Alphonsus, Cecelia, Ambrose,
Anselem and John F. Mr. Masson and his family are members of the Catholic
Church in Jefferson Township. He is the possessor of an excellent farm, and
is an anti- monopolist. Lewis Masson was on the ocean for thirty-eight days
while on a trip to his native country, about two years before his death. The
ship was drifted on an island, but the only loss he sustained was his trunk
and effects. •
John B. M.ixwell, farmer and carpenter, post-office Mercer, was born
April 5, 1839, in what is now Lawrence County, the son of George B. and
Christiana (Emery) Maxwell, natives of Lawrence County. The mother died
in Eredonia in l874, and had blessed her husband with eight children;
Catharine, married Patterson Page; John B., Sarah, married Isaac Cornell;
William F., living in Allegheny City; Nancy J., married James Mowry; Mary
M. , married James Hamilton; James A. , dead; George E. , dead. The mother
of the above children had previously married John Bentley and had by him
one son, Joseph. John B. Maxwell, our subject, was educated in the country
schools, and began learning the carpenter trade at the age of twenty. He
has followed his trade ever since. He lived in Sandy Lake for twelve years,
and in 1878 came to his present farm of eighty-seven acres, in Findley Town-
ship. He was married, in 1861, to Priscilla Black, daughter of John Black,
of Jackson Township. She died in 1862, and he was married again, to Nancy
B. Rodgers, daughter of William Rodgers, whose sketch appears in this work.
His children are; Nancy C., William A. , George E., Margaret E., John R. ,
Robert R. and Joseph Leroy. He and wife are members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church of Mercer. He is a Republican, and a strong temperance
man. He was a soldier in Company D, Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, and was in several hard battles.
Robeet McCoy, deceased, was born in 1812, in Ireland, and was of Scotch-
Irish extraction. He married Mary Armstrong, of the same country, and with
her came to Cool Spring Township, Mercer Co., Penn., in 1841. They settled
on the farm now owned by William Reed. He died August 2, 1873, and his
widow lives in Findley Township, and is sixty-seven years of age. Their only
children are W illiam O. and Thomas A. Robert McCoy was a Democrat, and
held some of the small township offices. William A. McCoy was born July 19,
1845, in East Lackawannock Township, and was educated in the cojnmon
schools, and thoroughly learned the avocation of a farmer. He was mar-
ried November 3, 1871, to Ellen, a daughter of William Burton, of Cool
Spring Township, and has Robert E., Eva B., Mary E. , William T. , Emma
N. and Bessie. Mr. McCoy settled on his present farm of 180 acres in 1880.
He has given a great deal of his personal attention to the breeding of Chester-
White hogs. Short-horn Durham cattle, Leicester and Southdown sheep. He
and his wife are members of the Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
965
He is a Democrat, and he and his brother take, in partnership, eight weekly
newspapers. Mention of the Armstrong family is made in the sketch of John
Armstrong, of CqoI Spring Township.
John Michaels, manager of the Mercer Coal Company at Pardoe, was born
Alay 7, 1841, in Bavaria, Germany, to John and Elizabeth (Barber) Michaels,
natives of the same country, and who came to Pittsburgh in 1844, where the
father engaged in the cooper business and continued it until his death, in 1850.
He was a Lutheran, and his wife, who died in 1849, was also a member of
that organization. They had the following children: Anna M. , married George
Slyger, who died, and she was again married, to a Rev. Platte, of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church; John, deceased, and John. Our subject, at the death
of his parents, made his home with his uncle, Jacob Schwartz, a cooper by
trade, which business John learned and followed for two years. In 1863 he
began mining for the Brady’s Bend Iron Company, in Armstrong County,
Penn., and continued for eight years. July 3(), 1865, he was married to
Catharine E., daughter of Andrew and Catharine (Warner) Meyers, natives of
Germany, and who immigrated to Armstrong County, Penn., in 1860; they
had two children: Ann M. , married Joseph Meyers (no connection), and lives
in Pardoe, and Catharine E. Mr. Meyers, the father of Mrs. Michaels, fol-
lowed farming in the old country, and was killed in a mine in Armstrong
County, by the fall of a stone. Mrs. Meyers died in 1880, at the residence of
her daughter, Mrs. Michaels. John Michaels is a man of good education,
having had the benefit of four years’ training in the Pittsburgh schools, though
young at the time. In 1871 he was employed by the Mercer County Coal
Company at Pardoe, as track-layer, which position he held until 1883, when
he was promoted to the management of the mine, and has given general satis-
faction. His children are: Catharine E., Anna M. , Sophia and John J. The
family belong to the German Lutheran Church.
James McKay, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born May 10, 1823, in
Antrim, Ireland, to Eneas and Catharine McKay, natives of the same country.
The father came to America in 1837 on a prospecting tour. In 1842 his family
had arrived and settled on the farm where William McKay now lives. Here
the father died in 1867 in his seventy-second year. His wife died in 1861.
Their children were: Isabella, married Laughlin McCurdy, died in 1850; Mary,
married John Greenlee; William, married Sarah Evans; James; John, was
drowned while bathing in Lawrence County; Sarah, married James Reed, died
in 1859; Laughlin, died in 1856; Catharine, married Albert McConahy, died
in 1859; Enos, died February 27, 1865. The parents died in the faith of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Our subject attended school in his native
country in the cabins, and like the rest of his schoolmates carried each day to
school two turfs or combustible bricks for fuel. He came to this country in
1842 in a sail vessel, and was six weeks on the ocean. He was married in
December, 1849, to Rebecca Hosack, and had two children; one died small,
and the other, Talitha, is the wife of William Calvin. Mrs. McKay died
May 14, 1884. She, in 1851, connected herself with the Associate Reformed
Church at Springfield. Removing to the vicinity of Mercer in 1873 she united
with the First United Presbyterian Church, of which congregation she re-
mained a consistent member until her death, being faithful in her attendance
upon the ordinances of God’s house. Although possessed of a weak constitu-
tion she missed but one communion during the thirty-two years she was in
connection with the church, and that was the one immediately preceding her
death. In her last illness she manifested a cheerful, patient and submissive
spirit. She set her house in order, and with lamp trimmed and burning
966
HISTOKY OP MERCER COUNTY.
awaited the coming of the bridegroom. Peacefully she passed away. “ Blessed
are the dead that die in the Lord. ” Mr. McKay was again married in March,
1886, to Miss Maggie Worrell, and with her lives near Mercer on his excellent
farm. He and his last wife are members of the First United Presbyterian
Church of Mercer. He is a Republican.
William McKay, deceased, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, in 1809.
He immigrated to Philadelphia in 1834, and there married, in 1836, Eliza Lan-
igan, daughter of Daniel and Nancy ( Sharp) Lanigan, natives of Ireland. She
was born in 1811, in County Antrim, and came to Philadelphia the year she was
married. In 1837 she and her husband came to Mercer County, and finally
located where she now lives, in Findley Township. Here Mr. McKay died
September 18, 1871. He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church,
and was the father of the following children: Nancy (deceased), William J. ,
Sarah A. (married James Patterson, of Mercer), Alexander B. , James C. ,
Daniel G., Mary J. (married Milton Montgomery) and Robert. The parents
of Mrs. McKay died in Mercer County, and their children were: John, Alexan-
der, Margaret, Ruth, Nancy and Jane. James C. McKay was born July 12,
1847, was educated in the common schools, and married August 17, 1870, to
Belle, a daughter of James and Margaret (Allen) Montgomery, the parents
of William J. (deceased), Allen, Mary, Lizzie (married Robert Houston), Mar-
garet (a maiden lady). Belle, James C. (on the old home place), Melissa (mar-
ried Prof. J. B. McClellan), R. C. (a minister of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church at Philadelphia) Samuel R. and Renwick S. James C. McKay has by his
wife one daughter, Myrta L. He and wife belong to the old Springfield Church.
His brother, Robert, was born September 12, 1851, was educated in the
country schools, and was married January 31, 1873, to Rebecca Moon, a
daiighter of Lewis Moon, by whom he has Lewis E. , Lillie M. , William R.
and Mary E He is engaged in farming and selling farm implements, and,
with his wife, belongs to the Springfield Church. Daniel G. , another brother,
was born on the old homestead, and was educated at Allegheny College,
Westminster College and a theological seminary at Newberry, N. Y. He mar-
ried Lizzie M. Leslie, and has three boys: William L., John G. and Robert J.
He is now stationed at Shusham, N. Y. The other two brothers, William J.
and Alexander B., are mentioned in separate sketches in Pine Township.
The McKays are all stanch Republicans, especially those from this branch,
and are among the most respected and enterprising citizens of the county.
L. G. Meyer, physician and surgeon, post-office Pardoe, was born July 8,
1849, in Centre County, Penn., to John and Mary (Close) Meyer. The mother
of Mary was a Reichard, a cousin of Peter Reichard, of Greenville. John and
Mary are dead, and seven of their eight children are living: Sarah; Malinda,
married Dr. J. H. Ziegler; Joseph; Henry, dead; David; Mary, married,
resides in California, and Ellen, married C. M. Bower, Esq., Bellefonte,
Penn. The parents were members of the German Reformed Church. Levi
George, our subject, was educated in the common schools and a normal, and
academy in Centre County. He taught school for five years, during which
time he read medicine with Dr. P. T. Musser, of Aaronsburg, that county.
He attended the Jefferson Medical College in 1871-72 and 1873-74, graduat-
ing March 11, 1874. He began to practice at Pardoe the same year, and has
built up a lucrative business. He was married June 15, 1876, to Jennie M.,
daughter of John Albin, of Mercer, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this
work. By his marriage he has five children: John D. , Ida L., George C. ,
Anna M. and Charles C. Dr. Meyer joined the Mercer County Medical Society
in 1874, the State Medical Society at Pottsville, Penn., in 1875, and has at-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
9G7
tended the latter five times. He joined the American Medical Association, at
Cleveland, in 1882. He was secretary of the Mercer County Medical Society
three years, was its vice-president one year, and was elected its president in
1888. He. is physician to the A. O. F. of Pardoe, and he and wife are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Pardoe. He is a Democrat.
Hugh Miller, deceased, was born November 4, 1812, in Pittsburgh, to
John and Elizabeth (Montgomery) Miller. The parents came to this county
at an early day. Hugh Miller was a brother of the late William Miller,
father of Hon. S. H. Miller, and William Miller of the First National
Bank of Mercer. Hugh married Adaline Wilson, and had one son, Wilson,
whose sketch appears in East Lackawannock Township. He was mar-
ried a second time, to Nancy J. Courtney, a daughter of Thomas Courtney,
who is mentioned in the sketch of Thomas Courtney. Hugh Miller lived in
Pine Township until 1868, when he moved to the farm where his widow now
lives. By his last marriage he had seven children: Catharine, born January
22, 1844, married William Sullivan March 26, 1800, and died January 13,
1874; Thomas C., born August 16, 1845, lives in East Lackawannock Town-
ship; J. M. , born in 1848, is the owner of the old home place, and one "of the
most respected citizens of the township; David A., born July 8, 1849, and died
August 6, 1868; Mary E., born January 19, 1852, died September 5, 1871;
Nancy R., born July 1, 1855, died June 11, 1876; and James, born August
23, 1869. Hugh Miller died February 11, 1875. He was a member of the
Second Presbyterian Church, and had been an eflficient township official at
various times. He was a Republican, and was possessed of a remarkable
memory, having been able to recall incidents profusely for years back without
reference to a diary.
Robert Miller, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born March 26, 1853, to
James and Sarah Miller, the parents of William, John, Jane, Albert, Mary,
Elizabeth, Samuel, Robert, James and George. James Miller married Sarah,
a daughter of William and Mary (Davile) North, natives of England, who came
to Cool Spring Township in 1819. Mention is made of them in Cool Spring
Township. James died in 1872, and his widow survives with her son on the
old farm in Findley Township. Our subject was educated in the country
schools, and was married in l880 to Mary J. Robinson, a daughter of Andrew
Robinson, of this township. She died in 1881, the mother of one child, Jennie.
He was again married, to Harriet M. Calvin, and by her had one child, Alice.
His last wife is the daughter of Jonathan and Jane (McCullough) Calvin, the
former of whom was born in Beaver County, in 1809, to Stephen and Mary
(Grosscost) Calvin. Jonathan came to this county in 1837, and his children
are: Alexander, Emeline, Martin L., Mary, the wife of Alexander Donaldson;
James W., Lizzie, Harriet, William, Samuel, and Stephen and John N., who
both died young. Robert Miller, our subject, settled where he now lives in
1880. He is an enterprising farmer, a stanch Republican, and he and his wife
are members of the Second Presbyterian Church. He has served as school
director for three years, is deeply interested in education, and is building up a
good library for himself and family.
William Nelson, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born April 5, 1822, in
what is now Lawrence County, to Robert and Sarah (Dunavin) Nelson. The
former was born in Ireland, and when thirteen years old settled in Lawrence
County, where his wife was born, and where he was killed by a falling tree
while clearing. His widow died in 1875, thirty nine years after his death.
The children of Robert and Sarah were: William, James, Margaret, married
William Foster; John, Thomas, who is thought to have starved to death in
968
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Andersonville prison; Robert, Rebecca, married Joseph Donley, and Mary A.
The mother was married to Stephen McKinley, and had one child, Elizabeth,
who married Joshua Snyder. Our subject attended school in Lawrence
County, and well remembers the old slab seats and writing desks, greased
paper window lights and the huge fire-place that were a part of the school-
houses of that day. When his father died he began working for himself at
farming and brick-making. He was married to Susannah (Merchant) Crill,
widow of Philip Crill, and by her Mr. Nelson has two sons: James R., mar-
ried Sephronia, a daughter of Samuel T. Zahniser, whose sketch appears in
this book, and has by her one child, Elsie S. ; and Albert E., married Jane
Hosack. Mrs. Nelson went to bed feeling well on the evening of May 25, 1885,
and the next morning her husband arose, built a fire, and on going to the bed
to call her up was shocked to find her dead. She had been a Methodist for
many year’s. Mr. Nelson came to his present farm of 245 acres in 1859, and
his son, James R. , helps him to farm it. He is a good citizen, a Democrat
and a strong temperance man.
JosiAH Newbury, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 6, 1821,
in Northumberland County, Penn., son of James and Sarah (Paul) Newbury.
The father was born in Pennsylvania, and was of Scotch extraction, and the
mother was a native of Germany, and immigrated to America with her parents
at an early day. J ames Newbury died when Josiah was quite small, and our sub-
ject was therefore compelled to make his own living long before he reached his
majority. He, however, remained with his mother until 1836, when he moved
with Robert Pardoe to Trumbull County, Ohio, and for whom Mr. Newbury
worked on a farm in Ohio for one year, and then came with the same gentle-
man to Mercer County and remained in his employ for seven years more. He
was married in 1844 to Jane Todd, born May 17, 1824, in Mercer County.
Her father, Andrew Todd, was born in Ireland, and settled in Wolf Creek
Township, this county, when five years of age, where he grew up and was
married to Jane Patterson, who blessed him with the following children:
Mary A., married William Long; Jane, Susan, married Lewis Crill; John, de-
ceased; Elizabeth, died when small; Jane, deceased; Hugh, deceased; Mar-
garet, married Gilmore Baker; William, died small; William (2) is living and
Robert is also living. Mr. and Mrs. Todd are dead, and were members of
the Springfield United Presbyterian Church. Josiah Newbury and his wife
lived with her mother for one year after their marriage, because of the sad
death of Mr. Todd, he having been killed by his horses running away while re-
turning from Mercer on ^ business trip. In 1845 they made their permanent
settlement on the farm where they yet reside. It was at that time principally
a dense forest, and consequently necessitated a vast amount of hard labor,
which Mr. Newbury^ proved able to bear, to make it bring forth fruit. He is
the artificer of sixty-two acres of arable land, and has always been a hard-work-
ing, honest, upright citizen. His marriage gave him the following children :
Andrew, married Mary Walsmith and resides in Luzerne County, Penn. ;
Mary A., married A. L. Cooper; James, is single and lives in Minnesota;
John, deceased; Celia J., married John Graham; Montrose, is a machinist
of Sharon. Mr. Newbury has served his township as assessor, and is a stanch
Democrat. He and his wife belong to the First Presbyterian Church of
Mercer.
William Paxton, farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born August 1, 1824, in
Mercer County, on the farm w’here he now lives. His father, Thomas, was
born in Franklin County, Penn., in 1792, and died July 14, 1850. He came
to Mercer County with his father, Thomas, who died at the home of his
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
969
daughter, the wife of D. Hosack, and an aunt of Dr. J. P. Hosack, of
Mercer. Thomas Paxton, the father of our subject, was married to Mary
A. Kerr, a sister of Judge Joseph Kerr, once associate judge of this county.
Their children were: James and Jane, who died small; John, died with
cancer in 1880; Caroline, married Thomas Hosack and is deceased; Mary
E., married George W. Moon, a brother of A. B. Moon; Nancy J.,
married Matthew Barnes, and is dead; Sarah, died in 1842; Margaret, died
in 1842; Emily, died in 1842; James, lives in Kansas; Anna, married
Alexander McKay. Mrs. Mary Paxton died April 7, 1880, and, like her
husband, was a consistent member of the Springfield Church. Our subject
was educated in the common schools, and was married to Sarah, a daughter
of George Barnes, and had by her eight children: George B. , Thomas
K. (both engaged in the lumber business in this county), Kissie, William B.
(a brakeman on the passenger train from Butler to Pittsburgh), Maggie J.,
John L., Mary A. and Harry E. Mr. Paxton came in possession of the old
home by buying out the heirs. He and wife are members of the Springfield
United Presbyterian Church, and he is a Democrat. .
Eli Rahauseb, farmer, post-office Balm, was born September 1, ISOG, in
Greencastle, Franklin Co., Penn. His father, Daniel, was a minister of the
German Reformed organization, and came to Mercer County in 1830, and died
later in Ohio. Daniel’s first wife was Susannah Hum, by whom he had Eli,
Leah, Mary, Daniel, Elizabeth, William and Jesse. Mrs. Eahauser died in
1815, and he was married again, to a Mrs. Ditterman, and had six children.
Our subject farmed and followed the cooper trade during his activity. The
latter business was a source of considerable means, he having been prepared to
take advantage of the great demand for barrels and kegs during the war. He
was married to Anna M. Sager, resulting in nine children: Susannah B., mar-
ried Lewis Heasley, who was killed in the war; she died of cancer, in Michigan, ,
November 7, 1886; Lydia E., who remains at home to care for her feeble
parents; Jesse, died in the war; Anna M. , married William J. Snyder; Elias,
Jr.; Leah M. , died small; Michael J. ; William D., deceased; Esther C.,
deceased. Jacob and Elizabeth (Snyder) Sager, the parents of Mrs. Rahuaser,
had John, Jacob, Anna M. , Abraham, Daniel, Elizabeth, Andrew and Barbara.
Sagertown, Crawford County, the seat of the famous medicinal springs, was
named after. relatives of Mrs. Rahauser. The father of the Mr. Rahauser was
actively engaged in ministerial labors for about forty years, and married a
couple the day before he was stricken from life’s roll on earth and gathered
into life eternal. Mr. Rahauser adheres to the German Reformed faith, while
his wife is a Lutheran. He and his sons are Democrats.
J. W. Rainey, farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born October 22, 1851, in
Mercer County, Penn. His father, Hugh Rainey, is a native of Ireland, and
came to this county about 1836. He followed stone masonry for manj^ years,
helped to build the Magoffin Block in Mercer, and laid the first brick in the
present court-house. The first work he did in this county was to cultivate a
potato patch for the late Judge Pearson, of Harrisburg. This potato patch
was on the site of the Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer. Hugh
Rainey married Eliza Boyd. He was born June 24, 1807, to James and
Rachel (Wilson) Rainey. The mother died May 16, 1816, and the father came
to Canada, where he died in 1836. Hugh had by his marriage seven children :
David S., Eliza, married David White; Rachel. James W. The others are
dead. Mrs. Rainey died May 5, 1886. Hugh Rainey was six years a director
of the Pymatuning Fire Insurance Company. He is a member of the Reformed
Church, and a Republican. J. W. Rainey was educated in the common
970
HISTOEY OP MEECEE COUNTY.
schools, aud was married October 1, 1874, to Maggie J. , daughter of John and
Eliza (Kelley) Gildersleeve, natives, the father of Mercer and the mother of
Butler County. Daniel Gildersleeve, the father of John, married Margaret
Albin, an aunt of John Albin, of Mercer, and died about 1876. Our subject
settled on his present farm in 1887. He has six children: Willie J. , David L.,
Mertie A., Elmer A., James C., Lizzie M. He is now a school director. He
and wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church of Springfield, and
he is a stanch Republican and a good citizen.
William Eamsey, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born October 11, 1816,
in Springfield Township, to Andrew and Anna (Creighton) Ramsey, natives,
the father of Ireland and the mother of Mifflin County, Penn. The father
came to America when about thirteen years old with his father, Andrew, and
settled in Springfield Township in 1806. There Andrew died in 1853, the
father of ten children: Mary A., married William Kerr; Eliza, married Cun-
ningham Glenn; Jane, married William Walters; William, Robert C., engaged
in the patent fence business; Lucinda, married Robert Reed; Nancy, married
William Gilmore; Narcissa, married Thomas Humphrey; Margaret, married
David Swim and a Mr. Barrett; and Andrew. Andrew Ramsey was out in the
War of 1812, and he and his wife were members of the Seceder Church. Our
subject attended the common schools. He was married in 1845, to Jane Hind-
man, who died in 1860, leaving no issue. He was again married in 1861, to
Martha J. Campbell, daughter of John Campbell,, of Butler County, and they
have no children. They are members of the First United Presbyterian Church
of Mercer, and he is a Republican. In 1841 Mr. Ramsey entered a woolen
factory at Craigville, Armstrong County; in 1872 he came to the old homestead,
and in 1873 bought forty-six acres where he now lives, known as the “old smoky
John Thompson farm.”
George W. Riddle, shoemaker, Mercer, was born May 12, 1837, son of
John B. Riddle. He was educated in the common schools, and was married
December 25, 1860, to Mary, a daughter of Joseph McDonald. Her father
was born in 1806 and her mother was born in 1803. Mr. Riddle enlisted in
the late war as a private in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, on the l4th day of August, 1862. He was
mustered out June 21, 1865. During his services in the defense of his
country he was stricken with rheumatism, which has since troubled him a
great deal. His children are Edmund, born February 22, 1862; Ida M., born
May 12, 1866; Anna B. , born February 28, 1868; Frank W., born January
9, 1870; Walter C., born November 5, 1871; Alfred, born December 1, 1873;
Parker, born November 3, 1876. The children are all unmarried. He is a
member of the G. A. R. , is a Republican and a strong temperance man. His
grandfather, Edward Biddle, was born in Scotland, and his grandmother,
Margaret Riddle, was a native of Shippensburg, Cumberland Co., Penn.
They were the parents of six boys and four girls, and became residents of
Mercer County. James Riddle, a member of this family, was born September
19, 1794, and served in the War of 1812, being present at the engagement of
Perry’s fleet with the British in the famous “ Perry’s Victory.”
Andrew Robinson, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born December 23,
1829, in Trumbull County, Ohio. His father, Thomas, was a native of Wash-
ington County, Penn., and his mother, Mary Mayers, was a native of West-
moreland County, the same State. The Robinsons moved to Trumbull County
about the year 1802, and to Mercer County in 1836, where they settled in
what was then Sandy Creek Township, now Perry. There they bought 500
acres in the woods. Here the father died in 1852, and his widow died at the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
971
home of otir subject in 1868. The father was a member of the Ohio Legis-
lature in 1834-35, and was an elder in the Associate Church at his death.
He was for years a justice of the peace in this county, and was the father of
seven children: John, deceased; Benjamin, deceased; James H., died at the
age of six years; Thomas A., lives in Jamestown, Penn ; James H. (2), whose
sketch appears elsewhere ; Hiram, lives in Florida, and Andrew. The last named
was educated principally in the common schools, and was brought up at farm
life. He was married March 14, 1853, to Mary Mills, a daughter of Robert and
Mary Mills, natives of County Tyrone, Ireland, who came to Pittsburgh in 1831,
and two years later settled for a period in Springfield Township, but finally in
Perry Township, where the father died in 1857 and the mother in 1878. They
were the parents of Joseph, James, Eliza, William, John.Mary, Jane A., Robert,
Andrew, Thomas, David, Jane A. (2), Cass, Sarah and Emma H. The father was
an Episcopalian in religious belief, while the mother was a Presbyterian.
Our subject has had ten children: Thomas, married Ella Keith and is dead;
Mary J. , married Robert Miller, and is dead; Sarah E., married Homer S.
Black; Joanna, deceased; Robert M., marriedMary A. Yengor; Emma, deceased;
Frank A., Hattie, deceased; Sarah, L. F. and James H. Mr. Robinson was
commissioner in 1874-75, was school director for fifteen years, and is serving
his third term as a justice of the peace. He is an enterprising gentleman, is a
Republican, and he and wife are earnest members of the First United Presby-
terian Church of Mercer, of which he is one of the ruling elders.
Reuben Rupert, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 5, 1829, in
York County, Penn., to Philip and Leah (Rahauser) Rupert, natives of York
County. The family came to this county in 1831, settling one year near
Blacktown, and then moving to an old school-house which stood on the farm
where James McGonnell now resides. From there they moved to the farm
on which our subject now lives, and settled in an old log cabin, which stood for
fifty years, and was then made into wood and used to burn the brick out of
which the present elegant residence of Mr. Rupert was built in 1884. The
father died in 1862, and his widow January 1, 1886. They were the parents
of eleven children: Mary A., married Samuel Reeher; Reuben; Catharine,
married John C. Cribbs; Adam (married Hannah McDowell) was in the war
from this county, and was for awhile confined in Libby and Salisbury Prisons;
Elizabeth, married Newton McDowell; Leah, married Henry Giles; William,
married Hannah Wingard; Susan, married Jacob Shuler; Sarah, married Dan-
iel Uber and Ephraim McCalmond, and Philip, married Frances Guist. Our
subject was educated in the country schools, and brought up at farm labor.
He was married in 1853 to Hannah Uber, daughter of Michael and Mollie
(Urey) Uber, natives of Westmoreland County and early settlers of this county.
Her parents had three children: Mary, married James Guist, who was found
dead in his bed by his second wife, who was Jane Patterson; Sarah, married
Jacob Wingard, and Hannah. Lizzie Guist, a daughter of James Guist,
makes her home with Mr. Rupert. Mr. and Mrs. Rupert have had four chil-
dren: Adam P., married Eva Thompson; Norias, deceased; William A., mar-
ried Lizzie Todd, and James C. , at home. Mr. Rupert some time ago estab-
lished five fish ponds, and raises the German Carp. A beautiful spring
flows from the side of the hill near by, which feeds the ponds with fresh water,
making them of much value to him. He and his wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church of Mercer, and he is a Democrat.
William Seidley, farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born June 9, 1838, in
Mercer County, on the farm where he now lives. He was educated in the log
cabin schools, and was married July 4, 1867, to Maria Barnes, a sister of
972
HISTORY OF MEECER COUNTY.
Samuel Barnes, whose sketch appears in this work. By her he has five chil-
dren: Jennie. John G. , George Y. , Maggie (deceased) and Eeed B. He set-
tled at maiTiage on his present farm of 106 acres. He and his family were
members of the old Spnngfield congi'egation, some of them being there when
Bey. E. Small was pastor. They now belong to the First Enited Presbyterian
Church of Mercer. He was a Democrat until the war, when he became a Re-
publican. He is now a Prohibitionist. His father. Baidholomew Seidley, was
born August 24. 1806, in Geiunany. to Anthony and Mary Seidley. He came
to America in 1827 and settled in Somerset County, Penn., where he worked
at clock-making. In 1834 he settled in Mercer and followed his trade for
three years. He married J ane Truxell in 1837, and began clearing a fann in
Springfield Township in connection with his clock tinkering Oyer the county.
He probably fixed 1,000 clocks in Mercer County. He settled on his present
fai-m in Findley Township in 1861. His wife died in 1854, the mother of six
childi’en: Jacob. William, Mary, John, Sarah and Elizabeth. He was married
again, to Mrs. Daxid Boyer, who died in 1863. She was a German Reformed
in religious belief.
S. M. Stewart, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born in 1846 in County
Derry, Heland, to Dayid and Elizabeth (Campbell) Stewart, who came to
America in 1850, and settled in Lawi’ence County, Penn. Here the father
was employed at the McKinley Furnace for ten years. He then moxed to a
farm in that county. He subsequently sold notions at wholesale oxer the sur-
rounding country, traxeling by a foui’-horse team. He was employed in this
for some time by James Cochran, then of Hanoxer, Ohio. He finally joined
the firm of James Cochran & Co. He later remoxed to Pittsbui’gh and fol-
lowed this business, and subsequently e.stablished a business in partnership
with his sons, W. C. , D. W. , S. M. and A. L., at Beaxer Falls, and continued
a number of years, and then moxed back to Pittsbui'gh, where he continued
in trade until death, in April, 1882. His widow died in Mercer County, and
had blessed him with elexen children: J. B., M. C. (was in the One Hundred
and Fifteenth Pennsylxania Volunteers), D. M. (was in the One Hundi’ed and
Thirty- fourth Penusylxania Volunteers), S. M. , James (deceased), A. L., R.
W., Mary, Margaret J. , Elizabeth and Mattie. The father was manned a
second time, his last wife being Mrst Mertilla Reed. S. M. Stewart was educated
in the common schools of Mercer County, and was married to Zenobia E.,
daughter of George and Ajuanda Cotton, natixes of this county and the parents
of the following children: Zenobia. Melissa, Ai’mina, Fannie, Mary, John.
William, Edward and Clarence. IMi’. Stewart located where he now lixes in
1887, and has built a fine house in which to spend the remainder of his days.
He and wife are members of the First Presbyterian Chui’ch of Mercer, and he
is a Republican and belongs to the F. & A. M. BQs children are Eleanor,
Lina, Florence and Nina B.
Daxid Wilsos, carpenter for the Mercer County Coal Company, and
farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born September 10, 1832, in Westmoreland
County, Penn. His parents, James and Catharine (McKee) Wilson, were
natixes of Ireland, and came to this country while single. They moxed to
Mercer County about 1840, and settled in what is now Findley Township,
where the mother died in 1878, and the father in 1876. They had nine chil-
dren: Daxid; Hannah, married Alexander Moore; Jane, maiTied William J.
Michaels; Sarah A., manfied John Axe; Margaret, manfied A. Highbarger;
Catharine, married James Lusk; Lizzie; Thomas, married Addie Heasley, and
Hugh. The parents were members of the old Spnngfield United Presbyde-
rian Chiuch. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and began to
HISTOBY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
973
learn his trade when seventeen years of age. He is the carpenter for the Mer-
cer County Coal Company, and has been since 1878. He was married in 185 1
to Mary, a daughter of Thomas Houston, whose sketch appears elsewhere in
this work. By this union he has seven children: TTilliam J. , a farmer: Jen-
nie; Sadie, married William McCurdy, of Jackson Township; Mary C., Min-
nie E., Georgre A. and Thomas, deceased. ^Ir. Wilson owns two farms of
eighty-one and ninety-one acres, which are the result of his own labors. He
has been school director of Wolf Creek Township and assistant assessor of
Findley Township. He became a member of the old Springfield Church when
Kev. Edward Small was the pastor, and his wife belongs to the same. He is
a Republican, and has taken a deep interest in every public enterprise.
John Touxg, deceased, was bom about the year 1776 in Franklin County,
Penn. His father, William Young, came to what is now Lawrence County in
1804. John Young, the father of William, had preceded him to Lawrence
County two years. He settled about six miles south of Mercer, and William
died there. William married Mary Elder, by whom he had eight children:
John. David. Elizabeth (married John Sankey, a relative of the great evangel-
ist, Ira D. Sankey), Margaret (mamied David Summerville), James, Maiy
(married John McCandless), William, Jane (married James Small). John
Young was a minister of the Lnited Presbyterian Church, and went to Illinois
in 1840, where he soon after died. His widow died in 1864, and had blessed
him with five children: Nancy, married David Munnell; Jane, married Robert
Elder, and lives in Lawrence County; William, died in 1861; James W. and
John, the latter a resident of Lawrence County. James W. was educated in the
common schools, and married Mary McGoun. and had eight children, seven of
whom are living: Maria, married Andrew Fox; Margaret, maixied Aaron Hing-
ston; John, Fannie. Robert, Isabella and Sarah. James Young settled on his
present farm in Findley Township in the spring of 1867. He and his wife
belong to the First Presbyterian Church of Mercer. His son, John, who
assists in the management of the fann, was a soldier in the One Hundred
and Third Pennsylvania Yolunteers, enlisting in 1864. He and his father are
Democrats, and among the enterprising citizens of the township.
CHAPTER XXXVII.
BIOGRAPHIES OF COOL SPRING, FAIEYIEW, LATTE AND .JACKSON.
COOL SPBIXG TOWXSHIP.
Martin L. Alexander, farmer, was bom July 15, 1837, to John c.,
bom in 1804 in Fairview Township. The latter was a son of Joseph
and Sarah (BamdoUar) Alexander. John Alexander married Martha Rose, and
with her lived in Fairview Township until his death in 1876. His widow went
West in 1878, and lives with her daughter, Mrs. James A. Shout, of Salina,
Kas. Their children were: Sarah, married R. C. Clark; Mailha, died small:
M. L., Maria J., married James A. Shout; John I., Mailha, married Joseph
Nelson; Rachel E., married Barton Mishler; James E., died April 16, 1875.
John, the twin brother of Mai'tha, enlisted in Company G, Tenth Pennsyl-
vania Yolunteers, and died in Salisbury Prison March, 1865. The par-
57
974
HISTOBY OP MEBCEK COUNTY.
ents were members of the old Cool Spring Presbyterian Church. Martin L.
Alexander was educated in the country schools, and was trained to rural pur-
suits. He was engaged for thirteen yeai’s manufacturing wagon lumber in
Sandy Creek Township. He was married September 29, 1863, to Margaret C.
Vaughn, daughter of Jacob and Eliza J. (McFatrich) Vaughn. Jacob Vaughn
was born March 13, 1815, to John and Rebecca (French) Vaughn, the parents
of Jacob, Sarah, Phoebe, Milliam, Susan, Nancy, JohnandEli. John Vaughn
was a soldier in the War of 1812. Jacob Vaughn’s wife died May 21, 1886,
and had blessed her husband with Margaret C. , George S. , Hugh M. , Emma,
married Samuel Steele, and Zidania, married Minor Vernon; William B., and
John, married Emma Eckels, who is dead, and he has two children, George
and James B. Jacob Vaughn learned the carpenter’s trade, which he followed
for fifteen years. He made wagons and buggies for years, and then engaged
in the manufacture of wagon material. He invented a machine for cutting out
felloes. In 1876 he retired from his trade, and now resides with the subject
of this sketch. M. L. Alexander came to his present farm of 100 acres in
1884. His children are; Clara L>., married Ed R. Eckels; John H. , a teacher;
Marvin M., Martha E. He and his family are members of the Presbyterian
Church of Eredonia. He is a Republican, and was elected poor director on
November 6, 1888.
J. W. Allison, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 29, 1840, in
Hickory Township, to James and Elizabeth J. (Gettis) Allison, natives, the
father of Westmoreland County, and of Scotch extraction, and the mother of
Ireland, an immigrant to America at the age of six years with her father, Arch-
ibald Gettis. They settled in Pittsburgh, where he merchandised for a num-
ber of years. He died in 1840 and his widow died in 1854. James H. Allison
was engaged in cabinet-making pn Pittsburgh when he was married in 1832,
and the following year he came to Hickory Township, where he remained for
many years. In 1835 he and a Mr. Lightner began a search for coal on their
respective farms. The first shaft was sunk on Mr. Lightner’ s farm, with no
success, and the next was on Mr. Allison’s farm, which was with good result.
His son claims that these were the first coal shafts sunk in Mercer County. Mr.
Allison subsequently sold his farm, and died at his home in Illinois in 1863.
His widow died August 7, 1885, at the home of J. W. Allison. They had
eighteen children, nine of whom grew up: James C., enlisted in the One Hun-
dred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers; Thomas C. ; J. W., Mary J.,
married S. J. Wier; Henry J. , a merchant at Pittsburgh; Margaret, married
John Nelson; Fannie, married F. Bastress; Emma, married Abner Rice, and
Joseph. Our subject attended the common schools and Allegheny College, at
Meadville, and taught eight terms of school, two of which were in Shelby Coun-
ty, Ind. He enlisted in Company I, Eighth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. Three
months afterward he enlisted in Rabb’s Light Artillery, but was rejected owing
to a wound received in service with Company I. He was married in 1861 to Eliza-
beth Wilson, and has by her James, Homer, Robert, Edith, Jennie, Mary and
Benjamin. Mr. and Mrs. Allison are members of the Second United Presbyte-
rian Church of Mercer, and he is a Republican. He and his boys are exten-
sively engaged in the dairy business, running a milk wagon to Mercer. They
are all farmers, and give especial attention to raising small fruits.
John Armstrong, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, was born November 11,
1830, in County Tyrone, Ireland, to Thomas and Elizabeth (Elliott) Arm-
strong, natives of the same country, where the father died July 2, 1838. His
widow came to America in 1842, with her eight children: Elizabeth, married
John McCoy; Mary, married Robert McCoy; Jane, married John Walker, and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
975
died December 25, 1857; Margaret, married Thomas Mitcheltree; Ano, married
Richard Hutchinson; John; Elliott, married Sarah McKay; Matilda, married
John Keister. The mother never married again, but died January 20, 1853.
She and her husband belonged to the Church of England. Our subject was
educated principally in Mercer County. He was married October 1, 1857, to
Mary E. , a daughter of Malcolm and Jane (Summerville) McComb, natives of
Washington County, Penn. Her parents came to Mercer County in an early
day, and their children were John, Robert, David, Sarah, Martha, William and
Mary E. Mrs. Armstrong was born November 21, 1831, in East Lackawan-
nock Township. Her union with John Armstrong has given her two children:
Thomas E. , born July 17, 1858, married Florence E. Bromley, a daughter
of Michael and Margaret (McCormick) Bromley, by whom he has three chil-
dren: Margaret S. (Jane died small), John B. and William E. Mr. A. came
to his present farm of seventy-three acres in 1860. He and wife are mem-
bers of the Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and he is a Dem-
ocrat.
Daniel Backus, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, was born August 31,
1845, in Mercer County, Penn. , to Daniel and Mary A. (Kauffman) Backus,
natives of Allegheny County, and of Scotch extraction. The parents settled
in Delaware Township, this county, about 1837, and there the father died in
1845, and his widow subsequently removed to Fredonia, where she died in
1884. She was the mother of two children: Mary J., married James White,
and resides in Fredonia, and Daniel. The father was a farmer and owned 200
acres of land before his death. He belonged, w'ith his wife, to the Presby-
terian Church. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and worked
on a farm until 1881, when he sold his farm and bought a saw-mill in Perry
Township. This he operated for five months, sold and bought another mill in
Cool Spring, ran it four months, then operated a mill in Butler County for six
months, thence to Cool Spring, and pursued the same business for nearly two
years, after which he ran another mill in Lake Township for two months, and
then went to Fredonia and cut a large amount of staves, afterward going to
Butler County, and operating a mill, which he sold June 10, 1887, and on
December 1, 1887, he located on his farm of fifty-six acres, in Cool Spring
Township, which he had purchased in 1884. He married, Cyrena Keen,
daughter of Reuben and Paulina (Mitchell) Keen, and by her has three chil-
dren: Mintie, Mary P. and Fred. He was a member of the council of Fredonia
Borough for three years, auditor and street commissioner of the same for two
years each. He is a Republican, a member of the I. O. O. E., and, with his
wife, belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church.
John Bestwick, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born June 26, 1848, in Mer-
cer County, son of John and Ann (Glodsby) Bestwick. He was educated in the
common schools, and brought up on a farm. He was married in 1880 to Sadie
Moon, daughter of Lewis Moon, of Jackson Township, by whom he has two
children: Plummer and Sennett. He settled on his present farm in 1882. It
consists of 100 acres, a part of the old Stokely farm, upon which the famous
old pioneer sleeps his last sleep. He is a Republican, and an enterprising
young man, who always does his share in every public enterprise that has a
tendency to build up Mercer County or the community in which he lives. His
wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His brother, Thomas
Bestwick, was born November 13, 1841, in Jackson Township, and was mar-
ried April 5, 1866, to Mary J. , daughter of George McEwen, by whom he had
John, Charles, George (deceased), Anna, Thomas (deceased), Jennie, Bert and
Lester. In August, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, One Hundredth Penn-
976
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
sylvania Volunteers, and re-enlisted in December, 1863, and served until
the close of the war. At the battle of Bull Bun he was shot in the right
shoulder, and was shot through the clothing several other times. A part of
the time he was a sharp-shooter, and bears a record of a brave soldier.
W. D. Boyd, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born December 1, 1842, in
Cool Spring Township, son of Joseph and Nancy (Weese) Boyd. The father
was a native of Ireland, and came to this county when small, with his parents,
Henry and Bebecca Boyd, and was one of five children: John, Henry, Joseph,
Catharine, married John Ford, and Elizabeth, married Stephen Horn. Henry
and Bebecca were Methodists. Joseph Boyd had by his marriage seven chil-
dren: W. D., Sarah and Jennie are dead; Mary E. , married John Myers;
Henry P. , Andrew J. and Anna, deceased. Our subject attended the common
schools, and was married December 28, 1871, to Mary, daughter of Charles and
Bebecca (Porter) McClain, natives of this county, and the parents of the fol-
lowing children: Milton, David, Isabella, Amelia, Martha, Thomas, Arkana,
Mary, Julia and John. The mother of Mrs. Boyd is dead, and her father lives
in Mercer, married to Jane Jamison. W. D. Boyd had one child by his first
marriage, Nannie B. , who married Bev. W. P. Graham, of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. By his present wife he has one child, Charlie. He is a
member of the A. O. E. W. He enlisted in Company D, Two Hundred and
Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served about one year, at the close of
the war. He was in the battles before Petersburg and Fort Steadman. He is
a stanch Bepublican, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church.
Bobeet Buxton, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born February 4, 1846, in
what is now Jackson Township, this county, to Bobert and Ann (Howell) Bux-
ton, natives of England, and who came to America with their respective par-
ents and settled in Mercer County. The children of Bobert and Ann Bux-
ton were: Charles, was in the war from Lawrence County; Albert, Bobert,
Lizzie, married Thomas McKinney, and Henry. The mother died, and the
father was again married, to Ellen Levey, by whom he had five children: Anna,
married Harvey IJmphrey; Blanche, married William Biley; Thomas, John
and Nellie, deceased. The father resides with his last wife in Lawrence
County. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and was brought
up at farm labor. His father gave him about |1,500, to which he has added
until he is worth $15,000. He and brother Albert, and sister Lizzie, began for
themselves on a farm in Cool Spring Township, which they divided many years
later with entire satisfaction. Mr. Buxton was married September 28, 187 1, to
Miss Maggie Filson, by whom he has three children: Welma I., Harry and
Bobert, all attending the Mercer public schools. Mr. Buxton is the owner of
ninety-five acres in Liberty Township, and fifteen acres, well improved, near
Mercer, where he now resides. He is a Bepublican, with his wife belongs to
the Second Presbyterian Church at Mercer, and is one of the enterprising,
public-spirited citizens of this county.
J. L. Byees, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born June 15, 1823, in the por-
tion of Mercer County which is now included in Lawrence County. His par-
ents, Samuel and Mary (Gundy) Byers, had eight children: Margaret, married
William Bobison, and is deceased; Bebecca, Elizabeth, married Bobert Atwell;
J. L. ; Mary A. became the second wife of William Bobison; Elitha, married
J. P. McKinley; Daniel C. , Christina, married Marshall Couch and Bufus
Yard. J. L. Byers was educated in the common schools in this and Venango
Counties. He was married August 19, 1846, to Sarah Steel, daughter of Will-
iam and Esther (Ewing) Steel, and by her he has had six children: Josephine
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
977
S., the wife of D. K. P. Zahniser; Mary L., married William Sloss; Hedessa
M. , married Charles Ayer; Margaret M., married William Gilbert, and she
was fatally burned by the explosion of a lamp at her home in Mercer, on the
evening of November 12, 1887 ; Daniel 0. and Eletha S. Mr. Byers is engaged
in farming and keeping hotel. He kept hotel at Waterloo, Venango County,
for three years, and extensively at his present place for five years. In politics
he is a Democrat. His brother, Daniel C. Byers, who makes his home with
him, was for four years a member of the lumber firm of Thorn, Byers & Co. ,
of Mercer. He is now in his seventh year of employment by the Shenango &
Allegheny Railroad as a carpenter. Mrs. Sarah Byers died March 26, 1888,
at the age of sixty -three years.
George H. Caldwell, steward of County Poor Farm, was born December
9, 1845, in Deer Creek Township. His father. Perry, was born in Crawford
County, Penn. , where his father, Charles Caldwell, settled when he came from
Ireland. Perry Caldwell first saw the light of day in 1818, and came to Mer-
cer County about the year 1838. He died in 1883, and his wife, Marilla,
whose maiden name was Stright, died June 3, 1886, the mother of the follow-
ing childi-en: Oliver, Norman, deceased; Hudson D., deceased; George H.,
Jennie, married Robert J. McClure, and is dead; Eva, married John Vaughn;
Ella became the second wife of Robert J. McClure; Lewis, and Lillie, married
Frank Moyer. The parents were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
and the father was once a director of the poor, and was a stanch Republican.
Amzy Stright came from Washington County at an early day, and settled on
the farm where M, D. Scurry lives, in Cool Spring Township. He afterward
became a resident of Deer Creek Township, and his home was a station of the
Underground Railroad. He died three days before Lincoln’s Emancipation
Proclamation took effect, thus being deprived of the realization of the ambi-
tion of his earnest life. He had six children who grew up: Sarah, married
Nathan Axtell, and is now a widow in Athens, Ohio; Ithiel, Marilla, deceased;
Joseph, Levina, deceased, and Terrissa is dead. Amzy Stright married Mary
Dodd, daughter of Ithiel Dodd, who gave the ground on which the old Pres-
byterian Church was built at Fairfield. Lawrence Stright, a brother of Amzy,
preached at the New School Presbyterian Church, which was built about one
and a half miles north of New Vernon; he helped to build up the organization,
and the old church was afterward moved away by James Stright, and is used
for a barn. In this church a Rev. Burchard preached who was a cousin of the
famous “ R. R. R. ” Burchard. Lawrence Stright organized a church in Sun-
ville, Venango County, where he preached until his death. George H. Cald-
well was educated in the common schools, and was brought up at hard farm
labor. He enlisted in Company H, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and
served three months. He owns a part of the old Stright homestead, and was
married October 18, 1877, to Miss Mina Cubbison, daughter of Josiah and
Mary (Gamble) Cubbison, who live in Fair view Township. He was engaged
for a number of years in building bridges in Mercer County by contract. He
was elected steward of the poor-farm in 1886, and so satisfactorily did he attend
to the duties that he was re-elected in 1888. He is a stanch Republican, and
lends his influence to the best interests of the party.
W. A. Cook, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born October 30, 1839, in Eng-
land, to John and Sarah (West) Cook, natives of the same country. The mother
was a cousin of Mr. West, late British minister to America. The parents of Mr.
Cook came to Canada in 1846, bringing their seven children, Jonathan, John,
Henry, W. A., James, Hannah and Emma. The father died in 1872 and the
mother in 1877 ; they were members of the Methodist Church. W^. A. Cook
978
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
was educated in the common schools and at an academy taught by Peter Mc-
Tavish, by whom he was taught book-keeping with the view of following it
for a profession. He was employed by John A. McDonald & Co., wholesale
dry goods men at Toronto, Canada, as book-keeper from 1855 to 1858, when he
withdrew on account of declining health. He subsequently resumed his
profession, but found each time that the confinement would not agree with
him. He came to Mercer County in 1871, and was employed by Benjamin
Henlein, of Greenville, in the lumber business for six years. He then engaged
in the saw-mill business on his own resources, in Cool Spring Township, for a
successful period of four years. In 1884 he sold some land in Canada, and
bought ten acres where he now lives in Cool Spring Township. He was mar-
ried in 1874 to Nancy E., daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth (Shaffer) Liver-
more, and has four childi’en: John W., Arthur W., Elizabeth J. and Edith
M. He and wife are members of the Jackson Centre Methodist Episcopal
Church.
Isaac Homer, farmer, post-office Otter Creek, was born December 25, 1837,
in Delaware Township, Mercer County. His parents were Peter and Margaret
(Rose) Homer, natives of the same township. The subject’s father died in
1856 and his mother in 1883; both were members of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church. Their children were: Isaac, Catharine, both living; Jacob, a
member of Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volun-
teers, died in service; Henry, Harriet and Elmira, the last deceased. Our
subject was educated in the common schools, and worked on a farm. He
began for himself when twenty years old. He was married October 28, 1858,
to Sophia L. Keen, daughter of Reuben and Paulina (Mitchell) Keen, natives
of Maine, who were the parents of eleven children: Hannah L., Lorana A.,
Sophia L. , Nancy J. , William R., Irena, Cyrena C. , Cordelia P. , Oliver O. ,
Hezekiah O. and Polly A. The father is dead, and the mother lives near
Fredonia. In 1860 our subject, with his wife, went to Illinois and worked in
a stone quarry for one year. He then enlisted in Company F, Eighty-third
Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. On his
return from the war he joined his wife in Pennsylvania, and engaged in farm-
ing. They have had six children: Mary M. , Oris W., both dead; Paulina
M. ; Arthur W. , teacher; Elsie J. and Ellis H. Mr. and Mrs. Homer are
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Fredonia, and he is a
Republican.
John Johnston, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born May 20, 1816, in
Mercer County, to Zachariah and Jane Grace (Todd) Johnston. The father
was born in County Derry, Ireland, came to America in 1798, and settled on
the farm where our subject now lives. His union with Miss Todd gave him
eight children: Robert, Jane, Mary, Zachariah, John, Grace, Margaret and
James. He died in 1828 and his widow in 1867, both members of the United
Presbyterian Church. John Johnston was educated in a log cabin at the time
when the Indians were yet to be seen. He learned carpentering, and during
a winter or two he worked in the construction of locks on the Erie Canal. He
has 130 acres, 100 of which he cleared. He was married in 1838 to Mary A.
Jennings, who bore him one child, who with the mother died in 1839. He
was again married in 1841 to Sarah J. Todd, daughter of John Todd, Jr., and
had by her five children: Margaret; Frances, married Samuel Landis; Zacha-
riah; John, married Caroline Parkes; Rebecca A., married George Crouser; Nel-
lie, married Marvin Gildersleeve. Mr. Johnston was captain of a militia com-
pany for nine years, and at the time of the Mexican War. He and wife are
members of the Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and he is a
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
979
Democrat. He erected a steam saw-mill in 1872 on his farm, which is still in
operation. Mrs. Johnston is a daughter of John and Margaret (Smith) Todd,
the parents of James, Smith C., Margaret, Sarah J., Andrew, Elizabeth,
Mary A., Rebecca, Rachel and Frances. Margaret Smith was born in 1795 in
Montgomery County, Penn., to Valentine and Mary M. (Spies) Smith, who
came to this county about 1803. They had two children: Jacob and Mar-
garet. Valentine was in the War of 1812. Mrs. Johnston says that she, her
sister, Margaret, and two brothers, James and Smith C., went to the cran-
berry region near where William Paxton now lives, just east of Pardoe, and
one day they killed fifty rattlesnakes. She also says that in the year 1845 she
was attending to the cows, and looking for the calf she found it lying near the
house in terrible agony, and when she came close to it the dog warned her
of danger by biting her heels several times. She went to the calf, stooped
over it to raise its head, and there, to her astonishment, found a large hoop
snake with its stinger fastened in the little animal. She says she had an old
shoe on, with a hole in the toe, and the reptile bit at it and left teeth marks
on her toe nail. She killed the snake, and a short time afterward her husband
killed its mate in the wheat field.
George Kelso, farmer, post-office Otter Creek, was born November 4, 1838,
in Lawrence County, Penn., to John and Ann (McWilliams) Kelso, natives of
Lawrence County, and of Scotch and Irish extraction, respectively. The par-
ents resided ten years near Hadley, this county, and then removed to Lawrence
County, where the father died in 1879 and the mother in 1877. Their chil-
dren were; Mary, married Haslet Miller; George, Letitia, Joseph, Rebecca,
married William H. Pasco, of Nebraska ; Jane, married David Hadley ; John,
Olive, married James Cooper, who is dead, and she resides in Nebraska ; three
others died when young. Our subject was educated in the common schools,
and brought up on a farm. He enlisted in Company G, One Hundred
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three years; was in the battles of his
regiment and wounded in the right temple in front of Petersburg. His
brother Joseph enlisted in the same company and served nearly four years ;
he was also wounded in the head. On his return from the war our subject
worked on his father’s farm until married, February 8, 1865, to Sarah M.
Walker, born April 4, 1844, daughter of Samuel and Eliza (Nelson) Walker,
who are mentioned elsewhere. He and wife settled on a farm in Lawrence
County until they came to their present one, known as the ‘ ‘ Matthew Thomp-
son farm.” Here they have a beautiful home. They have had eleven chil-
dren, nine of whom are living: Robert O., Samuel, Joannah, Elizabeth, Joseph
H., Mary, George, Nelson O. and William D. He and wife are members of
the First United Presbyterian Church, and he is a stanch Republican.
Joseph Kent, deceased, was born in StafPordshire, England, August 7,
1807, and immigrated to America in 1833. The same year he, in company
with a number of others, went down the rivers on a canal boat to New Orleans.
During this trip he had the pleasure of shaking hands with Mohawk, the great
Indian chief. Mr. Kent was overseer of a company of laborers while at New
Orleans for a short period. He returned to Cincinnati, remained some time,
and in 1835 he came to what is now Wilmington Township, Mercer County,
where he was employed as a farm laborer. He subsequently purchased land
in territory now included in Perry Township. This he soon sold and bought
the land in Cool Spring Township where his family reside. Mr. Kent was
one of eight children, of whom two survive; John, a local Methodist minister,
and Henry is a manufacturer of needles and other articles, both residents of
England. Joseph Kent was married to Jane, daughter of James and Mary
980
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
(Richard) Colleyer, and with her settled first in Pittsburgh, where he was en-
gaged in business for some time. From there he removed to the farm spoken
of in this sketch in Periy Township. Mrs. Jane Kent, the granddaughter of
Charles and Mary Richard, died May 20, 1888. She emigrated from England,
her native country, to America with her parents when about ten years old.
She was a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, and was highly
esteemed by all of her acquaintances. Mr. Kent died April 22, 1884; was an
attendant of the Methodist Episcopal Church, an upright citizen, a good hus-
band and father. His children were seven; Ellen, married Andrew B. Hos-
ack; Hannah, Henry J. , Mary, Cassie, Thomas J. and one (deceased) young.
Charles Lees, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born October 16, 1822, to
James and Charlotte Lees, natives of England. The family came to Mercer
County about 1828, and settled where John H. Lees now lives, in East Lack-
awannock Township. James Lees was engaged for many years in his native
country in weaving silk, and his wife was overseer of 500 girls in the same
factory. Their children were William, James, Mary, Charles, Anna, John
H. , Samuel and Robert. The parents were members of the Presbyterian
Church, and are buried in the old grave-yard at Mercer. Our subject was
married to Jane Donaldson, born February 23, 1821. She is a daughter of
Isaac and Rebecca (Shannon) Donaldson, who became acquainted while reap-
ing wheat together. They subsequently became engaged, and published their
intention of marriage two weeks prior to the wedding day, in the pulpit, with
the ‘ ‘ text, ” “ And here Isaac sent for Rebecca. ’ ’ Other mention is made
of them in the sketch of S. S. Donaldson, of Jackson Township. Charles
Lees and wife have had five children: Charles R., deceased; William D., mar-
ried Melda Ray, daughter of Robert and Lydia (Carnes) Ray, and has by her
four children, Charles C., Fred W., Hazel R. and Capt. Howe; Mary E. , mar-
ried Charles Clark; Sarah E., married A. H. Clark; infant is deceased. Mr.
and Mrs. Lees settled at marriage in Venango County, where they remained
until April 21, 1853, when they left, and in 1854 came to this county and
rented for two years in Wilmington Township. April 2, 1856, they moved to
the farm where they now reside. He has improved about eighty-two acres; has
been township treasurer two terms and supervisor. He and wife are members of
the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Jackson Centre, and he is a Republi-
can. The following is from Everts’ History of Mercer County, which we give
space for that it may be preserved by the family; “A story is told of the
grandmother of Mrs. Charles Lees and S. S. Donaldson, which is worth pre-
serving. The lady’s name was Martha Reed (generally known as Rebecca),
and her father was one of Gen. Forbes’ soldiers, who, in company with a
number of others, left the army in its western expedition, in 1758, and settled
in the Ligonier Valley, in Westmoreland County. Mr. Reed had a family of
four children, of whom Martha was the eldest, a son named George being second
in age. Miss Reed, like other women at the time, living at the fort they
occupied, frequently indulged in out-door sports with the male members of
the settlement, and became noted for her extraordinary fleetness of foot. A
young man named Samuel Shannon was the only one who could successfully
compete with her in a race, and the two were afterward married. On a cer-
tain day, just after harvest was over, in 1778, Miss Reed and a lady friend,
accompanied by George Reed and another male companion, started for a
blackberry patch two miles away. On the way they met a Mr. McDowell on
horseback, carrying a gun, and they had hardly recognized him before they
were fired on by a party of Indians from an ambush near by. At the fire
young Reed fell mortally wounded; the other young man was made a prisoner.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
981
and Miss Reed’s lady companion killed. McDowell escaped in one direction,
and Miss Reed started for the fort on a run, with the fleetest Indian of the
band at her heels, determined to make her a prisoner. She led him a race of
three-quarters of a mile, and was met by young Shannon, who observed her
plight, and started to her rescue, reaching her just outside the fort. The In-
dian, seeing his prey escape him, turned and ran back, and was ever afterward
looked upon with contempt by his brother warriors. Even the chieftain’s
daughter, to whom he was shortly to have been married, gave him the cold
shoulder, and would have no more to do with the brave who had let a ‘ pale-
face squaw’ outrun him.”
Chakles Madden, farmer, post-otfice Mercer, was born August 15, 1825,
in Beaver County, Penn., near Darlington, to William, born in Northumber-
land County, and Elizabeth (Flickinger) Madden. They came to Darlington
after the War of 1812, and began making a home in the woods. The father
died in Lancaster County, Penn., in 1871, at the age of ninety years, and his
wife died some time prior, at the ripe age of eighty-five years. William
Madden was in the War of 1812, and was at Buffalo and Erie. His father,
Joseph Madden, was seven years in service under Washington; was with him
at the capture of the Hessians at Trenton, N. J. ; during some battle was shot
in the ankle, and died near Danville, Penn. He was of Scotch-Irish extract-
ion, while his wife came from the Highlands of Scotland. William Madden
married Elizabeth Flickinger, and had William, Mary, Daniel, Martha,
James, Charles, Montgomery, Elizabeth and George. The father had by a
former marriage Joseph and Sevilla. He and his last wife belonged to the
Chui’ch of England. Our subject was educated in Enon Valley, and was
brought up on a farm. In 1853 he married Mary J. Shively, of Lewisville,
Ohio, and by her had six children: Margaret, married Almon Young; Martha,
married Hiram Cozad; Eva L., Alice S. and two who died young. In 1862
Mr. Madden came to his present farm of forty acres, in Cool Spring Township.
He has also sixteen acres in J efferson Township. He has always taken a deep
interest in education, and gave his children the best advantages of learning his
means would afford. He and his family are members of the First Presby-
terian Church of Mercer. He is a Republican.
Chaeles McDougall, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born May 5, 1830, to
Charles and Mary (Dever) McDotigall, natives, the father of Edinburgh, Scot-
land, and the mother of Mercer County. The father came to America when
twenty-six years of age, and settled in Franklin County, Penn., where he was
for a few years engaged in weaving woolen goods. After the death of the
father of Mrs. Mary (Dever) McDougall, her mother went to Franklin County,
where Mary and Charles were married, and it is believed that they walked soon
afterward to Pittsburgh, and thence to Pine Township, to land owned by her
father. Charles died February 4, 1875, and Mary in December, 1879.
Their children were: Infant, William, George, Charles, John, James, was
shot at the battle of Fredericksburg; Thomas, served three years in the
late war; Joseph, died at the age of eighteen months; Joseph (2); Jane, married
William White, and Mary deceased. The parents were United Presbyterians.
Our subject was educated in a log cabin of the most ancient style, and was
brought up at farm labor. He began for himself when twenty years old, with
25 cents of his own and $2 which he borrowed from his brother. He was
employed by Abraham Fisher on a farm, at $11 per month during the sum-
mer, and $8 during the winter months. His vocation, after one year with
Fisher, was various, such as hauling coal, working on the railroad, etc. He
was married to Eveline Magee November 22, 1855. She was born February
982
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
6, 1838, ill this county, and was the daughter of Patrick and Sables (Gill)
Magee. Her father was a native of Path Valley, Franklin Co., Penn., and
there married Nancy Fagan, who came with him to Mercer County, and later
died, being the mother of four children: John, Mary, James and George.
Her father subsequently married Sables Gill, a native of Butler County, and
had five children: William, Eveline, Nancjv Adam and one who died young.
Mr. and Mrs. Magee died in Wolf Creek Township, and the latter was a
member of the Seceder Church. Our subject enlisted in the Fifty-fifth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three months. His children are: Mary
J. , married George B. Paxton; William V., married Lizzie Bentley; Nancy,
is single and at home; Ida married Henry Barber September 1, 1886; Cath-
arine E., married Charles Pew; Lizzie, married Henry Steingrabe March 29,
1888; Emma, James A., George M. , Charles and Adda, deceased. Mr.
McDougall is interested in the Grove City College, and was one of the
first projectors of the same. By strict economy, hard labor and frugality he
increased his |2 and 25 cents to the value of a farm which he sold for $8,000,
and bought his present one in Cool Spring Township. When young he
naturally imbibed the Democracy of his father; but one day, when listening
to a conversation between two men on the subject, “ Of how little darkies are
bought and sold,” he renounced his early political proclivities, and, when the
Republican party came into existence, he was found among its most earnest
advocates. His family are members of the United Presbyterian Church, and
he used to go bare- footed to church to listen to Rev. Edward Small preach.
George McEwen, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born November 16, 1818,
in Mercer County, Penn., to John and Jane (Moore) McEwen. John McEwen,
the great-grandfather of our subject, was born in Scotland, was sent to Ireland
on missionary business, and was attacked by twelve persons, who cut his wife’s
breasts off, which inhuman act so enraged the reverend gentleman that he
sailed into them and succeeded in killing ten of the twelve, and escaped with
his wife to Maryland, and soon after to Adams County, Penn., where his wife
recovered and bore him ten children, one of whom, named Samuel, came to
Mercer County about 1805 and settled on the farm where John McEwen now
lives, in a log house, in which it has been claimed that the first court was held
in Mercer County. Here Samuel died December 4, 1819, and his wife July
24, 1825, the parents of the following children: Thomas, Samuel B. , John,
Sarah, married Henry A. Anderson; Betsey, married Samuel Scott; Margaret,
married John Moore. Samuel McEwen was a Revolutionary soldier from
Adams County. John McEwen, the father of our subject, was married in 1815
to Jane Moore, resulting in eight children: Samuel, Thomas, George, William,
Mary, Elizabeth, John and Thomas (2). John McEwen was famous for his
skill in bleeding people in this county, and his son John has the instruments
used by him for that purpose. George, whose name heads this memoir, was
educated in the common schools and brought up at rural pursuits. He was
married to Jane, a daughter of John and Mary (Legg) King, natives of Eng-
land, and who came to America in 1829 and settled in the State of Delaware.
They came to Mercer County in 1836 and settled in Cool Spring Township.
Her mother was thrown from a wagon against a large stone by the side of the
road on what is known as Ball Hill, on the Franklin and Mercer road, her
head striking the stone and injuring her so badly that she expired thirty min-
utes afterward. The children of her parents were: Robert, James, Hannah,
Jane, Edward, John, William, Nancy, John Joseph, Mary A. and Newark.
The children of George McEwen are: Mary, married Thomas Bestwick; John,
married Mary J. Kennedy; Nancy, Amanda, Hannah, W’illiam, married Fan-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
D83
nie Grace; George and Thomas are dead. He is a Republican, and be and
wife are members of the Cool Spring Church. John McEwen, the brother of
our subject, was born March 14, 1827, and was married in 1848 to Jane Hart-
ley, resulting in nine children: Frances, Mary, George, Joseph, Ida and four
deceased in infancy. His second marriage was to Christina Kirker. Mr. J ohn
McEwen enlisted in Company H, Two Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and was slightly wounded by a piece of shell striking him over
the right eye.
Samuel McMillan, deceased, was born June 13, 1814, in Mercer County,
to John and Isabella McMillan, the parents of Samuel and Mary, the latter of
whom married Israel Forker. His grandfather was John McMillan, deceased,
of Cool Spring Township. Samuel McMillan was educated in the country
schools, learned stone- cutting, and worked at it and on canals together with
farming. He was married to Mary Hosack October 22, 1844. She is a
daughter of Col. Thomas and Margaret (Johnston) Hosack, of Adams County,
Penn. Her parents had: Elizabeth, married Isaac Patterson; Martha, married
John Armstrong; Henry H., Mary, Jane, married Isaac Downs; Thomas, lives
in Logan County, Ohio; Margaret, married Adam Forker; James J., Nancy,
deceased wife of A. J. Zahniser; William, deceased. The parents were
United Presbyterians. Samuel McMillan was blessed with five children by his
marriage: Thomas H., Margaret, died at the age of three years; Elizabeth,
married Alexander Hunter and lives in Virginia; Isabella, a school-teacher of
fine reputation, and Nancy, who died young. Mr. McMillan died May 17,
1876, and was a Democrat. His widow resides on the home place, was born
July 16, 1815, and is a member of the Second United Presbyterian Church of
Mercer. Further mention of the Hosack and McMillan families appears in the
historical chapters of this work.
William Miller, deceased, was born in Wolf Creek Township (now Pine
Township), Mercer County, March 15, 1801. His father, John Miller, was
born near Glasgow, Scotland, immigrated to the United States in 1789
or 1790, and set locks on the Union Canal in the eastern part of Penn-
sylvania. In 1792 he removed to Pittsburgh, and cut stone for the first court-
house built in Allegheny County, and for many years afterward furnished cut
stone for building purposes. The deceased removed with his parents to Pitts-
burgh in 1806, and in 1817 the family again settled in Wolf Creek Town-
ship, and in 1824 he located on the Magee farm, in Fairview Township (then
Cool Spring). Here he remained until 1834, when he settled on the farm in
Cool Spring Township now owned by Mrs. Mary Miller and A. S. Reed, and
carried on farming in connection with merchandising and the manufacture of
potash until 1865, from which year until 1874 he lived in Venango County,
and then resided in Allegheny County until 1884, when he came to Cool Spring
Township, there lived until December, 1887, when he established his home in
Jonestown, N. Y., where he died November 17, 1888. He was a ruling elder
in the Presbyterian Church for many years. He served a term as county
commissioner, one as county auditor, and was postmaster at Petroleum
Centre, Penn.
John Miller, deceased, was born November 18, 1829, in Fairview Town-
ship, Mercer County. He was a son of William Miller and a brother of Hon.
S. H. Miller, of Mercer. He was brought up at rural pursuits, and was mar-
ried to Mary E. Tait in 1854. She is a daughter of Samuel and Rebecca
(Smith) Tait. Her mother survives, and is the daughter of Furgus and Agnes
(Gifiin) Smith. Furgus Smith was born in County Derry, Ireland, in 1763,
and immigrated to Westmoreland County, this State, in 1783, where he married
984
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Agnes Giffin, a native of Westmoreland County. He came with his wife to
Mercer County in 1801 or 1802, and settled for a short time in the forks of the
Shenango, and in 1808 they located on the farm now owned by Charles Yer-
non, where he died January 1, 1853, and she July 15, 1854. They were the
parents of eight children: Eleanor, married Alex. McCullough; Martha, mar-
ried William Stinson; Hannah, died young; John, Nancy, married Rev. James
McKean; Rebecca, married Samuel Tait, and had four children: William B.,
Samuel W. , Mary E. and Fui’gus S. ; Mary, Amelia T. , married Henry Burton.
Samuel Tait was a son of the distinguished Rev. Samuel Tait, the founder of
the old Cool Spring Church. He died in 1837, and his widow survives at the
ripe old age of eighty years. Mrs. Miller reared only one, an adopted, child,
whose name was changed by law to Anna G. Miller, and who was married
October 12, 1887, to J. C. North. Mrs. Miller is a consistent member of the
Presbyterian Church, in the faith of which her husband died September 21,
1871. Mention of the Tait and Miller families will be found elsewhere.
S. G. Millee, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born March 4, 1820, to
Robert and Nancy (Dean) Miller. The parents came to Mercer County in
1833, and settled on a rented farm for five years, when they became able to
purchase a farm in Wolfe Creek Township, where they lived a number of
years, but finally moved to Butler County, where they died. Their children
were: Robert, Mary, S. G., Nancy and James A. Our subject attended
school in the country, and began for himself when twenty years of age, with
just 10 cents, with which he bought a handkerchief. He hired to Matthew
McLean for |10 per month to labor on a farm. Ten years later he bought a
farm in Wolf Creek Township where he remained for twenty-six years, and in
connection with his farm labor ran a huxter wagon through the oil regions for
three years. He was married in 1850 to Eliza Cross, daughter of Samuel and
Letitia Cross, and has had no children. She died in 1878, and he was again
married, to Minerva Emerson, a daughter of Ira and Delia (Chapman) Emer-
son. They came to Cool Spring Township in October, 1877, and bought sixty
acres of good land where they now reside. He is a Republican, and has been
assessor and collector four years. He and wife are members of the First United
Presbyterian Church of Mercer. They have reared two children : Mary Moore,
who married M. C. Holland, and George W. Gathers, born October 13, 1861,
son of B. W., and Rosannah (McMullen) Gathers, both of whom died when
George was young. George married Lottie B., a daughter of William and
Elizabeth Chambers, and has one child, Leslie M. He farms with Mr. Miller
as a partner.
John Noeth, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, was born February 18,
1831, in Cool Spring Township, on the farm where he now lives. His father,
William North, was born in 1777, in Derbyshire, England, and was there mar-
ried to Mary Davile, a native of the same country. They immigrated to
America about 1819, and settled for three years in either W'orth or Sandy Lake
Township, thence removed to where John North now resides. William died
March 6, 1860, and his widow died in 1865. He improved about 325 acres from
the green woods, and at one time owned over 500 acres. He, of course, was
content to use the oxen in the early cultivation of his farm. He and his wife
were members of the Cool Spring congregation of Presbyterians. , Their
children were: Samuel, married Jane McFarland, and after her death he
married Lizzie J. Brockleyhurst ; Sarah, married James Miller; William, mar-
ried Catharine Zahniser in 1844; Elizabeth, married David Zahniser; Lucy,
married John L. Zahniser; Mary, married Rev. Samuel Bowman; Maria, de-
ceased, and John. Our subject attended the common schools, and was mar-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
9S5
ried to Rebecca Zahniser in 1859. She is a daughter of J acob and Melinda
(Smith) Zahniser, whose sketch appears in Jackson Township. By this union
he has had six children: William T., married Eva C, Supple; Mary G., mar-
ried D. L. McMillan; Melinda S., married to W. W. Runkle; Jacob Z., Ira C.
and John N. Mr. North has been school director for twelve years. He helped
to defend the cause of his country by hiring a substitute for the war. He and
wife are members of the Cool Spring Presbyterian Church, and he is a stanch
Republican and a strong temperance advocate.
S. B. Page, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, .was born June 22, 1840.
His father, John B. Page, was a son of Joseph Page, and was born November
11, 1789, in Philadelphia, and married Sarah S. Steele February 14, 1812.
She was born March 14, 1793, and died January 30, 1837, after blessing her
husband with the following children: Deborah M. , born November 8, 1812;
John M., born May 1, 1814, died February 29, 1817; William M., born Feb-
ruary 29, 1816; Anna E., born August 22, 1818; Sarah S., born January 1,
1820; Hiram R., born December 13^, 1821; Washington B., born August 16,
1823; Elias H., born January 21, 1825; Henrietta F., born December 24,
1826; Nancy W., born August 15, 1829; James B., born October 22, 1831;
Margaret J. , born September 6, 1833, and Adam P., born March 1, 1836.
The father was again married, to Susannah Engle, born August 27, 1800, by
whom he had four children: Joseph born January 15, 1839; S. B., born
June 22, 1840; Thomas T., born December 31, 1841, died in 1841,. and
Mathias L., born July 24, 1843. This last wife died March 22, 1825. The
father was a merchant for many years in Angelica, county seat of Alleghany
County, N. Y. , and was sheriff of that county for twelve years. About the
year 1830 he came to Mercer, and for a short time was in partnership with
Andrew Patterson in the mercantile business. He sold to Mr. Patterson,
and removed to a farm of 212 acres in Cool Spring Township, where he lived
until he sold the farm in 1866. He died March 8, 1873, was in the AVar of
1812, from Warren County, and was a Democrat. S. B. Page was educated
in the common schools and learned carpentering. He spent nine years in the
oil regions of Pennsylvania. He bought fifty-five acres, where he now resides,
in 1868, and was married April 28, 1869, to Miss Emily M. Service, by whom
he had two children: Adda A., born December 22, 1872, and Engle, born
March 22, 1880. He was elected a justice of the peace for Cool Spring Town-
ship in 1883, arid is still serving. He is a Democrat, and. with his wife,
belongs to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Jackson Centre.
W. H. Reed, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born May 3, 1822, in Trumbull
County, Ohio, to William and Martha (Thompson) Reed, natives of Allegheny
and Fayette Counties, Pa. , respectively, and the parents of five children: John,
Elizabeth, married Moses Brownlee; Mary, married David Brownlee; AV. H. ,
and Nancy, married James Milligan. The parents are dead, and were Presby-
terians. William H. Reed was educated in the common schools, and was
brought up at rural pursuits. He began for himself with but little means. He
was married in 1845 to Anna Hoskins, a daughter of Benjamin and Mary
Hoskins. Her mother died when she was ten years old, and she lived with her
aunt, Mrs. Thornton, of New Castle. Mr. and Mrs. Reed settled at their
marriage in Trumbull County, Ohio, until 1847, when he bought 100 acres in
Cool Spring Township, and moved to it. He engaged then more extensively
in putting out sheep to various farmers on certain terms. He was only pre-
ceded in this business in this county by Wilson Thorn, of Youngstown, Ohio.
Mr. Reed continued to deal in the sheep business extensively until after the
close of the war. His children are: John T., married Emma Boyd, and has
9SG
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
three children; Gertrude, W. H. and Boyd; W. F., married Isabella Babcock,
and has four children; Alice M. , Edward B., Harry S. and Rebecca M. ; A. S.,
married Loretta, daughter of James McEwen, and has three children ; Stella I.,
Frank C. and Mary. William Reed and wife are members of the Cool Spring
Presbyterian Church, and he is a Republican.
AVilliam Rodgers, farmer, post-office Otter Creek, was born February 11,
1807, in Mercer County. His father, Samuel, was born in Ireland, and came to
Delaware County, Penn., about 1780, and later to Fayette County, where he
married Mary Henry, and in 1798 with her settled in Greene Township, this
county, where they bought a tract of 400 acres. Here he died in 1839, and his
widow September 20, 1865. They had nine children; Betsey, married John
Brooks and afterward Joseph Mathers, and she died November 26, 1887, at the
home of our subject; Nancy, married Charles Love; Sarah, died July 22, 1879;
AATlliam, Mary, Jane, Margaret, Robert and James. Mrs. Samuel Rodgers rode
to Mercer County on horseback, while her husband walked and drove a cow.
They jjacked their household goods and hired two men to bring them in a boat
down the Monongahela and Ohio, up the Beaver to New Castle, and then up
the Shenango to near their cabin, in what is now Greene Township. Robert
and Samuel Henry, brothers of Mrs. Rodgffis, had previously come to Craw-
ford County, and on the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Rodgers they walked six
miles, and in one day, with the assistance of Mr. Rodgers, they built a cabin
16x16 feet. Here Mr. Rodgers did a large amount of weaving. AVilliam
Rodgers was educated in a log cabin school-house, which became so cold
at times that the ink froze on the goose-quill pen which he used. He
settled in Cool Spring Township in 1833, and was married March 27, 1834, to
Nancy Bowman, daughter of Robert Bowman, which resulted in fiye children;
Mary J. , Robert, Margaret E., Samuel R. and Nancy B. Mrs. Rodgers is
dead, while he resides on the old place. He was baptized in the Reformed
Presbyterian, or Covenanter. Church when a child, and made a public confession
when twenty years old. His wife was a consistent member of the same church.
Their oldest son, Robert, was born October 12, 1839, in Cool Spring Town-
ship, and was married October 14, 1869, to Eunice Alexander, daughter of
Samuel and Ruth (Dodd) Alexander, the parents of the following children;
Samuel, Elizabeth, Joseph and Jennie. The children of Robert and Eunice
are; William A., Minnie E., Nancy R., Albert AV., Samuel B., Robert A\h,
Myrtle and Norris L. Samuel R. Rodgers married Mary Godfrey, and has
six children; Edward J., MaryE., Nancy E., Jennie R., Clara A. and Alice
B. P. Nancy Rodgers became the second wife of John B. Maxwell, of Find-
ley Township, and is the mother of seven children.
M. D. Scurry, farmer, and contractor, post office Otter Creek, was born
March 25, 1824, in County Kilkenny, Ireland, his parents, James and Eleanor
(DeLahunty) Scurry, natives of the same country, and also parents of John,
AA' alter, Mary and AA’illiam D. John published a newspaper in the Irish
language in Waterford, Ireland; Walter, a dry goods merchant in Waterford;
Mary is the widow of Michael’ Dunphy, and resides in Peoria, 111.; William
D. is a ranchman in Victoria, Australia. James Scurry, the father of the
above named children, died in his native country in 1824. He was educated
in the college at Kilkenny, and was the author of several works in the Irish
language, and translated a number of works from the English, Latin and
Hebrew into the Irish language. He was for many years employed in the
Four Courts, Castle and Royal Irish Academy, in Dublin, on the translation
of old Irish documents. Mr. Scurry and all his family were pronounced Cath-
olics in their religious belief. Our subject was educated in a general literary
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
987
scliool in Waterford, Ireland, and brought up on a farm and clerking for his
brother Walter. He came to Rochester, N. Y., in 1849, and soon afterward
took contracts on the construction of the New York & Erie Canal, New York
Central, Erie & Lake Shore Railx'oads. In 1860 he came to Mercer County,
and took a contract on the Erie & Pittsburgh Railroad, and built the greater
part of it from Jamestown to New Castle. He then built the Bear Creek, now
the Pittsburgh, Shenango & Lake Erie, from Greenville to Pardoe. He sub-
sequently built the Sharon Railway and other short branches in this county,
also built the second track on Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, in the
State of New York. Mr. Scurry was married in 1853 to Mary Sharpe, daughter
of Daniel Sharpe, a farmer and contractor, now deceased, but who then lived
in Monroe County, N. Y. His union was blessed with ten children, seven
still living; Daniel M. , Rose E., William M., James B. , Mary, Michael J. and
Alice. Mr. Scurry is a stanch Democrat, and though an American first, is an
ardent Irish nationalist and home ruler.
James Simpson, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born February 18, 1848, in
Cool Spring Township, to Robert and Mary (Johnston) Simpson. Robert and
Mary were married in 1835, and their children were: Robert, Mary, James,
Almira, Alexander and Celia. The father died May 24, 1865, and his widow
lives with her daughter, Mrs. Albert Buxton. Their oldest son, Robert, left
home when fifteen years old and has never been heard of since. Our subject
was educated in the common schools and was brought up at farm labor. He
was married June 13, 1877, to Clara Collier, daughter of Simon and Elizabeth
(S warts) Collier, natives of the State of New York. Mr. and Mrs. Simpson
have had the following children; Perry, deceased; Freddie, Eva, deceased;
Mary, deceased, and Bertha. He owns fifty acres of good land, is a Demo-
crat, and he and wife attend the Second United Presbyterian Church of Mercer.
Benjamin Stokely. — The subject of this memoir, Benjamin Stokely, was
born in the State of Delaware in October, 1766. The family of which he was
a member moved to the western side of the mountains in 1776. A short time
afterward the western settlements were very much disturbed by murdering and
plundering inroads of the Indians, incited by the British Government, the
policy of which was so severely denounced by the Earl of Chatham in the
British Parliament. The forts at Red Stone, Grave Creek, Catfish, etc. , were
the places that the settlers fled to for safety in Westmoreland, Fayette and
Washington Counties. It was in these troublous times that young Benjamin
Stokely received his early training in the life of a backwoodsman. Between
1779 and 1784 he learned to be both a shoemaker and a tanner, improving
every opportunity in the meantime to go to school. In 1785 he found and
embraced an opportunity to make a surveyor of himself, and in the fall of that
year was employed as an assistant under Griffith Evans, of Philadelphia, who
was then engaged in surveying the Third District of Donation Lands. From
1786 to 1789 he was a clerk in the office of the register and recorder of
Washington County, during which time he studied Latin, and at the close of
which he married Miss Esther Alexander, full sister of Benjamin and Joseph
Alexander, and half-sister of William and John Alexander, all of whom after-
ward settled in this county, in the neighborhood of Mr. Stokely. In the year
1792 he was appointed surveyor of the Fourth and Fifth Donation Districts,
which were united and called the Third, and which lie in the southern part of
the county. In the fall of 1794 and the spring of 1795 a number of warrants
were put into his hands in his office at Pittsburgh, and on the 1st of May he
started to survey his district and to locate the warrants jmt in his hands. This
surveying expedition came to a speedy end on the 8th of June, in consequence
988
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
of a letter from Capt. Heath, of Fort Franklin, informing him of the murder
of two white men, near Conneaut, by the Indians, and advising him that he
and his party were in great danger of being cut off. This letter was dated
June 6, 1795, and sent by a friendly Indian, who delivered it on the 7th. In
August of this year Wayne’s treaty with the Ohio and other Indians was
effected, after which it was deemed safe for the surveying party to return,
which they did in October, continuing at their work until the first week in
December, when, their provisions being exhausted, they set their faces for Pitts-
burgh. They sought what was to them a new route, starting from near where
Mercer stands, and proceeding by way of the Shenango and Mahoning country,
over streams swollen by recent heavy rains, wading swamps and suffering con-
siderably from cold, hunger and drenching rains, until they reached the town
of Beaver, previously known as Fort McIntosh, where they first got the great
comfort of bread at their meals. The next spring saw Mr. Stokely and his
party again at their surveys. The survey of the Third District had been com-
pleted the year previous, and his work then was to levy the warrants in his
hands. This was completed in June, 1796, when the party returned to the
settlement on the other side of the river. In the fall of this year, October,
1796, he moved his family to the farm he settled on the banks of the Cool
Spring, in the township of that name, where he resided until his death in
1843. There had been several others who came out that year, but they all
returned to the settlements when winter set in, so that Stokely and his family
were without other society than the Indians and wild animals of the forest,
until about the middle of February, 1797, when a number of settlers came out
and took up their abode with him until they had picked out places for their
own settlement. Mr. Stokely seemed to have somewhat of an eye to trade.
In a manuscript left behind him it is stated that, in December following his
removal, he got 600 pounds of flour and 300 pounds of corn meal brought out
to him — that during the same winter he purchased about 3,000 pounds of
venison from the Indians at 1 cent per pound, paying for it chiefly with powder
at |2 per pound, lead at 50 cents per pound, and flour at 1 shilling a quart,
also rough tallow at 6 cents per pound; dressed buck-skins were purchased for
$1, and doe-skins for 50 cents. The venison hams he sold at Pittsburgh for
$1 per pair, or 6 cents per pound, and for the tallow, when rendered, he got
20 cents per pound. Stokely also relates that his cows and oxen started off
on the 7th of December, when the snows were deep, returning on the 17th,
and that three of them lived through the winter by his cutting small trees for
them to eat; that about the last of March one of the cows was far gone for the
want of food, but was saved through the use of straw found in the pads of an
old pack-saddle, which was given to her in small quantities and eaten with
great avidity, helping her along until spring came with its relief. In the fall
of 1797 he sowed three bushels of wheat, which is claimed to have been the
first sown in this county, and from which he harvested a good crop the follow-
ing season. The spring of 1798 he planted twenty-one bushels of potatoes,
which cost him $1.33 per bushel, the proceeds of which were sold, but at what
price is not related, although it may well be concluded that he was no loser in
the operation, for the incoming settlers would be sadly in want of them for
planting. It was along about this time, or the year following, that he built
his first double barn, a log structure, with threshing floor in the center. The
great trouble in this was to get enough men who could handle the ax, and
were conversant with the mode in which structures of this kind were put up.
White men were not numerous enough; he could get but six of such together,
one of his corner men coming all the way from Franklin for the special pur-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
989
pose of assisting. The Indians around, however, were willing — it was a frblic
they desired to enjoy — and between twenty and twenty-five of them assembled on
the occasion. As a matter of course, whisky was used by both white and red-
skins, care being taken that its consumption did not reach the danger limit,
but enough to exhilarate and keep the party in good working humor. The
following night, however, was nearly a sleepless one from the hilarity and fun
kept up during most of it by the Indians, whose appetites had been gratified
in an unusual luxurious manner by the food prepared for the occasion. They
were in no hurry to leave when the barn was up, like the whites, but stayed
most of the next day to help cut out the doorways and to get in the sleepers
for the threshing floor, besides other necessary work in the finishing up.
In the manuscript alluded to as having been left by Mr. Stokely, mention
is made of a heavy frost occurring on the 19th of August, 1800, which killed
all the corn and most of the potatoes, causing a very great deal of distress
among the early settlers. It was in this year, and the year previous, that the
first missionaries made their way into the county. Messrs. Stocton, McCurdy,
Wick and Tait, of the Presbyterian Church, and Mr. McLean, of the Seces-
sion. Stokel}% although then a doubter, had previously been a member of the
Methodist Church, and continued to entertain a friendship for its organization.
This, however, did not prevent his accepting a trusteeship, along with W illiam
McMillan and John Alexander, to receive the voluntary contributions of others,
in the shape of butter, sugar and some other kinds of trade, for the support of
the pious missionaries, and handing over to them their value in money out of
his own funds. It was in 1800 that the first Presbyterian Church was put up
for Mr. Tait, in the neighborhood of Stokely’ s residence, when he rendered so
valuable a service to the builders by taking his ox team, the only one in the
neighborhood, to haul the prepared logs into position for the raising, crying
out as he was seen approaching, as related by Eaton, in his History of the
Presbytery of Erie, ‘ ‘ with his great merry voice, ‘ Here comes the devil with
his oxen to help you build your meeting-house.’” Stokely was undoubtedly
an original man, and by many deemed eccentric, and hence his indulgence in
the habit of speaking irreverently of things held sacred by most of his neighbors.
Nevertheless he was always fond of entertaining the preachers of any persua-
sion that called upon him, treating them with great kindness and a liberal
hospitality. Although priding himself in unbelief, he was yet the regular
patron of the itinerant Methodist as well as, the helper of other organizations.
Many anecdotes are told of him in this relation, some of which will bear recital
here. For a year or two he had been entertaining a certain Elder Bronson
(who, by the way, organized the first Methodist class in Mercer, in 1819), who
found it convenient to stop with him, as the nearest house to his place of
preaching. When the last appointment was filled, on the Monday morning
following, on rising from the breakfast table he was informed that the time
had come when a settlement of their business must be made. Young Bronson
was astounded — he had not expected to be charged, having little or no money
with him, and he accordingly made known his inability to pay for the accommo-
dations he had received. Stokely could not be put off in this way, and with a
serious and determined face said to him, ‘ ‘D — n it, sir, we must settle any-
how before you leave,” and proceeded to read to his astounded and distressed
hearer his bill of items, so many meals at 25 cents each, so much for the dif-
ferent nights’ lodging, and so much for horse feed, the whole amounting to a
sum in the neighborhood of $10 or $15. “Well, Mr. Stokely,” said poor
Bronson, “I am unable to pay this bill now, but as soon as I can do so, I will
discharge the debt.” Stokely replied that there was another side of the ac-
es
990
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
count to read, and proceeded with the credits he had entered. He allowed so
much for each blessing asked, so much for leading in family prayer each time,
so much, according to his estimated value, for each sermon, and when tbe
sums were added together, to his feigned chagrin and disappointment, he found
himself indebted to the preacher just $2.75. The joke was then out, the heart
of the preacher relieved, the money paid over, and the parting made with the
best of feeling on both sides. On another occasion he engaged a needy local
exhorter to preach in his barn to such an impromptu gathering as could be
assembled on the occasion, for which he agreed to give him fifty pounds of
flour. The sermon was duly delivered in the noisy fashion of the speaker, and
when Stokely came to pay therefor he weighed out a hundred instead of fifty
pounds of flour. The exhorter, in the innocent honesty of his heart, sug-
gested that he was getting too much, that his only claim was for half that amount.
“You preached so well and so loud, that you scared all the rats away from my
barn, and as this was not in the contract, I give you the extra fifty for that
service.” In 1802 Mr. Stokely was elected lieutenant-colonel of the Mercer
County regiment of militia; in 1808 he was apointed a justice of the peace by
Gov. McKean, acting in that capacity afterward for over thirty years, when
the office was made elective by a change in the State constitution; in 1825 he
was elected one of the county commissioners.
Two camp-meetings were held on the plantation of Mr. Stokely, the first
in the year 1827, and the second in 1834. On these occasions he prepared the
grounds and entertained all of the clergy in attendance. On some of the
clergymen e?;pressing some surprise at his choice of location, he told them that
he had a particular purpose to serve in that matter. A gentle pressure to ar-
rive at a knowledge of this purpose elicited the fact that the woods in which
the selection was made was the resort of foxes, skunks, owls and other vermin,
that stole his poultry, and he thought the noise made in a good rousing camp-
meeting would drive them out and give him comparative security in the future,
to effect which he hoped the preachers, who loved to feed on chickens and
ducks as well as himself, would aid him to the best of their ability. When
the second camp-meeting was held he selected a different place, the reason for
which was that he then wanted the vermin driven back to their old quarters.
The first wife of Mr. Stokely died in May, 1814. She was the mother of ten chil-
dren. He was married the second time, in 1817, to Mrs. Elizabeth Snyder, of
Pittsburgh, formerly Miss Stephenson, of Salem Township, Mercer County,
by Bishop Roberts. The second wife, who died in the year 1876, was the
mother of seven children. Mr. Stokely was an independent thinker, and orig-
inal. if not eccentric, in his ways. He was well read, and far in advance of the
most of his neighbors in his knowledge of history and general learning. He was
a ready and correct writer, and, after a newspaper was established in Mercer,
contributed a great deal to its columns. Before physicians had established
themselves in the country, his advice and assistance were often solicited. He
would bleed and prescribe for the sick. On one occasion, when there was a
general alarm, he inoculated thirty persons in five families for the small-pox
in one day, every one of whom passed safely through the disease. This was be-
fore the introduction of vaccination into this country. The persons thus treated
were previously prepared by a proper dieting, so that the danger of inocu-
lation was not deemed very great.
In a paper dictated a short time before his death, in 1843, he left the fol-
lowing account of his religious experience. He says: “It is seldom, if ever,
any person writes their own obituary notice, but the subject of this, being
somewhat eccentric in opinion and habits, has thought proper to say that in a
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
991
long life he has passed through three or four different conceptions Ojf religion.
First, when a lad between seventeen and eighteen he took the opinion of
othei’s near to him as correct, without noticing technical distinctions. Second,
he, at the period above stated, became fully convinced of the necessity of a
reformation in principle and practice, and that through the merits of the Sav-
iour only was salvation to be obtained. Third, at the age of twenty- one or
twenty-two, or perhaps from twenty to twenty-five, he gradually became
sceptical in most things of a religious nature ; in this state he continued for up-
ward of forty years. Fourth, in the latter part of 1839, or at the age of about
seventy-three, in a state of indisposition of body and nervous affection, he
began to see the approaching prospect of temporal dissolution, which excited
an inquiry what was best to do to prepare safely for the change. And now
he feels fully persuaded that to die in a full reliance on the mercy and merits
of the Lord Jesus Christ is the best and only sure and peaceful way to leave
the world. He will not conceal according existing difficulties to his judgment
in the plan of redemption, but in this interesting crisis he dares not to raise any
direct opposition to it, and therefore yields up his breath and his all to Al-
mighty God who gave him existence.” Such was the life of Benjamin Stokely,
the first settler in Mercer County. — By Garvin.
Samuel Tait. — The subject of this memoir came into Mercer County in the
summer of 1800. He, too, graduated from Dr. McMillan’s log cabin, start-
ing on a missionary tour through the northwestern counties immediately
thereafter. Alter preaching in various places, wherever he could get a hear-
ing for his messages, he accepted calls from Cool Spring and Salem, and in
November of that year was ordained pastor in each. The town of Mercer had
then no existence, and hence his churches at first were purely backwoods insti-
tutions. Eaton’s history of the presbytery of Erie contains a very interesting
account of the construction of the church in Cool Spring for his accommoda-
tion. Mr. Tait had said to his hearers on Sunday: “If you will build a meet-
ing-house I will come and preach for you. ’ ’ The offer was accepted, and a day
appointed for a meeting of the people with their axes for that purpose. They
attended in sufficient numbers to effect their purpose. Some went to work at
cutting logs of the proper length for the building; others in preparing clap-
boards for the roof and puncheons for the floor, and wherewith to fit up the
pulpit. When the logs were cut it was found that they were too heavy to be
brought into position by manual labor, in time to finish the building on that
day, and here was a very serious dilemma. Says Mr. Eaton: “ There was but
one team in all the settlement, and that was a yoke of oxen belonging to a pro-
fessed infidel. It would not do to ask him to bring his team for such a purpose.
Just as the necessity became pressing Mr. S. was seen approaching with his
oxen, crying out with his great merry voice, ‘ Here comes the devil with his
oxen to help you build your meeting-house. ’ The work then went gaily for-
ward. The next important thing was the appearance of Thomas McLean,
with a small, flat keg of whisky under his arm. This was placed in Mr. Tait’ s
hands, when all took a drink, beginning with the minister, and ending with
the donor himself. Three cheers were then given for Thomas McLean, with
the promise that when the church was organized he should be the first elder.
This promise was afterward fulfilled, and Mr. McLean was the first elder that
was elected. By sundown the church was built, covered with clapboards,
floored with puncheons, and round logs rolled in for seats. The house was so
located that a large stump answered the purpose of a pulpit, with two punch-
eons set upright in front, and one across secured to the uprights with pins, on
which the Bible might be placed.” It will thus be seen that Mr. Tait liter-
992
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ally took the stump, in his advocacy of the cross, and did not despise the
means used at that time to enliven and exhilarate social and political gather-
ings of the people. In after times, a quarter of a century later, -when the
temperance question had been agitated and discussed, he banished the liquor
from his own harvest held, and entered very heartily into the crusade then
commenced against the social use of intoxicating drinks. It is related by
Eaton that luxury soon began to creep into the Cool Spring Church, threaten-
ing trouble. William McMillan placed in the meeting-house a puncheon seat,
supported with legs, for self and family to sit on, while all the others were
using the round logs originally placed in the building for that purpose. Here
was pride and innovation that many held to be deserving of rebnke, as the
innovator and family were held to be no better than others. But McMillan
was not without friends; possibly they were of those who selfishly contemplated
a similar improvement for their own comfort. Here was division and conten-
tion that could only be settled by the authority of the pastor, who, doubtless
after prayerful consideration, decided on the side of progress and comfort by
declaring that every one should be permitted to put in for himself such a seat
as he chose. This difficulty happily settled, the congregation increased so rap-
idly that the building had to be twice enlarged for its accommodation, which
was done by cutting out logs on the sides and adding “leantoos.” In 1806, a
Presbyterian Church having been organized in Mercer, Mr. Tait relinquished
his Salem charge to assume the duties of pastor in the county town. In 1813
the Cool Spring people agreed to come to town, and the time previously given
to them was extended to Salem. In 1826 the church at Salem was finally
relinquished by Mr. Tait, and his time afterward wholly given to Mercer until
his death in 1841.
Mr. Tait was a man of commanding presence, being over six feet high,
erect in his carriage, and grave and determined in general demeanor. He was
devoted to the cause of Christianity, and was a very Paul in his efforts to
vitalize and gather into the chnrch all with whom he came in contact. To his
friends, to whom he unbended, he exhibited such a warm and loving sympathy
that gratitude, confidence and veneration were all blended in the reciprocity
invited and returned. To those outside of this circle he was deemed austez’e,
illiberal, and a kind of Calvinistic monk,' and the result was that, while he had
warm, trusting and devoted friends, his opponents were numerous, decided
and active. Along about 1809 a difficulty occurred between William Johnson
and John Bowman, both of Cool Spring, the latter a member of Mr. Tait’s
church, which caused much excitement and a great deal of litigation after-
ward, Mr. Tait becoming one of the principals. Bowman contracted to
deliver sixteen bushels of rye at the mill of Arnold & Hackney for the use of
Johnson. When Johnson applied at the mill for the rye its delivery was
denied; when he went to Bowman its delivery according to contract was
affirmed. Unable to get the rye, he brought spit against Bowman before
’Squire Rambo. In the trial Bowman swore that he delivered the rye accord-
ing to contract, while both Aimold and Hackney swore that they had never
received it. The justice, presumably on the weight of evidence, gave judg-
ment for the plaintiff. The church then took np the matter, the decision of
the justice being assumed a practical charge of perjury against one of its
members. The investigation here exonerated Bowman. This was looked
upon as a whitewashing report, and a communication published in one of the
Pittsburgh papers followed, the author of which indulged in a libelous and
abusive attack on Mr. Tait. The authorship was assumed by Johnson,
although generally suspected to have been written by his neighbor, Benjamin
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
993
Stokely. Mr. Tait prosecuted and Johnson entered a counter- prosecution —
the community took sides in nearly equal parts, and became very much
excited over the matter, but the result in the court was a complete victory to
Mr. Tait, he obtaining a verdict of over $2,000 against Johnson, and wholly
defeating the cross-proseciition. Beyond the fee of his attorney, Mr. Bald-
win, and the costs, Mr. Tait refused to allow anything more being collected
from Johnson. It was not money that he sought in the courts, but vindication
of his character. There followed this a singular series of mishaps among
several of those that were supposed or understood to have taken sides against
Mr. Tait, which a portion of his congregation and friends were disposed to
attribute to the interposition of Providence for the punishment of their wick-
edness therein. The powder-mill of Arnold & Hackney was blown up, the
eldest son of the latter, named Larken, losing his life thereby, their grist-mill
afterward being destroyed by fire. Mr. Johnson was killed by a limb falling
from a dead tree while passing under it on a load of hay. This tree was cut
down, and falling across a little swale alongside of the road, was used by foot
passengers to avoid the mud. Mr. Thomas Bingham slipped on it, and had
three of his ribs broken by the fall. The horse of Miss Sarah Beckwith,
while riding past, became frightened, and threw her against it, breaking a
thigh. Misfortunes of other families among Mr. Tait’ s opponents are recited,
all as occurring within the space of two years after the legal conflict with him.
It is worthy of the passing remark, however, that most of these afflicted fami-
lies belonged to other churches, and were pious and respectable people, while
no accident happened to Benjamin Stokely, the recognized commander-in-
chief in the war against Mr. Tait, and at that time an avowed infidel. Mr.
Tait had afterward to contend with some difficulties in his church, but his peo-
ple always stood by him faithfully. His face was always set against innova-
tors, and his support undeviatingly given to the orthodox side of all questions
that came up. He unquestionably did a great deal of good. — By Garvin.
Thomas Vanatta, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born December 20, 1833,
in Lawrence County, Penn., to John, born June 5, 1803, and Mary (Crawford)
Vanatta, born May 25, 1802. The parents were natives of Beaver County,
and the father was of German and the mother of Scotch-Irish extraction. They
came to Mercer County in 1838 and settled in Lackawannock Township, where
he engaged at his trade, that of a carpenter. While working on a building
he fell and broke three ribs loose from the backbone, and two in front. He
served as a justice of the peace in Lackawannock Township for five years.
He died July 25, 1885, and his wife died June 9, 1865. They were married
March 30, 1826, and were members of the Presbyterian Church. Their
children were Benjamin, died January 17, 1857; Hannah, married Mitchell
Roland; Ruth, married Martin Davis; Thomas, Margaret J., married William '
Clark; Mary A., died October 18, 1884; John, and Eliza, married William
Ransom. The father was a Democrat rrntil the breaking out of the war, when
he became a stanch Republican. The subject of this sketch was educated in
the common schools and was brought up at rural pursuits. He began for him-
self when twenty-four years of age, at which time he rented the old home
place, where he remained until 1881, when he bought the farm he now lives
on. He was married April 13, 1858, to Elizabeth, daughter of William and
Nancy (Boyd) Clark. Her father was born April 27, 1802, in Ireland, and
came to America when twenty-one years old. Her mother was born Januaiy
14, 1801. Her parents were married in Lawrence County, September 27,
1832, the result being seven children: Mary, Agnes, Elizabeth, William,
Rebecca, Margaret and Samuel. Her father died November 18, 1882, and
994
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
her mother, April 26, 1884, and were members of the Presbyterian Church.
Mrs. Vanatta was born May 25, 1835, and has blessed her consort with eight
children: Nancy J., John W., a farmer in Kansas ; Robert, Frank, Maggie E.,
deceased; Elizabeth A., Sarah E. and Clara M. Mr. and Mrs. Vanatta and
their three oldest daughters are members of the Cool Spring Presbyterian
Church. He is a Republican, and is one of the honest, upright farmers of
Mercer County.
R. O. Walker, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born October 10, 1851, in She-
nango Township, Mercer County, to Samuel and Elizabeth (Nelson) Walker.
Oeorge Walker, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of Ireland, and set-
tled at an early day in Shenango Township. He was the father of nine children:
George, Hugh, Robert, Samuel, John, Sarah, married Joseph Kitch; Betsey,
Jane, married James Baird; Mary J. , married William Mayrs. The father
of R. O. Walker was blessed with nine children: George, Nelson, Margaret,
R. O., Smith, Amanda, Elizabeth, and two others who died young. The
mother died in 1887, and the father in 1888, in his native township. He and
his wife united with the United Presbyterian Church, many years ago, at
West Middlesex. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and was
married in 1875 to Mary M. Ewing, daughter of Thomas and Mary Ewing,
one of eight children: Mary M., Frank, Elizabeth, Carrie, Jennie, Emma,
Willie and Lulu. Her parents live in Youngstown, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs.
Walker have three children: Harry W. , Beulah B. and Mable V. They set-
tled on their present farm of 100 acres in 1876. He and wife are members
of the Cool Spring Presbyterian Church, and he is a Republican.
Samuel M. Webb, farmer, post-office Mercer, was born March 16, 1863,
on the farm where he now resides. His father, James Webb, was born on the
farm now owned and occupied by B. A. Williams, in East Lackawannock
Township. He was a brother of Mrs. Daniel Nelson, of Mercer. He mar-
ried Belle McKay, who died in 1864, leaving one child, Samuel M. After the
death of his mother our subject lived with his aunt, Eliza McLain, of Mercer,
until five years old, and until eight with his father, when he was sent to Pitts-
burgh, where he attended school for four years, making his home with his
aunts, Jane and Amelia, sisters of his father. He then joined his father on
the farm, they doing their own housework, until November 24, 1884, when the
father died, and our subject was married December 25, the same year, to Mary
Hunter, daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth (Alexander) Hunter. Her
mother died when she was six months old, leaving four children: Ida, George,
Mina and Mary. Her father was again married, to Elizabeth McMillan, and
had four children: Mattie, Louis, Bertha and Clara. Mr. and Mrs. Samuel
M. Webb have two children: Nannie and Elva. Mr. Webb is a Republican,
a good farmer, and buys and sells stock.
The Wilsons, of East Lackawannock Township, were early settlers. John
AVilson, Sr., was born in Dublin, Ireland, August 15, 1765, and was married
to Grace Miller. He came to Mercer County in 1800, bought the farm on
which he lived in 1804 from Hendricks and Bready, administrators of the
John Gold estate, of Allegheny. He paid $200 for 200 acres, the old deed
bearing date of March 29, 1789. The issue of this marriage were seven chil-
dren: James, Grace, John, AA'illiam, Nellie, Charles and Margaret. He was
one of the early members of the old Cool Spring Presbyterian Church, of which
the Rev. Samuel Tait was pastor. He walked through the woods a distance
of six miles every Sabbath to attend the services, taking a lunch and remain-
ing all day. James AVilson, the eldest son of James, Sr., was born in Ire-
land August 11, 1790, and came to America with his father when about eight
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
995
years old. He was married March 8, 1820, to Esther Harris, of Mahoning
Coirnty, Ohio, and reared six children: William H. , Margaret C., Isaac New-
ton, Phoebe C., Almon B. and James L. Almon B. , of Coitsville, Ohio, and
Phoebe O., of Marshalltown, Iowa, are the only surviving members of the
family. Newton Wilson, father of W. H. and George H. Wilson, was born
in Mercer County October 9, 1824, and married Cynthia A. Hoagland,
daughter of Jesse and Elizabeth Hoagland, of Brookfield, Ohio, April 3,
1851. He followed dairying for over a quarter of a century, was a stanch
Democrat, and one of the surviving members of the First Presbyterian Church
at the time of the split mentioned elsewhere in this work. They reared two
children: William H. and George H. The former was born April 3, 1852, and
the latter was born March 21, 1859. Newton Wilson died July 8, 1877, and
his widow, Cynthia A., died March 8, 1884. William H. Wilson was married
to Laura A. Snyder October 9, 1883. She was a daughter of Joel and Eliza-
beth Snyder, of Hempfield Township. He bought the farm formerly owned
and settled by William Alexander in 1797, and who was probably the second
settler in the township. William H. Wilson moved to this their present home
on April 1, 1884, and has one son. Jay Clyde, born October 2, 1887. George
H. Wilson, of East Lackawannock, was married to KateD. , daughter of Jesse
and Sadie Hoagland, June 26, 1884. He has one child, Jesse, and owns and
lives on the old original homestead of his father. Jesse and Jay Clyde Wil-
son are the fifth generation, their great-great-grandfather having come from
Ireland almost 100 years ago.
Hiram Worley, farmer, post-office* Mercer, was born March 24, 1848, in
Wilmington Township, the son of Henry and Susannah (Moon) Worley. The
father of our subject was born near Hagerstown, Md. , in January, l809, and
came to Mercer County in 1822, with his mother and step-father, Jacob Euth-
rauff and Barbara (Tice) Kuthrauff. He learned the mill-wright’s trade with
James McGrath, working on the famous old Crill mill in Findley Township,
and others in the county. He followed his trade for some years, married
Susannah Moon in 1832, moved to his farm in Wilmington Township, Mercei
County, in 1835, and lived there, clearing up his farm, which was nearly all
woods at that time. In his latter days he devoted his entire time to farming,
and died in August, 1871. His, children were: Uriah, Kuth A., Mary J.,
Angeline, Emeline, Seth, enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty
ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, was wounded at the battle of the Wil-
derness, and died in a hospital at Washington one month later; Hannah J. ,
Hiram, Hugh, Charlotte, Ira, Amanda, Milton, Elmer and Susan. Our sub-
ject was educated in the common schools in his native township, and was
brought up at farm labor. He began learning the carpenter business in 1866,
with James S. Collins, and followed that for twelve years. He worked nearly
six years on pattern work in the machine shop at Mercer, and one year at Ham-
lin, Sons & Co. , at Greenville. He came to his present farm of 108 acres in
1878. He was married in 1873 to Mary Crill, a sister of John T. Crill, whose
family is mentioned elsewhere. His children are: Susan J., Frank G., John
H. and Lewis A. He is serving as supervisor of Cool Spring Township, is a
Kepublican, and his wife is a member of the Cool Spring Presbyterian Church.
Some of the troops belonging to Col. Hosack’ s regiment, while on their way to
Erie, in the War of 1812, encamped for a short time on the farm now owned
by Mr. Worley. Near his house, the site of the camp, he found two coins,
dated 1772 and 1809, which were no doubt lost by some of the soldiers. These
coins are still in his possession.
996
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
FAIEVIEW TOWNSHIP.
Samuel B. Alexander, farmer, post-office Hathegig, is a son of Sam-
uel T. and Ruth (Good) Alexander, the latter a daughter of Thial Good,
of French Creek Township. The grandfather, Joseph Alexander, was a
native of Ireland, who came to this country with his parents when four years
old. They settled near Philadelphia, Penn. Joseph came to Mercer County
in 1799, and settled on the farm where his grandson, Joseph W, Alexander,
now lives. He died in 1841, and his wife in 1857. Their family consisted of
four sons and four daughters; Eliza, Mrs. Robert Bowman; Sarah, Mrs.
Samuel Bowman; Jane, Mrs. John McLain; Mary A., Mrs. Samuel Camp-
bell; Irwin, John, Samuel T. and Martin; all deceased except Mrs. Campbell
and Mrs. McLain. Samuel, the father of our subject, was a farmer. His
family were: Samuel B., Sarah, Mrs. George McClure; Eunice, Mrs. Robert
Rogers; Joseph W., Chloe, wife of S. R. Robins, deceased. He died in 1883.
His wife survives him, and lives with her son, Joseph W. Our subject was
born August 27, 1839, grew up in the township, and at the age of twenty-
three enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and participated in all the engagements from Antietam to
Spottsylvania, where, on May 12, he received a wound in the left wrist, which
necessitated the amputation of his hand. After his return he was engaged in
various occupations until 1873, when he located upon his present farm. Our
subject served as school director and tax collector for several years. In 1875
he was elected county treasurer, and was the first treasurer to fill the three
years’ term. He married, January 18, 1872, Miss Mary J. , daughter of Sears
Morford, of Fairview Township, and by this marriage they have six children:
George, Jennie, Willard, Elsie, Sears, Walter. His wife died January 20,
1886. Our subject is a member of Wesleyan Methodist Church of Fairview.
Aaron H. Arnold, deceased, was born in Fayette County, Penn., June 13,
1803, and was a son of Levi and Elizabeth (Hackney) Arnold, the former a
native of Virginia, the latter of Philadelphia, Penn. They reared a large
family, and about 1830 came from Fayette County to Mercer County, where
they settled in Cool Spring Township, on a tract afterward known as the
‘ ‘ Donaldson farm. ’ ’ They here built a distillery, a powder-mill and a grist-
mill. In 1834 they sold out, and removed to the site of Fredonia, where they
built a grist and saw-mill in 1837-38, for many years known as “Arnold’s
Mills, ’ ’ which was operated for several years by Aaron H. and his father.
The parents both died in that vicinity. Our subject was married December
25, 1835, to Julianna Grove, of Centre County, Penn., who reared six children,
all of whom are living: Curtis, of Shenango; Maria E., wife of George W,
Washabaugh, of Westmoreland County, Penn. ; Leslie F., of Jackson Centre;
Martha M. , of Denver, Colo. ; Lydia V., of Jackson Centre, and Hiram N. , of
Denver, Colo. Aaron H. Arnold was a miller by trade, and was engaged in that
line of business in Mercer County up to his death, which occurred May 16,
1862. His widow resides with her son, Leslie F., at Jackson Centre. Mr.
Arnold was a life-long member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in
politics was a Republican. He was a very well read man, especially in The-
ology, and was an upright, honest citizen.
Hon. Phipps J. Boyd, farmer, post-office Harthegig, Penn., is a son of
Henry aod Ann (Phipps) Boyd. His father was a native of Ireland, and is
spoken of in the Boyd family history to^be found in New Vernon Township. His
children were twelve in number, and the following are living: Julius; Jane mar-
ried Calvin Clark, of this county; Helen M., William H. , John F. and Phipps J.
Our subject was born March 3, 1840, in New Vernon Township, where he was
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
997
reared and educated. He was taught the wagon-maker’s trade. At the death
of his eldest brother he returned to the homestead, where he remained engaged
in farming until 1863, when he located in Venango County, Penn., and
engaged in the oil business until 1866, when he returned to Mercer County,
and entered into the lumber business in New Vernon Township with his
brother-in-law, Andrew McClure. In 1872 he removed to his farm in Fair-
view Township, which he had purchased in 1864, and engaged in farming, an
occupation he has since followed. He has always taken an active interest in
public matters, and has served as a school director of his township and in
other offices. In 1886 he was elected a member of the State Legislature. In
1887 he was elected a justice of the peace for Fairview Township, which office
he now fills. Our subject was married in 1862 to Miss Mary G. , a daughter
of James and Hannah McChrre, of Lake Township. They have one daughter
by adoption, Matilda V. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church, of which he has been a class leader for thirty years. Mr. Boyd
is a self-made man, and by his energy and integrity has gained the respect
and confidence of business men, and the esteem of the people of his com-
munity. In politics there is not a more earnest and enterprising Republican
in the township or county.
De. CoRNELias Byles, deceased, son of Ebenezer and Betsey (Marcy)
Byles, was born in 1815 in Connecticut. His parents moved to Pleasant-
ville, Venango Co., Penn., where he was reared and educated. He sub-
sequently entered Jefferson College, at Cannonsburg, Penn. , and after his
graduation spent five years teaching in the schools of Central Alabama. He
then returned home, commenced the study of medicine under Dr. Gillette, of
Franklin, Penn., and completed his education at the University of Pennsyl-
vania, Philadelphia, Penn. In 1851 he located at Delaware Grove and com-
menced the practice of medicine. He remained there until 1874, when he
removed to Fredonia, Penn. He died in 1886. His widow survives him and
resides at Delaware Grove, Penn. He married, in 1850, Eleanor, daughter of
the Hon. Walter Oliver, of Lawrence County, Penn., and by this marriage
they had four children: Elizabeth, Frederick G., Jennie and Julia J., de-
ceased. The Doctor was United States Examining Surgeon for Mercer County
from 1864 to 1881. Frederick G. Byles, post-office Fredonia, was born in
1853, in Delaware Township, and received his early education at the schools
of the township. In 1876 he entered LaFayette College, of Easton, Penn.,
and was graduated in 1879. He studied medicine with his father, was grad-
uated from Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, Penn., and commenced
the practice of medicine in connection with his father at Fredonia, Penn. He
married, in 1886, Miss Kate R., daughter of the late Rev. J. W. McCune, for
many years pastor of Cool Spring congregation, this county, and by this union
they have one daughter, Marion Agnes. The Doctor has filled the office of
burgess of Fredonia and school director. He is a member of the Mercer
County Medical Society.
Peoe. Lemuel R. Eckles, post-office Fredonia, Penn., is a son of Asa and
Amelia (McDonald) Eckles, natives of Lawrence County and Mercer County,
Penn., respectively. The grandfather, George Eckles, was a native of Law-
rence County, Penn., and settled in Fairview Township in 1842. He married
Elizabeth Henan, and their children were : John, James, Joseph, Asa, George,
Abraham, Mary, Mrs. Wilson McDonald, Jane and Mrs. Benjamin Stilling,
all of whom are dead except George. Asa’s family consisted of eleven chil
dren, of whom nine are living: William, Hesther, Mrs. Milton Slater, Monroe,
George, Asa, Phoebe, Wilson and Alexander. 'The father of our subject died
998
HISTORY OF ilERCER COEXTY.
I
in 1887. His -wife sui’viYes him, and resides in Fairview Township. Our sub- !
ject was born in 1860 in Fairview Township. His early education was re- II
ceived at the common schools of the township, and he afterward attended the ' '
Sheakleyville Academy, Thiel College, of Greenville, Grove City College, and
was a graduate from the Edinboro Xormal School, of Erie County, Penn. , in | !
1886. He was appointed to the charge of the public schools of Fredonia that
year, which position he now fills in connection with his select school. He i
was maiTied in 1883 to Miss Lizzie E. , daughter of John and Sarah Kerr, of
New Temon, and by this union they have three children: Laporte, Mable
and Georgeanna. Mr. Eckles is a member of the A. O. U. M., Lodge No. 13,
of Fredonia, and also of the P. H. C. He is a member of the Christian
Chui’ch. :
George Gaisee. proprietor of flouring mills at Fredonia, was born in |
Greenville November 5, 1847, and is a son of David Gaiser, mention of whom |
appears in the sketch of his brother, F red H. , of Greenville. At the age of i
seventeen George went west and spent three years in Hlinois and Wisconsin. j
Before leaving home he had begun learning the miller’ s trade in the old Math- I
ers Mill, and continued the business in the west. In 1868 he returned to |
Mercer County and entered the New Hamburg Flouring IMills, where he was a I
miller for seven years. In 1875 he obtained an interest in the mill at James- i
town, Penn. , which he operated five years. The succeeding two years he ran ■
a mill in Linesville, Crawford Co. , Penn. . whence he came to Greenville and
became a member of the firm of Gaiser, McClure & Co. , general merchants. ;
This fii-m dissolved in September, 1887, Mr. Gaiser retiring from the business. |
In 1888 he commenced the erection of his present mdls at Fredonia. He was •
manned to Miss Sarah, daughter of J. F. WTieeler, of New Hamburg, Penn., |
September 30, 1872. She died January 23, 1874, and he was again manied, ;j
April 15, 1885, to Miss Mattie, daughter of Benjamin Pfeiffer, of Jamestown, ;
Penn. Mr. Gaiser is a Kepublican in politics, and a member of the Masonic
order. ■
■Joes Harsh, fanner, post-office Fredonia, Penn., is a son of Phillip and
Christina (Streckert) Harsh, natives of Washington County, Penn. Our sub-
ject was bom in 1810 in Washington County, Penn. At the age of twenty- ‘
one Mr. Harsh came to Mercer County, located in what was then Cool Spring
Township, one mile north of where he now resides, and engaged in farming,
an occupation he has always followed. In 1833 he settled upon his present
place. 5H. Harsh has served as justice of. the peace, being elected to fill that
office in 1867. and served ten years. He has served one term as poor director
of the county, and has also occupied all the important offices of the township. ,
He married, in 1831, Miss Lucy, daughter of James Simmons, of Delaware ,
Township, who died in 1852, leaving six children: Ira, deceased, served in the
Twenty-first Hlinois Volunteers; Lenard, a member of the Twenty-first Illinois
Volunteers, and was drowned at Stewart Creek, in Tennessee: John, deceased,
also served in the army during the late war: Lucinda, 5Irs. Richard Suttiff;
Eliza, deceased, and Robert, of Fredonia. Mr. Harsh married for his second
wife Mary E., daughter of IVilliam Orr, of Fairview Township, in 1853. By
this union they had seven children: William, Jennie, Mary, Mrs. John Bear;
Ida, Mrs. Edward Rose; Sherman, Charley and Eddy, deceased. Mr. Harsh
has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for fifty years and fills
the office of steward.
W. P. JoHxsTos, physician and justice of the peace, post-office Harthegig,
is a son of Ephraim and Man' Ann (Peart) Johnston. William Peart, the
grandfather on the maternal side, was a lieutenant-colonel in the British
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
999
army, and at the breaking out of the Revolutionary War joined the Continental
army and held a commission until - the close of the war, when he settled in
Armstrong County, on the Allegheny River above Kittanning, where Peart’s
Eddy now is, it being named after him. He died at this place. The father of
our subject was an officer in the United States army; participated in the War of
1812, and was afterward treasurer of Crawford County, where our subject was
born on September 29, 1831. He has been a resident of the State most of his
life. He commenced practicing medicine in Fairview Township in 1865,
where he has since resided. In 1885 he was elected justice of the peace for
Fairview Township, which office he now holds. The Doctor is a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Joseph M. McLain, postmaster and dealer in agricultural implements,
Fredonia, Penn., is a son of John and Jane (Alexander) McLain. Thomas
McLain, the grandfather of our subject, was one of the earliest settlers in
what is now Jackson Township. Our subject was born in Fairview Township,
December 13, 1833, where he was reared and educated. He was reared a
farmer, which occupation he followed until 1868, when he engaged in his pres-
ent business. In 1885 he was appointed postmaster for Fredonia, which
office he still fills. Our subject married, March 13, 1856, Miss Elizabeth,
daughter of James Morrison, of Lackawannock Township, who died November
II, 1856. His second wife was Elizabeth G. , daughter of Rev. Thomas Lamb,
of Worth Township, who died February 20, 1888, leaving three children:
George S., Sarah M. and Eva L. Our subject is a member of the P. H. C. of
Sharon, Penn. , and also of the Presbyterian Church of Cool Spring Township.
Mr. McLain is one of Fredonia’ s most enterprising citizens, and a man of
upright integrity. In politics he is a Democrat.
Moefoed Family. — Among the early settlers of Mercer County were James
and John Morford, who came from the vicinity of Trenton, N. J. , about 1804.
John married Mary Cox, of New Jersey, and settled in Hickory Township.
Their children were: Richard, Thomas, James, John, Joseph, William,
Rebecca and Betsey. Thomas, the second son, was born in 1790 in New Jer-
sey. In 1812 he enlisted in Capt. Mann’s company, of Greenville. He mar-
ried Susanna, a daughter of Jeremiah Hazen, of Westmoreland County, Penn.
Their children were: Jeremiah, Mary, Mrs. Josiah Brown, of West Salem,
and Sears. Mr. Morford, Sr., died in 1874, his wife having died in 1862.
After his marriage Thomas settled in Pymatuning Township, and was one of
the early pioneers of that township. Sears, his youngest child, was born in
1819, in Pymatuning Township, where he was reared and educated. In 1870
he purchased his present residence in Fairview Township. He married, in
1844, Lucina, daughter of Ira Sperry, of New York, and their children were:
Ursula A., born in 1845, who died at the age of four; Ira C., who was born
in 1848, is engaged with his father in farming, and is married to Maria, daugh-
ter of William North. Their children being Mary A., William S., Catherine
L. and Clarence J.
William Noeth, deceased, was the second son of William and Mary
(Davile) North, born February 20, 1816, in England, and died February 26,
1882. He came to this county with his parents, whose sketch appears in Cool
Spring Township. He was reared in Cool Spring Township, where his early
life was spent. In 1842 he purchased the place where his widow now resides,
in Fairview Township. He was twice chosen justice of the peace, and filled
the office for ten years. He also served as school director twenty years. He
was married February 22, 1844, to Miss Catherine, daughter of Michael Zahn-
iser, of Cool Spring Township. Their children are: Samuel, married Marga-
1000
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ret Moore; Mary E. ; Michael, married Elizabeth Long; William, married
Amanda Cross; Maria, wife of Ira C. Morford; John C., married Anna G.
Miller. Mr. North was an elder and life-long member of the Cool Spring
Church, and it is befitting that mention should be made of the honorable
name he left to his posterity for honesty and sterling integrity. Politically
he was an earnest Republican, and always took a deep interest in the success
of that party.
William L. Roberts, hotel and livery, Fredonia, Penn., a son of Joseph
and Mai-garet (Leech) Roberts, was born November 17, 1848, in Hempfield
Township. His grandfather, Nathan Roberts, settled in Mercer County at an
early date. He was twice married. His first wife was Susan Kaufman. His
second wife was Margaret Patterson, by whom he had nine children, the
father of our subject being the third son. He died in 1863. His widow sur-
vives him, and lives in Delaware Township. His family consisted of two
children: Henrietta, and our subject, who was educated in the common schools.
William’s early life was spent in farming until he was twenty-four years of
age, when he located in Fredonia, and engaged in teaming business. He was
married in 1871 to Miss Nancy, daughter of Coit and Hannah (Cole) Failes,
of Fredonia, Penn. By this marriage they have three sons: Charlie, Hiel and
Floyd. Our subject is a member of the council, the present borough treas-
urer, a member of the A. O. U. W. and also of the Methodist Episcopal
Church.
LAKE TOWNSHIP.
James F. Baskin, clothing merchant, Stoneboro, Penn., is a son of Benja-
min F., of Selins Grove, Penn., and Mary J. (McBurney) Baskin, of Mercer,
Penn. The father was a lawyer, and located in Mercer, this county, and
practiced his profession for many years in Mercer, Greenville and Meadville.
Our subject was born in Mercer County in 1850, and received his education at
the public schools of that borough, and in 1863 engaged with P. J. Pierce in
the book business. In 1864 he engaged with T. R. Sheriff in the clothing
business and remained with him seventeen years. In 1880 he moved to Sandy
Lake and established a clothing store, and purchased an interest in another
store in Jackson Centre. In 1882 he closed his connection with these stores
and entered upon his present business, which he has since conducted. He is
a member of the Good Templar society, and one of the stockholders of the
Mercer County Agricultural Society and has acted as auditor of the same for
three years. He is also one of the school directors of Stoneboro. In 1877
he married Miss Eve S. Clary, daughter of Joseph Clary, of Sandy Lake. By
this union they have five children: Nellie C., Lillie, Mamie, Joseph Franklin,
William McKane. Our subject is a member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church
of Sandy Lake, and holds an exhorter’s license in that church and also in the
Methodist Episcopal Church of Stoneboro, of which his wife is a member.
Alexander Bonner, merchant, Stoneboro, Penn., is a son of Jeremiah and
Eliza (Hutchison) Bonner, of Armstrong County. In 1872 Jeremiah Bonner
and his family moved to this place, and in 1873 he, in connection with our
subject and his cousin, Robert Bonner, established a general store. He was
instrumental in purchasing the right of the New Castle branch of the W. N. Y.
& P. R. R. , and built the first two miles of the road, furnished thirteen
flat cars and one passenger coach for it, and served as director, treasurer
and vice-president of the same until a short time before his death. He pur-
chased a farm in this township in 1866, and was one of the original stock
owners of the Mercer Iron and Coal Company. He and our subject afterward
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1001
purchased the Lake House, in which his estate now owns one-half interest.
Mr. Bonner died in 1883. He was twice married. His first wife was Martha
McCollums, who died in 1846, leaving four children; Margaret, Mrs. J. C.
Cornwell, of Stoneboro; William H. , deceased; Martha, Mrs. G. W. Kobin-
son, of Forest County, Penn., and Mary, a maiden lady, who lives with her
sister, Mrs. Robinson. His second wife, Eliza Hutchison, is still living and
occupies the homestead in Stoneboro. By her he had five children, one died
young and the others are: Charles, manufacturer of brick in Chicago; Alex-
ander, our subject; Elizabeth E., Mrs. J. P. Hines, of Stoneboro; Malena B. ,
at home. Alexander was born in Armstrong County, Penn., September 27,
1851, was educated at the public schools, and has always been engaged in the
mercantile business, coming to Stoneboro with his father and establishing the
business which he has continued since the death of the lattbr. He also con-
ducted two farms and a coal bank. In 1874 he married Miss Margaret A. ,
daughter of John Hall, of this borough. By this union they have five chil-
dren: Lydia, Alexander, Bessie, Jeremiah, Margaret. Mr. Bonner votes the
Republican ticket, as did also his father.
William Caldwell, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, is a son of William
and Martha (Montgomery) Caldwell. The father was a native of Allegheny
County, Penn., and was one of the early men to locate in this county, having
settled a tract of land in what is now Lake Township, and made several improve-
ments; in 1833 he settled on it and lived there until his death in 1841. He
was a blacksmith by trade, voted the Democratic ticket, and was a member of
the Old Seceder Church, and afterward of the United Presbyterian Church.
His widow died in 1873. Their family consisted of seven children: Martha, de-
ceased; Margaret, widow of Daniel Shawhan, who lives in Allegheny County,
Penn.; Mary, Mrs. Joseph Caldwell, deceased; Sarah, Mrs. John Hill, deceased;
Joseph, lives in Cleveland; William; Eliza Jane, Mrs. Henry Cole, of Mill
Creek Township. Our subject was born in Pittsburgh July 22, 1819, received
his education mostly at home, and in 1849 married Miss Eleanor, daughter of
David Zahniser, of Jackson Township. In 1866 they moved to their farm
where they have since resided. They have reared eight children: Mary,
Benjamin F., married Mollie Gardner and lives in Coolridge, New Mexico;
David P., in Oregon; Thomas Z., in Butler County, married Emma Pisor, of
Butler County; Charles M., at home; Elmer E., in Dennison, Texas; Lois and
Jessie, at home. Our subject has held the offices of supervisor, school director,
etc., of the township, and votes the Greenback ticket, but was always con-
nected with the Republican party until within a few years.
Robert P. Cann, Stoneboro, Penn. , was born in the State of Delaware in
1847, was educated at the Academy of New Castle, Delaware, and during the
late war was connected with the “ Quartermaster’s Department,” under Grant,
on the James River. In 1867 he came to Stoneboro and acted as agent for
the J amestown and Franklin Railroad, which is now leased to the L. S. & M.
S. R. R. In 1868 the first post-office was established in Stoneboro, and our
subject was appointed postmaster, which office he held for fourteen years. In
1873 he severed his connection with the railroad, and has since acted as man-
ager of the Mercer Iron and Coal Co. He is one of the trustees of the Stone-
boro Glass Works, and has been treasurer of the Mercer County Agricultural
Society since 1872. He is also a member of the borough council and school
board, one of the directors of the Jamestown & Franklin Railroad, and has
been treasurer of that corporation since 1878. F'He married Miss Julia B.,
daughter of John Gumfory, of Sharon, and by this union they have four
children: John G. , George H., Robert P. and Leroy J.
.1002 '
HISTORY OR MEBCKR COUNTY.
W. R. Eckles, editor and manager of the Lake Local, Stoneboro, was
born September 14, 1852, in Clarksville, this county. His parents, Robert
and Elizabeth (Ramsey) Eckles, were born in Washington and Erie Counties,
respectively. They were married in Lawrence County, and soon after moved
to Clarksville, where the father was employed at his trade, that of a cabinet-
maker. Three years later they bought and removed to a farm in Delaware
Township, where they remained fifteen years, and then settled in Wilmington
Township, where the parents now live. They had the following children;
W. R. , R. Leroy, a painter by trade in Cleveland, Ohio; J. C. , a farmer of
Wilmington Township; Mary P., the wife of J. R. Burnside, of Cannons-
burg, Penn. Our subject was educated in the common schools, Clarksville
Academy and Edinboro Normal, and taught one term of school. At the age of
eighteen years he began to learn the printer’s trade in the office of the Sharon
Herald, where he remained four years. After a period in the employ of the
Sharon Times, and two years with the Sandy Lake Neivs, he connected him-
self with the Lake Local, as will be seen by a reference to the notice of that
paper elsewhere. He married Nannie, a daughter of Michael and Maria
(Sauers) Fox, by whom he has four children Maud M., GuyC., Ethel and
Ina. He and wife are members of the Baptist tChurch of Stoneboro.
Nathaniel V. Faielamb, farmer, post-office Stoneboro, was born in Dela-
ware County, Penn., in 1820. His parents were Joseph and Sidney Fairlamb,
natives of that county. In 1844 our subject came to Mercer County, and
located on a tract of land in Lake Township, where he now resides. In 1848
he married Ellen, daughter of Richard McClure. She died in 1851, leaving
one child, Mary Ellen, Mrs. Albert J. Woods, of Venango County, Penn., and
has three children; Ida, Leroy and Frank. His second wife was Mary Ann
Graham, of Lake Township. She died in 1858, leaving two children. Charles,
on the homestead with our subject, married Mattie Judy, daughter of Daniel
Judy, of Fairview Township. She (Mattie) died in 1881, leaving one child,
Kate, Mrs. George Buckley, of New Vernon Township, whose children are
Myrtle, John, Charles and Mabel. His third wife was Mary Henry, of Ohio,
who died in 1883, leaving no children. Our subject has held the offices of
school director, supervisor and assessor of the township several years. He votes
the Republican ticket, is a member of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society and
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
Feank P. Filee, post-office Stoneboro, is a son of Enoch and Elizabeth
(Lawton) Filer, of Shai’on, and was born in Hickory Township, this county,
October 9, 1863. He received his education at the township schools, the
Sharon public schools and at Allegheny College. In 1880 he accepted the po-
sition of superintendent of the Enterprise Coal Mine in Jackson Township,
which he filled until 1886. In 1884 he also took charge of the Carver Coal
Co.’s shaft in Lake Township, and still holds that position. In 1884 he mar-
ried Louie H. , daughter of William and Rachel Turner, of Jackson Centre
Borough. By this union they have one child, Enoch. He is a member of
Lake Lodge No. 434 of the Masonic order, and votes the Democratic ticket.
James L. Geeee, merchant, Stoneboro, Penn., was born in County Down,
Ireland, in 1851. He learned the trade of brick layer, and in 1869 immigrated
to America and located in Titusville, Penn., and followed that occupation until
1872. when he came to Stoneboro and engaged in mining coal. In 1877 he
established a general mercantile store, which he has since conducted. In 1874
he married Miss Hattie, daughter of William Patterson, of this borough, and
by this union they have four children; John, William, Rachel Mary and
James L. Mr. Greer is a member of Sandy Lake Lodge No. 573, I. O. O. F.,
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1003
also of the school board of Stoneboro, and has been a member of the council.
He votes the Republican ticket, and he and family are members of the Pres-
byterian Church.
De. D. B. Hanna, Stoneboro, was born at Adamsville, Crawford Co. , Penn. ,
in 1860. His parents were John and Eliza (McCormick) Hanna. His father
enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Pennsylvania Volun-
teers, and was killed at the battle of Fredericksburg. His mother died in
1880. Our subject was educated at the Soldier’s Orphan School at Mercer,
and graduated from the Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia m 1884, and
located at Stoneboro, where he has since practiced his profession. In 1886 he
married Miss Emma Hall, daughter ef John Hall, of Stoneboro, and has one
child, John. He is a member of the Mercer County Medical Society, and sur-
geon for the Stoneboro branch of the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Rail-
road, also the branch of the W. N. Y. & P. R. R. Before taking his profes-
sional course he was clerk in the post-office for four years, under Postmaster A.
B. Filson, at Mercer.
. JohnP. Hines, postmaster of Stoneboro, Penn., was born in Washington, D.
C. His parents were Philip and Julia (Howard) Hines. Our subject was reared
and educated in Washington, D. C. , and during the war was in the military store-
keeper’s department in Washington and Richmond. In 1871 he came to Stone-
boro and purchased the drug business of the Hon. R. A. Harsh, which he has
since conducted. He was deputy postmaster of the borough several years,
and in 1885 was appointed postmaster and has since held that office. He has
also been school director of the borough, and has been secretary of the Mercer
County Agricultural Society for seventeen years. He is also chairman of the
Stoneboro Milling Company, and has acted as agent for the American Express
Company for twelve years. He is past master of Lake Lodge No. 434, of the
Masonic order of Sandy Lake, a member of Royal Arch Chapter, of Franklin,
Penn., Lawrence Commandery, of New Castle, Penn., and votes the Demo-
cratic ticket. In 1876 he married Miss Elizabeth E., daughter of Jeremiah
and Eliza (Hutchison) Bonner, of Stoneboro, and by this union they have three
children: Howell Q., Charles B. and Hazel.
George H. McIntiee, superintendent of the Lake Shore & Michigan
Southern Railroad, was born in Fairfield, Me., April 30, 1830. His parents
were George and Elizabeth Mclntire, natives of that State. In 1836 his par-
ents moved to St. Clair County, Mich. , where his father engaged in the mer-
cantile business, and our subject attended the public schools. He also at-
tended the academy at Erie, Penn., for a few terms. After finishing his
schooling he assisted his father for a number of years, and in 1853 engaged
with the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, and acted as agent at
Girard, Penn. , where he remained for thirteen years. In 1867 he took charge
of the J amestown and Franklin division of their road. He took an active part
in building the division from Franklin to Oil City, J amestown to Ahstabula and
Ashtabula to Youngstown, and is superintendent of these branches. His
office was located at Stoneboro up to 1882. Since then his office has been lo-
cated at Youngstown, Ohio. Soon after his removal to Stoneboro he became
connected ,with the Mercer Iron & Coal Company, and has acted as burgess
and a member of the borough council. His wife was Lucy A. , daughter of
Austin A. Seely, of Girard, Penn. Their children are: William H. , station
agent at Stoneboro; Jennie, Mrs. Theodore N. Houser, of Stoneboro; Fred,
baggageman on the Youngstown branch, married Helen Wilder, of Ashtabula,
Ohio; Blanch, at home. Mr. Mclntire is a member of the Lake Erie Lodge
and Lake Erie Chapter of the Masonic fraternity at Girard, Penn. He is a
Republican in politics, and he and family attend the Episcopal Church.
1004
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
William H. McIntike, station agent, Stoneboro, Penn., for the Lake Shore ’
& Michigan Southern, Washington, New York & Philadelphia and Jackson
Coal Eailroads, is a son of George H. Mclntire, whose sketch appears else-
where, and was born at what is now Girard Station, Erie Co., Penn., Septem-
ber 24, 1856. He received his education at the public schools, Jamestown
Academy and Thiel College at Greenville. In 1869 he came to Stoneboro,
and soon after was employed by the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Rail-
road as clerk, later had his duties multiplied in that capacity by the addition
of the Western, New York & Pennsylvania Railroad, and continued to
serve those roads until 1877, when he was appointed agent for the same.
Later still he was given the agency of the Jackson Coal Railroad, and con-
tinues to act as agent for the above named roads. He married Mary E. ,
daughter of Mrs. Angeline Daniels, of Stoneboro, by whom he has been blessed
with two children; George H. and Lina A. He has been a member of the
borough council, and votes the Repnblican ticket. He and his wife are mem-
bers of the Presbyterian Church of Stoneboro.
Prof. H. P. McMichael, Stoneboro, Penn., was born in Cool Spring Town-
ship May 19, 1855. His parents were Charles and Henrietta F. (Page)
Michael. His father was born in Ireland in 1816, and in 1823 immigrated to
America with his parents, and located at Poland, Ohio, where he was reared
and educated at the common schools, and learned the cabinet-maker’s trade,
which he followed for a number of years. In 1840 he came to this county,
and purchased a farm and grist-mill in Cool Spring Township, which he con-
ducted until 1858, when they removed to Fairview Township, and in 1869
purchased a farm in New Vernon Township, where they still reside. Our
subject received his education at the common schools, the Normal Academy of
New Vernon and at home, and has taught the schools of New Vernon, Lake
and Fairview Townships. He also had charge of the school at Fredonia for
three years, and in 1881 and 1882 was connected with the Mercer union
schools. In 1883 he came to Stoneboro, and has since been principal of the
union schools of this borough. In 1876 he married Viola, daughter of Dr.
J. R. and Margaret (Cole) Andrews, of New Vernon Township. By this
union they have five children: Nettie P., Minnie E., Ruth A., Jessie C. and
Charles Andrews. Prof. McMichael has always been a supporter of the
Democratic party, is a member of Sandy Lake Lodge No. 573, I. O. O. F.,
and the Knights and Ladies of Honor. In 1884 he purchased a farm in
Lake Township, which he has since conducted in connection with teaching,
and has since resided there.
John Parry, farmer, Stoneboro, Penn., is a son of John and Mary (Mech-
ling) Parry. The father was born in Hereford, England, January 7, 1793,
immigrated to America in 1823, located on Bear Creek, and engaged in coal
mining for three and one-half years, and took in payment for work a tract of
100 acres of land at the Five Points, in what is now Jackson Township. His
wife was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., March 24, 1794, and was
brought to Butler County, Penn., by her parents in 1795, being the first white
child in Butler County. In 1825 they were married, and first located at the Five
Points. After improving this tract they traded for the old Rice farm of 200
acres, in what is now Lake Township, where they resided until their decease.
He was connected with the Whig and afterward the Republican party, also
was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Mercer, and afterward of the Cool
Spring Presbyterian Church. His wife died in 1853, and he followed her in
1854. Their family consisted of four children: Margaret, Mrs. John Kemm,
of Lake Township, who died in 1885; Mary, Mrs. Robert Pringle, of North
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1005
Liberty; our subject; Sarab Jane, widow of Thomas Kemm, who resides
in Lake Township. Our subject was born in Jackson Township August 7,
1831, and received his education at the log school-house of that period, situat-
ed in Wildcat Hollow, and has always been engaged in farming. In connec-
tion with farming he has been engaged in manufacturing lumber for thirty-
four years, having a saw-mill on the head waters of the Little Shenango
Creek. In 1856 he went to California and engaged in mining gold until 1860.
In 1875 he moved into the borough of Stoneboro, and has done much toward
building up the town, being one of the leaders in all the public enterprises,
and has erected several dwelling houses. He is one of the stockholders in the
Stoneboro Agricultural Society, also of the Stoneboro Glass Works. Decem-
ber 24, 1860, he married Isabella, daughter of John Pringle, of Springfield
Township. She died in 1869, leaving no children. Our subject has reared,
by adoption, two children: William B. Parry, engaged in the lumber business
at Fisherman Bay, Cal. , and Elizabeth Hortense, who married Hector Beys,
and died May 10, 1878, leaving one child, William H. , who has also been
adopted by our subject. Mr. Parry is connected with the Republican party,
and is an elder in the Presbyterian Church of Stoneboro.
F. S. Pears, farmer, post-office Stoneboro, a son of John and Ann (Pears!
Pears, was born in Leicestershire, England, February 1, 1819, attended
the public schools of that country, and learned the butcher’s trade. In the
spring of 1841 he immigrated to America, and spent the summer of that year
in driving a milk wagon in the city of Pittsburgh, and during the following
fall he came to this county and hired to William North as a farm laborer, and
remained with him seven years, at the end of which time he purchased a farm
in Fairview Township, where he lived until he moved to his present farm in
1879. In 1848 he married Miss Caroline, daughter of John Clark, of Cool
Spring Township. By this union they have seven children: John H. , in
Nebraska, married Annie, daughter of George Beals, of Perry Township, and
has three children: Maud, Minta and an infant; Catharine, Mrs. Parker Wal-
bridge, of Lake Township, ‘whose children are Clara, Marsha, Linda and
Ida; Sarah, Mrs. James Hicks, of Kansas; Ella, Mrs. George Owens, of Sandy
Lake Township, whose children are Hazel and an infant; William, of Sharon;
Amanda, Mrs. Joseph Ehodenbaugh, of Venango County, Penn. ; Tracey,
Mrs. Washington Jones, of Fairview Township. Mr. Pears was a member of
Capt. Struble’s company in the late war. He is a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and votes the Democratic ticket.
Michael Slater, farmer, post-office Stoneboro, was born in England,
October 31, 1818. His parents were Luke and Alice (Matkins) Slater, who im-
migrated to America in 1829 and settled on a tract of land in Cool Spring
Township (what is now Lake). He voted the Whig and afterward the Repub-
lican ticket, and was a member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church. He died
in 1873, and his family consisted of seven children: John, Benjamin, Luke,
Michael, Alice, George and Harriet, wife of John Buckley, of Sandy Lake
Township. Our subject married, in 1843, Miss Agnes, daughter of Robert
Curry, of Sandy Creek Township, who died February 2, 1886, leaving no
children except one son by adoption, David H., who lives on the homestead
with our subject, and married Fannie Magee, daughter of Robert Magee, of
Norristown, Penn., and has by her two children: Robert M. and Willie C.
Our subject purchased his present farm in 1843, and has since resided there.
He votes the Republican ticket, and has been supervisor, etc., of the town-
ship, and is a member of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society. His son, David
H., is clerk of Lake Township, has been supervisor of the same, votes the
59
1006
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Republican ticket, and be and wife are members of the Cumberland Presby-
terian Church, of which he is treasurer.
Seth H. Slatee, farmer, post-office Stoneboro, is a son of John and
Rebecca (Dickson) Slater. His father was a son of Luke and Alice (Matkins)
Slater, was born in England, immigrated to America with his parents in
1829, and settled on a tract of land in Cool Spring Township. After his mar-
riage he located on a tract of land in Lake Township, which is now owned by
our subject, where he lived until his death in 1881. His first wife was Mary
Forbes, and by her he had Melissa, wife of William Woods, of Kansas; Sarah,
deceased; Wilson; Lydia, widow of Alfred Fairlamb; Ellen, wife of W. P.
McCartney. His second wife was Rebecca Dickson, who is still living, and by
whom he had Sylvester, deceased; Ira, of New Vernon Township; Rebecca,
deceased; Amanda C., wife of Cyrus Judy, of Fairview Township; our sub-
ject; Alice, Mrs. James Perrine, deceased; Michael, deceased. He was con-
nected with the Republican party. Our subject was born on the homestead
which he now owns January 22, 1854, attended the township schools, and has
been principally engaged in farming. In 1883 he established a general hard-
ware store at Clark’s Station, which he conducted three years, and since that
time has been engaged in the butcher business one year. He is one of the
stockholders in the Stoneboro Glass Works, also a member of the K. & L. of H.
of New Vernon and of the A. O. U. W. of Clark’s Mills. In 1879 he married
Sarah M., daughter of John Hazen, of Sheakleyville, and by this union they
have three children; Bessie, John and Hazel.
Edward W. Thompson, farmer, post-office Stoneboro, is a son of the Rev.
William and Mary (Kemm) Thompson, of Sheakleyville, was the fifth child,
the only son, and was born on the homestead which he now owns February 10,
1850. He received his education at the schools of the township, and learned
the painter’ s trade at Erie, Penn. , which he followed for several years. In
1878 he married Miss GeorgieElla, daughter of Charles W. and Amelia (Vath)
Giebner, of Sandy Lake Township. By this union they have two children:
Lawrence E. and William C. Our subject and wife are members of the Cum-
berland Presbyterian Church.
David Zahniser, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, is a son of Michael and
Mary (Mourer) Zahniser, and was born on the homestead in Lake Township,
August 1, 1815, received his education at the log school-house, and remained
on the homestead until 1883, when he purchased his present farm, where he
has since resided. In 1843 he married Elizabeth, daughter of William and
Mary (Devile) North, of Cool Spring Township, and by this union they have
eight children: William A., of Lake Township, was born December 17, 1844,
educated at the common schools, and in 1863 enlisted in Company F, Fifty-
fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served sixty days. In 1867 he mar-
ried Jane M. Bromley, daughter of Michael and Margaret Bromley, of
Fairview Township, and has by her four children: Laura, Charles, Mary G.
and J. Byron. He has held the office of school director of the township, is
a member of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society, and votes the Republican
ticket, and is a member of the Bethany Cumberland Presbyterian Church;
Michael L., banker of Sandy Lake; Mary, Mrs. F. M. Fleming, of Jackson
Township; Catherine, Mrs. R. D. Porter, of Sandy Creek Township; Maria,
at home; Caroline, Mrs. John C. Hamilton, of Lake Township; John I., on
the homestead; S. Milissa, at home. Our subject has been school director,
supervisor and assessor of the township. He is one of the directors in the
Sandy Lake Bank and an elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and
votes the Republican ticket. John Ira Zahniser was born on the homestead
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1007
where he now lives, August 3, 1858, attended the township schools, and has
always been engaged in farming. In 1882 he married Della May, daughter of
AVilliam Stroud, of Pittsburgh, and has one child, Howard Stroud. He has
been auditor of Lake Township, votes the Eepublican ticket, and is one of
the trustees of the Bethany Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
John Zahniser, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, is a son of Michael
and Mary (Mourer) Zahniser. Mathias Zahniser, the grandfather of our sub-
ject, was a native of Germany, and immigrated to America and settled in Lan-
caster County. From 1789 until 1797 he lived near Pittsburgh, when he came
to this county and located on a tract of land in what is now Lake Township.
His childi-en were Mathias, Michael, John, Valentine, William, Jacob, David
and Mary, all of whom are dead. Michael, the father of our subject, was
born in Lancaster County in 1777, and came to this county with his parents,
and located on a tract of land in what is now Lake Township, where he lived
until his death in 1852. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and a member
of the Whig party, and afterward of the Eepublican party, and a member of
the Presbyterian Church of Cool Spring Township. His widow lived to be
ninety-three years old, and died in 1876. They reared six children: Mary,
Mrs. John Condi t, and William, are deceased; the four living are Jacob, of
Jackson Township; our subject; David, of Lake Township, and Catherine,
Mrs. William North, of Cool Spring Township. Our subject was born on the
homestead in Lake Township, May 25, 1813, and received his education at the
log school-house of that period, and has always been engaged in farming,
locating on his present farm in 1850. In 1855 he married Susanna, daughter
of John Eunkle, of Fairview Township, Franklin County, and has one living
child, Michael M. , who lives on the homestead with our subject, and married
Caroline, daughter of Albert Pool, of Lake Township, and has one child,
Zella M. Our subject has held the offices of school director, supervisor, etc.,
of the township, and justice of the peace since 1851. He is one of the direct-
ors in the Sandy Lake Bank, votes the Eepublican ticket, and is an elder in
the Presbyterian Church.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP.
Lemuel Black, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born May 12, 1839,
on the farm where he now resides. The old house, now almost sixty years
old, is still standing. His father, John Black, was born January 31, 1786, in
England, and married Dorothy Wi Winson, born October 9, 1799, in England.
They immigrated to this country in 1829, and settled on the farm where
Lemiel now lives. They were the parents of twelve children: John, the eldest,
was born January 15, 1819; Hannah, born August 24, 1820; Stephen, born
October 8, 1821; Jesse, born July 20, 1823; Jeremiah, born August 29, 1825;
Sarah, born April 6, 1827; Mary, born February 16, 1829; Joseph, born
October 24, 1830; Lydia, born July 9, 1833; Sarah, born August 15, 1835;
Priscilla, born March 30, 1837, and Lemuel, born May 12, 1839. Stephen
Black died in England; Sarah died in New York; John died in Illinois; Jere-
miah was in Company I, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, and died
in the service with the fever; Joseph was in Missouri at the breaking out of
the war, and was never heard of by his family afterward; Mary died in Janu-
ary, 1863, at the old home; Priscilla married John B. Maxwell, March 30,
1862, and died in August. 1863; Hannah married Eev. Eichard Peat and is still
living; Jesse resides in Iowa; Lydia and Sarah are still living on a part of the
old homestead. John Black, the father of the above named children, was a
1008
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
sailor for fourteen years, and was under command of Lord Nelson in the battle
of Trafalgar, October 21, 1805, and the scars which he received in this famous
struggle were ever afterward visible. He was killed April 17, 1839, by a log
falling on him at the raising of a barn for a Mr. Forker, in Cool Spring Town-
ship. His widow subsequently married John Peat, and died in October, 1881.
Lemuel Black was brought up at farming, and is the owner of a fine farm of
eighty-eight acres, well watered by living springs. He was married May 30,
1862, to Jane McCurdy, daughter of James F. McCurdy, who was for many
years a captain of a steamboat, which ran on the Delaware and Schuylkill
Bivers. Mr. McCurdy and family are mentioned in a sketch of J. H. Mc-
Curdy, on another page of this work. Our subject has four children: James
M. , JohnW., Olive L. and David L. Mr. and Mrs. Black are members of
the Cottage Methodist Episcopal Church. He is also a member of the A. O.
U. W. of Fredonia, and is a Prohibitionist in sentiment. He is one of the
upright, intelligent and enterprising citizens of Mercer County, who lends his
aid to everything that has a tendency to advance and improve the community
in which he lives.
Charles Bromley, clerk, post-office Jackson Centre, was born July 17,
1851, in Mercer County, to John Bromley, who was born in England, immi-
grated to America about 1826, subsequently married Sarah Montgomery, and
by her had Francis, married Hiram Stufflebeam; James M.,was a soldier from
Mercer County, and was killed; Montgomery, was in the war from Yenango
County, and died on his way home on the train between Syracuse, N. Y. , and
Oil City; George, was a soldier from Mercer County, and starved to death in
a rebel prison; Archibald, was in the war from Yenango County, and was
killed in battle; William C., was a soldier from Yenango County; Leonard M.,
was also a soldier from Yenango County; Adaline, died at the age of four
years; Charles, David H. , Elizabeth, married Stephen Yanderlin. The father
died in 1858, and the mother in 1857, both in the Presbyterian faith. Charles,
after the death of his father, was with the family of Henry Chaffee, of Ye-
nango County, for two and one-half years. He then lived with Samuel Kee, of
Lake Township, and attended school until 1862, when, he selected a permanent
home with William Jeffrey, of Jackson Township, with whom he remained
until twenty-one years old. He then took a course in the Iron City Commer-
cial College, and in the fall of 1872 engaged in the general merchandise busi-
ness with Samuel North, Sr., at North’s Mills, subsequently with G. W. Wor-
rell. He suffered great loss by the panic, and finally retired from the business
and worked for a while in mills and on farmfe. In 1879 he was employed by D.
L. Nisbet, with whom he has continued. He married, in 1874, Elnora Zahniser,
and by her has six children, viz. : Sarah J. , Margaret C., William J. , John
Z., Charles M. , James A. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. at Jackson
Centre, and he and wife are members of the Cool Spring Presbyterian Church.
He is a Republican.
S. S. Donaldson, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born August 25,
1818, in Westmoreland County, Penn., to Isaac and Rebecca (Shannon) Don-
aldson, natives of the same county. The family came to Mercer County
August 25, 1823, and settled about four miles north of New Castle. They
subsequently moved to Wilmington Township. May 25, 1835, the father
died, and the mother September 17, 1865. They had Elizabeth, deceased;
Martha, deceased; S. S. ; Jane W. , married Charles Lees; James A.; Robert
N. , deceased; infant, died small; Ebenezer F. ; Robert M. ; Sarah, married
Robert Johnson; Rebecca, married David Young; Harriet, married John Bo-
gardus. Isaac Donaldson was born December 15, 1791, and was married June
HISTORY or MERCER COUNTY.
1009
29, 1813, to Eebecca Shannon, born March 26, 1793. He taught school and
worked at the carpenter’ s trade for a number of years. He and his wife were
members of the Presbyterian Church. S. S. Donaldson attended the common
schools, and for awhile Wilmington College. He was married October 29,
1845, to Minerva Dunn, born March 1, 1821, in Crawford County, Penn.
When quite young she settled on Indian Run, in East Lackawannock Town-
ship, with her parents, Joseph and Mary Dunn, where the parents died.
Their childern were Minerva, Daniel, Nancy, John, Stewart, William, Mary
J. , Arthur, and an infant, deceased. The parents were United Presbyterians.
Our subject’s union gave him six children: Leander W. , Sebina J. , Ann, Ettie,
James A., died at the age of four years; William L., a teacher in the Jackson
Centre schools. Mr. Donaldson remained in East Lackawannock Township
until 1855, when he moved to where he now resides. Here he bought 100
acres of land, and subsequently added to it, until he is the owner of a large
property, as a result of strict economy and hard labor. He was for many years
president of the AVestern Agricultural Association held at Mercer, and was one
of the three school directors elected by the Republicans of Jackson Township
within the last twenty years. He and his wife are members of the Presby-
terian Church. A mention of his ancestors is given in Cool Spring Township,
in connection with a notice of Mrs. Charles Lees, his sister.
Leandee AA". Donaldson, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born
August 15, 1846, in East Lackawannock Township, and is a son of S. S. Don-
aldson, whose sketch appears previously. He was educated in the common
schools. He made brick for a few years, and was married April 18, 1872, to
Maggie E. Williams, a daughter of John and Ruth (Bradley) Williams,
natives, the father of Ireland, born in 1818, and the mother of Mercer County,
born August 17, 1815. Her father came to America, or Mercer County, about
1835. The mother of Mrs. Donaldson was a daughter of George and Mary
(Blair) Bradley, natives, he of Ireland and she of Virginia, and the parents of
Elizabeth, Samuel, Thomas H. , Mary, Margaret, George, Nancy, John and
Ruth. The parents of Mrs. Donaldson had four children that grew up:
James H. , Mary J. , married Thompson Patterson; Maggie and Maria M. Mrs.
Donaldson was born December 9, 1846, and has blessed her husband with
three children: Ralph B. , Laura E. and Carl S. He is a Republican, and
settled on his present farm of fifty acres in 1873.
Rev. j. M. Gallagher, Jackson Centre, was born April 28, 1821, in
Uniontown, Fayette Co., Penn., to John Gallagher, a native of the same
place. Our subject was one of seven children: Eveline AV. , Rev. J. M. , J ane K. ,
Elizabeth D. , Mary, Jacob B. , John A. The last named practiced law, and was
a surveyor. The father was a farmer, and at one time owned part of the land
now the present site of Uniontown. Rev. Gallagher was educated at Madi-
son College, Uniontown, and Beverly, Ohio, studying at the last named theology
under Rev. J. P. Wethee. He taught school six months. He was licensed to
preach at State Lick, Armstrong County, by the Union Presbytery in 1845,
and was sent out by that body to preach. He made his journey on horseback,
and was supply at Harlensburg, Franklin, Cranbury, Rockland and Scrub-
grass. He preached in school -houses at the last three named places, and his
pastorate church buildings were erected at Cranbury and Rockland. At these
two he continued for eleven years. He was then supply for the Scrubgrass
and Sandy Creek congregations until 1861, when he moved to Jackson Centre,
and preached for that congregation until recently. He is yet pastor of the
Bethany congregation, a branch of the Jackson Centre organization. He was
pastor for thirty-two years for the “Irvin congregation,’’ which is composed
1010
HISTOEY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
of citizens of Mercer and Venango Counties; this he resigned in 1887. Dur-
ing his pastorate at Jackson Centre some of his congregation moved to Sandy
Lake, and he following them organized a church and preached in a hall until
under his administration a church edihce was erected and he had helped in the
dedicatory services. The Hickory Grove congregation, now attached to Jack-
son Centre, was organized under his pastorate. He was married, September
19, 1848, to Miss Ellen Whann, a native of Venango County. This union
resulted in two children: John F., died at the age of eighteen years, and Mary
J. , married H. T. Hess, deceased, by whom she has three children: Nellie M. ,
Stella J. and James Raymond. Our subject owns two farms, has property in
Jackson Centre, and is an earnest Prohibitionist.
Johnson Graham, retired farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born
August 20, 1807, in what is now Worth Township. His father’, William Gra-
ham, was born in either Scotland or Ireland, and came to America after hav-
ing married his second wife, Sarah Boyle, and with her and daughter, Jane,
and William, a son by his first wife, he came to America in 1800. Their chil-
dren born in this country were Sallie, Hugh, Thomas, Mary A., John, Johnson,
Susan, James, all of whom are dead but our subject, the parents of whom
were members of the Seceder Church. Johnson Graham was educated in
the log cabin school-houses of his day, going bare-footed a portion of his attend-
ance. He began with only a willing heart and strong hands. About the first
money he obtained to apply on the purchase of land was secured by cleaning
and digging a mill-race, at 10 cents per yard. His first purchase was the old
homestead of 150 acres. He was married, in 1837, to Jane E. Williamson,
born in this county to Jacob Williamson, and by her he had two children: Isa-
bella, married Henry Smith; William J. , married Mary Johnson, of Youngs-
town, Ohio, and has Jennie, Fannie and George. Mrs. Graham died in 1872,
and was a member of the Seceder Church. Our subject came to Jackson Cen-
tre in 1862, and bought 110 acres, a portion of which he laid off in town lots.
He was a judge at the first borough election, and was once a member of the I.
O. O. F. He is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and is a
Republican.
Jesse Harrison, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born September
19, 1843, on the farm where he resides. His father, William, was born in
England, and came to America when thirty years old. He settled on the farm
now owned and occupied by Jesse Harrison, and married Sarah. Johnson, who
was born in England and came to America with her mother and sisters, Ann,
Mary, and brother John. William Harrison had eleven children: Joseph,
Ann, Mrs. Hugh Evans; George, Isaac, was in the late war; John, died in the
war; Elizabeth, Mrs. Thomas McKay; Sarah, married James Allen; Jesse,
Thomas, Mary, William H. The parents were Methodists. Jesse received a
common school education; he enlisted in Company I, Fifty-seventh Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, and was discharged from Company D after a service
of seventeen months. He was married, November 5, 1878, to Mary McElree,
a daughter of John McElree, and has by her: Eddie E. , John E. and ElvaM.
He owns 125 acres of well-improved land, and he and wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a Republican.
John Infield, hotel keeper and butcher, post-office Jackson Centre, was born
February 2, 1836, in Jackson Township, to Daniel, born in Somerset County,
and there married Sarah Ringer, and came to Mercer County October 18, 1829,
settling in Jackson Township. He had by his marriage: Joseph, Catharine,
Hiram, Mary I., John, James, Daniel, Emeline. The father followed farming,
and took charge of a hotel, which he named the ‘ ‘Infield House, ” in 1862, which
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1011
was the second house of the kind in Jackson Centre. He had kept hotel on
the Satterfield farm, known as the “Old Wash McKee Stand.” He died Sep-
tember 11, 1874, and his widow still lives with the subject, at the advanced age
of seventy-eight years. She is one of the original members of the Jackson
Centre Cumberland Presbyterian Church, to which her husband belonged.
Our subject was educated in the common schools, and was brought up at farm
labor. He was married to Mary N. Nuneymaker, a native of this county, and
by whom he has had ten children; Jennie, Charles, Lizzie, George, Eva, Daniel,
Kate, Samuel, Myrta, Frank. Mr. Infield took, charge of the hotel in 1868,
and in 1882 he added butchering. He has been a member of the borough coun-
cil. His wife is a member of Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He lived in
Franklin from 1862 to 1868. He is a Democrat.
Pearson Lytle, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born January 22,
1840, on the farm where he now resides. His father, John, was a native of
Ireland, and came to America when a boy, and to Mercer County in 1824, set-
tling where our subject lives. He married Sarah Kane, of Fayette County,
Penn., and had the following children by her: David, Mary, married William
Peese; James, Joseph, George, Pearson and William, who was killed at
the battle of the l\filderness. The father died in 1852, and the mother
July 3, 1867. They were members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
Pearson Lytle was educated in the country schools, and began life for
himself at the death of his mother. He was married October 24, 1871,
to Melissa Pearson, daughter of Samuel and Matilda (McConnell) Pearson, and
has had by her Edwin, Bertha and DeWitt. He and wife are members of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He is a Democrat.
J. H. McCurdy, farmer, was born October 24, 1852, within about four
miles of Norristown, Montgomery Co., Penn. His father, James F., was
born in County Antrim, Ireland, in 1808, and immigrated to Montgomery
County in 1837, where he married Rosannah McMullen, born about 1821 in
County Antrim, Ireland, and who arrived in Montgomery County later than
her husband. The family came to Mercer County in 1860. settling on the
farm where our subject now lives; here the father died January 24, 1883, and
the mother, February 8, 1880. Their children were: David, died at the age
of seventeen years; Jane, Mrs. Lemuel Black; John, died when young; Mary, was
burned to death by her clothes catching on fire; Rosannah, is a maiden lady;
J. H. , Kate A. and one died when young. The parents died members of the
Cottage Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject was principally educated
in the common schools of Mercer County, and was'brought up at farm labor.
He was married December 19, 1876, to Mary J. Patterson, born September
15, 1853, a daughter of William and Elizabeth J. (McDowell) Patterson, the
parents of the following children: John, Mary J. , Sadie and Martha. Mrs.
Patterson died in 1861, and, with her husband, belonged to the Springfield
United Presbyterian Church. J. H. McCurdy has five children: James W.,
William R. , Ira L. , Nellie M. and Kate A. Mrs. McCurdy is a member of
the Cottage Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is a stanch Republican, as
well as a worthy, upright farmer and citizen, who is to be found with his influ-
ence on the side of public advancement in the community where he lives.
He is the owner of a finely improved farm, to the cultivation of which he
gives his personal attention.
Dr. John McElrath was born in County Down, Ireland, on the 17th day
of May, A. D. 1813. He was the second child of Archibald and Mary
(McWilliams) McElrath, immigrated to America with them in the fall of 1822,
and settled in Beaver County, Penn. He received a thorough education in
1012
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Beaver Academy, and after completing his course of studies, followed teaching
as an occupation, and at the same time prosecuted the study of medicine, under
the tutelage of the late Dr. George Allison, of Beaver, Penn. Pie was mar-
ried in 1842, to Jane Brandon, second daughter of the late James Brandon,
of Pine Township. He attended the Western Keserve Medical College, at
Cleveland, Ohio. In the fall of 1852 he located in what is now Jackson
Centre, Mercer Co. , Penn. He again attended medical lectures in the winter
of 1867-68, at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. He died on the
24th of February, 1872. In his profession and in the sick room he was a
cool, calculating and. in an eminent degree, thorough physician, possessing
that rare faculty of cheerfulness which gave to the patient strength, encour-
agement and hope, and that gentleness which could apprise them of their
approaching dissolution without excitement or dread. He left a widow and
four children: Dr. James B., of Jackson Centre; A. H. , of Mercer, Penn.;
Mary E., of Jackson Centre, and Ida N., now intermarried with A. M. Claw-
son, of Sandy Lake Township, Mercer Co., Penn.
James B. McEleath, physician and surgeon, post-office Jackson Centre,
was born September 18, l843, in Mercer County, Penn., to Dr. John and
Jane (Brandon) McElrath. He was educated in the public and private schools
and the Mercer High-schools under instructions of Prof. Warner, now con-
gressman from Ohio. He taught school at the age of eighteen years. He
read medicine with his father, and attended Jefferson Medical College for over
three years, also Charity Hospital. He graduated from the medical college in
1871, and began his practice with his father at Jackson Centre, where he still
continues. He married Miss Emma L. Smith, daughter of H. K. Smith,
superintendent of the Philadelphia & West Chester Railroad, October 21,
1877. His union has given him two children: John C. and Henry K. The
former is deceased. His wife died January 12, 1881. The Doctor is secretary
of the Board of Pension Examiners for Mercer County, and is vice-president
of the Mercer County Medical Society. In politics he is a Republican. He
served in Company F, Fifty-tifth Pennsylvania Militia, and afterward in Com-
pany M, Sixth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, until the close of the war.
John Me Kay, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born August 10, 1829,
in County Antrim, Ireland, to James and Sarah (McElroy) McKay, natives of
the same county. In 1834 the family, consisting of parents and sons, John
and William, came to a portion of Beaver County now included in Lawrence
County. Here they remained until 1843, the father being employed as a stone
mason and school-teacher. In the last year named they came to Mercer
County, built a shanty in the green woods of Lake Township and improved a
farm of 125 acres, where the father died March 24, 1857, and the mother
July 8, 1858. They were the parents of John, William, Thomas, Isabella,
Sarah J. , Mary M. , Catharine, Melissa and Therressa. The parents at their
death belonged to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, of which organization
at Jackson Centre he was a ruling elder. John McKay was five years old
when he came to America, and was educated in the common schools and by
his father at home. He was brought up at farm life, but learned the carpen-
ter trade, and has for many years done his own blacksmithing. He was mar-
ried in 1853 to Jane Hill, born August 23, 1828, in Mercer County, Penn.
Her father, Capt. William Hill, of the War of 1812, enlisted when twenty
years of age in a company commanded by Capt. Junkin. He was under Gen.
Harrison in Ohio one campaign, and was two campaigns at Erie, being there
when Commodore Perry gained his celebrated victory. Her mother, Jane
(Lowry) Hill, gave birth to John, Adam, James, Margaret, Hannah, Jane, Will-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1013
iam and three others who died when small. The father of these children died
June 12, 1851, and the mother died January 19, 1868. Both were originally
connected with the Seceder Church. Two of their sons, John and James,
were in the late war. John served nine months, and two of his sons, Joseph
C. and Eobert C., were also in the war. Robert was wounded in the shoulder,
and James served three years; was in Company I, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania
Volunteers ; was wounded in the thigh at the battle of the Wilderness on
May 5, 1864; was taken to Libby Prison, and afterward sent to Belle Island.
His two sons, Summerville and Washington, were in the same regiment. Capt.
Hill’s father, Adam Hill, served in the Revolutionary War seven years and
six months under Gen. Wayne, and was wounded in the thigh at the battle of
Stony Point. He came to Mercer County in 1800, and settled in Sandy Lake
Township, near where the Stoneboro fair is now held. Madison Davis, 'son of
Margaret Hill, served in the late war; was taken prisoner and died in Ander-
sonville Prison. The children of John and Jane McKay are: Margaret R.,
born August 14, 1854, married Simon Moon March 13, 1878; James W., born
August 11, 1857, married Mary J. Kemm August 11, 1882, was graduated
at Waynesburg College, Greene County, Penn., in June 1884, then entered
the theological seminary at Lebanon, Tenn. , and was graduated in June, 1886,
in 1887 he completed the post-graduate course in theology prescribed by the
Lebanon, Tenn., institution, which conferred the degree of Ph. D. upon
him. For the past two years he has been pastor of the Cumberland Presby-
terian Church at Carmichaels, Greene Co., Penn., and September 1, 1888, he
removed to Pittsburgh to take charge of the First Cumberland Presbyterian
Church at East Pittsburgh; Jessie A., born August 7, 1858, married W. W.
Taylor May 9, 1879; Blackford, born October 14, 1860, died February 4,
1861; John L., born July 26, 1862, married Emma J. Supplee July 2, 1884;
Sarah A., born August 15, 1865; Myra J. , born October 30, 1867; Mary A.,
born May 9, 1870, died May 11, 1872. Our subject lived at the old home-
stead until 1863, and in Pine Township till 1870, when he located on a farm
in Dixon County, Tenn. One year later he bought and settled on the old
Pearson farm in Jackson Township, where he now resides. He and his son
John L. own and operate a steam saw-mill on his farm. He is a member of
the A. O. U. W. and of the Royal Templars of Temperance. He and wife
are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Jackson Centre, in
which he has been acting elder for over twenty -five years. He is a Prohibi-
tionist, and in 1888 was nominated by that party for poor director.
D. L. Nisbet, merchant, post-office Jackson Centre, was born August 7,
1852, two miles north of Greenville, to James, born May 31, 1824, near Green-
ville, and Maria (Loutzenhiser) Nisbet, born April 6, 1831, and died April 9,
1881. She was the mother of Sarah L., born January 16, 1851, married John
Irwin, of Crawford County; Albert, born February 4, 1854, a cattle dealer in
Arizona; Felicia, born September 19, 1856, married Rev. George Critchlow,
a Lutheran minister at Prospect, Butler County; Frederick L., born March
5, 1862, a physician of Meadville. The parents belonged to the Presbyte-
rian Church of Greenville. Our subject was educated in the country schools.
He began clerking in Greenville in 1872. In 1875 he opened a store at
Orangeville, Ohio, and subsequently at Neshannock, this county. In 1877 he
located at his present place, buying out William Porter, who had started the
store in 1876, in the neighborhood of the Jackson coal banks. Here he has
been very successful. He was married to Rosa L. Reimold, born June 20,
1855, in Pymatuning Township, and has two children: Ray B. and Vida A.
He and wife are members of the German Reformed Church.
1014
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
George W. Pearson, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born August
10, 1844, where he now lives, to Joshua, born July 4, 1801, near Philadelphia,
and Hannah (McNutt) Pearson, a native of the same place. They came to Mer-
cer County in 1829, and the father died January 20, 1846, the mother May 9,
1885. They were consistent members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church
at Jackson Centre at their demise, and were the parents of six children:
Rachel, born July 13, 1830, married Hiram McConnell; Jane, born May 5,
1832, married Mordecai Taylor, died March 17, 1888; Margaret, born July
10, 1836, died October 13, 1878; Elizabeth, born August 5, 1839, and died
December 8, 1861, at the home of William Stewart; Anna, born March 11,
1841, died June 4, 1858, and George W. The last named was educated in the
country schools, and was compelled to sustain himself when quite young, be-
cause of the death of his parents. He was married May 31, 1871, to Sabina
Donaldson, born July 11, 1848, and by her has one son, John S. Mr. Pear-
son has served as school director, and is now in his second term as township
constable. Both he and his wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyte-
rian Church, and in politics he is a Democrat, as was also his father.
Samoel Pew (deceased). — Longevity is characteristic of certain families.
Constitutions of native strength endure the toils and ills of life with such
effectiveness that they seem to be exceptions to the operations of natural law.
Of them it may be said, as it was in the days of Nimrod, the mighty hunter
before the Lord, “ there were giants in those days,” or of Saul, the son of
Kis, he stood from his shoulders above his fellows. The vigor and longevity
of these pioneers may be attributed to several causes: First, their ancestry
were, as a rule, noted for the simplicity of their modes of living. Late hours
for I’etiring, thin soled shoes, exposed arms, tight lacing, paints and powders,
fear of sun and storm, spices and other condiments for food, etc. , were then
comparatively unknown. Second, outdoor exercise, fresh air, simple food,
regular habits, clear consciences and freedom from sensational literature
were conducive to health and long life. Third, heavy clothing of home-
made material, cut for comfort rather than according to fashion plates,
assured an active circulation of pure blood that carried growth and develop-
ment everywhere. Samuel Pew, the subject of this sketch, died December 15,,
1887, in his ninety-fifth year. He was born in Washington County, Penn.,
October 22, 1793. He was the eldest son of John Pew, with whom he came
to the site of the present town of Mercer on the 1st of May, 1797, when the
boy was in his fourth year. At the time of this removal to the “ new country ”
but one structure, and that a rude log hut, marked the site of the present
beautiful and prosperous city of Allegheny. With his father he lived in Mer-
cer until 1804, when the family removed to what is now Jackson (then known
as Cool Spring) Township, settling on the farm since and until his death
owned by Samuel.
John Pew, his father, had a family of thirteen children, seven sons and six
daughters. Of this number one son, Joseph, still lives in West Virginia, and
three daughters, Hannah, Amelia Ann and Nancy, live respectively in Michi-
gan, Washington Territory and Mercer. John Pew was one of the first settlers
in that portion of Jackson Township in which he located. North and east of
him were the Zahnisers, the Wilsons, the Forkers and others, who had pre-
ceded him by some seven or eight years. Of John’s other sons, brothers of
Samuel, the second, Abraham, was well known in Mercer County. He died
May 1, 1882, at the advanced age of eighty-six years, and his remains lie in
the old dilapidated and neglected grave-yard back of the First Presbyterian
Church of Mercer. John died May 4, 1884, aged eighty-three years. Hia
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1015
remains rest quietly in the Findley grave-yard, a mile east of Mercer. Prior to
his going to the farm Samuel Pew, though but a boy ten years of age, held the
first stake set in the laying out of the town of Mercer in 1803. Even three years
earlier than that, viz. , 1800, he carried water for the men who built Rev. Samuel
Tait’ s meeting-house, in Cool Spring Township. At that time he was about
seven years of age. While the family was still living in Mercer, the Pews were
intimately acquainted with the Indians living in the neighborhood. The latter
frequently visited the frontier cabin and fondled the children. Among these In-
dians was the well known Harthegig, son-in-law of the old chief Petty. He was
ugly in physical appearance, and his disposition partook of the characteristics
of his body. He was addicted to the use of intoxicating drinks, and, when
under the influence of the poison, was particularly quarrelsome and disagree-
able. Then he was a terror to the children. On one occasion Harthegig, ac-
companied by two other Indians, Peter and John, came to the Pew cabin.
Samuel, then a frolicsome boy, was sitting on one end of the logs that had
been rolled into the huge, open throated fire-place, warming himself. Har-
thegig, the ugly Indian, approached him and seizing him by the hair, said:
“ I will scalp you.” This language and the corresponding action so terrified
the other Indians and James Jeffers, a neighbor who had accompained them,
that they all sprang to their feet and caught the drunken man, instantly dis-
arming him. Then the three Indians left. Next morning Jeffers, who
greatly disliked Harthegig, passed the Pew place, with his gun on his shoulder.
Seeing young Samuel in the yard, he inquired whether Harthegig had passed
up the hill that morning. Answered in the affirmative, Jeffers passed up
through a skiff" of snow which then covered the ground. Nothing of the In-
dian was subsequently seen, and his disappearance was enveloped in mystery.
Nine years afterward a large skeleton of a human being was discovered near
“ Yankee Ridge,” by a man named John Johnston. It was supposed to be
the frame of the ugly and pugnacious Indian. The inference was that James
Jeffers could have solved the mystery connected with the Indian’ s disappearance.
Samuel Pew and his brother Abraham were both out in the War of 1812. In
July of that year they went in the company of Capt. Samuel Clark. They
were at Erie, ready to give their services to Commodore Perry if he needed
them. On their return, it is said, Abraham, who was but a boy of about
seventeen, was so wearied with marching that he tied strings to his big toes
to enable him to lift his feet more easily. This joke illustrates to every one
the hardships connected with military life. While at Erie Samuel is said to
have been detailed to assist in getting out the timber for the flag-ship, Law-
rence, from which Commodore Perry fled to the Niagara after the former was
disabled. These brothers went with Clark a second time, and the third with
Capt. John Junkin. Owing to the threatened condition of the northern
frontier they proffered their services a fourth time to Lieut. -Col. Thomas
Hosack. For their services they both drew pensions from the government.
Samuel was married twice, the first time to Miss Mary Vaughn and the sec-
ond to Elizabeth Condit, daughter of David Condit, an early settler near
Sheakleyville. The last wife died March 24, 1875, aged seventy-one years
ten months and twenty-three days. Her final resting place is in the Findley
grave-yard. By the first wife he had five children, viz. : James, Elizabeth,
Lydia, Rebecca and Amelia. All are living except the last. By the second
he had eight, viz. : David, John (died in the army), Joseph, Mary, Abram
P. , William, Thomas and Samuel, twins. Politically Samuel Pew was an old-
time Whig, and by consequence a Republican. He was a member of the
Presbyterian and Cumberland Presbyterian Churches. His constitution was
1016
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
strong and active, and even to a period of a few weeks prior to his death he
was seen on the streets of Mercer. He lived to see the development of this
nation from 4,000,000 to 60,000,000, and witnessed every presidential elec-
tion after the first term of Washington. Steamboats, railroads, telegraphs,
telephones, coal as fuel, natural gas, power printing presses, mowers, reapers,
binders, threshing machines, and nearly every form of invention have been
bequeathed to the world during his life-time.
Alexandeb Porter, farmer, post-office Pardoe, was born March 25, 1811,
on the farm now owned by D. M. Porter in Sandy Lake Township, to Alex-
ander, born in County Derry, Ireland, who married Mollie Holliday, with whom
he came to Berks County before 1800, and to Mercer County in 1805, by team.
He died on the farm about 1847, and his widow died about 1851. They were
the parents of James, Margaret, Eliza, Jane, William, David, Alexander and
Mary. The father was in the War of 1812, and with his wife belonged to the
Reformed Presbyterian Church. Our subject attended the schools of his early
boyhood and was brought up at farm labor. He was married in 1849 to
Eleanor Mouck, and by her had three children: Alexander C., Mary E. and
Amanda C. He was married again June 7, 1861, to Nancy Montgomery, a
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Barnes) Montgomery, one of twelve children:
William, John, James, Mary, Nancy, Esther, Sarah J. , Martha, Elizabeth,
George, Thomas and Samuel. Her parents are dead. They were members of
the Seceder Church, and her father was in the War of 1812. By his last mar-
riage Mr. Porter has one child, Thomas E. They are members of the Reformed
Presbyterian Church.
Anthony Silveus, burgess and retired farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was
born October 19, 1831, in Greene County, Penn., to David, born in Lancaster
County, and when two years old he removed with his father, whose name was
also David, to Rockingham County, Va., and at the age of twenty-one years
he went to Fayette County, where he married Mary Bowman, daughter of
Henry Bowman, and soon after moved to Franklin Township, Greene County,
where he bought 300 acres. Here he reared a family of eleven children:
Nancy, Mary, Susannah, Henry, David, Catharine, Elizabeth, Joseph, John,
Anthony and William. The father came with his wife, John, Anthony and
William to Mercer County in 1849, and settled in Lake Township, on the farm
now owned by John and Thomas Kemm ; he died at the home of his son,
Anthony, in 1876, his wife having died in 1862. Both were members of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Our subject was educated in the common
schools, until eighteen years old, when he devoted his entire time to farming.
He was married June 14, 1855, to Emma Vernam, daughter of John Vernam,
by whom he has four children: William F. , born in 1856; Sarah, born March
23, 1859; John G. , born November 15, 1863; Mary B., born June 20, 1865;
Sarah E. The elder son, William F., attended school at Waynesburg, Greene
County, and is now preaching in Washington County, Penn. John G. is attend-
ing school at Waynesburg, and is reading law at intervals with A. F. Silveus,
at that place. Our subject owns the Matthew DeFrance farm, in Jackson Town-
ship, from which he retired in 1884. He was elected burgess of Jackson
Centre in 1885, 1887 and 1888. He was once a member of the I. O. O. F. He
and wife are members of Cumberland Presbyterian Church of J ackson Centre,
and he is leader of the choir in the same. He is a Democrat, has read the
IFesiern Press for over thirty years, and has been a member of the Central
Committee of his party and a delegate to the conventions.
John Vernam, retired farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born Novem-
ber 10, 1824, in England, to John Vernam, who was born in Philadelphia, and
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1017
went to England, where he married Sarah Bott, and with her and children:
AVilliam, Thomas, John, Mary A., Charles and Emma, came to America in
1831, and settled where William Orr now lives. He had only $10 left when
he settled in this wild country. He and his wife died in this township,
and were members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Our subject
attended the common schools but a short time. He began for himself at the
age of twenty-four years, buying at that time fifty acres of land in AVorth
Township. He bought small tracts at various times, and now owns nearly 300
acres, the result of his own labors. He has been a remarkably strong man,
having cleared about 300 acres, worked at 62| cents per day, hauled tan-bark
to Mercer with ox teams, and has gone through the many hardships that sur-
round the struggles of the early settlers. He and his brother, Francis, cradled,
bound and shocked 100 dozen sheaves of wheat in one day, and repeated the
act a second time. He at one time engaged in burning lime for Jacob Jones,
and fired every other night for twelve consecutive nights, which was ample test
of his strong constitution. He married Elizabeth Clark, daughter of Abram
Clark, a soldier of the War of 1812, and by her has William, married Melinda
Zahniser, two children. Myrtle and Mary; Ann, married AVilliam Orr, and- has
three children, Charles, Alfred and Lily; John H. , married Ann Garvin, three
children, John, Wendall and Nellie; Lucinda C., married Wilbert AVharton, two
children, Burdell and Winnie; James L., Thomas, married Ella Hess, and has
one child. Bay. May, the daughter of James L., lives with her grandparents,
Mr. and Mrs. Vernam. Our subject has given each of his four boys a farm
worth $3,000. He has bought and sold stock with success. He and wife are
members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and he was a trustee of the
same when the present elegant edifice was erected. He, A. Silveus and
brother Francis took the contract to burn the brick for same. He is a Dem-
ocrat.
The AVilsons of Jackson Township. — William Wilson, the ancestor of the
Wilson Family, of Jackson Township, came to Mercer County in 1796, and
settled on the farm where his grandson, William AVilson, now resides. His
family consisted of wife and five children: William, Samuel, Betsey, Peggy
and Rebecca. AVilliam married Ellen Downs; Samuel married Rachel Meel;
Peggy married Henry Guess; Rebecca married Joseph Turney; Betsey never
married. When William Wilson located in Jackson Township the red men
were their nearest neighbors, and passed their cabin every day on their way to
Sandusky to trade. Mr. Wilson was a Revolutionary soldier, and witnessed
the execution of Maj. Andre. His son William was born in 1792, and came
with the family to this county when four years of age. He underwent the
various hardships that made up the life of the pioneers, not the least irksome
of which was a large amount of clearing which fell upon him because of the
inclination of his brothers to hunt the numerous deer and other wild animals
that abounded in the forests. He was married, in 1833, to Ellen Downs, by
whom he had the following children. William, John, Samuel, Mary, Marga-
ret. Seven others died in childhood. AVilliam married Amanda M. W’ingard;
John married Elizabeth Mowry; Samuel married Margaret Kerr; Margaret
married John AV. Maxwell, and Mary married Simon VATngard. AVilliam Wil-
son cast bis first vote with the Democratic party, and continued to do so until
1860, when he joined the Republican party and gave it his hearty support till
the time of his death, which occurred September 18, 1878. He was a soldier
of the War of 1812. His son, William, who resides on the old homestead,
was born December 25, 1836, on the farm now owned and occupied by him,
and was married September 7, 1871, to Amanda M. AATngard, by whom he
1018
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
lias four children: Henry E., William R., Myrtle M. , Nelson F. He went to
California in 1861. He cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln, and has since
been identified with the Republican party.
The Zahniseks. — One of the prominent families in the development of
Mercer County is the Zahnisers. Valentine Zahniser, the progenitor of all
these, lived in Germany. Being in poor health, his physician advised an ocean
voyage. He concluded to come to America with his family, which consisted of
his wife — Julia Ann Clemens — and two children, Matthias (born in 1749) and
the other unnamed. The father and the nameless child died on board the
ship, but the mother and Matthias came to America, landing at Philadelphia
in 1753, and thence going to Lancaster. Matthjas was then four years of age.
Mrs. Zahniser married in Lancaster a man named Henry Stout. In 1789 she
(a widow a second time) removed to Allegheny County with Matthias, who had
married, in 1774, Mary Lint; in 1797 she landed in Mercer County. Matthias
arrived in the summer of that year, and made an improvement, consisting of
the clearing of five acres. This was on the farm (250 acres) now owned and
occupied by William A. and John Ira Zahniser. At the time of his arrival, in
the spring of 1797, the only neighbors were John McMillan, John McDonald,
George Myers, Daniel Harper, James Rice, Joseph Alexander, Thomas Mc-
Clain, Benjamin Stokely (came in 1796), Francis Huey, Thomas and Charles
McBride, Andrew and Robert McClure, Thomas and Jabez Coulson, William
Wilson, Peter Wilson, William Parker, Thomas and William McMillan.
These all settled within a radius of four or five miles of the site occupied by
Zahniser. Stokely was the only one that came in 1796, the others arriving in
1797 and perhaps in 1798. Matthias Zahniser had seven sons and one daugh-
ter that came to Mercer County: Matthias, Michael, John, Valentine, William,
Jacob, David and Mary. They all lived in Mercer County, and reared fami-
lies, except John, who died about 1800. Matthias, Michael and John settled
farms in what is now Lake and Jackson Townships. Matthias lived in Jef-
ferson Township after 1807 (prior to that time in Jackson). His family con-
sisted of his wife Dorothy (Fry) Zahniser and these children: John, Matthias,
Michael, Mary, Henry, David, Samuel, Julia, Ann and Susan. Michael mar-
ried Mary Mourer April 29, 1806. Their children were: Jacob, born May 28,
1807; Mary, born December 24, 1808; William, born January 26, 1811; John,
born May 25, 1813; David, born August 1, 1815; Catherine, born October 28,
1821. Valentine married Elizabeth White in 1806. Children: May, John W'.,
Sarah, James, Jacob N. , Rebecca, Andrew Shulze and Mary. William mar-
ried Eleanor Stopler in 1814. Children: John L. , Andrew J. , Michael, Will-
iam North, Catherine, Valentine, Bythinia and Richard M. J. Jacob married
Catherine Wright in 1816. Children: Margaret, William, George W., Jacob,
Michael and Mary. David married Nancy Coulson in 1818. Children: Mat-
thias, Lint, Jacob W., Eleanor, Aaron, Thomas, Mary and David R. P. Mary
married Jo.shua McCracken April 1, 1817. Children: Alexander, Mary, Isa-
bella and David.
Jacob Zahniser, post-office North’s Mills, son of Michael and Mary (Mourer)
Zahniser, was born May 28, 1807, in Lake Township, Mercer County. He mar-
ried Melinda Smith, daughter of George Smith and Rebecca (Cole) Smith, on the
21st of October, 1834. Fromi this union have sprung these children: Henry Mar-
tin. married to Elizabeth De France; Rebecca Cole, married to John North;
William Fleming, married to Martha Magee; George Michael, married to
Margaret J. Rambo; Mary Mourer, married to Richard Hess; Milton Bird, mar-
ried to Rose McCurdy; Margaret Jane, married to James W. McCullough;
Melinda, married to William H. Vernam; Jacob Murphy, married to Jennie
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1019
Eunkle. Three also died in infancy. Mr. Zahniser has held several places of
public trust. He was county auditor in 1831, a justice of the peace from 1840
I to 1850, and the county surveyor in 1857 and 1858. Besides he has acted as
[I township assessor, clerk and judge of elections, and been a member of the
board of school directors. His leading occupation has been that of a farm-
er, though he has been a successful teacher of the youth in public schools.
In 1827 he was a clerk in Hackney’s store in Mercer, and in 1828-29 held a
similar position at 'Williamslield, Ohio. Politically Mr. Zahniser was a mem-
ber of the Anti-Masonic party, then a Democrat, but since the organization of
the Republican party in 1855 he has been identified with that organization.
He was identified with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church from 1842 to
1865, since which time he has been connected with the Cool Spring Presby-
terian. Mrs. Zahniser was born May 6, 1816, near Big Bend, in Delaware
Township. Her father and mother came from Virginia to Hubbard, Ohio,
thence to Delaware Township, then to Fairview, and subsequently to Worth.
Mr. and Mrs. Zahniser are still living, in good health, upon their farm in Jack-
son Township, respected by all who know them.
A. J. Zahniser, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, was born July 27, 1818,
in Mercer County, to William, born in Lancaster County, Penn., who came to
Mercer County, and subsequently married Eleanor Statler, a native of the
same county. She came to Allegheny County with her parents, Rudolph and
Barbara (Scroggs) Statler. There she was married to William Zahniser, and
settled with him in what was then Cool Spring. He died May 7, 1856, and
she March 17, 1852. Their children were: J. L., A. J. , Michael, W. N.,
Katharine, Valentine, Bithynia and R. M. J. The father of our subject was
in the War of 1812, and made several trips to Erie and Fort Meigs. A. J.
Zahniser was educated in a log school-house, with split puncheon floors,
greased paper windows, open end fire-place and log or split puncheon seats.
He worked on the farm till he was twenty years of age. He then taught
school in the winter seasons, and worked on farms in the summer, for a time.
He afterward worked in a still-house making whisky in the winter, and
wooded plows in the summer, for three years. He bought 105 acres of land
in 1842, known as the Warden farm, and now owns 185 acres. He then went
to improving his farm, and has continued on it to the present time. He was
married in 1848 to Nancy J. Hosack, daughter of Col. Thomas Hosack, and by
her had one child, who died in 1851. Its mother died the same year. He was
never married again, his sister, Mrs. James J. Hosack, having kept house for
him since. She has three children: Eleanor, Thomas and W. J. Our subject
has filled all the important offices of the township, and has filled other posts
of trust.
John L. Zahniser, farmer, post-office Jackson Centre, was born April 11,
1816. in Mercer County, Penn., to William, who married Eleanor Statler,
mentioned in the sketch of A. J. Zahniser. Our subject was educated in the
pioneer log cabin sufficiently to teach nine terms, the first term being con-
ducted in an old dwelling known as the Craig house, in 1836. June 4, 1846,
he was married to Lucy North, a sister of John North, whose sketch appears
elsewhere. She was born October 16, 1822, in Sandy Lake Township, and
has blessed her husband with eleven children: Amanda M. , William N.,
Elizabeth, E. J., John M., Samuel S., Mary E., KateM. , Daniel W., Eva L.,
and George A. , a teacher. Mr. Zahniser has served as county auditor one term,
township assessor, auditor, school director twenty-nine years, and was thirty
years a justice of the peace. His estimable wife is a consistent member of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He is a member of the Jackson Township
Live Stock Insurance Company, and is a Democrat.
1020
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
D. R. P. Zahniser, farmer, post-office North’s Mills, was born July 8, 1838,.
in Mercer County, to David and Ann (Coulson) Zahniser. The former was
born April 19, 1795, and died October ll, 1874; the latter was born May 21,
1796, and died June 20, 1850. Their children were: Matthias, born Septem-
ber 20, 1819; Lint, born December 2, 1821; William W., born September 16,
1823; Jacob W., born June 22, 1826; Eleanor, born June 24, 1829; Aaron,
born July 10, 1831; Thomas, born May 6, 1833; Mary M. , born December 9,
1835, and D. R. P. The parents were members of the Cumberland Presby-
terian Church, and the father was a Democrat. D. R. P. received a common-
school ediication, and was married February 9, 1875, to Mrs. Josephine Osborn,
the widow of William Osborn, who died July 9, 1872, and was the father of
James, born November 13, I860; Plummer, born August 18, 1867; John,
born December 10, 1869, died in 1870, and William F., born January 28,
1872. Mrs. Zahniser is a daughter of J. L. Byers, and was born February 9,
1847. The father of our subject was for many years a blacksmith by trade,
and by economy was able before his death to give his son 100 acres of arable
land, on which he now resides. He and wife are members of the Cumberland
Presbyterian Church, and he is a Republican.
CHAPTEK XXXVIII.
BIOGRAPHIES OF WOLF CREEK, PIISIE AND LIBERTY.
WOLE CREEK TOWNSHIP.
Michael BARDON, farmer, post-office Centretown, is a son of William
and Catherine(Sadlen) Bardon, natives of Lawrence County. About 1848
they came to this county, and located on the farm now owned by our subject.
The father died January 17, 1888, and his wife in 1879, leaving two children:
Catherine, Mrs. James Sterrett, of Deer Creek Township, and our subject,
who was born in Lawrence County in 1842. He has never married, and
since the death of his father has continued to live on the farm. He is a mem-
ber of Amity Presbyterian Church.
Samuel Coleman, deceased, was a son of Ephraim and Annie (Albin) Cole-
man. Nathaniel Coleman, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of
New Jersey and settled near Millbrook, in Worth Township, some time pre-
vious to 1800, where he engaged in farming. The father of our subject was
born in New Jersey, and was quite young when brought to this county by his
parents. After marriage he settled on a tract of land now in Wolf Creek
Township, where he died in 1826. His family consisted of two children: Jane,
Mrs. D. F. Courtney, of Liberty Township, and our subject. His wife sur-
vived him, and afterward married Valentine Giebner, of this township, and had
by him several children. She died July 24, 1874. Our subject was born in
1822, on the homestead, and received his education in the public schools of
that period, and by his own efforts at home. He taught school during the
winter, and worked at farming in the summer for a number of years. In 1849
he married Mary Ann, daughter of Hon. Robert and Nancy (Coleman) Patter-
son, of this township, and by this union had six children: Emeline, Mrs. J. C.
Montgomery, of Pine Township; Mary Bell, Mrs. William C. Miller, of Pine
HISTOEY OF MEEOEK COUNTY.
1021
Township; Ephraim V., Robert J. , Jason G. and Stella are living with their
mother on the homestead. Our subject held several township offices, and for
many years was a justice of the peace. About 1854 he was appointed post-
master of Centretown and held that office until 1872. He was identified with
the old Whig party, and for many years was the leading spirit of the Repub-
lican party in his neighborhood. He belonged, with his family, to the Amity
Presbyterian Church. He died November 10, 1886, and is buried in the Union
Home Cemetery. His family live on the homestead, near Centretown, in an
elegant residence with beautiful grounds, and possess an ample greenhouse
filled with the choicest plants. It is all the result of the labor of a man who
took pride in surrounding himself and family with the pleasant things of life.
Jacob T. Craig, farmer, post-office Pardoe, is a son of Francis and Annie
(Powell) Craig. James Craig, the grandfather of our subject, was of Scotch-
Irish descent, and he and four of his brothers were early settlers of Delaware,
and about 1798 they all removed into this county and settled on Wolf Creek.
The father of our subject was born in this county about 1798, and served in
the War of 1812. He was always engaged in farming, and died in 1857. His
widow died in 1872. They reared a family of six children: Isabella, married
Jacob Patterson, of Butler County, Penn., and died in 1861; James B. and
Francis S., of Grove City; William, of Butler County, David P., of Aus-
tralia, and our subject, who was born in what is now Pine Township September
21, 1829. He was educated in the log school-houses, and has always been en-
gaged in farming. In 1857 he married Hannah Hosack, daughter of James
and Sarah (Rose) Irwin, and widow of Thomas Hosack, of Findley Township.
By her first husband Mrs. Craig had two children: Mary Adeline Hosack. Mrs.
John Campbell, of Grove City, and Harriet Rebecca Hosack, Mrs. Harry
Brigham, of Franklin, Venango County. Our subject has six living children:
Sarah Martha, David Francis, Matthew Irwin, James Taylor, Charles B. and
Homer Griffith, all at home. He and family are members of the Wesleyan
Methodist Church of Hazzard, of which he is steward. In 1873 he moved
onto his present farm, where they have since resided.
Archibald Crawford, farmer, post-office Pardoe, is a son of Luke and
Sarah (Donaldson) Crawford. The father was a native of Ireland, an early
settler in Allegheny County, Penn. The mother was born in the eastern part
of this State. Her father was one of the earliest settlers in Allegheny County,
Penn. , and brought a colony with him. In 1836 Hugh D. Crawford, an older
brother of our subject, located on a tract of land in this county, three miles
south of Mercer, and in 1838 the other members of the family followed, and
located on a tract of land purchased from Joseph Kerr. They engaged in
farming, and the father died a few years afterward. His wife died in Jan-
uary, 1872. They reared a family of fifteen children, six of whom are living:
Hugh D., of Mercer; Jane; Swickley; Samuel, of East Liberty, Allegheny
County; our subject; Irwin, of Franklin, Venango County. Our subject was
born in Allegheny County, Penn. , December 23, 1820, came to this county
with his parents in 1838, and has always been engaged in farming. In 1878
he was elected commissioner of the county and served three years. Has held
the office of justice of the peace of Wolf Creek Township for ten years, school
director for over twenty- one years, and has served in other township offices.
He was married in 1852 to Miss Mary J. McChesney, daughter of Samuel and
Esther (Barnes) McChesney, of Findley Township. They have by their union
five living children: Samuel M., living on a part of the homestead, married
to Sadie M. McMillan, daughter of John McMillan, of Grove City, and has two
children, Mamie and Plummer; Prof. Robert D., principal of the Tidioute
60
1022
HISTORY OF MEECEK COUNTY.
schools, Warren County, Penn., married Hattie Blystone, of Edinboro, and
has three children: George and Florence (twins) and Josephine; John H., of
this township, married Sadie Giebner, daughter of J. T. Giebner, Esq., of
Sharon; Esther, Ella and Sadie A. are at home. Our subject and family are
members of the Springfield United Presbyterian Church. He held the office
of elder of said church for twenty years. Mr. Crawford’s father was a Demo-
crat, but he and sons and brothers vote the Republican ticket.
D. C. Eakin, merchant, Centretown, is a son of James and Adeline (Mur-
dock) Eakin, of Venango County, Penn., where our subject was born in 1842. In
1864 he enlisted in Company B, Eighty-third Regiment, and served until the
close of the war. He was reared on a farm, and followed lumbering for many
years. In 1870 he purchased an interest in the mercantile business at Centre-
town, with John Hughes, and two years afterward his partner retired from the
firm, and he has since continued the business alone. In 1873 he was appointed
postmaster of Centretown, and has since held that office. In 1868 he married
Mary, daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth Black, of Pine Township, and they
have no children. He and wife are members of the Springfield United
Presbyterian Church.
John A. Gill, farmer, post-office Centretown, is a son of Hugh and
Annie (Anderson) Gill. The father was born in Washington County, Penn.,
in 1782, and came here in 1798 with his father, William Gill, a native of Ire-
land, and a soldier in the Revolutionary War. They settled near Courtney’s
Mills, in what is now Liberty Township, and William died there in 1832. The
father of our subject was a soldier in the War of 1812. He finally settled
near Harrisville, Butler Co., Penn., and died there in 1866. His widow died
in 1872. Their family consisted of six children, four of whom are still liv-
ing: Margaret, Mrs. Joseph Humphrey, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; John A., our
subject; Elizabeth A. and Hugh, living on the homestead. The father voted
the Democratic ticket in his early days, and afterward joined the Republican
party. He paid for his farm by teaming. He hauled the timber for the first
bridge across the Allegheny River at Pittsburgh, and for the first steamboat
run down the Ohio River. Our subject was born on the homestead March 22,
1823, received his education at the pioneer school-house and a few terms at the
public schools. In 1857 he married Sarah E., daughter of Caleb and Sarah
Russell, of this township, and by her has eight children: Samuel S., of But-
ler County; Hugh R. and William J., merchants of Pittsburgh; M. G., of
Kansas; Newton; Otis A., of Pittsburgh; Ira H. and Harry L., at home. In
1847 he came to this county and purchased his present farm of 100 acres, then
mostly woodland. He built a saw- mill on Wolf Creek, which he ran for'
twenty years. He has held the offices of county auditor, supervisor and school
director of the township. In 1856 he was elected justice of the peace, which
office he has since held with the exception of one or two terms. He votes the
Republican ticket, and he and family are members of Amity Presbyterian
Church.
James Grace, farmer, post-office Centretown, is a son of Burchfield and
Rebecca (Albin) Grace. The father was born December 1, 1804, in Worth
Township; was a member of Fairview Methodist Episcopal Church, and the
Republican party, and very temperate in principles. He died in May, 1869.
Rebecca Albin was his first wife, born in 1805, and died in 1858, leaving six
children: John, of Worth Township; Henry L., of Middlesex; William R.,
of Fairview Township; James, our subject; E. C., was a member of Company
A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, was lieuten-
ant of same company, and was killed at the battle of the Wilderness; S.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1023
C. , member of Company G, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserve Corps, and died in
New York after participating in Sherman’s march. This family were intensely
loyal, there being five brothers in the army at one time, and the eldest, John,
was drafted, but was let off on account of having so many brothers there.
The second wife of the father was Mrs. Margaret Henderson, who died in 1862,
leaving no children. His third wife was Mrs. Hannah Laughlin, and by
her he had one child, G. G., now living on the old homestead with his
mother. Our subject was born April 17, 1842, received his education at the
township schools, and has since been engaged in farming. In 1801 he enlisted
in Company G, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserves, and served three years; received
a severe wound in his breast at the battle of Gaines Mill. In 1866 he mar-
ried Sarah Giebner, daughter of Valentine and Mrs. Annie Albin (Coleman)
Giebner, of this township. By this union they have five children: Ephraim
E., Hariy E., Dewitt G. . Annie R. and Ruth May; all at home. Our subject
moved onto the present farm in 1868, and has held the offices of school direc-
tor and assessor of township. For the last six years he has been secretary of
the school board. He is a member of Marion Craig Post, G. A. R. , and he
and family are members of Fairview Methodist Episcopal Church, of which
he is steward and has been Sunday-school superintendent for many years. He
votes the Republican ticket, but is for temperance come which way it will.
Robert E. Houston, farmer, post-office Pardoe, is a son of Thomas and
Nancy (Adair) Houston, natives of Ireland, who now reside in Findley Town-
ship. Our subject is their fourth son, and was born in Findley Township
March 16, 1842; received his education at the township schools, and in 1863
enlisted in Company H, Second Battalion, and served seven months. He has
mostly been engaged in farming, and in 1874 moved onto his present farm in
Wolf Creek Township. In 1873 he married Lizzie M. , daughter of James and
Margaret (Allen) Montgomery, of Findley Township. By this union they have
four children: Montgomery A., Samirel T., James R. and Maggie A. Our
subject votes the Democratic ticket, has held the office of assessor of the town-
ship, and he and family are members of the Springfield United Presbyterian
Church.
Gilbert Johnston, farmer, post-office Pardoe, is a son of Samuel and Ann
Eliza (Page) Johnston. Samuel Johnston, Sr., the grandfather of our subject,
was a native of Ireland, and one of the early settlers of Cool Spring Township,
this county. His wife was Ruth Alexander, by whom he had thirteen children,
four of whom are still living: Charlotte and Ruth, maiden ladies, of Cool
Spring Township; Elizabeth, Mrs. Richard Smith, of Jefl’erson Township;
Annie, Mrs. William Johnston, of Crawford County, Penn. He was a soldier
in the War of 1812, and he and wife both died on the homestead in Cool
Spring Township. The father of our subject was born in 1809, and died in
1854. His wife was born in 1818, and still resides near the old homestead.
They reared five children: Sarah Jane, Mrs. William Mitchell, of Jefferson
Township; William, in Iowa; Marshall, in Colorado; Lucy M. , who died at
the age of twenty-one years, and our subject, who was born April 27, 1845,
and received his education at the common schools until nine years of age, when
the death of his father occurred, compelling him to remain at home and help to
support the other members of the family. In 1869 he purchased his present
farm, where he has since resided. He has been elected to various township
offices, and has served as a justice of the peace since 1881. He was married in
1864 to Margaret A., daughter of John and Jane (Patton) Paden, of Delaware
Township. By this union he has eight children: Jennie E., Sarah M. , L.
Rebecca, Mrs. E. A. McDowell, of this township; Mary M. , Ester A., Will
1024
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
iam M. , Robert N. and Annie C. Our subject is one of the trustees of the
Springfield United Presbyterian Church, of which he and family are members.
He has always been a supporter of the Republican party. In 1879 he estab-
lished a general store on a part of his farm, and has since conducted that in
connection with farming.
Thomas McDowell, farmer, post-otfice Centretown, is a son of Hugh and
Mary (McFarlin) McDowell, and was born in Venango County, Penn., July
13, 1823, and in 1824 his parents came to this county and located in Worth
Township, on the farm now occupied by Gilbert Baker. The father was in
the War of 1812; the mother died in 1832, leaving five children. Our sub-
ject and Sarah (Mrs. Joseph Brown, of Butier County) are the only ones
living. The second wife of the father was Miss Elizabeth McCann, and two
of their children are still living: William and Hugh. His third wife was
Mrs. Tilfor. By her he had Francis (Mrs. Dunlap), of Butler County, and
Hugh, of that county. Our subject was reared in this township, and received
his education at the log school-house, and after the death of his father remained
on the homestead. He was married in 1843 to Miss Magdaline, daughter of
Thomas Montgomery, of this township. By her he has four children: Mary,
Mrs. William R. Gaily, of Lawrence County; Sarah E. , of Grove City; Martha
Ann, Mrs. Alexander Hannah, of Dodge City, Ford Co. , Kas. ; E. A., living
with subject, married Rebecca Johnston, daughter of Gilbert Johnston, Esq.,
of this township. In 1864 our subject enlisted in Company M, Sixth Heavy
Artillery, and served until the close of the war. He is a member of Marion
Craig Post, G. A. R. In 1844 he located on his present farm. He and family
are members of the Springfield United Presbyterian Church, of which he has
been deacon. He has held the offices of school director and constable of the
township, and votes with the Republican party.
John A. McFaelin, farmer, post-office Centretown, is a son of James and
Melissa (Hard) McFarlin, natives of Ireland. His grandfather, John,
immigrated to America in 1797 with his wife, Margery, and six children. He
was killed east of the Mountains, and his widow with her children visited her
brother at New Bedford, Penn. , for about one year, and then moved to Trum-
bull County, Ohio, where the father of our subject was reared and engaged
in farming and distilling. His wife was a native of Vermont, and by her he
had nine children, five of whom are still alive. He died in 1838 and his widow
in 1886. Their living children are: Mary, widow of William Breckenridge,
living in Illinois; Louisa, Mrs. Daniel Jacobs, of Kansas; Sarah, Mrs. Leon-
ard Hogg, of Illinois; Robert W., of Illinois, and our subject, who was born
in Trumbull County, Ohio, June 3, 1823, and was educated at the public
schools. In 1852 he went to California and engaged in gold mining for three
years. In 1861 he purchased his present farm, where he has since resided. In
1855 he married Lovina W., daughter of Isaac and Annie K. (Wick) Kimmell,
of Ohio, and by this union has seven children: Grant W., of Worth Town-
ship, married to Mary, daughter of Henry and Jane Howe, of Worth Town-
ship, and has two children, Alice and Luella; William J. , of Springfield
Township, married Mary Sopher, daughter of John Sopher, of this Township,
and has two children, John L. and Lewis C. ; Elmer, of Kansas, married
Belle Blakely, of Clyde, Kas. ; Lizzie, Lillian, Frank O. , Annie M. and
Louise Blanche. Our subject has held the offices of supervisor, school director
and assessor of the township. He and family are members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church of Fairview, of which he is class-leader and steward, and
has been trustee.
James Patterson, deceased, was a native of Ireland, and came to America
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
1025
about 1829, and first located in Lawrence County, Penn. , with his parents, Will-
iam and Isabella Patterson. He received his education at the public schools of
that county, and in 1844 moved to this county, located in what is now W olf
Creek Township, and engaged in farming. He served the township as school
director and supervisor for a number of years. He married Rebecca Jane
Kelly, daughter of John and Margaret Kelly, of Butler County, and had by
her seven children: James and Emma, who died when young; George E., an
attorney of Mercer, died in 1887 ; and the four others still living are; Robert, of
this Township, married Nancy, daughter of Daniel and Peggy (Aldman) Gil-
dersleeve, of this township, and has one child, Emma Estella; John W.,
Thomas M. and Margaret Elizabeth. Our subject died in 1869, and his
widow, John W., Thomas M. and Margaret E. occupy the homestead and
are engaged in farming. They are members of the Springfield United Pres-
byterian Church.
PINE TOWNSHIP.
Samdel R. Allen, M. D. , Grove City, is a son of Samuel and Mary
(Gilmore) Allen. The father was born in Ireland, and immigrated to
America with his father, Robert Allen, when he was eight years old. Robert
Allen settled on a farm in Springfield Township, this county, where the father
of our subject was reared and educated at the schools of that period, and
where he has since lived. His wife, Mary Gilmore, bore him seven children,
five of whom still live: Rev. R. C., now located in Canada; Dr. S. R., Ann
Jane, died at the age of twenty-two years, a promising young woman; infant
daughter, died at the age of two weeks; Julia Mary, Mrs. Robert Wilson, of
Nebraska; William J. C., at home, and Ambrose M. , D. D. S., of Philadelphia.
Our subject, who is the second, was born on the homestead December 5, 1850.
Mrs. Allen died in 1874, and the father of our subject was again married, to
his present wife, Mary Porter. By this union he has one child, Lillian, living
at home. Our subject received his education at the schools of Grove City and
Wilmington, Lawrence County, and graduated from the medical department
of the Western Reserve University, of Cleveland, in 1881, and soon afterward
located at Grove City, where he has since practiced. He married, in 1882, Har-
riet, daughter of J. C. and Harriet (Heydrick) Shaw, of this county. They
have three children: Mary Jane, Newton Rutherford and Samuel James.
Our subject and family are members of the Covenanter Church of Findley
Township, of which he is an elder.
The Black Family. — Adam Black was born in Adams County in the year
1763. He married Polly Allegan in 1786. Both were supposed to be of
Scotch-Irish descent, his father being Henry Black. Adam and his wife lived
in that county until 1803, when they removed to Washington County, Penn.,
and in the following year to Mercer County, settling on the farm where David
Gilren now lives. This he cleared, and upon it erected a log tavern, which he
kept for some years. At that time there was, comparatively speaking, no set-
tlement anywhere about, but all was dense forest. Mr. Black died in 1816,
his widow living until 1841 ; both, however, died on the farm they had first
located upon. Their eldest child was Elizabeth Chambers, who was born in
1787, and died in Mercer in 1818. Following her were born Henry, 1789-
1860; Joseph, 1791 — ; Alexander, 1794-1853; Ibby, 1795-1862; Adam,
1797-1864; Robert, 1800-1848; Maria, widow of Maj. John K. Harris, 1802,
and Peggy, 1805-1826. Henry and Joseph both served in Harrison’s army
in the War of 1812, Henry being afterward captain of the Mercer Blues.
Adam was also at one time commander of that organization, and at a later
1026
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
date became major of the volunteer battalion. Robert was the captain of the
Springfield Light Infantry when it was first organized. In civil service Henry
was a presidential elector in the campaign of 1840, when Gen. Harrison was
elected President. Alexander, besides serving as a soldier at Erie for two
terms, was chosen justice of the peace, a position which he creditably
filled two terms; Adam, also, for a similar period, served as justice, and
Robert whs elected to the Legislature, and died in Harrisburg at the close of
his second year of public life. In religious faith the members of this family
inclined toward the Presbyterian Church, and were its zealous defenders and
supporters. Three of the brothers, Alexander, Adam and Robert, were elders
in the Centre Church, of which their sister’s husband. Rev. John Munson,
was for a long time pastor. Of the sisters, Ibby was married twice, first to
Thomas Brandon, and later to Rev. John Munson; Maria was the wife of J.
K. Harris, and Elizabeth became the spouse of John Chambers, and by him
the mother of R. B. Chambers, editor of the St. Louis Republic.
Robert G. Black, grocery and feed store. Grove City, is the eldest son of
Alexander and Elizabeth (Glenn) Black, and was born on the homestead, in
Sju'ingfield Township, March 2, 1821, where he was educated, and followed
farming for a number of years. In 1859 he was elected county commissioner,
which office he held for six years. In 1873 he moved to this borough and
established his present business. He was married in 1847 to Miss Mary Park,
daughter of Joseph Park, of Pine Township, and natives of York County,
Penn. They have two children: Ada, Mrs. Dr. Martin, of Grove City, and
Laura, Mrs. J. P. Dougherty, of Omaha, Neb. Mr. Black and wife are mem-
bers of the Presbyterian Church of this borough.
A. T. Black, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of Alex, and Eliza-
beth (Glenn) Black. Adam Black, the grandfather of our subject, was a native
of Adams County, Penn. , and moved into this county about 1804, and settled
on a farm in Springfield Township. The father of A. T. was born in Adams
County, Penn., in 1794, and was reared and educated in this county. At the
age of eighteen years he enlisted in the American army, and served through
the War of 18 12. Afterward settled near Blacktown, where he lived until
his death, in 1853. His widow died in 1869. They had a family of nine chil-
dren, seven of whom are still living: Robert G. , James H. and Joseph C., of
Grove City; A. B. , of Springfield Township; Maria E., who married the
Hon. Robert Patterson, of Beaver County; Elizabeth, a maiden lady of that
county, and our subject, who was born in Springfield Township in 1822, edu-
cated at the schools of that period, and learned the trade of blacksmith, which
he followed for twenty-five years in Grove City, having moved here in 1846.
In 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served until the close of the war; was wounded at the battle of Gettysburg,
and held as prisoner in Belle Isle and Libby Prisons for three months. In
1846 he married Margaret Christley, daughter of William Christley, of Spring-
field Township. She died in 1874, leaving two children: Emilia, Mrs. Charles
daggers, of Michigan, and George M. , who died in 1876. Subject was again
married, to Miss Margaret McDowell, daughter of Robert McDowell, of Pine
Township, his present wife. In 1866 Mr. Black was elected sheriff of the county,
and held that office for three years; has also held township offices of supervisor,
school director, etc. He is a member of Marion Craig Post, No. 325, G. A. R. ,
of Grove City. He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church of this
place.
Augustus P. Buckholdt, hardware merchant. Grove City, was born on
board an American vessel in the Port of Havre, France, September 10,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1027
1842. His mother was a native of France. Her maiden name was C. E.
Clementine, and his father was William J. Buckholdt, a captain in the United
States Navy. After the close of the late war he retired from service and en-
gaged in oil operations in Venango County, Penn., being among the early
oil operators of that county. Our subject was reared and received his educa-
tion at New Orleans, La. In 1861 he enlisted in the United States Navy and
served until the close of the war, when he moved to Venango County with his
parents and carried on a number of oil supply stores there for several years.
In 1882 he moved to Grove City and established a general hardware business,
and at the present time operates two stores in order to accommodate his exten-
sive pati’onago. In 1867 he married Miss Annie Eosenleaf, of Brooklyn, N.
V^. , and by this union has four children: William A., Augustus P. , DeVdtt C.
and Lillian. Our subject has been in the borough council for three years,
and is now first lieutenant and quartermaster of the Fifteenth Eegiment
National Guards of Pennsylvania. He was a member of Clinton Commandery
No. 14, K. T., of Brooklyn, N. Y. He is a member of Marion Craig Post
No. 325, G. A. E., Grove City; of Grove City Lodge No. 35, K. of P. ; Grove
City Assembly No. 5689, K. of L., and Eureka Lodge No. 64, A. O. U. W.
He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church of this borough. He
is manager for the Western Union Telegraph Company at Grove City.
Buchanan Family. — The first of the Buchanan family to locate in this
county were William and Mary (Ward) Buchanan, natives of Donegal County,
Ireland, who immigrated to America in 1791. and first located in Lancaster
County, Penn., where they remained until 1798, when they removed to this
county and purchased a tract of land in what is now Pine Township. Their
family consisted of five children, of whom Elizabeth was born in Ireland and
afterward married John Graham, of this county; the other four were George,
William, James and Mary. George was a soldier in the War of 1812, and after-
ward married Hannah White, daughter of Alex. White. Five of their chil-
dren still live: Samuel and Eachel, of this township; William, of Butler
County; Eev. James, of Illinois; Mary, Mrs. Daniel Eoss, of Michigan. Will-
iam married Catherine Eeeves, of this county, and four of their children
are still living: F. William, the oldest son, was a member of Com-
pany B, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and
served through the war, married Susan, daughter of Mathew Black, of
this township, and his children are Catherine J. , Mathew H. and Mar-
garet Eliza, He is now engaged in farming in Dickson County, Tenn. ; Alex-
ander, born in this township in 1837, and has always remained on the home-
stead, served the township one term as constable, and is a member of the
Harmony United Presbyterian Church of Butler County ; Josiah was born on the
homestead in 1843, married Harriet, daughter of Joseph Emery) of this town-
ship, who died in 1882, leaving three children, William S., Charles H. , James
A. His present wife was Lucinda, daughter of John Elder, of Butler County.
They have one child, Clyde, and are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church of Grove City. Mary was the youngest, and married Eobert Shaw, of
this township. They and their three children are dead. James was next to
the youngest, and was born in Lancaster County August 23, 1797, and in
1840 married Elizabeth, daughter of Francis and Martha (Boyd) Eamsey, of
this township. He was always engaged in farming, and died February 27, 1876,
leaving his widow with eight children: Mary W., Mrs. Henry Dui’stein, of Ten-
nessee; Matilda B. , Sarah, Mrs. Adam Eichel, of Butler County; Elizabeth
J. , Mrs. John Diger, of Lackawannock Township; Francis, of Butler County;
Nancy, Mrs. J. C. Wick, of this township; Susan Kerr, Thomas M., married
1028
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Jane Douglas, of Hickory Townskip. James Buckanan was a man wko was
active in public affairs, and keld about all of tke townskip offices. He was a
member of Harmony United Presbyterian Ckurck. Since kis deatk kis widow
and son, Tkomas M. , occupy tke komestead, wkick is underlaid witk coal
and limestone. Tkey are also members of Harmony Ckurck.
J. Borland, dentist. Grove City, was born in Westmoreland County in
1840, and received kis education in tke public sckools of tkat county, and at
Wilkinsburg Academy, near Pittsburgh. After completing kis education ke
went witk a surveying party on tke Hannibal & St. Joe Railroad. He
returned in 1859 and completed kis profession, and in 1861 came to tkis
county, located at North Liberty, and practiced dentistry there and in Centre-
ville. In 1863 he moved to tke oil country, and founded tke Telephone at
Karns City. He remained there until 1882, when by a request of tke citizens
of tkis place ke moved tke paper to Grove City, and published it witk good
success until ke sold it to A. B. Ray, of Mercer, in July, 1884, and has fol-
lowed kis profession, and is also connected witk tke Pittsburgh Leader and
Western Press as correspondent. Dr. Borland was tke originator of tke Edi-
torial Association of Northwestern Pennsylvania, wkick is still in existence.
He is a son of Capt. J. Borland, a soldierof tke War of 1812, and Eliza (Dun-
woody) Borland, a native of Ireland. Tke family consisted of nine children,
eight still living; Margaret, Elizabeth, Hannah, Isabella, Sarah, Robert, died
at tke age of twenty-two, and had acted as assistant superintendent of the
Union Hotel of Pittsburgh for a number of years; James, tke youngest, lives
witk kis mother at Pittsburgh. Our subject was married in 1862, to Jane
Dunwoody, of Butler County, and has four children: Frank, Edward, Flor-
ence May and John. He and family are members of tke Presbyterian Ckurck
of Grove City.
James M. Coulter, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a representative of
one of tke early families of tkis county. The first of tke Coulter family to
settle in tkis county were Rickard and Catherine Coulter, natives of County
Donegal, Ireland, near tke town of Killabeggs. Tkey immigrated to Amer-
ica in 1793, witk one child, Andrew, and settled in Franklin County, Penn.,
where four more children were born to them; John, Samuel, James and
William. John died at tke age of five years. About 1804 tkey removed to
tkis county, and settled in Wolf Creek Townskip, wkick is now tke northern
part of Liberty Townskip, purchasing a farm of Abraham Snyder, wkick is
now owned by Edward Denniston and Joseph Moore. They afterward pur-
chased another tract of 300 acres in what is now Pine Townskip, and embraces
tke farm owned by our subject, James Hunter and Orlando Connor, but con-
tinued to live on tke first settlement until their deatk. Rickard died in Febru-
ary, 1839, and kis wife in December, 1841. Andrew Coulter, their eldest son,
was born in Ireland in 1793, and inherited tke komestead after tke deatk of kis
parents. He was a soldier in tke War of 1812. He married Sarah McCoy,
and reared two children: Mary J. , Mrs. Edward Denniston, and William A. ,
wko lives in London, tkis county. He died February 22, 1867; kis widow died
December 14, 1885. Samuel, tke second son, inherited 150 acres, one-half of
tke second tract of land, and married Jane Moore, by whom ke had three
children: James, Catherine and Martha. Tkis family are all dead. William,
tke youngest of tke family, rnarried Sarah Busk, and settled in Armstrong
County. He and his wife are both dead, and their children wko are living
are Catherine, married William McCoulister, of Armstrong County (their chil-
dren are Jane, Elizabeth, Annie and Robert); Jane married George Grinder,
of Armstrong County, and has one child, Henry. Maria, tke second daugk-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1029
ter of William, married Henry Peters, of same county, and have seven children.
Frances, the third daughter, married Lewis Benson; they have six children.
Elizabeth, the fourth daughter, married Mr. Gibson, of Armstrong County,
and. has three sons. James, the father of our subject, was next to the
youngest of Bichard’s family, and was born in Franklin County July 1, 1798,
and in 1823 married Cynthia Rose, daughter of Jacob and Rebecca (Clark)
Rose, of this county. He inherited the other half of the second tract of land
owned by his parents, and in 1821 built the house now occupied by our sub-
ject. They spent the remainder of their lives in this house, and died there,
the fdther October 19, 1882, and mother December 18, 1881. Their family
consisted of eleven children, three of whom died quite young: Nancy, married
Henry Mechling, and had eight children, died in 1878, at the age of fifty years;
the other seven are living, and are Samuel, of Marshall County, married Maria
Bash, of Iowa, and has eleven children; Rebecca J. , Mrs. James M. Mc-
Coy, of this township, had six children; Richard, of Grove City, married
Mary J. Stoughton, and had six children; James M.; Henrietta, Mrs. John
Hess, of Missouri; Andrew J., of Butler County, married Mary Black, and
has eight children; Amanda, Mrs. David Dale, of Liberty Township, has one
child. James M. Coulter, our subject, was born June 9, 1838, in the house
which he now occupies; was educated at Harrisville, Beaver Acadeniy and
Pine Grove Normal School, and for several years engaged in teaching district
schools in this and adjoining counties in this State, and in Pike County, Ohio.
Also taught vocal and instrumental music, and, for the past several years, he
has been engaged in farming. In 1863 he enlisted in Company C, One Hun-
dred and Fiftieth Ohio, and served until his honorable discharge. In 1867
he married Mary Leighty, daughter of John and Harriet (AVorthington)
Leighty, of Fayette County. They have two daughters, Cora and Eugenie.
Samuel J. Covert, section foreman on theP. S. & L. E. R. R. , Grove City,
is a son of William and Catherine (Adams) Covert, of Pine Township, and was
born October 4, 1856, educated in the public schools and engaged in railroad-
ing, which he has since followed. He was married, in 1884, to Miss Nancy,
daughter of Miller Cornelius, of Pine Township. They have three children:
Harry Cleveland, Ira Clyde and Lilly Esther. Mr. Covert’s family are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Grove City, and he has been a
citizen of Pine Township since birth.
'j Edward Denniston, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of Alexan-
der and Nancy (Hannah) Denniston. The father was a native of Ireland,
and immigrated to America with his parents when he was seven years of age.
His father, Robert Denniston, located in Franklin County, Penn. , where he died
a few years later, and the family moved to Washington County, Penn. In
1805 Alexander, the father of Edward, and his brother William, moved into
this county, and Alexander located in Springfield Township, where Leesburgh
now stands, and his brother located on a tract of land adjoining. In 1854
Alexander started to Iowa and died before reaching his destination. He was
sixty-nine years of age; his widow died in 1858 at the age of sixty-eight. He
served in the War of 1812 under Gen. Harrison. Their family consisted of
eight children, five of whom still live: Mary, married David Bower, who was
a cabinet-maker, and for many years a merchant, both died in New Lisbon,
Ohio, he in 1880, and she in 1883, her death occurring while in her pew in
the United Presbyterian Church. They had six children: John, the eldest, is a
merchant in Pittsburgh, and David C. , the other son, is a merchant in New
Lisbon, Ohio. The other four are daughters; Alexander, of California; Will-
iam and Sarah (Mrs. Ralph Hunter), of Jackson County, Iowa; Nancy (Mrs.
1030
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
S. P. Eeed), of Kansas, who died on tlie 29th of May, 1888; and Edward, who
is the eldest of the sons, and was born in Springfield Township, this county,
January 22, 1816. He was educated in the public schools of W ashington County.
He learned tbe trade of a mill wright, and followed that occupation for years
in connection with farming. In 1855 he located on his present farm, where
he has since resided. In 1843 he married Miss Mary J. Coulter, daughter of
Andrew and Sarah (McCoy) Coulter, of this township. Their family consisted
of five children: William C., married Ada Cameron, daughter of Joseph A.
Cameron, of Buffalo, N., Y. , and had two children; Maude and Benjamin B.
William C. died in 1884 at the age of thirty-eight, and his family reside with
subject. Francis M. , married Andrew Schumaderfer and lives in Clarion
County, and has two children, Carrie J. and Edward. Andrew F., married
Nancy, daughter of J. J. Kelly, Esq., of Centreville. They have two chil-
dren, Ida and Bessie. Charles W. and Edward A. are at home. About 1834
our subject was a member of a military company called the “ Mercer Cavalry,”
and held the commission of major. He has held the offices of school director,
supervisor and auditor of the township, and justice of the peace for five years.
He is an elder in the Reformed Church of Amsterdam, Liberty Township.
Robert Denniston, a bi’other of subject, was a soldier in the Mexican War.
After its close he embarked for Nicarauga, with Col. Walker, and is sup-
posed to have died on his way home between Vicksburg and Mercer, from the
effects of a bayonet wound in his hip.
John Daugherty, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of John and
Elizabeth (McCoy) Daugherty. William Daugherty, the grandfather of sub-
ject, was a native of North Carolina, and came to Pennsylvania and settled
near Pittsburgh some time previous to 1787. He was a soldier in the Revolu-
tionary War, and afterward located in the county in what is now Pine Town-
ship. His wife was Polly Watson, a Quaker lady of South Carolina. They
reared a large family of children, all of whom are dead. John, Sr., was their
oldest son, and was born near Pittsburgh in 1787, and was brought to this
county by his parents when he was quite young. He was reared here, and af-
terward moved to Butler County, where he remained ten years, and then re-
turned to this county and located on the homestead now owned by our subject,
where he lived until his death in 1848. His wife died in 1847. He was a soldier
in the War of 1812, and earned the commission of first lieutenant. He was
one of the early constables of Pine Township for many years, and in 1845 was
elected justice of the peace, and served until his death. His family consisted
of seven children: Catherine, Mrs. Hugh Gilmer, of Illinois; William W. ,
farmer, of Pine Township; Mary Ann, Mrs. Samuel Montgomery, of Illinois;
Joseph, of Bovard, Butler County; John, our subject; Thomas M. , who went
to Australia in 1854; Mary, Mrs. John Dunn, of South Oil City. Our subject
was born in this township February 14, 1827, received his education at the
schools of Harrisville, and has been an extensive lumber operator and farmer.
In 1851 he married Julia Ann McCoy, daughter of Thomas and Jane (McCon-
nell) McCoy, of this township. She died in 1858, leaving four children:
Emily Jane, married William Wilson, of Wolf Creek Township, and has two
children, Charles H. and Lester ; Horace, lives with subject, married Ada Z.
Gill, daughter of James and Sarah L. (McDowell) Gill, of this township, and
has two children, Earl and Cliff; Annie, living at home; Austin Dewitt, in
Omaha, Neb. Our subject was again married, to Mrs. Emily Braham, daughter
of Thomas McCoy. She died in 1873, leaving five children: Lizzie Inez, Mrs.
David J. McCord, of Armstrong County, who has two children, Earl and Edna
Olive; Olive, Lula, Maud and Hattie. Subject’s present wife was Maggie J.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1031
White, daughter of James White, of this township. They have no children.
Mr. Daugherty has held all of the township offices, and in 1853 was elected
justice of the peace, and has held that office since without a break. He and
family are members of the Presbyterian Church of Grove City.
Joseph Filer, proprietor of the Filer House, Grove City, Penn., was born
in Staffordshire, England, February 5, 1828, and when a boy engaged in min-
ing coal. In 1850 he immigrated to America, and has been engaged in many
of the largest mines of Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. His wife was
Rachel, a daughter of Samuel Oakes, of near Greenville, and they have five
children: William, a mechanic in Pine Township; Amos, located in Sharon,
Elizabeth, at home; Charles, livery stable proprietor at Grove City, and James.
In 1882 Mr. Filer retired from the coal business and purchased his present
hotel, and by his geniality and courtesy has made it one of the best hotels in
the county.
James Gill, farmer, post-office Centretown, is a son of Isaac and Elizabeth
(Kelly) Gill. William Gill, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of
Scotland, and immigrated to America about 1795, and settled in Liberty
Township. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary W^ar. His children were
Samuel, Hugh, William, Isaac, Sarah, Mary and Fannie, all of whom are
dead. Isaac was born in Liberty Township in 1810, and always followed
farming. He afterward settled in Wolf Creek Township, where he died in
1877, and his widow in 1886. They reared five children: David, died in 1874;
Isaac, a farmer in Wolf Creek Township; John, of Jackson Centre; Eliza-
beth, Mrs. John McCord, of Butler County, and James, who was born in Lib-
erty Township in 1829, and was reared and educated in Wolf Creek Township.
At an early age he learned the trade of carpenter, and has since worked at
that in connection with farming. In 1862 he enlisted in Company A, One
Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served nine months,
holding the rank of corporal. In 1856 he married Sarah McDowell, daugh-
ter of Samuel and Prescilla (McDowell) McDowell, of Wolf Creek Town-
ship. They have seven living children: Jennie (Mrs. F. G. Masson, of
Pine Township, who has two children, Martha U. and Aura G.), Ada Z. (Mrs.
Horace Daugherty, of this township), Elmer (who married Nancy Yates, and
lives in Lawrence County), John E. , James P. , Euphemia B., Sarah E.
Mr. Gill has held offices of school director and constable of Wolf Creek Town-
ship, and in 1870 moved onto his present farm, and has since been supervisor
and school director of Pine Township, and is a member of Marion Craig Post
No. 325, G. A. R. He and family are members of Scotch Hill United Pres-
byterian Church, he being an elder of that body.
Alexander E. Graham, banker. Grove City, is a son of Mark and Nancy
(Reed) Graham. Arthur Graham, the grandfather of subject, was a native of
Ireland, and settled in what is now Findley Township, in this county, some
time prior to 1800. The father of our subject was born in that township in
1811, and followed farming until his death, in 1857. His widow died in 1886.
His sister Isabella, Mrs. William Cummings, is the only child living of their
family. Mark and Nancy Graham had six children, three of whom are still liv-
ing: James and Arthur, on the homestead, and Alexander E., who was the sec-
ond child and born on the homestead near Mercer in 1839. He was educated at
the public schools and the Commercial College of Pittsburgh. For several years
he engaged in farming, afterward worked at book-keeping in various places
of this county, and in 1873 entered the Sharon Savings Bank in that capacity,
and remained there some years. In 1884 he located in Grove City, and suc-
ceeded the Gealey Bros, in the Grove City Bank. In 1887 he built his pres-
1032
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ent fine building, and January 1, 1888, associated with him Mr. W. C. Alex-
ander, of Mercer. In 1870 Mr. Graham married Charlotte Heald, daughter
of Joseph Heald, of Wisconsin. They have two children; Mark and Emma.
Mr. Graham is a member of Hebron Lodge No. 250, A. Y. M. , of Sharon. His
wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Grove City.
Joseph Humphrey, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of Henry and
Harriet (Rose) Humphrey. The father of our subject was the second son of
David Humphrey, and was born in County Armagh, Ireland, immigrated to
America in 1803, and lived in Chester County, Penn., for some years, and
afterward moved to Delaware County, N. Y., where he married and where
our subject was born in 1820. In 1828 they moved to this county and located
in Findley Township. They afterward moved to the farm now owned by our
subject, where the father died. Five of their children still live: Sarah,
Mrs. Daniel Gregg, of this township; Martha, Mrs. William Buchanan, of this
township; James R., of Kansas; Maggie, Mrs. Robert Hyslop, of Xenia, Ohio,
and Joseph. The last named received his education in the public schools, and
has since been engaged in farming. He was married in 1847 to Elizabeth
Acher, daughter of Daniel and Rebecca (Ryard) Acher. They have five chil-
dren; James V., farmer near Mercer; David R., of New Brighton; Margery,
Maggie and William H. He and family are members of the United Pres-
byterian Church of Grove City.
Isaac Conrad Ketler, president of Grove City College, was born at North-
umberland, Penn., January 21, 1853. He was one of twelve children born to
Adam and Mary (Kyle) Ketler. The father was a huckster, was born at Bar-
ren Hill, Montgomery Co., Penn., in 1818, and died in 1885. The mother
was born in Northumberland County in 1826, and is still living. Isaac was
educated at the National Normal School, Lebanon, Ohio, and at the University
of Wooster, and was graduated from the Western Theological Seminary in
1888. He was married, December 24, 1878’, to Miss Tillie Gibson, of Lon-
don, Penn., a daughter of David, born at Derry, Westmoreland County, in
1812, and Rebecca (Courtney) Gibson, born in 1812. He has one child, Wil-
lie G., and is a Presbyterian. He commenced teaching as early as 1871, and
began work at Grove City April 11, 1876. The strides forward that have been
made by Grove City College under his administration are remarkable, and
are largely due to his energy and ability.
Joshua Kinder, merchant, Grove City, was born in Yorkshire, England, in
1831, came to America and located in this borough in 1853, and first engaged
in the boot and shoe business, which he followed until 1870, when he opened
his present store, where he deals in general merchandise. In 1855 he married
Malinda, daughter of John Smith, of Northumberland County, Penn. They have
two children: Ella A., who is a professor of chemistry, etc., in Grove City
College, and Martha Edith. Mr. Kinder is a member of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church, and holds the office of trustee in it.
Albert A. Little was born near Millbrook, Mercer County, Penn., April 13,
1861, and is the third son of Joseph J. and Ruth Little. His father was born
in Ireland in 1831, and immigrated to the United States in 1839, and was mar-
ried in 1854 to Miss Ruth Bradley, of Jackson Township, Mercer Co., Penn.,
who was born in 1835. Albert A. Little received his common school educa-
tion at Millbrook, and while attending school corresponded to some extent for
local papers, and soon formed a liking for this kind of work, but subsequently
attended Grove City College for two terms, when he entered the Western Press
office, at Mercer, in 1881, to learn the printing trade. He afterward worked
on the Sandy Lake Netos and Oil City Derrick. In August, 1884, he pur-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1033
chased a half iaterest lathe Grove City Telephone, which he yet retains, and is
now editor and business manager of that paper. He was married September
24, 1885, to Miss Cassie B. McElwaine, of Sandy Lake, and the union has
been blessed with one son. Mr. Little and family are identified with the
Methodist denomination. He has risen to his present place through force of
character, enterprise and integrity, and is a young man of promise. While
attending college at Grove City Mr. Little conceived the idea of establishing
a paper in Grove City, the Pine Grove, and before the Telephone had been
started, but little then thought that his ambition woirld afterward be realized.
J. M. Martin, M. D., Grove City, is a son of James and Sarah
(Mills) Martin, the father a native of Lawrence County, Penn., and the
mother a daughter of John Mills, of Pine Township, Mercer Co., Penn.
Dr. Martin was born near Wilmington, Lawrence County, in 1849; w'as edu-
cated at the college in that place; read medicine with Dr. John Hamilton, of
Allegheny City, and Dr. W. R. Hamilton, of Pittsburgh, for a number of
years; was graduated from the medical department of Bellevue College, of
New York City, in 1874, and in the same year located in Grove City, where
he has since practiced, and now enjoys a very extensive practice in this end of
the county. In 1876 he married Miss Ada Black, daughter of R. G. and
Mary (Park) Black, of this borough. At the present time he is a member of
the borough council, and a Republican in politics. He was one' of the
founders of the Pine Grove Normal Academy, and one of the original trustees,
but subsequently withdrew his support.
Thomas McCoy, stone mason and farmer. Grove City, is a son of William
and Jane (Gilmer) McCoy. Thomas, Sr., the grandfather of subject, was a
native of Virginia, and moved into what is now Pine Township when the
father of Thomas was a child. He took up a large tract of land from the
Government, which is inhabited by many of the McCoy family, and the settle-
ment is known as McCoy Town. The father of our subject followed the occu-
pation of farming; died in 1866, and his widow in 1887. They reared ten
children: Joseph, was a member of the Ninth Wisconsin Regiment, and was
killed at Hatch’s Run in 1865; John, of Pine Township; Catherine, Mrs.
David Mortimer, of Butler County; Mary Ann, Mrs. James T. Graham,
of Pine Township; Lucinda Jane, Mrs. Lemon Mortimer, Clarion County;
Thomas; Jackson, on the homestead; Elizabeth, Mrs. Robert McBride, Pine
Township; William, of Bradford, and James, of Grove City. Our subject
was born in Pine Township in 1835, and was educated at the common schools.
In 1861 he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Third Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and served until the close of the war, receiving wounds
at the battles of Fair Oaks and Kingston, N. C. After the close of the
war he returned and worked at stone masonry for a number of years; fol-
lowed the oil excitement through various counties of the State, and for the
last seven years has been engaged in conducting his farm and working at his
trade. In 1880 he was married to S. Angie Thomas, daughter of Lewis
Thomas, of Westmoreland County, Penn. They have one child — Lewis Earl.
Our subject is a member of Marion Craig Post No. 325, G. A. R., and the
A. O. U. W. He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church.
Prof. J. B. McClelland, Grove City, Penn., was born February 28, 1853,
in Findley Township, this county. His parents are James and Janet (Brown)
McClelland, natives of Ireland, who immigrated to America about 1848, and
settled on a farm in Findley Township, where they still reside. Their family
consists of Alexander, of New Wilmington; David, a carpenter of Pittsburgh;
Robert and Wilson, living on the homestead; Mary, who married C. J. Craw-
1034
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
ford, register and recorder of Venango County; Annie, living at home, and
our subject, who is the eldest, and received a common school education, and
graduated from Westminster College at New Wilmington in 1878. In 1884
he received the degree of A. M. in Allegheny College, and in the same year
was offered the chair of Grreek in Westminster College of New Wilmington,
which he refused to accept. He also graduated from the United Presbyterian
Theological Seminary of Allegheny in March, 1887 ; was licensed by Butler
United Presbyterian Presbytery September 14, 1886, and ordained sine titulo
by same presbytery September 18, 1888. In 1878 Prof. McClelland became
connected with the Grove City College, and has since held the chair of Greek
in that institution. For three sessions he has had full charge of the college,
and is its head in the absence of Dr. Ketler. In 1880 our subject married
Miss Melissa, daughter of James and Margaret Montgomery, of Findley
Township. By this union they have three children: Mont Waldo, James
Homer and Margaret Janet.
J. A. McCutchen, merchant tailor. Grove City, is a son of William and
Lettice (Watt) McCutchen. Henry McCutchen, grandfather of our subject,
was a native of Ireland, and came to America about 1804 and settled in this
township near Shaw’s mills, being a blacksmith by trade. The father of sub-
ject was born at that place in 1818, and always followed blacksmithing. He
died in 1849 and his widow in 1850. Two of their children still live: William
P., of Titusville, Penn., and our subject, who was born on the homestead
near Mercer in 1847, and educated at the schools of that period, and the select
schools of this borough, and is a graduate of Eastman’s Commercial College of
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. After finishing his education he learned the painter’s
trade, which he followed for many years. In 1886 he engaged in mercantile
business in Grove City. In 1868 he married Mary E. Grace, daughter of
Aaron Grace, of Worth Township. They have eight children: Effie M. , Liz-
zie M. , Hattie R. , Sarah E., Vera Grace, William J. , Fred. H. and Charlie.
Mr. McCutchen has held the offices of auditor and school director of tbe
borough, and was elected justice of the peace in 1886, which office he still
holds. He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church.
W. J. McKay, farmer, post-office Grove City, was born in Hamburg,
Delaware Township, Mercer Co., Penn., September 15, 1838, to William and
Eliza (Lenigan) McKay, both of whom were natives of Ireland. The parents
had eight children, seven of whom are living, and are mentioned in the his-
tory of the family in Findley Township. The father and mother were both
members of the Springfield United Presbyterian Church, of which he had been
an elder for several years preceding his death. Our subject attended the
country schools as much as possible after attending to his farm duties. At the
breaking out of the war he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-
ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and remained in service until the sec-
ond battle of Vicksburg, where he was wounded and discharged. Returning
home he resumed farming, and was married in 1866 to Eliza S. McCleary,
daughter of Samuel and Mary A. (Kerr) McCleary, natives of Lawrence
County, where they still live. By this marriage he has two children: Ida M.
and Lester M. In 1884 he was elected county treasurer by the Republican
party, of which he has always been an active member.
A. B. McKay, manufacturer of carriages. Grove City, is the second son
of William McKay, and was born at Pardoe, this county, in 1844, where he
was reared, and in 1867 he engaged in his present avocation at Pardoe, and
continued for nine years. In 1876 he removed to Grove City, and established
his extensive business, and employs sixteen men, and manufactures about 300
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1035
wagons per year. February 27, 1864, he enlisted in Company H, One Hun-
dredth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war.
He married in 1870 Miss Annie M. Paxton, daughter of Thomas Paxton, of
Pardoe, and has two children, William S. and Stella M. Mr. McKay was a
member of the first council of Grove City, and was burgess in 1879. He is a
member of Marion Craig Post No. 325, G. A. R., and of the R. T. of T. He
and family are members of the United Presbyterian Church, and he is a Re-
publican.
John McWilliams, retired, post-office Grove City. Is a son of Robert
and Hannah (Wilkey) McWilliams. His father was a native of Ireland, and
first settled in this State in that portion of Beaver County which is now Law-
rence County. His wife was a native of Chester County, Penn. In 1838
they moved into this county and located near Mercer, in what is now Findley
Township, and engaged in farming. He was drafted in the War of 1812, but
failed to pass the examination. Their family consisted of nine children, five
of whom still live: Dorcas, Mrs. John Boyd, of Butler County; Elizabeth.
Mrs. George Morrow, of Armstrong County; Hannah, Mrs. Edward Elder, of
Lawrence County; Alexander, of Liberty Township, and our subject,
who was born in Beaver County in 1824, and was engaged in farming until
1884, when he retired and moved into Grove City. In 1848 he married Miss
Margaret J. Albin, daughter of William and Martha (Walker) Albin, of Find-
ley Township. She died in 1883, leaving eight living children: Martha, Mrs.
Robert McCune, of Pine Township; Robert, of Illinois; Sarah, Mrs. John T.
McConnell, of Pine Township; Almira, Mrs. William G. Hays, of Crawford
County; John, of Chicago; Seymour, of Illinois; Edward, of Chicago; Anna,
living at home. Subject’s present Wife was Mrs. Richard Smith, daughter
of Robert Kile. He and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church of Grove City. Note. — Since the above was written John McWill-
iams has died, leaving a large circle of friends to mourn the loss of a most
worthy and respected citizen.
M. W. Mooee was born May 17, 1854, near New Alexandria, Westmore-
land County, Penn., was the youngest son of John and Margaret Moore. His
father died at the age of seventy-two years. His mother is still living.
In infancy his left leg was partially paralyzed, in consequence of which
he was destined to be a cripple for life, and began his walk through the
world with crutch and cane, both of which were his inseparable com-
panions until about a year ago, when he discarded his friend crutch,
and now walks by the assistance of a steel brace on his paralyzed leg,
the work of an ingenious ai’tificial limb manufacturer, of Pittsburgh,
Penn. Mr. Moore attended public school near Saltsburg, Indiana County,
and in Kittanning, Armstrong Co., Penn,, until sixteen years old, when
he entered the office of the Kittanning Sentinel, where he learned the
“art preservative.” After serving three years he began the career of a jour-
neyman printer on the Oilman’s Journal, at Parker’s Landing, Penn., and
acted as foreman on many other papers in the State. He has had a large and
varied experience in the journalistic line, as his education has been chiefly that
of the newspaper office. On September 8, 1884, he married Mrs. Maggie C.
Black, daughter of B. McDowell, of Grove City, Penn., and moved to Sandy
Lake, where he opened a job office, which was carried on quite successfully for
about a year, when the opportunity offering he purchased the interest of Mr.
A. C. Ray in the Grove City Telephone, December 1, 1885, moving to this
place, where he has been successfully engaged in the newspaper business ever
since. Mr. Moore is a sober, industrious citizen, a genial Christian gentle-
1036
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
roan, especially esteemed for Iris social qualities. He has made for himself a
host of friends, who all rejoice in his deserved prosperity.
M. J. Montgomeey, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of James C.
and Nancy (Irwin) Montgomery, of Wolf Creek Township, was born in
that township in 1840, receiving his education at the public schools, and in
1860 ho engaged in oil operations, which he followed for four years. In
1864 he moved with his parents to Wolf Creek Township, and farmed for his
father until 1866, when he was married to Nancy Kerr, daughter of Thomas
and Jane (McKee) Kerr, of this Township. They have four children: James
Luther, Jennie, Edna and Thomas. Our subject removed to his present
farm in 1867, and has held the office of school director, supervisor, etc. , of the
township, and he and family are members of the United Presbyterian Church
of Grove City. He has been an elder of said church for the past ten years.
John C. Montgomery, farmer, post-office Harrisville, Butler Co., Penn.,
is the second son of James C. and Nancy (Irwin) Montgomery, of Wolf
Creek Township, and was born in that township in 1843. He received his
education at the public schools, and has always been engaged in farming. In
1869 he married Miss Emeline Coleman, daughter of Samuel and Mary Ann
(Patterson) Coleman, of Wolf Creek Township. They have four children:
Mary A., Jessie A., Estella V. and an infant. In 1870 he purchased his present
farm, and has since been a resident of Pine Township. He and family are
members of the Presbyterian Church in Venango County, of which he is
a trustee.
D. M. Morrow, postmaster of Grove City, Penn., is a son of Jesse and E.
A. (Swogger) Morrow, natives of Lawrence County, who settled in Lackawan-
nock Township, in this county, in 1854, and engaged in farming. They still
reside there, and have a family of six children: Wealthie J., Preston W.,
Levenia E., Nicholas H. , John A. W., of Oil City, and our subject, who is
the second child, and was born in Lawrence County March 19, 1851, and
reared and educated at the public schools of this county. In 1869 he learned
the carriage-making trade, which he followed for a number of years, and in
1876 moved to this borough. In 1878 he and his brother, P. W., associated
themselves with Mr. McKay, and engaged in the manufacture of carriages,
under the firm name of McKay, Morrow & Co. In 1881 Mr. McKay retired
from the firm, and J. A. W. , the other brother, took an interest, and the
name was changed to Morrow Bros. This firm continued until 1887,
when they dissolved. October 1, 1885, our subject took charge of the post-
office of this place, it being a fourth-class office, and was raised to a third-
class office October 1, 1887, he being appointed postmaster by President
Cleveland. In 1877 he married Jessie, daughter of J. H. Black, of this
town. They have five children: Claudius H., Leon J., Jesse E., Austin D.,
Jennie M. Our subject was a member of the first council of this borough, a
member of Eureka Lodge No. 60, A. O. U. W., and of the R. T. of T., Grove
City Council No. 56. He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church
of Grove City.
T. W. Ore, professor in the public schools of Grove City, is a son of John
and Annie (Squibb) Orr, natives of Westmoreland County, where our subject
was born in 1863. He received his education at Edinboro Normal, in Erie
County, Penn. , and has since been engaged in teaching, having had charge of
schools in Erie, Crawford, Allegheny, Clarion and Mercer Counties. In 1883
he took charge of the public schools of Grove City, and by his efforts it now
ranks as one of the best schools in the county. In 1876 he married Miss
Kate Munn, daughter of Dougald Munn, of Pittsburgh. They have three
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1037
children: Alexander Mnnn, Anna Isabella and Mary Elizabeth. Prof. On-
leads the choir of the United Presbyterian Church, of which he and his family
are attendants.
Francis Ramsey, farmer, post- office Grove City, is a son of Francis and
Martha (Boyd) Ramsey, natives of Ireland, who emigrated from County Antrim,
in 1830, and located on the farm which is now owned by our subject. They
engaged in farming, and brought with them seven children; Mary, married
Joseph Nutt, of Venango County, and is dead; Robert, married Mary
Cummins and is a resident of Springfield Township, this county; Thomas,
died in 1854, was a soldier in the Mexican War under Gen. Price; Matilda,
married Samuel McCutchen, of Pittsburgh, and died in 1883; Elizabeth, mar-
ried James Buchanan and lives in Pine Township; Sarah, married Robert
Barr, of Allegheny. The parents of our subject both died in 1859. Our sub-
ject was the youngest of his father’s family, was born in 1825 and has been
extensively engaged in lumbering and farming. October 9, 1851, he was
married to Jane D. Cochran, daughter of Charles and Ruth (Johnson) Coch-
ran, of Butler County. By this union they have eight children : Charles C. ,
married Lovina M. Wilson and has two children, Luther F. and Flora M. ; R.
T., a farmer of this township, who married Julia A. Richmond and has two
children, Mabel L. and D. Alford; Martha, married William C. Work, of
Crawford County, and has one child, Frances R. ; Mary E. , married L. F.
McCoy, of Wolf Creek Township, and has one child, Jennie U. ; Cole J.,
Sadie R., David J. and Luella M. Mr. Ramsey and family belong to the
United Presbyterian Church of Scotch Hill.
G. W. Stevenson, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of Charles and
Ann (Miller) Stevenson. Richard Stevenson, the grandfather of our subject,
was a native of Ireland, immigrated to America some time previous to 1788 and
settled in Franklin County, Penn. , where the father of G. W. was born, and
in 1800 they moved into this county and located in that part of Wolf Creek
Township which is now Liberty. His family consisted of two sons and three
daughters, all of whom are dead. The father of subject was born in 1790, and
was a soldier in the War of 1812. He afterward moved to this township and
settled on a tract of land on which our subject now lives. He died there in
1851 and his wife in 1882. Five of their children still live, and are William
J. , of New Castle, Lawrence County ; Charles M. , of North Liberty; Nancy R. ,
Mrs. William Winchester, Grand Rapids, Mich.; Mary M. , Mrs. Joseph
Gregg, of this township, and our subject, who was born in Liberty Township
in 1829, and moved into this township with his parents, where he learned the
carpenter’s trade, which he followed for several years. In 1880 he was mar-
ried to Lucina, daughter of William George, of Liberty Township. She died
in 1885, leaving no children. The present wife of subject was Maggie, a
daughter of John Mechlin, of Butler County. Mr. Stevenson has held the
office of school director, and he and wife are members of the Centre Presbyte-
rian Church of this township.
John N. White, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of George W. and
Susan (Wallace) White. Alexander White, the great-grandfather of our sub-
ject, was a native of Ireland, immigrated from County Down in 1750, and
finally settled on Turtle Creek, at Braddock’ s Fields. In 1774 he married Rachel
Henderson, daughter of Rev. Matthew Henderson, of Revolutionary fame.
John White, grandfather of our subject, was their oldest son, and in 1798 his
father sent him to this county to locate land for him. He took up the claim
of one McGuffin, which embodied the farms now owned by O. P. McCoy, W.
A. Young and James Simpson, and agreed to clear the tract for one-half
61
1038
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
interest. He married, in 1799, Margaret Query, daughter of Charles Query, a
Revolutionary soldier, and he and his father’s family lived on that claim for
several years. Owing to the necessity of more land for his growing family,
John bought a separate claim, which contained 400 acres, in the same neigh-
borhood. This place he made his home and reared his family, which consisted
of Rachel, JohnB. , James, Jane, Elizabeth, Samuel, George W. , Hiram C.
and Henderson. The father of our subject was born on this homestead in
1812, and learned the trade of a stone-mason, which he worked at for many
years in connection with farming. He was killed by the cars at the crossing
of the Shenango & Allegheny Railroad, near his home in 1882. His wife
died in 1872. They had Mary A., Mrs. V. Z. Ball, of Sherwin, Kas. ; Maggie
A.; Ella J. , Mrs. Rev. J. E. Roberts, of Kansas; Susan, Mrs. Ezra Koonce,
of Venango County; Narcissa A., the famous temperance lecturer; Dr. Maria,
a missionary in India. John N. was born on the homestead which he now owns
in 1840, and received his principal education at the Grove City Academy,
being one of the first students of that institution. He engaged in teaching for
twelve years in Salem, Westmoreland County, Lawrence and Armstrong
Counties. Finding this work too confining he returned to the farm, and has
since been engaged in fruit raising and bee culture. In 1868 he married Mary
J., daughter of Josiah S. Stevenson, of Lawrence County. They have five
children: Annie A., John Wilber, George S., Sarah N. , Arthur C. Mr.
White was one of the original members of the Prohibition party in this county,
and has always been prominently identified with it, having held the office
of county committeeman for ten years. For five years he was one of the
trustees of Grove City College. He and family are members of the Presby-
terian Church of Grove City.
G. W. White, farmer, post-office Grove City, is a son of James and Eliza-
beth (McClintock) White. The first of the family to settle in this county was
John White, a native of Ireland, who settled in this township some time pre-
vious to 1800, and engaged in farming. His family consisted of nine children:
John, James, Samuel, G.W., H. C. , Henderson, Rachel, Jane, Elizabeth, all of
whom are dead, except Hiram, who lives at Mercer. The father of our subject
was born in this township in 1800, and learned the trade of a stone-mason,
which he followed in connection with farming. He died in 1852 and his
wife in 1804. They had six children, Margaret, Mrs. John Dougherty, of
this township, being the only one living except our subject, who was born on
the old homestead, which he now owns, in 1837, and was educated at the
district schools, and has followed the occupation of a farmer. In 1861
he enlisted in Company H, Seventy- eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and
served three years. He was maruied in 1869 to Margaret Donaldson, daugh-
ter of John and Mary (Reed) Donaldson, of this township. They have five
children: Elizabeth, Mary, Minnie, Leroy and Harry. Our subject is school
director at the present time. He is a member of Marion Craig Post No. 325,
G. A. R. , and he and family are members of the United Presbyterian Church
of Scotch Hill.
William A. Young, proprietor of Grove City Tannery, and dealer in har-
ness, etc., is a son of Robert and Mary (Adams) Young, natives of Beaver
County, Penn., who came to this county in 1835 and located in what is now
Findley Township, where the father died about two years afterward, and the
mother died at Washington, Iowa, in 1878. They had six children, all of
whom are dead except Margerie (Mrs. John Wilson), of Kansas, and our sub-
ject, who was born in Beaver County in 1832, and was reared and received his
education in this county. At the age of eighteen years he entered the tannery
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1039
of Robert Reynolds at New Castle and served an apprenticeship, and has
since been engag'ed in that business. In 1853 he located in Pine Grrove and
purchased the tannery, which was established by James Tilball, which he has
since operated, and in 1881 he and his son. Will V., established their
present harness business. In 1853 he married Miss Clara A. Vescelius, of
Seneca County, N. Y. They have six children: Alsameda, Mrs. Wilson
Moon, one child, Clara; Ernest L., of Cowley County, Kas. ; WillV. , Sey-
mour R. , Mathew A. , of California, and Robert D. , printer, of Mercer. Our
subject has held the office of school director and is a member of the borough
council. He was one of the organizers of the Grove City College, and
has been a trustee of the same since its erection. He and family are members
of the Presbyterian Church. Ernest L. Young married Eva Mason, of Iowa,
and has two children, Clara and Alice; Will V. married Clara Bell, of this
county, and has two children, Mabel and Eva; Seymour R. Young married
Ella Struthers, of Grove City.
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP.
D. F. Courtney, farmer, post-office North Liberty, is a son of Thomas and
Catharine (McDowell) Courtney. The father was born in Chester County,
Penn. , and came to this county about 18 10, purchasing a farm now occupied by
our subject at the land office in Philadelphia. The mother was a native of this
county. They were always engaged in farming, and he was in the War of
1812, and held the commission of captain of his company. His first wife was
Ester Robinson, of Centre County, Penn. Two children by that union are
still living: Thomas, of Findley Township, and Rebecca, Mrs. David
Gilson, of London. His second wife was Catherine McDowell; they
had five children: Sarah, died when young; Nancy, Mrs. Hugh Miller,
of Findley Township; Catherine, Mrs. Alexander McCoy, of Erie County,
Penn. ; Amanda, widow of James Uber, of this township; and our subject, who
was born on the homestead August 1, 1822, and has always been engaged in
farming. His wife was Jane, daughter of Ephraim and Annie (Albin) Cole-
man, of this county. They have seven children: Dewitt G. , of Grove City;
Nancy R., Mrs. Curtis Uber, of Butler County, and has one child, Dewitt;
Mary C. , Amanda L., Samuel P., Thomas E. and Bertie J. , all at home. Our
subject and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Grove
City.
W. H. Dight, county commissioner, was born April 14, 1839, in Cool
Spring Township; is the son of Richard Dight, who was born in Philadelphia
and came to this county when twenty-five years of age, with his parents, John
and Margaret Dight. Their children were John, Martha, William, Richard
and Ann. They bought a part of the old Stokely farm, on which John Dight
died, and was buried in the new grave-yard at Mercer. His wife and sons,
John and William, were also buried in this cemetery. Richard married Ma-
tilda Downs, a daughter of Isaac Downs, and an early settler of Mercer County.
The children of Richard and Matilda were Sarah, married Hugh Wallace;
Mary, married John Greenlee; Jane, W. H. , Isaac L., John M. , a minister of
the United Presbyterian Church; Charlotte, married Charles Nunemaker;
Anna, married E. W. Graham; Matilda and Margaret, died young. Richard
Dight followed farming and stone -masonry. He was a Methodist, while his
wife was a United Presbyterian. Our subject attended the old Stokely School,
and when nineteen years of age learned the trade of a brick-mason, which he
has followed the greater portion of his life. He was married to Sarah A.
Shearer March 1, 1859. She is a native of Crawford County, and has blessed him
1040
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
with Melvin J. , married Maggie Pizor; Dawson, married Lizzie Pizor,a daughter
of William and Harriet (Kodgers) Pizor; Isaac L., Maggie L., Minnie J., Sa-
die, Ella, Oloa, John and Ines. Mr. Dight enlisted in 1862 in Company
A, One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served
three years, and was wounded at Cold Harbor. He has been justice of the
peace fifteen years; was commander of Company F, Fifteenth Pennsylvania
National Guard, and promoted to major. Has been school director; is a mem-
ber of Centreville Post No. 305, G. A. K. He and wife are Presbyterians at
North Liberty, and he is a Republican, and by that party was elected county
commissioner in 1887.
J. D. Kiekpateick, farmer, post-office North Liberty, is a son of Dr. George
and Sarah (DeWolf) Kirkpatrick. The father was born in Washington
County, Penn. , September 14, 1791. He received a common-school education, and
his professional education at Darlington and Cannonsbui'g, Washington County,
reading medicine under the celebrated Barney Dustan. In 1816 he located near
Moor’s Crossing in Butler County and began the practice of medicine. After-
ward he moved to Harlansburg and remained two and one-half years, and
about 1836 pixrchased the farm now occupied by our subject, where he resided
the rest of his life. He was a member of one of the military companies of that
period and served as assistant surgeon in the War of 1812. He died in 1847.
His death was hastened by an injury which he received by his horse falling.
His widow died in 1875. Our subject was their only child, and was born in
Butler County November 18, 1828 ; received his education at the public schools,
and read medicine with his father for a number of years. The death of his
father caused him to turn his attention to farming, which he has since fol-
lowed, and for the last twenty years has been engaged in handling heavy ma-
chinery in connection with that occupation. He bought and used the first
steam engine for farm use only in Mercer Cbunty. He was instrumental in
procuring the right of way for the branch of the West Pennsylvania & She-
nango Railroad from Butler to Branchton, and has been engaged with that
company for the past five years. In 1850 he married Mary, daughter of George
and Mary (Holmes) Wilson, of Jackson Township. She died January 10,
1853, leaving two children: George W. , who is engaged in the manufacture of
grain drills at Massendon, N. Y. , and married Mrs. HofPman, of that place,
and have one child, Lyman Bickford; John Sheldon Kirkpatrick, living in
Iowa, unmarried. Our subject married his present wife, Annie, daughter of
Thomas and Sarah (McNight) Taylor, June 1, 1854. Her parents were na-
tives of Ireland, who first settled in Philadelphia and afterward located in this
township. By this union he has six living children: Sarah Jane, Mrs. Dr.
Robert M. Hope, of Mercer; Mary W., Mrs. T. S. Uber, of this township, who
has four children: Bertha, Clarence, Annie and Edna; Thomas T. , station
agent on the S. & A. Railroad, Grove City, married Hortense, daughter of Alex-
ander and Lydia Hanna, of this township, one child, Fred; Edward H. , living
on a part of the homestead, married Laura, daughter of James Thorp, of this
township, one child, infant; Charles S., of Greensburg, Penn., telegraph oper-
ator on the Pennsylvania Railroad, and Joseph R. , stenographer, Rochester,
N. Y. Mr. Kirkpatrick has been connected with the State Agricultural So-
ciety for many years, and vice-president of that organization for the past fif-
teen years. He is a prominent Mason, being one of the oldest members of that
society in Mercer County, belonging to Hebron Lodge of Mercer No. 251 . He
and family are members of the Presbyterian Church of North Liberty.
Jacob Snydee, deceased, was a son of Jacob, Sr., and Eva (George)
Snyder, natives of Westmoreland County, who settled in what is now
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1041
Liberty Township, this county, about 3806, patenting a tract of land.
They reared a family of thirteen children, only three of whom are still
living: David, lives near Hamburg; Soloman, of Sharon, and Michael, in But-
ler County. The father of our subject was in the War of 1812. He died in
1837. Our subject was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., March 24, 1824,
and was brought to this county when two years of age. Attended the school
of that period, and learned the blacksmith’s trade, which his health did not
permit him to follow. He married Anna E. Myers, daughter of Peter and
Mary (Grove) Myers, of French Creek Township, this county, settled at North
Liberty, and engaged in the drover business, which he followed until within a
few years of his death. About 1843 he established a general mercantile busi-
ness, and continued it for fourteen years. In his younger days he was connected
with the German Lutheran Church, but afterward joined the Presbyterian
Church of North Liberty. He was always identified with the Republican
party until a few years prior to his decease, when he voted the Prohibition
ticket. Mr. Snyder had no children, and died March 27, 1887. The cause
of his death was a general breaking down of the system, caused by injuries
received by being thrown from his carriage by a runaway horse a few years
prior to his death. His widow still lives on the old homestead, and is a strong
advocate of temperance, and a member of the Presbyterian Church at North
Liberty.
William Smith was the first of the Smith family to settle in this county.
He was a native of York County, Penn. , and moved into this county about
1800, and located on a tract of land in Liberty Township, which is now occu-
pied by his grandson. His wife was Margaret Gilmer, and their family con-
sisted of five children, only one of whom is living, James W. , of French Creek
Township. AVilliam W. Smith was their third son, and was born on the home-
stead in 1802, and was always engaged in farming. His first wife was Catherine
Black; she died in 1847, leaving eight children, five of whom are living and
three dead: Robert G., was a member of the One Hundred and Fortieth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, served until the close of the war, and died in 1886;
Elizabeth, married John Craig, of Pine Township, and she and Joseph T. have
since died. The five living are: Margaret, a maiden lady; Mary Ann, Mrs.
Harrison McCoy, Grove City; Kezia, Mrs. John H. Lees, of Lackawannock
Township; James M., and William A., farmer. Grove City post-office, is the
eldest son, and was born on the homestead March 12, 1838; received his edu-
cation at the schools of the township, and has always been engaged in farming.
September 17, 1861, he enlisted in Company H, Seventy-eighth Regiment
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until November 7, 1864, and was
with Gen. Sherman in his march through Georgia. In 1881 he married Sarah
Ella, daughter of James and Penelope (Long) McElwain, of Sandy Lake, and
has two children: Harry and Nellie C. He has served the township as consta-
ble for two terms, and has been assessor, etc. He and family are members of
Harmony United Presbyterian Church. The second wife of William W. Smith
was Mary McCoy, and by this union they had one son, John T. , farmer. Grove
City post-office, and was born on the homestead in 1851, received his educa-
tion at the schools of that period, and. has since been engaged in farming; was
married in 1879 to Miss Lizzie Redmond, daughter of H. H. Redmond, of this
township. No children. He and wife are members of Harmony United Pres-
byterian Church of Butler County, he being trustee of the church.
Michael R. User, farmer, post-office London, was born August 27, 1810, on
the farm where he has since lived. His parents were Michael and Magdaline
Uber, natives of W estmoreland County, Penn. , and who settled on the farm now
1042
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
occupied by our subject in 1798, and lived there until their death. His wife
preceding him, he was re-married to Magdaline Hearly. By his first wife he
had three children; Polly, Elizabeth, IVSchael R. , all died young. By his sec-
ond wife he had six children ; two died when young, and the others were Mary,
Sarah, Hannah and our subject, who was educated at home and in the log
school-houses of his early days. Our subject was married in 1830 to Magdaline
Kumer, who died April 3, 1883. Their children are George, of Springfield
Township; Daniel, deceased; Elizabeth, Mrs. Wallace Breckenridge, of Spring-
field Township; Magdaline, Mrs. Alex. McWilliams, of Liberty Township;
Catherine, Mrs. C. C. Winder, of Liberty Township; Jacob, Peter, John,
Cyrus, Andrew, all of Liberty Township; Michael, of Crawford County, and
Sarah, of Grove City. Our subject owns 290 acres of the old homestead. He
votes the Democratic ticket, and was school director of the township for many
years. In his early days he went to church bare-footed, and has been a mem-
ber of the German Reformed Church since he was twenty-one years of age,
holding church offices all of his life until he became too old.
Mrs. Amanda M. User, farmer, post-office North Liberty, was a daughter of
Thomas and Catherine (McDowell) Courtney, of this Township. In 1849 she
married James Uber, a son of Daniel and Rebecca (Denniston) Tiber, of this
township, who was born in 1825, and was always engaged in farming. In 1850
they moved to the present farm now occupied by our subject, where he died
in 1886, leaving six children. He held offices of school director, etc., and
was a member of the Presbyterian Church of North Liberty. His children
are: Curtis C., who lives in Butler County, married Nancy R., daughter of
D. F. Courtney, of this township, and has one child, Dewitt; Cassius A., mar-
ried Ida M., daughter of Nathaniel C. and Luoinda (Rogers) Cooper, of this
township, and lives in Grove City ; they have one child, Charles E. ; Thomas
S., married Mary W. Kirkpatrick, daughter of J. D. Kirkpatrick, of this town-
ship; he lives on part of the homestead and has four children: Mary A.,
Clarence S., Annie T. and Edna; Daniel W., married Sarah M. , daughter of
Jesse Smith, of Leesburgh; they live in this township, and have one child,
James E. ; Jennie A., Mrs. John Barber, of Lawrence County, one child,
James H. ; Clyde, living at home. The second daughter of our subject was
Catherine R., who married Robert L. McMillan. She died in 1879, leaving
one son, James U.,who lives with our subject. Since the death of her husband
Mrs, Uber has carried on the business of the farm. She is a member of the
Presbyterian Church of North Liberty.
HISTOBY OF MEBCEB COUNTY.
1043
t
CHAPTER XXXIX.
BIOGll.YPHIES OF SANDY LAKE, WORTH, MILL CREEK AND FRENCH
CREEK.
SANDY LAKE TOWNSHIP.
Hugh BAIRD, farmer, post office Sandy Lake, was born December 27
1815, in Venango County, Penn. His father, Thomas Baird, and Judge
Thomas McKee were among the early settlers in Clinton Township, that
county. Judge McKee owned the land where Clintonville now stands. John
Baird, the grandfather of our subject, was a native of Franklin County, Penn.,
and was the father of seven children: Thomas, John, Hugh and four daughters.
Thomas Baird married Martha, a sister of Judge McKee, and died in Venango
County. He and his wife were buried on the old homestead, and recently their
bodies were removed to the Clintonville cemetery. They had eight children:
Susan, married John Van Dyke; John; Mary; Elizabeth, married Dr. John Coul-
ter; William, Thomas, Hugh and Matilda, married Gibson Vincent. Our subject
was educated in the common schools and was brought up on a farm. He was
employed by William Cross, who was the owner of three furnaces and a store.
He collected, bought grain and clerked in the store for him. He was married
November 22, 1847, to Margaret Jones, a native of Philadelphia, and who
came to Jackson Township, this county, many years ago. Mr. Baird had by
her three children: Martha, who married Hugh McCullough, and died leaving
four children, Ella, Margaret, Edward and Marshall; Mary, married E. P.
Thorn, and Matilda, who is still at home. He is ex-past-master of the A. F. M. ,
is an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Mt. Pleasant, of which his wife is
also a member. He is a Democrat, the possessor of a good farm, which he
rents, and lives in a little cottage just outside of the limits of Sandy Lake
Borough .
T. S. Bailey, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born on the farm where
he now resides June 29, 1846. His parents, E. W. and Susan (Barber) Bai-
ley, were natives, the father of Connecticut and the mother of Lawrence Coun-
ty, Penn. The father came to this county about the year 1825 with his parents,
Theodore and Lorain (Watson) Bailey, and the family settled on the farm
spoken of above, where Theodore died in 1844, and his widow in 1854. They
had nine children: Myron, Homer, Theodore, Moses, Desire, Lorain, Free-
love, Lois and Harriet. They were members of the Presbyterian Church.
The father of our subject was educated in the common schools, was brought
up at farm labor, and died in 1866. His widow is living, and blessed him
with three children: T. S., Mary (married to Charles Powers) and Angeline
(who died at the age of fourteen years). The father took an active interest in
the Republican party. T. S. Bailey received a common-school education, and
was married in 1872 to Maggie, daughter of ex- Sheriff W. S. Eberman, by
whom he has two children: Fred and Donald. His wife died in 1880, and he
was again married, to Melissa Patterson, daughter of William Patterson, of
Allegheny City, by whom he has one child, James. Mr. Bailey settled at his
marriage on the old homestead, and is the owner of 130 acres of the same.
He is a stanch Republican, and he and wife belong to the Presbyterian
Church.
1044
HISTOllY Oi’ MERCEK COUNTY.
Henry B. Bailey, coal operator, Sandy Lake, was born June 1, 1842, in
Mahoning County, Ohio, to Bariah and Anna B. (Kincaid) Bailey, natives of
the same State, and the parents of Horace (killed at Pittsburgh Landing,
was a member of Company C, Nineteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry), James
G. (lives in Ohio, and is in partnership with our subject), Henry B-. ,
William, Lydia A. (married Warren Van Fleet) and Hiram R. The parents
were members of the Disciples Church. Henry received a common-school edu-
cation in Austintown Township, Mahoning Co., Ohio. He enlisted in Com-
pany A, One Hundred and Fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served three
years. He was wonnded in the right arm at the battle of Chaplin Hills, Ky. ,
and was with his regiment in all of the battles. On his return from the war
he resumed mining in the vicinity of Sandy Lake. He and his brother, James
G. , opened the present Bailey Mines in 1876, and employ from ten to twelve
men during the busy season. He was married September 11, 1872, to Miss
Jennie, daughter of John and Margaret Patterson, of Venango County, Penn.,
by whom he has four children: John D. , Anna B. , Edna M. and an infant.
Mr. Bailey is serving as school director, and is a member of the G. A. R. of
Sandy Lake. He and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian
Church of the same place. His brothers, James, William and Horace, were
in the war, Horace and James in one company, and William and Henry
in another.
P. P. Barnes, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born October 3, 1845,
in Sandy Lake Township, to James and Elizabeth (Patterson) Barnes, natives,
the father of Mercer, and the mother of Venango County. The parents set-
tled in Sandy Lake Township at their marriage, where the father died in
1853, and his widow in 1887. They were blessed with the following children:
Elizabeth, married Albert Reagle; John, lives in Illinois; P. P., W. J., T.
H. , of Franklin, and Samuel. The mother was a member of the Covenanter
Church, and the father was a Democrat. Our subject was educated in the
common schools and has always been a farmer. He was married March 30,
1865, to Eliza M. Reagle, and has been blessed with four children: James,
Samuel, Sadie and John R. Mr. Barnes is the owner of 108 acres of land,
known as the Hunter Farm, which is one of the best in the township. He and
wife are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics he is
an earnest Democrat. He is one of the public spirited citizens who always
lends a helping hand to all enterprises that go to advance the interest and re-
tain the good name of Mercer County.
Hon. H. S. Blatt, hardware merchant, Sandy Lake, was born August 26,
1845, in French Creek Township, this county, to James and Hannah (Grove)
Blatt, natives, the father of Snyder County, Penn., and the mother of Union
County. The father came to Mercer County about the year 1835, and the
mother a few years prior. The former settled in French Creek Township
with his parents, Peter and Rachel (Beidler) Blatt, who had James, Abram,
Absolem, Daniel, Catharine and Peter, all of whom are living but Daniel, who
was killed in the battle of the Wilderness, and Peter, who died when young.
Hannah Grove came with her parents, Abraham and Elizabeth Grove, to this
county, and the parents died in Mill Creek Township, and their children
were Jacob, David, Catharine, Elizabeth, Barbara, Hannah, Rachel and
Elizabeth. James Blatt followed the trade of a carriage maker in Sandy
Lake, establishing that business there in 1852, and continued until 1866. They
had four children: Rachel, married R. S. Hogue, of Cochranton, Crawford
County; H. S., Mary C., married Albert Glenn; Isabella, married F. D. Muse.
The father, J ames Blatt, was the first burgess of Sandy Lake, and held vari-
HISTOBY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
1045
oas offices in the place. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran
Church. Our subject was educated at the common schools and at the New
Lebanon Academy. He taught one term of country school. He learned the
trade of a carriage maker, which he followed until 1871, when he engaged in
the hardware business at Sandy Lake. He carries a stock of about $12,000.
He was married in 1863 to Hannah M. McClure, daughter of James and
Hannah McClure, and has by her six children; Charles H. , James J., both in
the store with their father; Elfrida, married S. D. Parker, a grocer of New
Castle; William R., Kate and Frank. Mr. Blatt was elected to the Legisla-
ture in 1874, and served with credit. He was elected a justice of the peace at
the age of twenty-two years, and has served as school director for fifteen
years. He was burgess of Sandy Lake, and a member of the council one
term. He is a member of the A. F. M. , I. O. O. F., A. O, U. W. , K. L. H. ,
and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
In politics he is an active and enthusiastic Republican.
The Browns, of Sandy Lake. — The first to come to this county was Alexan-
der Brown, a native of Cumberland County, Penn., the time of his arrival
being about the year 1805. He settled at what was known as “The Falls ”
of Big Sandy Creek, and was the first to erect a mill in what is now Sandy
Lake Township. He was a surveyor, and surveyed a considerable portion of
Mercer County. Soon after the organization of the county he removed to
Mercer for the pnrpose of educating his children. While there he was engaged
in the mercantile business with Be van Pearson. He was the first man to card
wool in the county, which he did at Mercer, by the use of a horse-tread power.
He and Pearson dealt some in stock, and the fall of the market caused them
to fail in business at a time when they had a large amount invested in stock.
He was first married, in Cumberland County, to Mary J acobs, a native of that
county, by whom he had the following children; Eliza, married Andrew Pat-
terson; James F., Thomas J. and Alexander. James F. was a printer, and
worked a short time in Madison, Ind., and was offered a lot in the newly
laid town of Indianapolis for every day he would work on the paper at Madison.
He finally came back to his home and joined his brother, Thomas J. , in the
construction of a stone dam across the stream where the mill-dam of the
McClure brothers is now located. This was the first stone dam that was con-
structed in Mercer County. Thomas J. was born in Westmoreland County,
Penn., May 2, 1801, and came to Sandy Lake in 1805, and in 1808 removed
to Mercer. In 1818 or 1819 he was elected captain of a militia company, and
subsequently was elected captain of an artillery company. In 1821 he mar-
ried Caroline, daughter of Dr. Christopher Heydrick, and located on Sandy
Creek, near Sandy Lake, where he subsequently laid out the town of Browns-
ville. He was the first postmaster of this town. He erected woolen-
mills, flax seed oil-mills, flouring -mills, turning lathes and manufactured lum-
ber. In all of these he was assisted by his brother, James F. He was also
engaged extensively in merchandising. In 1840 he was appointed a justice of
the peace to fill a vacancy, and was elected to the same in 1845. In 1855 he
was appointed associate judge to fill a vacancy, and was elected to that office
in 1856. He was appointed justice of the peace in 1875 and elected in 1876,
and re-elected in 1881, and filled the office up to the time of his death, which
occurred in 1883. His wife died March 2, 1874, and was the mother of eight
children; Alexander F., Harriet H. , James, Charles, Christopher, Mary E.,
Benjamin F. and Albert G. Alexander, Sr., was one of the first associate
judges of this county. At a time he and three other acquaintances were cap-
tured by the Indians while on a tour down the Ohio River, where they had
1046
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
established a trading post. Two of the company were killed by the red men^
and while they were holding a consultation to determine what to do with Alex-
ander and the other, an Indian squaw agreed to take them for her husband
and adopted son. She finally helped them to get away, but they were soon
captured by another tribe, which traded them to a Scotchman, who released
them, and finally they reached home, dressed in Indian costumes. The original
Alexander Brown was married a second time, his last wife being Mary Weekly,
who bore him two children: Mary, married Alfred Norton, and Sydney, mar-
ried James Moorehead. James F. Brown, whose portrait appears in this work,
through the enterprise of his widow, was one of the respected and worthy citi-
zens of the county, and is an excellent representative of the Brown family,
which figures largely in the history of Sandy Lake.
Job Buckley, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born March 27, 1856,
on the farm where he now lives, to John and Harriet (Slater) Buckley, the
mother a native of England, and the father of Sandy Lake. They had six
children; George, of New Vernon Township; Samuel, of the same place; Job,
Alice, who married D. G. Perrine; Mary, married Cyrus Perrine, and Luke.
The father belonged to the Zion Church, and died in July, 1863, at the battle
of Gettysburg; was a member of Company B, One Hundred and Fortieth Penn-
sylvania Volunteers from Mercer County, and enlisted almost at the beginning
of the war. In politics he was a Bepublican. Our subject received his educa-
tion at the common schools, has always farmed, and owns one-half of sixty-
five acres of the old homestead. He was married in 1879 to Mary, sister of Mrs.
C. S. Wright, and by this marriage they have two children: Homer S. and
Ralph A. Mr. Buckley has been supervisor, and is a member of the Wesleyan
Methodist Episcopal Church.
C. Carver and Joseph Bower, carriage- makers, Sandy Lake, are among
the best known manufacturers of this county. Mr Carver was born in Trum-
bull County, Ohio, August 10, 1840. His parents, John and Mary (Nesbit)
Carver, were natives of Franklin County, Penn. They removed to Ohio when
they were both young. In 1843 they settled in Lackawannock Township, this
county, and subsequently the father followed his trade, that of blacksmith, at
Clarksville for about fourteen years. They then moved to West Salem Town-
ship, where the father died in 1875 and his widow in 1882. They had eleven
children born to them: James, a resident of Beaver County; Margaret, mar-
ried Jesse McQuiston; Emily, is dead; Eliza, married James Watson; Mary,
died in Erie County; Sarah, married to William Means; Calvin; Anna, married
James McMillen; Seldin, died October 9, 1888; John F. and Mirancy. Of
these, Mrs. Watson, Mrs. McMillen, Mrs. Means and Mirancy have taught
school. Mr. Carver was educated in the common schools, and began to learn
his trade when quite young. At the age of twenty-two he had completed his
trade, having learned the carriage manufacturing business with H. C. Beldon,
of Warren, Ohio. He formed a partnership under the firm name of Sisley &
Carver, at Sheakleyville, and did general blacksmithing and wagon and car-
riage-making. In 1869 he withdrew, and formed a partnership under the
firm name of Waid& Carver, at Sandy Lake, and did the same kind of work.
In 1880 he was joined by Joseph Bower in their present business. Aside
from their manufacture of buggies and wagons they sell these vehicles of
other manufactories. Mr. Carver was married September 26, 1865, to Caroline
Beatty, only daughter of David M. Beatty, of Sheakleyville, and by her has
six children: Frank B., William W., in a dry goods store at Burlington, Iowa;
Edwin F., Jesse H. , Kate I. and David M. The oldest is employed by the
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad at Burlington, Iowa. Mr. Carver is
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1047
a member of the K. of H., K. & L. of H., and he and wife belong to the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a Democrat.
Joseph Bower was born August 9, 1845, in Venango County, Penn., to
Peter and Catharine (Earhardt) Bower, the parents of four children, who
grew up: John J., Daniel, Joseph and George W. The father was married a
second time, his last wife being Elizabeth Lash, by whom he had Cyrus D.,
Mary, William A., Sarah B., Anna, Addie and Emma. Mr. Bower was edu-
cated in Cooperstown, Penn. , and began to learn his trade when young. He
finished with William Dickson, at Clarksville, began for himself in 1872, and
continued until he formed his present partnership. He was married Novem-
ber 7, 1870, to Amanda E. Seiple, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Sherr)
Seiple. She was born in Lehigh County, and has borne him two children:
Jesse A. and Frances V. He is a member of the A. O. U. W., and he and
wife belong to the Presbyterian Church. He is a Democrat in politics.
W. H. Clawson, butcher, Sandy Lake, was born January 1, 1836, in
Trumbull County, Ohio, to William and Melinda (Hummison) Clawson,
natives, the former of Virginia and the latter of Connecticut. The parents
settled in Trumbull County in 1834, and at Jackson Centre in 1843, where the
father followed the tannery and harness-making business, a part of the old
Infield Hotel constituting a portion of the tannery. Six years later he moved his
tannery a short distance eastward in the same tow'nship. His tannery having
burned down about 1863 he removed the next year to Trumbull County, Ohio,
where he farmed. Here his wife died in 1876. She was the mother of W. H. ;
Elizabeth, married John J. Giebner; Cylvia, married T. D. Mackey; A. M. ;
Charles; Luca A., married Austin Silliman; Lewis; Calvin; Melinda, married
Lester Clark; Almira, married Charles Trowbridge, and Emerson. The father
was married again, to a lady named Gates, by whom they had one child, Mina.
The father was a stanch Republican, At an early date he, Benjamia Ride and
Messrs. Harrison and Savage formed a Wesleyan Methodist organization at
Jackson Centre, and held services in a school-house, near where Mr. Vernam’s
store stands. He naturally drifted into the current of opposition to slavery,’
and because of this those in authority on the other side refused them the use
of the school-house to worship God, and Mr. Clawson tendered the use of his
dwelling for some time. W. H. Clawson was educated in the common schools,
and early learned the tanning and harness-making trades, which he followed
until the age of twenty- six. He was a partial owner of the tannery when it
was destroyed by fire. He was for four years engaged in farming and stock
raising with A. G. Egbert, and afterward removed to Sandy Lake, where he
engaged in the manufacture of harness with the same gentleman for two years.
In 1869 he purchased the old Egbert homestead in Sandy Lake Township, and
farmed the same until 1885, when he purchased the meat shop where he now
prosecutes the butcher’s business. He owns the old farm of 175 acres. He was
married to Patience Egbert, a daughter of Lewis Egbert, by whom he has two
children: A. M. and Lucy, the former married Ida, a sister of Dr. J. B. Mc-
Elrath. Mr. Clawson has been school director three terms. He is a member
of the E. M. B. A., of which he was one of the charter members. He also
belongs to the A. O. IJ. W. and P. H. C. , and he and wife are members of the
Wesleyan Methodist Church. He is a Republican, and sent a substitute,
Harvey Squires, who was killed in the defense of his country at Port Steadman
by the side of Charles Clawson. The gallant fighting of these two at this bat-
tle formed one of the most romantic episodes of the war.
De. T. M. Cooley, Sandy Lake, was born January 19, 1846, in French
Creek Township, to William and Elizabeth (Paden) Cooley. The parents were
1048
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
natives of Pittsburgh. They came to Mercer County about 1838 and settled
in French Creek Township. The father was a blacksmith, and erected a shop
on his farm of 125 acres, which he had bought soon after locating there. He
died in 1849, and his children were: Matilda, married Hugh Patton; James,
a merchant at Cochranton, Crawford County; T. M. , Robert, the chief police
officer at Texarkana. Mrs. Cooley survives. The father was married prior
to his union with Elizabeth Paden. His first wife was Matilda Paden, by
whom he had John, deceased; Jane, married Joseph Smith and is deceased;
William, lives near Meadville, Penn. ; Eleanor, married James Smith and is
deceased, and another child, who died in infancy. Dr. T. M. Cooley was
educated in the common schools at Cochranton, and at the Edinboro Normal.
He taught three terms of country school. At the age of seventeen years he
began reading medicine with Dr. Bates, of Cochranton, and later read with
Dr. Johnson at the same place. He attended the Cleveland Medical College,
where he was graduated in March, 1868, and began the practice of his pro-
fession the same year at Utica, Venango County, where he remained until
1875, when he located in Sandy Lake, forming a partnership with Dr. E. X.
Giebner, which lasted until April 1, 1888. He served one year in Company
E, One Hundred and Twelfth New York Volunteer Infantry. He was married
in 1872 to Miss Sarah A., daughter of James Dickey, of Venango County, by
whom he has had two children: Judson C., a student at the New Lebanon Acad-
emy, and Robert B. D., deceased. The doctor has been a member'of the town
council and school director. He is a member of the A. P. & A. M. , of which he
was master for four years. He belongs to the Mercer County and the State
Medical Associations, is medical director of the E. M. B. A. and was one of
the charter members of that institution. He is united to the K. L. H. , and is
a Democrat. A few years ago, while driving to see some of his patients, his
horse took fright at the train, ran away and threw his arm across the track
so that it was crushed by the cars. His escape from sudden death was a
miraculous one, and the after struggle was one that but few could have stood.
Luke Iewin Ceawfoed, editor and proprietor of the Sandy Lake News,
was born in Allegheny County, Penn. , August 3, 1834. He attended the com-
mon schools, then the old Mercer Academy in 1850, and taught a select school
in Fairview, Guernsey Co., Ohio, in 1860. He was graduated at Westminster
College July 1, 1858, studied theology at Allegheny City, was licensed to
preach April 4, 1861, by the Mercer Presbytery of the United Presbyterian
Church, and ordained June 16, 1864, by the Le Claire Presbytery. He was
pastor at Wyoming, Jones Co., Iowa, June 16, 1864-68. From January to
April, 1870, he supplied the congregation of Sandy Lake, Utica and North
Sandy, Mercer Co., Penn. He was installed July 1, 1870; resigned Utica in
1873, North Sandy July, 1874, and Sandy Lake August 12, 1879. He has
been editor of the Sandy Lake News since June 23, 1876. He was married,
October 31, 1861, to Miss M. J. Anderson, of Fairview, Guernsey Co., Ohio.
Her father, Rev. John Anderson, was born in 1791 in Ireland. When he came
to this country he identified himself with the ‘ ‘ McCoyites, ’ ’ was educated
under their auspices, and ordained about 1822 by the Reformed Dissenting
Presbytery of Ohio. He was for many years pastor of the Reformed Dissent-
ing congregation of Clear Ridge. In August, 1853, he and his congregation
united with the Second Presbytery of Ohio, Associate Reformed. He
remained its pastor until his death, September 1, 1855, when his congregation
joined the Associate Reformed, now United Presbyterian, congregation of
Fairview, Guernsey Co., Ohio, with the families of which it was intermixed.
J. L. Ceoss, furniture dealer, Sandy Lake, was born in Butler County,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1049
Penn., May 27, 1846, to Samuel and Jane (Leggett) Cross, natives, the father
of Butler and the mother of what is now Lawrence County. The parents had
but two children: J. L. and S. B. The father was married three times, his
third wife being Hannah Cornelius, a native of Mercer County, by whom he
had one child, Julia, who married John Manning. His first wife was Jane
Adams, by whom he had five children, three boys and two girls. Our subject
was educated in the common schools and one term at Prospect, Butler County.
At the age of seventeen he began to learn the trade of a cabinet-maker at
Harrisville with William P. Brown, with whom he continued for two years and
six months. In the spring of 1865 he enlisted as a private in the Seventy-
eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. Re-
turning he finished his trade with Sam Brown. In 1868 he opened a general
furniture and undertaking store at Sandy Lake, and by attention to business
and square dealing has established a paying business. He was married to
Margaret J. Sawyer, a native of Venango County, by whom he had five chil-
dren: Angus P., died at the age of eight years; Charles, died young; Ger-
trude M. , Lee B. and Jay G. Mr. Cross has been burgess of Sandy Lake
three terms, a member of the council and school director. He is a stock-
holder in the Stoueboro Fair, belongs to the K. L. H. , is a stanch Republican,
and he and wife are members of the Christian Church. He is one of the
leading citizens of Sandy Lake.
Williams. Dean, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born March 12, 1825,
in Butler County, Penn. His parents, Aaron and Leah (Steal) Dean, were natives,
the father of Maryland, and the mother of Huntingdon County, Penn. They came
to Butler County about 1800, to Mercer County about 1837, and settled in Fair-
view Township, where the mother died in 1875, and the father in 1862. Their
children were Hannah, married JohnVogan; Ellen, married Aaron Dean; Jane,
married John Allison; Jonathan, married Susan Wintz; Leah, married Martin
Wintz ; Polly, married J acob Van Meter ; William ; Aaron, married Elizabeth Mc-
Clain; Jacob, married Sarah Eckles; Isabella, married Benjamin Slater; Phoebe,
married James Riley, and Nancy, married William Van Meter. The parents
were Baptists, and the father a Republican. Our subject was educated in the
common schools and brought up at rural pursuits. He began for himself by
cleaning land by the acre at |9. He bought and paid for seventy -nine acres
in that way, in Fairview Township. He was married March 27, 1849, to Mary
Canon, of Lake Township. Her parents, Samuel and Nancy (McClure) Canon,
had seven children: Mary ; Margaret, married John McCoy; Nancy A., married
Erastus Clark; LaFayette, deceased; Elmira, married Caleb Higbey; Elvina,
married Riley Hosack; Fianes, married Elisha Bearce. Her mother is dead
and her father lives at Stoneboro. Mr. Dean settled at marriage on his Fair-
view farm, which he sold in 1856 and bought 100 acres where he now lives.
They lived for many years in a log house on this farm, and in 1878 a fine house
which they had previously built was burned while they were in Franklin on
business. This incurred a heavy loss, as everything was destroyed. With sor-
rowing hearts, but indomitable will, they set to work to rebuild, and now have
a pleasant home. They have only one son, Edward W. , who married Rebecca,
a daughter of Samuel McClelland, by whom he has had three children: William
C. , married Nettie Cutchall; Cora A. and Charles M. Aside from his farming,
Mr. Dean is eagaged in selling choice nursery stock in Mercer County, from
the well known Paynesville, Ohio, Nursery. He has served as school director
and assessor. He and his wife believe in the doctrine of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church; he is a Prohibitionist and one of the honest, upright citizens of the
country.
1050
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
William K. De France, farmer, post-oflSce Sandy Lake, was born on the
farm where he now lives, February 11, 1840, to William and Jane (Kilgore)
De France, natives of this county. The grandfather of our subject was a
Frenchman, and came to America about the time that La Fayette came here.
William De France died here in 1850, and his widow survives him at the age
of seventy-six. They had six children: Sarah A., who married A. J. Patter-
son, of Iowa; Boone, deceased; William K. ; Elizabeth, married J. D. Powell,
a contractor, residing at Sandy Lake; J. E., deceased; and H. T. , a druggist
of Johnstown, Penn. The mother is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and
the father was a Democrat. The father owned 115 acres of land, eighty-five
of which our subject now owns. William K. is a member of the Presbyterian
Church, and has been trustee for over six years. In politics he is a Democrat.
Devore & Stevenson. — W. S. Devore, of the firm of Devore & Stevenson,
general merchants, Sandy Lake, was born in Washington County, Penn. His
parents were Samuel and Mary (Sampson) Devore, who had four children, of
whom the subject only survives. After the death of his wife the father was
again married, to Miss Margaret Warner, by whom he had four children:
Taylor, is a merchant at Parkersburg, W. Va. ; Margaret, married Charles
W. Smith, who is a prominent man and politician of the same city; the other
two are dead. The father was a Whig at the time of his death, which
occurred in 1859. He was for years a justice of the peace. W. S. Devore
was educated in his native county, and at the age of fifteen years he began
clerking in a store at Pittsburgh, where he remained four years, and then was
employed by Thomas Stevenson, of Mercer, for about three years. He then
went into business at Louisville, Ky. , on a small scale. He subsequently
engaged in business at Franklin, Venango County, and later at Utica, in the
same county. He was fifteen years at the latter place, having a Mr. Nesbit as
a partner for a portion of this time. He came from Utica to Sandy Lake, and
in 1873 formed a partnership under the firm name of Devore & Stevenson,
which continues. Mr. Devore is a director and stockholder in the Sandy Lake
Banking Company, and is one of the wealthiest and most enterprising gentle-
men in Sandy Lake. He is a Republican. W. T. Stevenson, of this well-
known firm, died May 24, 1887, of erysipelas and pneumonia, after about two
weeks’ severe illness. If medical skill and careful nursing could have pro-
longed his life, he would have been spared, as he had the best of both. Mr.
Stevenson was a native of Mercer County, having been born at Mercer, Penn.,
in 1843. When a young man he worked at the printing trade in the Franklin
Spectator office, for one year, when his eye-sight failed, compelling him to
quit. Subsequently he volunteered in and served as a soldier of the Union
army during the Rebellion. After the war he engaged with his uncle, William
Devore, in the mercantile business at Cooperstown, Venango County, and
thence removed their extensive business to this town, about fifteen years ago.
Mr. Stevenson was a careful accountant, a popular salesman and successful
merchant, and liked by all for his sociability. He was married October 7,
1873, to Harriet Egbert, a native of this county. She blessed him with four
children: Sarah D., Edgar T., Mary M. and Harry, all of whom survive. The
parents of Mrs. Stevenson were James and Harriet J. Egbert, natives of this
county, and who had two children: Jane and Harriet. Her mother died
September 3, 1855, and her father went west, and Mrs. Stevenson was reared
by her grandparents, Egbert. In politics Mr. Stevenson was a pronounced
Republican. In religion he had been for many years a member and trustee of
the Methodist Episcopal Church of Sandy Lake, to which organization his
estimable widow is attached.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1051
J. N. Egbert, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born December 2, 1823,
in Sandy Lake Township. His father, Lewis Egbert, was a native of the east-
ern part of Pennsylvania, and came to this county with his father, William
Egbert. William Egbert was a shoemaker, the first in what is now Sandy
Lake Township. He was the father of the following children; Job, was a very
prominent man in his day, was for many years a jnstice of the peace, and
finally went to Kentucky, where some of his relatives still live; Clarissa, mar-
ried Charles Shields; Charlotte, married Daniel Perrine; Ursula, married
Enoch Perrine; Elizabeth, married Nathaniel Hazen, and Lewis. The family
settled on the farm in Sandy Lake Township that is owned by W. H. Clawson,
and William and his wife were consistent members of the Baptist Church.
Lewis Egbert obtained his education mostly in the old log school-houses, with
their slab seats, puncheon floors, slab writing desks and big fire-places. He was
brought up to hard labor on his father’s farm, and was married in Virginia to
Miss Aseneth Nixon, and settled on the old homestead, where he died in 1872,
and his widow died in 1880. They were the parents of the following chil-
dren: Edwin, JohnN., Albert G., Prudence, married John Lamb; Patience,
wife of W. H. Clawson, whose sketch is given elsewhere; Harriet, married
James Coleman; Thaddeus, Milton, Lewis, Aseneth, Levina, married Edward
Taft. Lewis Egbert, whose portrait appears in this work, and the father of the
children just named, was for many years a justice of the peace, and was a
director of the poor; was a Whig, a strong anti-slavery man, later a Republi-
can, and he and his consort were earnest and active members of the Wesleyan
Methodist Church. Edwin, the eldest of his children, was born February 14,
1822, was educated in the common schools, and was married in 1847 to Milcah
Grace, a native of Mercer County, and daughter of Bennett Grace, by whom
he had two children; Rufus A. and Nancy J. The former is a practicing phy-
sician at Bradford, Penn. , and the latter married Prof. J. J. Wasson. Mrs.
Egbert died in 1855, and he was again married, to Ruth S. Dorchester, born
November 2, 1835, daughter of M. C. and Nancy (Tuttle) Dorchester, natives
of Connecticut and Mercer County, respectively. Mrs. Egbert’s parents died
when she was four years of age, and she was reared by her grandparents,
Tuttle, who were early and prominent citizens of this county, they being two
of the four to form a Methodist Church in the neighborhood in which they
lived. This union has given Edwin the following children: Lillian, Lucy,
Newton, Mark, Ezra, Milo, Lizzie, Prudence, Arthur, Lewis, Edwin, Benja-
min and Chester. J. N. Egbert received a common-school education, and was
married in 1846 to Ann Fowler, and settled on the farm where he now lives,
which contains 100 acres, and was given to him by his father. He and his son
William have 300 acres of well-improved land. His union blessed him with
seven children: Elizabeth, born January 7, 1847, married R. G. Morrison;
William, born July 28, 1848, married Sarah Kelley, and has three children,
Kate, Thaddeus and Echa; Eliza, married T. Wright; Sarah; Eveline, married
Veet Porter; Aseneth, married L. L. McClelland, and Ruth, married Rev. H. H.
Wallace, of the United Presbyterian Church. J. N. Egbert has from time to
time been elected to the various township offices, and has served as a justice of
the peace, which office his son is now filling. Albert G. is a retired physician
of Franklin, and one of the most worthy citizens of that place. He is known
all over Northwestern Pennsylvania as a quiet, unostentatious man, good to the
poor, and a liberal contributor to various public enterprises. In the history
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Jackson Centre it is mentioned that
Dr. Egbert gave several thousand dollars toward the erection of the present
elegant brick edifice, and it cannot be out of place to herein mention what led
1052
HISTOBY OP MEEOEE COUNTY.
to this unsolicited and liberal contribution. When the Doctor was a small boy
he and his eldest brother, Edwin, went to a meeting to listen to the preaching of
a Rev. Murphey. On this occasion the sacrament was administered, and the rev-
erend gentlemen excluded every one who did not belong to his church. Ed-
win was an earnest Christian boy, and was deeply affected by this seemingly
unchristian act, while the future doctor treasured up a lasting impression.
Long afterward Albert attended another meeting, which was presided over by
this same Rev. Murphey. He took a seat well up to the front of the church,
and when the minister came into the church he suddenly halted just as he
reached the pulpit, and, after a few moments of solemn reflection, he said:
‘ ‘ My friends, I am going to preach a different sermon than any I have ever
preached. While coming to this pulpit I heard a voice telling me what to say,
and that this was my last sermon. I want everybody to commune with us to-
day. ” It was a glorious meeting, and proved to be the last sermon from Rev.
Murphey, for on the next day he was stricken with paralysis, and soon died.
This new church at Jackson Centre was to supplant Rev. Murphey’ s old church,
and this last liberal sermon caused Dr. Egbert to subsequently make the unso-
licited and liberal contribution of |4,444 to assist in the erection of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Jackson Centre. Thaddeus was a gradu-
ate of medicine at both the Ann Arbor and Cincinnati medical colleges, and
practiced in Oil City for nineteen years. Milton C. was graduated from the
Cleveland Medical College, and retired to Pittsburgh after many years’ prac-
tice. The Egberts are one of the most respected families of Sandy Lake
Township, and are mentioned in the historical portion of this work.
S. L. Egbert, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born September 2, 1852,
in Mercer County, to Justice and Eliza A. (Hunter) Egbert, both of whom were
born in Sandy Lake Township. He died July 12, 1880, and his widow sur-
vives him. By this marriage there were seven children: Joseph; Margaret,
married Isaac Dight, who lives near Sheakleyville; S. L. , Rhodan, Frank,
Anglice and Warren. The father was a Democrat. Our subject was educated
at the common schools, and always farmed. He was married September 5,
1878, to Jennie, daughter of Rev. William Thompson, of Lake Township, and
by this marriage they have had two children: AnnaM., born July 6, 1883,
and Joseph, born July 12, 1886. Our subject settled on a farm of 122 acres,
where he still lives. He is a member of the K. & L. H. , also of the Cumber-
land Presbyterian Church of Sandy Lake. Politically he is a Democrat.
Alexander Elder, farmer, post-office Henderson, was born September 21,
1812, in Westmoreland County, Penn., to William and Elizabeth (McManus)
Elder, natives, the father of Edinburgh, Scotland, and the mother of the State
of New Jersey. They were married in Westmoreland County, and were the
parents of eleven children, of whom our subject was the youngest. He was
educated in the common schools, and under his brother. His father taught
school for over forty years in Legonier Valley, part of the time in his own
house. He was a graduate of Edinburgh, Scotland, and was master of thir-
teen languages. The children of William and Elizabeth Elder were: Elenor,
wifeof Andrew Henderson; Elizabeth E., Mary E., Jane E., William, a Greek
and Hebrew scholar, settled in Union County, Iowa; James, also a teacher,
settled in Union County, Iowa; Joseph, a teacher and surveyor from youth to
old age, in Westmoreland County; John, married a daughter of James Major,
of Venango County, resides in Wells County, Indiana; David E. , married
Margaret Braden, of Derry Township, Westmoreland County, a farmer; Jacob
E. , married Rebecca Howell, of Fairfield Township, Legonier Valley, West-
moreland County. A. H., a son of Joseph Elder, is a graduate of West-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1053
minster College, and a United Presbyterian minister in Cleveland, Ohio.
Another of Joseph’s sons, J. G., is a physician in Fisher, 111., and the young-
est son, R. S., lives on the old homestead in Westmoreland County, Penn.
Our subject began for himself, teaching school, and taught twenty-four winter
terms, nearly all in Mercer County. He clerked three years in Venango
County, was married in 1838 to Margaret, daughter of John Carmichael, and
had nine children: Mary J. , married John Phipps, who is dead; Charlotte,
married John Wilson; Eliza, married Samuel Carroll, is dead; Sadie, married
John Carroll; John C. , married Sadie McClelland, and has three sons, Fulton,
Harry and William A.; William, married Emma, daughter of A. J. Jacobs;
Alfred, attended medical college in Cincinnati, studied medicine under Dr.
Galbraith, of Franklin, took a course at Bellevue Hospital, N. Y. , practiced in
Defiance, Ohio, some time, and is now practicing in Hubball, Neb. ; Eveline,
deceased; Edith, married John L. Jacobs. Our subject settled upon his present
farm about 1839. It was then in the woods. He began clearing and has im-
proved 115 or 120 acres, besides building a tine brick house. He has always
been a Democrat. His wife died February 17, 1888. She was a member of
the Holiness Band, or Saints of God, a society in Hendersonville, of which he
is a member. Mr. Elder has followed surveying at intervals in Mercer Coun-
ty since 1840.
Edmund Faeeah, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born December 9, 1833,
in Trumbull County, Ohio, to Isaac and Hannah (Webster) Farrah, natives, the
father of New Jersey and the mother of Massachusetts. They came to Ohio when
small. They were married in Trumbull County, Ohio, where they lived until 1838,
when they settled in Sandy Lake Township. The father died in Michigan at the
home of his son, Isaac Farrah. His father was a soldier in the Revolutionary
struggle, and served under George Washington and Mad Anthony Wayne. The
children of Isaac Farrah were: Sallie, married Henry Leonard; Abram, dead;
Webster, lives in Ohio; Isaac, Hazzard, Edwin and jSdmund, twins; Hannah,
married John McEnallen. Our subject was educated in the common schools,
and has always been a farmer. He was married in 1855 to Eliza DeFrance,
by whom he has five children: Mary, married A. T. McElwain; Jefferson, at
present treasurer of Stark County, D. T. ; Clara, married George Beggs; Jessie
M. and Nannie, a teacher. Mr. Farrah is a stockholder of the Stoneboro
Fair. He has takgn an active interest in the Democratic party. Mrs. Farrah
was born August 29, 1833. in Mill Creek Township, to John and Mary (Dai-
ley) DeFrance, the former of whom was a native of France. The Daileys
were of Irish descent, and served in the Revolutionary War under Anthony
Wayne. The first to come to this country was the great-grandfather of Mrs.
Farrah. Her parents had five children who grew up: R. M. ,-dead; John,
dead; Nancy, married John M. Galloway; Eliza J. and James A. Her grand-
parents, James and Elizabeth (Arthur) DeFrance, had twelve children: Robert,
Allison, John, James, Charles, Abram, William, Arthur, Matthew, Boon, Anna
and Eliza, who died when small from the bite of a rattlesnake. The maiden
name of the mother of Elizabeth Arthur was Boone, ’and she was a niece of the
renowned Daniel Boone. Robert was at a time a prominent officer at Burling-
ton, Iowa, and both he and John were in the War of 1812. Robert fought in
the battle of Lake Erie. Mr. and Mrs. Farrah are consistent members of the
Presbyterian Church of Sandy Lake. In this work appears a further mention
of the DeFrance family.
De. Iea Condit Feathee, deceased surgeon. Seventy-second New York Vol-
unteer Infantry, eldest son of John and Phoebe Feather, was born in Perry Town-
ship on August 7, 1829. His grandfather was one of the earliest settlers and
62
1054
HISTORY’*" OF MERCER COUNTY. !
I
i
pioneers of Ohio and Pennsylvania. His mother was a descendant of John !
Condit, master and warden of the mint in England during the time of Sir |
Isaac Newton, and important in the history of the colonies since 1678, and !
rich in lore of education and distinguished men of unassuming worth. Both ■;
sides of the house were patriotic defenders of freedom during the War of 1776, [
and, ever true to the cause of humanity and freedom, were not wanting in the
dark days of internicine war, 1861. Ever a deep, diligent and thoughtful
student, Ira C. Feather made the best possible use of early educational means
— first with a view of the ministry in the Presbyterian Church, but afterward |
studied and practiced medicine under the instructions of Dr. Cossitt, of Green-
ville, Penn. On October 27, 1853, he was married to Miss Josephine Coulter, [I
daughter of Dr. Coulter, of Scrubgrass Township, Venango Co., Penn., |l
well known for many miles around as a physician of great renown for over |
thirty years, and closely connected with the history of Venango County. On |j
July 29, 1854, John Coulter Feather was born, who for many years was a *!
companion, partner and trusted confidant of his father. Dr. Feather, whom he .1
now succeeds as head and principal of a large practice peculiar to itself, which, '
he had assisted to build up. On August 4, 1858, Francis Floyd Feather was j
born, who, as junior member of the firm of Drs. J. C. & F. F. Feather, is i
assisting his elder brother. On December 19, 1860, a daughter, Lizzie Feather, (
was born, but died of lung fever on February 6, 1861. In 1861 Dr. Feather j
joined Company K, Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry Volunteers, but was after- j
ward transferred as regimental surgeon of the Seventy-second New York
Infantry Volunteers. In 1862 he was detailed to act as surgeon-general of the I
hospitals at Yorktown, Va. It was at this time he suffered from yellow [
fever for first time, from which so few northern men recover; in 1865 he sent i
north for his family, he still serving as medical director of the Bureau of |
Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands, besides having a large private
practice. On August 20, 1867, his wife died of typhoid fever, and, his own ;
health being wrecked ever since the war, he returned north in 1868, and, in ]
1869 was married to Miss Hannah C. L. Bell, daughter of William and Lovina j
Bell, of Sandy Creek Township, Mercer County, whose lives form part of the [
history of Mercer County for a period of over fifty years. In June, 1875, Dr. !
Feather commenced the practice of his profession in Sandy Lake, Penn., [
where he remained until death. Dr. Feather was burnt out on February 26, f
1880, without insurance, and in 1882 built the three-story building used as a j
dwelling until the completion of the building known as Dr. Feather’s Block, |
corner of Main and Lacock Streets, constructed of stone, brick and marble. |
In 1882 he suffered a stroke of paraphlegia, caused by the disabilities and ,
injuries sustained while in the military service. On November 11, 1887, he j
was again taken sick from the same cause, but his power of resistance had i
decreased as his disease had increased, and death came on November 18, j
1887, at the age of fifty- eight years. j
L. P. Foster, post-office Sandy Lake, breeder of Standard breed horses,
was born in Venango County, Penn., May 10, 1849, to John and Mahala
(Byers) Foster, natives, the father of Venango and the mother of Pulaski, now
Lawrence County. The parents lived after marriage in Franklin, where the
father followed rafting lumber and boat building. He died on the ground
where the United States Hotel of Franklin now stands, in 1851. His widow |
died in 1853. They had only one child. The parents belonged to the Meth- j
odist Episcopal Church. The father owned, at death, the farm that Foster’s i
Station is located on, which was named for him. At the death of his father I
our subject was taken by his grandfather, Byers, who then lived in Venango |
I
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1055
County, but wlio now lives in Fairview Township, Mercer County. He stayed
with his grandparents until 1870, and was educated in the New Lebanon
Academy, Sheakleyville schools and Jamestown Seminary. He then, in 1870,
came to Sandy Lake and engaged in the livery business with J. W. Byers,
continued for three years, and then sold the business to the Barnes Brothers.
This stable is now owned by S. P. Turner. He then entered into the dry
goods business with Devore & Stevenson, and continued nearly three years.
He erected a tine bank building, and July 1, 1876, opened a private bank
under the firm name of Brown & Foster. Mr. J. F. Brown, of this firm,
died in November, 1870, and was in the bank but once. Mr. Foster continued
to operate the bank for seven years, and finally concluded to close up the busi-
ness; he notified his depositors, paid them their money and withdrew his
stock. He then bought one-third interest in the dry goods store of Paden,
Patton & Co., of Greenville, and lived there for two years, when he with-
drew, came back to Sandy Lake, and engaged in stock breeding, being in
full partnership with R. R. Wright in the same. He was married Sep-
tember 3, 1872, to Jessie Brown, and had four children; Brown, deceased;
John, deceased; Katie, deceased, and Jessie. His wife died March 8, 1881.
She was a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. He was again mar-
ried, to Lizzie Whitling, September 5, 1883, and has two boys: Charles W.
and James B. He is a member of the A. F. M. , K. of H. , A. O. U. W. and
K. & L. of H. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and
he is a Democrat. Mr. Foster is a real representative of a self-made, thorough-
going business man, who has_ won the esteem of every one with whom he has
had dealings, by his faithful fulfillment of business agreements. He be-
gan in life by working out by the month, and is the artificer of his present
little fortune.
Richard Fowler, Sr., deceased, was a native of Staffordshire, England,
immigrated to America in 1830 with his wife. Margaret Mears, by whom he
had nine children. He died in 1867, aged eighty-one years. His wife, Mar-
garet, died in 1859, aged sixty-seven years. Of the nine children Margaret
Perrine (deceased) was the oldest, wife of John Perrine, Esq. ; she was the
mother of sixteen children, nine of whom are still living. The second daugh-
ter, Sarah Wright (deceased), wife of Thomas Wright, Sr., Esq., was the
mother of nine children, six of whom are still living. Mary Mears, wife of
Richard Mears, the third daughter, was the mother of ten children, five of
whom are living. The fourth daughter, Ann Egbert, wife of John Egbert,
Esq., was the mother of seven children, all living. The fifth daughter, Eliz-
abeth Carmichael, wife of Hiram Carmichael, was the mother of twelve chil-
dren, all living. The sixth daughter, Eliza Carmichael (deceased), wife of
John Carmichael, Esq., was the mother of two children, one living. The old-
est son, Richard Fowler, Jr., married Mary E. Buckley, by whom he had five
children, all living. The second son, Simon Fowler, was never married, and
is the owner of considerable property, which he still enjoys. The third son,
William Fowler, married Ellen Buckley, by whom he had four children: John,
Emma, Alfred and Eliza; John married Sadie Hosack; by her he has three
children: Jennie, Mary and Ansley; Emma, married Walter Huey; Alfred,
married Clara Barker, by whom he has two children; Eliza married Lewis
Perrine, and died leaving one child. Richard Fowler, Sr. , is the father of the
Fowler family in this county.
C. B. Fulton, secretary of the Economical Mutual Benefit Association,
Sandy Lake, is a son of Dr. T. H. Fulton, a native of Hillsboro, Highland Co. ,
Ohio The Doctor studied medicine with Dr. G. W. Baskin, once a prominent
1056
HISTOBY OF MEBCEB COUNTY.
physician of Mercer, but who is now dead. He attended the Cleveland Medical
College, and began practice at Sandy Lake, where he built up a large practice,
and became one of the leading physicians in the county. He married Eva
Brown, a native of this county, by whom he had four children; C. B., Belle,
W. B. and Thomas H. Dr. Fulton resides in Nebraska, and other mention is
made of his useful career in another part of this work. C. B. Fulton was ed-
ucated in the common schools and at Sandy Lake. He began for himself as
a clerk in a drug store for DeFrance & Zeigler. He was appointed assistant
cashier of the Sandy Lake Banking Company in 1873, and in 1880 was made
its cashier, which important position he held until 1884, when he resigned the
cashiership, having previously been elected secretary of the E. M. B. A. He
was married to Miss Lina Gumfory, daughter of John Gumfory, by whom he
has one child, Julia C. He is a member of the town council, and treasurer
of the same; is a director of the bank, auditor of the Stoneboro Fair, is inter-
ested in the Excelsior Stock Company, is a member of the A. F. & A. M. , K.
of H. , K. L. H. , is a Republican, and he and his estimable wife are members
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Sandy Lake.
E. X. Giebner, physician and surgeon, Sandy Lake, was born July 5, 1830,
in Mercer County. His father, Valentine Giebner, was a native of the eastern
part of Pennsylvania, and came to this county at an early day. His mother,
Anna (Albin) Giebner, was born on the ocean, to John and Jane Albin, in 1804.
Charles A. Giebner died in this county, and was buried about four miles south
of Sandy Lake. He was the father of the following children: Jacob, John,
was drowned at Galena ; Augustus and W illiam, both died in Mercer County ;
Polly, married James McCloskey, and died in Sandy Lake; Valentine and
Samuel. Valentine died in 1874, and was the father of four children: E. X.,
J. T., an attorney of Sharon; Mary A., married Samuel Waldron; Sarah B. ,
married James Grace. The parents were consistent members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. Our subject was educated in the common schools and
Allegheny College, Meadville, and during intervals he taught in the country,
and two years at Franklin, Venango County. He began reading medicine at
that city in 1851, with Dr. B. Gillett, and attended medical college at Har-
vard, where he graduated in 1854, and at once began the practice of his chosen
profession in Franklin, Penn., in partnership with his preceptor, for one
year. He then went to Blair County, where he remained until 1856, when he
located at Sandy Lake, where he has taken high rank as one of the best physi-
cians and surgeons in this part of the State. He had Dr. T. M. Cooley as a
partner from 1876 to 1888. He was married, in 1856, to Mary A. Dunn, a
native of Sandy Lake, and daughter of Robert and Anna (McKean) Dunn,
and by this union has two children: Annette and Ida E., married William Har-
vey, who is dead, and she is the mother of one son, Earl. The Doctor has been
burgess of Sandy Lake, and at various times a member of the council of the
same. He has also served as school director. For many years he was identi-
fied with the Republican party, but is now an adherent of the Greenback party.
He is a member of the F. & A. M. , I. O. O. F., A. O. IJ. W. and K. of H.
He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
C. W. Giebner, deceased, farmer, was born July 8, 1832, in the house
where his widow now resides. He was a son of William Giebner, who is
mentioned elsewhere. He was one of four children, two of whom grew
up, C. W. and Sarah J. , who married Abram Farrah. The- deceased was
married October 9, 1857, to Miss Amelia Vath. He enlisted in Company B,
One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and a short time after
his return from the war he was returning from town in a wagon, when his
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1057
horse took fright and threw him out, breaking a leg, from the effects of
which he died April 23, 1865. He was the father of three chilch-en: Georgie
E., married E. W. Thompson; C. W., at home with his mother, and John
E., who married Nellie Robinson, and is a prosperous merchant of Sandy
Lake. Mr. Giebner believed in the doctrines of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, to which organization his widow is attached. Dr. J. P. Vath, the
father of Mrs. Giebner, was born in Germany, where he was educated. His
father and brother Philip were prominent physicians in that country. His
sister Maria married George Albright, and subsequently settled in Mercer
County. She died leaving six children: Barbara, Margaret, Amelia, Cassie,
Mary and Susan. Dr. Vath left Germany during a war, and practiced in New
York City, and there was married to Frances Webber, and subsequently
removed to Buffalo, practiced there and in Norwalk, Ohio, for some time, and
then came to what is now Sandy Lake, in 1838, and built a house on the site
of A. P. Rose’s residence. Here he died July 19, 1854. His widow died
about twenty years later. Their children were: J. P. , Amelia, Theressa,
married Alexander Lowrey; Louesa. Lewis P. , Harriet, married James Smith,
and Joseph, who is dead. Dr. Vath formed a partnership with Dr. Giebner
a short time before his death. He and his wife were members of the Catholic
Church, and were buried in the grave-yard of that organization a short distance
north of Mercer. Their daughter Louesa married Samuel Bowers, by whom
she has two children: Della, married Newton Holland, of Youngstown, Ohio,
and Lewis P. , a printer, of the same city.
James Gordon, retired farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born May 23,
1813, in Venango County, Penn., to John and Polly (Cooper) Gordon. The
father was born in Westmoreland County, and removed to Venango County in
1798. He had purchased land in that county one year earlier. He died on
this farm February 14, 1847, and his wife died in l8l9, the mother of Samuel,
Margaret, William, Nancy, John, Jane, John (2), James, Joseph, Robert C.
and Josiah. The father was married again, to Mary McMasters, and by her
he had Samuel and Rebecca. Mrs. Gordon was the mother of five children
by her union with Mr. McMasters: Isabella, Margaret, Elizabeth, John and
Mary. Joseph Gordon came to Mercer County in the spring of 1837, and was
the father of John I. Gordon, of the Dispatch and Republican. Robert E.
Gordon came to the county in 1853, and died February 4, 1856. William
Gordon settled for awhile in this county. The father of our subject was
auditor of Venango County three years, and also held other small offices. He
and wives were members of the Presbyterian Church, and helped to build the
church for that congregation, near his residence. James G'ordon was educated
in the log cabin schools, and the first two houses where he sought for infor-
mation had no floors. The first work he did for himself was to put in a crop
for a neighbor. In December, 1834, he began in the woods to clear up a farm.
His father gave him a piece of land, unimproved, and there was his beginning.
He was married in l836 to Charlotte Smiley, born February 13, 1817, to
Thomas and Mary (Duftield) Smiley, natives of Pennsylvania, who were early
settlers of Venango County, and the parents of Armstrong, William, James,
John, Charlotte and Philip. Mr. and Mrs. Gordon settled at their marriage
in a cabin on a farm, and have gone through the hardships that go to make up
the life of the real pioneers. He was engaged in the mercantile business at
New Lebanon with his brother and James Muse for about three years. He
was also engaged in a steam mill with the same parties. He also dealt in oil
for a period. Mr. and Mrs. Gordon had no children by their marriage, but
they have reared the following persons: Mary A. Jewell, who married D. C.
1058
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Montague; Nancy L., daughter of R. C. Gordon, she married Isaac Suydam.
of Glendora, Colo., and Joseph A., married Emma JSmiley, lives in Nebraska,
During the time of the war Mr. Gordon raised flax, which sold at large figures.
He hired girls to pull and spread it and men to skutch it. For many years
after his marriage he and his wife made their own clothing. He united with
the Presbyterian Church at the age of twenty and his wife at the age of seven-
teen years. He is a Republican, and one of the respected citizens of Sandy
Labe. [Both he and wife died since the above was written.]
J. W. Hawthorn, miller and farmer, post-office Stoneboro. Among the prom-
inent, enterprising business men of Sandy Lake Township is the gentleman
whose name heads this biography. He was born July 26, 1849, in Jefferson
Township. His parents, John and Elizabeth (Ross) Hawthorn, were natives,
the father of Mercer and the mother of Allegheny County, Penn. The father
is dead and the mother lives in Findley Township. Their children were: J.
W., A. J., of Jefferson Township; Samuel H. , of Pymatuning Township;
George R. , John F. and Joseph, of Findley Township; Alexander S. and Charles
E. The parents worshiped at the Baptist Church, and the father was a Re-
publican. Our subject was educated principally at the Pearson school -house,
in Jefferson Township. He began for himself when reaching his majority. He
was married April 14, 1875, to Mary A., daughter of George I. Slater, of Fre-
donia,by whom he has had three children: Lizzie M., deceased; infant, deceased,
and Montie, living. He settled at his marriage in Fredonia, where he worked in a
saw-mill two years. He then rented a mill in Fairview Township, which he
operated two years, after which he purchased a mill, moved it to New Vernon
Township, ran it two years, and the following eighteen months operated the
same in Lake Township. In 1883 he located his mill in Sandy Lake Town-
ship on his farm, and employs a number of men in the manufacture of lum-
ber. He is a member of the A. F. M. of Sandy Lake. He and wife belong
to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is an earnest, energ.etic Republi-
can, a clever gentleman, a public-spirited, intelligent and honorable citizen.
A. G. Hoovlee, farmer, post office Sandy Lake, was born March 8, 1836,
in what is now East Lackawannock Township, Mercer County, son of Jacob
and Nancy (Hurry) Hoovler, born, the former June 5, 1805, and the latter
July 26, 1815, both in Beaver County, Penn. John and Catharine Hoovler
were for many years residents of the vicinity of Darlington, Beaver County,
and their four sons came to Mercer County: Eli resides in the northern part
of the county; Samuel lives in the southern part; Joab is a resident of Venango
County, and Jacob. Jacob was married to Nancy Hurry April 22, 1825, ■
settled on a farm in'East Lackawannock Township, remained until 1842, when
they bought and settled on a tract of 200 acres in Mill Creek Township, where
they lived until 1873, at which time they retired to Sandy Lake. Here Jacob
died July 13, 1887. His children were ten: A. G. ; MaryL. , married Lucius
Jackson; Francis M. , married Margaret G. Canon, both deceased, he having
died from the effects of a wound received in the battle of the Wilderness, as a
member of Company B, Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers; Edward H.,
served three years in Company G, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
is married and lives on a farm in Iowa; Catharine, married Ansley Canon
March, 1851, and died September 22, 1869; John C., married M. E. Firster,
and served in the One Hundred and Thirth-uinth Pennsylvania Volunteers;
Jacob T., married Mary Lynch, and resides on a part of the old homestead;
Nancy J. , is a maiden, and resides with her mother in Sandy Lake; J.
Mason, married Elsie Kitch, and died October 16, 1879, and William,
died small. Jacob Hoovler was a Republican and a member of the Presby-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1059
terian Church, to which his widow belongs. A. G. Hoovler was educated in
the common school, and was married May 13, 1862, to Mary U. Law, born
May 3, 1841, in Sandy Lake Township, daughter of William E. and Julia A.
(McClain) Law, natives of Ohio and Cool Spring Township, respectively, and
the parents of ten children: Ephraim, married Sarah E. Den woody; Thomas
M., married Elizabeth Grove; Mary U. ; Eveline, married Solomon Zedaker;
Minnie J., married David B. Wilhelm; Caroline, died small; Amelia and
Amanda (twins), the former lives with her mother and the latter is dead; Julia
A., married James H. Gilliland, and an infant, deceased. William Law owned
200 acres of good land at his death February 29, 1876. He was a Presby-
terian, to which organization his widow is attached. Our subject settled at
marriage on his farm in Sandy Lake Township, composed now of 130 acres.
He is also the owner of two houses and three lots, the brick block partially
occupied by Scott’s hardware store, all in Sandy Lake Borough, and a house
and one acre in Zedaker town, all of which he made by his own labors except
the value of a colt, the gift of his father. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. ,
A. O. U. W. , K. & L. of H. ; is a stockholder of the Stoneboro Fair and a director
of the Mercer County Live Stock Association. He is a Republican, and he
and wife belong to the Presbyterian Church, of which he is ‘ a deacon. His
biother, Jacob M. , died, leaving two children: Blanch and Catharine, of
whom our subject is guardian, and they with their mother reside on his farm
in Sandy Lake Township.
Akchibald McBride, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born December
19, 1820, in Cool Spring Township, to Thomas, born in 1779, and Mary (Gill)
McBride, the father being a native of Scotland and the mother of Pennsyl-
vania. Her father, William Gill, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War,
from Pennsylvania, and lived near Courtney’s Mill, Liberty Township. Thomas
McBride came from Scotland in 1787, and with his father, Charles, settled in
Pennsylvania. They came to Cool Spring Township about 1803. The land
where they settled is now owned by John McCurdy. The mother of Thomas
is buried at the old Cool Spring church yard. He died in 1834, and she
about ten years later. There were twelve children born to them: William,
died in Ohio; Thomas, killed by the cars in the oil region; Charles, died in
Ohio; James, died in Butler County; Robert, died in Ohio; Mary, died in
Cool Spring Township; Archibald; Sarah, died in Butler; Margaret, single,
lives in Butler; Samuel, lives in Nebraska; Isaac, died in Cool Spring Town-
ship, and John, lives in Trumbull County, Ohio. The parents were members
of the Springfield Church, and the father was a Whig. Our subject was edu-
cated in the common schools, was brought up on the farm, and worked four
months at the carpenter trade. He was married in 1845 to Susanna, daughter
of George Barnes, and settled in Cool Spring Township, where he remained
three years. In 1848 he came to where he now lives, buying lOO acres, sixty
of which he still owns. By this marriage they have had twelve children:
Maggie, married Thomas Powell; George, deceased; Melissa, a teacher at
Knoxville, Freedmen’s Mission School; Mary A., married James Wallace, of
Mercer; Sadie, married A. ‘C. Reagle; George E. , of Westmoreland County;
Mattie; Thomas, at home; John, attending Grove City College; Myrtie, at
home; Ella, at home, and Bella, married A. C. Horn. Our subject was elected
justice of the peace, and held that office for two terms, about 1860-70. He
has also been assessor two terms. He is a member and elder in the United
Presbyterian Church, and was superintendent of the Sabbath -school of Sandy
Lake. In politics he is a Prohibitionist.
W. T. McBurney, postmaster Sandy Lake, was born June 27, 1852, in
1060
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mercer, a son of Tliomas McBurney, whose sketch appears elsewhere. He
was educated in the Mercer public schools, and began learning the jeweler’s
trade in 1868 with Hinkley, of Mercer, with whom he remained six years. In
1877 he opened uj3 a jewelry store in Sandy Lake, and continued the same
until 1888, when he sold. In 1886 he took an interest in the dry goods fiiih
of M. L. Zahniser & Co., now Giebner & Co. He and M. L. Zahniser have
been dealing in horses for about four years. He was married April 13, 1871,
to Rachel Ride, daughter of B. A. Ride, and has two children: Benjamin
and Harry. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. , A. O. IJ. W. , P. H. C.
and I. O. O. F. He is a Democrat, and was appointed postmaster of Sandy
Lake in 1888 by President Cleveland. He and wife are members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church of Sandy Lake.
R. J. McClure, miller, Sandy Lake, was born May 28, 1831, in Old
Cool Spring Township. The farm is now in Lake Township, and was settled
by Robert McClure, he having a settler’s right. James and Hannah (Gam-
ble) McClure, the parents of our subject, were natives of this county and
England, respectively, the latter having come from that country when nine
years of age, and settled with her parents in Cool Spring Township. Her par-
ents had Hannah, Henry, William, Sarah, Ruth, Mary, Elizabeth, Maria and
Charles. James McClure died July 4, 1845, and his widow is living. They
had R. J., Henry, Andrew, Mary, married P. J. Boyd; Sarah, married Lem-
uel Bristol; Ruth, married T. Egbert, and is dead. The father was a farmer,
and owned at one time 210 acres. R. J. McClure was educated in the common
schools and was brought up on a farm. He taught seventeen terms of school
in Mercer County. He was married in 1872 to Mary J. Caldwell, a sister of
George P. Caldwell, at present connected with the management of the poor-
house. His wife died leaving one son, Robert. He was again married, to
Ella, a sister of his first wife, and has three children: James B., Frank T. and
Clara. He and brother, Heniy, bought a mill at Sandy Lake in 1879, and in
1881 it burned. The same year the dam went out, and they rebuilt the mill
and dam in 1882, and began running five buhrs. The mill is three stories, and
cost about 17,000. February 2, 1882, the dam again gave away, and they
were compelled to spend $1,000 more to repair it. In 1887 they put in the full
roller process, at a cost of $5,000, and the mill is in good order and is running
continually during the day. He is also the owner of a large farm in this
county. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and K. of L. He has represented
his lodge at the grand lodge of I. O. O. F. He served as school director of
Lake Township for twenty-thi’ee years, and is now holding the same position
in Sandy Lake. His wife is a member of tlie Methodist Episcopal Church, and
he is a Republican.
Richard Mears, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born November 11,
1816, in Staffordshire, England, to Francis and Mary (Cooper) Mears, natives
of England. She died in England, and had three children: Richard, Mary
and Sarah. Mary came to this country, and married Rev. George Jaquess,
who died, and she now lives at College Spring, Iowa. The father married for
his second wife Ann Smith, and with her came to this country, his family con-
sisting of Richard, Mary and three children of his second wife: Charles, Will-
iam and Ann, the youngest then but five weeks old. After coming to this coun-
try four more children were born: Sarah, Thomas, Stephen and ah infant.
William enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and died of fever at Spottsylvania, and is buried at Zion Cemetery.
He was married to Helen Marvin, who lives at Sandy Lake. Charles lives in
Lake Township; Ann married William Nicklin, of Mill Creek Township; Sarah
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1061
married Joseph Buckley, of Sandy Lake Township. The father died October
14, 1884, and his wife died about 1854. He married for his third wife Ann,
widow of William Potter, and she died August 19, 1886. He was a Eepubli-
can, held the office of treasurer, and at his death was in moderate circum-
stances. Our subject was educated in the common schools and was brought
up on the farm. He began for himself in 1840, by working on the canal along
the Shenango one summer, then two years for Thomas Wright on his farm.
He was married January 20, 1843, to Mary Fowler, and settled in Sandy Lake
Township, and lived in a log cabin, building a small frame house the follow-
ing summer, and subsequently erecting their present residence. He has been
identified with the township offices, having filled the offices of assessor, treas-
urer, supervisor and school director. His family consisted of ten children:
George, married Lizzie Peat and lives in Kansas City; he served three years
in the late war, and was wounded at the battle of the Wilderness; Eliza, died
May 29, 1846; Margaret M. , died July 16, 1864; Richard W., Mary J., Frank,
died September 23, 1854; W. F., who lives in Warren, Penn.; Sarah E.,
died April 28, 1862; Fred, died May 12, 1862, and Tillie E., who married
J. P. Ebbert and has one child, Richard A. Our subject is a stockholder of
the Stoneboro Fair, is a member of the Wesleyan Methodist Episcopal Church,
and is a steward of the latter. Politically he is a Republican.
William Nicklin, deceased, was born October 2, 1796, in Staffordshire,
England, and married Prances Moore, a native of the same county; came to
America in 1833, and settled on the farm where Charles S. Nicklin now resides.
Here he died November 11, 1868, and his widow September 16, 1881. They
were the parents of eleven children: Mary, married Henry Clulow and lives in
French Creek Township, Venango County; Frances, married H. B. Rice, of
Greenville; George D., married Mary M. Eberly, lives in Selina, Venango
County, where he is engaged in the mercantile business; Joseph, dead; Eliza,
remained in England, married Samuel Jackson, died December 5, 1883; Will-
iam N., lives in Mill Creek, and is mentioned there; D. T., lives in Venango
County; Thomas, dead; Simon J. , lives in Venango County; Ellen J., married
Thomas Arnitt, of Franklin, Penn. ; Charles S. , born August 9, 1837. The
parents were Catholics, and are buried in the grave-yard of that organization,
north of Mercer. The father was a successful farmer. Charles S. Nicklin was
educated in the common schools and brought up on a farm. He was twice
drafted. The first time he paid the amount of money necessary to be released,
and the second time a discontinuance of hostilities rendered his services un-
necessary. He was married July 23, 1865, to Miss Mary C. DeWoody, born
in Venango County in 1842. Her parents, Robert and Elizabeth (MclBride)
DeWoody, were natives, the father of Venango County and the mother of the
State of New York. They had the following children: Crawford, Thomas,
Mary C. , Alexander and Albert. Mr. and Mrs. Nicklin have four children:
Ella J., married William A. Scott; John C., Mary E. and Florence E. Mr.
Nicklin has been school director for nine years, and filled various other offices
of trust. He was a member of the order of Patrons of Husbandry, and for a
time master of Grange No. 393, Sandy Lake. For many years he and his
family were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Hendersonville,
and he was for a long time the superintendent of the Sunday-schools. They
withdrew from this organization, and by letter joined the Methodist Church at
Sandy Lake. He is a stanch Republican, and always sacrifices a large amount
of his valuable time to the interest of that party.
Epheaim Osbukn, farmer, post-office Stoneboro, was born June 15, 1832,
in Mercer County, to Christopher and Sallie (Coleman) Osburn, natives, the
1062
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
father of New Jersey and the mother of this county. They were the parents
of seven children: Joseph, dead; Nathaniel, dead; Nancy, married James
Day; Bennett, dead; William, dead; Betsey, married Robert McElheny. The
parents of the above named children are dead. Our subject attended the com-
mon schools, and was brought up at farm labor. He was married in 1855 to
Amelia Osburn, a distant relative, and by her he has four children: William
B. , Fred L., Elmer C. and Eva, who is married to H. L. Jacobs. Mr. Osburn
enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
in 1862, and served nine months. Mrs. Osburn was born May 28, 1825,
in Mercer County, on the farm where she now lives, to John and Sarah
(Anderson) Osburn, the parents of four children: William A., David M. , Me-
linda and Amelia. Her mother was a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, to which Mrs. Osburn is attached. Mr. Osburn is the possessor of
114 acres of good land, and is a Democrat.
William H. Peeeine, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born July 16,
1817, in Worth Township. His parents, Daniel and Charlotte (Egbert) Per-
rine, were natives of New Jersey, and came to Mercer County in an early day.
They had eleven children: John, deceased; Job, deceased; Mary, married
James Barker; Rebecca, deceased; Rebecca (2), William H. , O. Perry, Lewis,
A. Jackson, Samuel and Elizabeth. The parents were Baptists, and the father
was in the War of 1812. Our subject was educated in the common schools,
and brought up at farm labor. He has also worked at carpentering. He was
married Nov. 13, 1838, to Hannah Slater, daughter of George Slater, who was
born in England May 22, 1818. Mr. Perrine settled at his marriage on the
farm where he now resides. By his wife he has had ten children: Elizabeth,
married Jacob H. Bizler, who died, and she was again married, to George Har-
rison; William, married Harriet A. Perrine, was in the war from this county,
took sick and was brought home by his father, and died a few days later;
George, was also in the war, serving in the same company with his brother;.
Julia A., married Charles Smith; Grace, deceased; Henry, married Retta
Smith; James, married Mary A. Slater, who died, and he was again married,
to Olive C. Winings; Charlotte, married Samuel Nicklin; Daniel, married
Alice Buckley, and Mary, married Peter Griggs. They have forty-six grand-
children living and five dead, and have three great-grandchildren. Mr.
Perrine has been a member of the Pymatuning Fire Insurance Company
for many years. He and wife are members of the Wesleyan Methodist Church.
He has served as a trustee of the same, and has been a substantial supporter of
that organization. He is one of the prosperous and enterprising farmers of
the township, and other mention of the family is made elsewhere.
Daniel Peeeine, president of the Sandy Lake Banking Company and
farmer, was born June 23, 1834, in Worth Township, to John and Margaret
(Fowler) Perrine, natives, the father of this county and the mother of Eng-
land. She immigrated here with her parents, who are mentioned elsewhere.
Their names were Richard and Margaret Fowler, and they had Simon, Richard,
William, Margaret, Ann, Betsey, Eliza, Mary and Sarah. J ohn Perrine mar-
ried in this county, was a farmer, and always resided in Worth Township. He
died in 1876 and his widow died in 1881. Their children were Daniel, Simon,
Clarissa, John, Mary, Charles, Margaret and Andrew. They are. all living in
this county. The parents belonged to the Wesleyan Methodist Church. Our
subject was educated in the common schools of his boyhood days. The first
money he got for himself was from the hoeing of a patch of potatoes for 25 cents.
He next obtained some money by splitting rails at a shilling per 100 rails. He
chopped the timber off of at least 100 acres of land, at from |5 to |6 per acre.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1063
At the age of twenty-two he bought 120 acres in the woods, and made a pay-
ment of $100, which he had saved from his small earnings. He sold this farm
in six years to Dr. A. G. Egbert for $4,000. He then bought land in Worth
Township, and soon disposed of it. He located where he now lives in 1864,
and has 100 acres. He has 100 acres in another part of the township, all of
which is the result of his own efforts. He was married March 25, 1858, to
Elizabeth Frost, born October 22, 1836, in England, and immigrated to this
country with her parents, William and Anna Frost. Her mother died in 1838,
and had but two children. Her father was married a second time, to Charlotte
Ralps, by whom he had three children. He was a member of the Wesleyan
Methodist Church, and was a class-leader and steward in the same. Our sub-
ject was blessed with five children by his union: Hattie, married to H. C.
Zeigler; Lottie, married W. S. Watson; Anna, Maggie and Charles. Mr.
Perrine has been justice of the peace and held other offices of trust. He was
for twenty years a director of the Stoneboro Fair. He has been for eight years
the treasurer of the Economical Mutual Benefit Association of Sandy Lake. He
was one of the committee and treasurer in the construction of the Methodist
Episcopal Church of Sandy Lake, which cost about $8,000. He and his wife
are members of that organization, and he is one of the leading Eepublicans of
Eastern Mercer County. He has been identified with nearly all the business
interests of Sandy Lake, and is one of the foremost men in this section.
D. M. PoETEE, farmer and teacher, post-office Henderson, was born August 6,
1850, in Mercer County, son of David and Matilda (Cummings) Porter, natives
of this county. His grandfather, Alexander Porter, emigrated from County
Down, Ireland, with his wife, Mary, to America, about the year 1794. Soon
after they came to Mercer County, where he entered 100 acres of land in Sandy
Lake Township. He died in 1842, the father of eight children: James,
Margaret, William, David, Jane, Alexander and Mary. The only one now living
is Alexander. He and his children were all members of the Covenanter Church.
The large two-story log dwelling-house put up by him in early times was long
used as a place of worship. The father of our subject was educated in the
common schools, and learned the carpenter’s trade, which he followed for
many years. He was married to Anna White, who blessed him with three
children: James B. , Amanda and Albina M. Mrs. Porter died, and he was
married to Matilda Cummings, by whom he had Mary A., D. M. , John A., M.
W. and M. C. The last named is studying medicine in Kansas. Mary and John
died in 1862. The father died May 14, 1881, and his last wife died in 1888.
He was for many years a ruling elder in the Covenanter Church. D. M. Por-
ter was educated in the common schools and at Sandy Lake. He also attended
’ the New Lebanon Academy, and took private lessons under Rev. Rice. He
began teaching at the age of seventeen years, and has taught twelve terms, the
last four at his home district. He now follows farming exclusively. He was
married December 31, 1874, to Mary V. Hunter, daughter of John and Mary
(Hutchinson) Hunter. Mr. Porter is the possessor of 110 acres of land which
were originally owned by his grandfather and father. The dwelling-house
referred to above still stands, and is occupied by the subject of the present
sketch. He is 'secretary of a public library which has recently been started
in the village of Hendersonville. It already contains over 100 volumes.
Austin Pottee, clerk for the E. M. B. A. Insurance Company at Sandy
Lake, was born February 18, 1843, in Kinsman, Ohio. His father, S. A.
Potter, was a native of Trumbull County, Ohio, was educated in the com-
mon schools, and when a young man was appointed deputy sheriff of that
county, when the territory that now comprises Trumbull and Mahoning
1064
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Counties were one. He formed a partnership with John Kinsman, of Kins-
man, Ohio, and conducted a mercantile business there for a number of years.
He then came to Sandy Lake, and engaged in the railroad business, being one
of the pioneers engaged in the building of the Jamestown & Franklin Rail-
road, which passes through that place. It was largely through his efforts that
the road was built. He was also interested in the Mercer Iron & Coal
Company. He married Amelia Austin, of Warren, Ohio, May 18, 1837, by
whom he had two children: Austin and Olive, the wife of D. J. Ives, of
Ames, Iowa. S. A. Potter died in 1882; was a Republican, a member of the
Disciple Church, and one of the most energetic citizens of Sandy Lake. His
son Austin was educated in Kinsman and Warren, Ohio. In 1866 he took
employment as clerk in the freight department of the Lake Shore Railroad, at
Buffalo, and later held the same position at Cleveland, for the same road. He
returned to Sandy Lake, and in 1884 he took the position he now holds. He
has established a green-house in Sandy Lake, which is a credit to the place as
well as a profftable investment to him. He was married in 1873 to Kittie
Hamilton, of Cleveland, by whom he has six children: Seymour, Lula, Bes-
sie, Charles, George and Kittie. He is a member of the F. & A. M. and
K. & L. of H. His wife is a member of the Methodist Church.
I. H. Robb, attorney, Sandy Lake, was born in Mill Creek Township,
Mercer County, April 18, 1847, to Robert S. and Sarah (Miller) Robb, natives,
the father of Allegheny County and the mother of Lisbon, Ohio. The father
came to this county in 1806, with his jiarents, Robert and Mary (Smith) Robb,
the parents of Jane, Robert, Mary, Amelia, Isaac, John, Margaret, Eli and
Eliza. The children of Robert S. and Sarah Robb were: James, Meribah,
Robert, Nancy, Ebenezer, I. H. , Mary L., Sarah J. , Susannah and Joseph S.
I. H. Robb was educated in the New Lebanon Academy, and taught seven
terms of school. He read law with Coulter & Martin, of Parker’s Landing,
and completed his studies with Griffith & Mason, of Mercer. He was admitted
to the bar October 23, 1873, and began practice the December following at
Sandy Lake. He was appointed notary public in 1877, and still holds that
position. He has been burgess of Sandy Lake one term, a member of the coun-
cil three terms, and school director two terms. He is a member of the K. of L. ,
K. & L. of H. and I. O. O. F. He was married November 5, 1873, to Cassie
E. Blair, who bore him three children: Eva L. , Maggie B. and Estella (dead).
His wife died February 12, 1881, and he was again married, to Maggie A.
Blair, and has one child, Theressa M. He and wife belong to the Cumberland
Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trustee. He is a Republican.
A. P. Rose, real estate dealer, Sandy Lake, Penn. , was born in Harrisville,
Butler Co., Penn., July 24, 1837. His grandfather, Ephraim Rose, was a ^
native of Somerset County, and a resident of Mercer and Venango Counties
for many years. He was a foundry-man and furnace manager in early times,
his last furnace being at the mouth of Oil Creek, where Oil City now stands.
John Rose, the father of A. P. , was an ornamental painter and cabinet-maker
by trade, was born in Mercer County, and on July 5, 1832, was married to
Mary Clark, daughter of Abraham and Catherine (Starr) Clark, of Cool Spring
Township. He was a resident of Pine Grove, and afterward of Harrisville,
Butler County, where he followed his trade, also serving the public as post-
master and the State as captain of a militia company, holding a commission
from Gov. David R. Porter. In 1845 he moved west to Lee County, Iowa, '
where he and two of his children died in 1846, his widow and his sons,
A. P. and E. L., the only survivors, returning to Mercer County, Penn. E.
L. Rose, brother of A. P., died at Mercer in 1879, from disease contracted
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1065
while in the service of his country, the subject of this sketch and his mother
being the only survivors of the family. A. P. Rose was educated in the com-
mon schools of Jackson Township. At the age of fourteen he was employed
by Sennett & Warren, a furnace and mercantile company at West Middlesex,
in whose service he remained as clerk and book-keeper for over five years.
In the spring of 1858 he went by water route to the Pacific Coast, and spent
fourteen years in the frontier gold mining camps of California, Idaho and
Montana. He was much exposed to the incidental dangers of that life, but
his love of peace, powers of persuasion and “artful dodging” saved his
scalp. When in the southern mines of California, in the early days of our
late unpleasantness, he was chosen colonel of a home military organization,
that was organized to counterbalance a “Golden Circle” of that section. It
had a quieting and soothing effect upon the Circle. He was six years a resident
of Northern Montana, located at Lincoln Gulch, an isolated mining camp,
situated in the territory of the hostile Blackfeet Indians. Before the estab-
lishment of post-offices he carried express from Helena to the northern camps.
He was afterward postmaster, express agent, merchant and packer at Lin-
coln; was the Republican nominee for the Territorial Legislature in 1867, and
in 1870 for county treasurer of Deer Lodge County. He returned to Mercer
County, Penn., in 1872, and conducted a general store at Jackson Centre for
several years, when he served also as postmaster. He came to Sandy Lake in
1879, and in 1880, leaving his family at Mercer, went to Arizona Territory,
in behalf of the Milner heirs. He returned with his family to Sandy Lake
in 1883, where he has since been engaged in the mercantile and real estate
business. He was married on September 5, 1876, to Eva Carroll, daughter
of W. A. Carroll, of Worth Township. They have two children; Edwin Car-
roll and Nellie May. In politics A. P. Rose is a Republican; in religion a
Liberal, believing in the religion of humanity — of doing unto your fellows
as “ye would that they should do unto you.”
William Simcox, merchant, Sandy Lake, was born March 14, 1830, in
Venango County, Penn., and is a son of William and Jane (Marshall) Sim-
cox, natives of the same county. The father was a farmer, and for a time
kept hotel along the Franklin and Mercer road. He died in 1855 and his
widow in 1860. Their children were: Eleanor, married William Amon;
Martha, married Josiah Zink; Mary, married A. P. Whitaker, the present
editor of the Franklin Spectator-, Nancy, died single; John, deceased; Will-
iam, James, lives on the old homestead; Jane, married Hugh Gibson; Phile-
tus, deceased; John (2), went West and joined an Iowa company, and after
the war settled in Washington Territory; Marshall, in the war from Venango
County, resides in Missouri; Lester M., also lives in Missouri. The parents
were Presbyterians. Our subject was educated in the common schools and in
the log cabins, with their slab seats and puncheon floors. He was employed a
portion of his early boyhood time around his father’s hotel. At the death of
his father he was compelled to make his own living. He was married in 1860
to Hannah I., daughter of Samuel Irwin, of Venango County, by whom he
had five children: William, died when young; Marshall, deceased; Florence,
married O. Carnahan, who is an agent for the North Platte Lumber Company,
at North Platte, Neb. ; Ralph, with his father in the store, and Fred. Mr.
Simcox remained on the farm until 1866, when he sold and engaged, under the
firm name of Kirk & Simcox, in the general dry goods business at Sandy Lake.
Seven years later he bought the interest of Kirk, and subsequently was joined
by J. A. McCormick, who in five years purchased the interest of Mr. Simcox,
and three years later sold the entire stock to our subject, who has since con-
1006
HISTOBY OP MEBCER COUNTY.
ducted a general line of dry goods, groceries, queensware, etc. , carrying at
the present time a stock valued at $4,000. He possesses other good property
in the village, all of which, together with his stock of goods, has been made
by his own labors. He has served as burgess of Sandy Lake one term, and
has been a member of the village council two terms. He is a member of the
A. F. M. , A. O. U. W. ; is a Democrat, and he and wife belong to the Method-
ist Episcopal and Presbyterian Churches, respectively.
0. W. Smith, oil producer, Sandy Lake, was born March 9, 1836, in
French Creek Township, to Robert and Julia (Myers) Smith, natives of the
same place. John and Lydia (Wallace) Smith were the parents of Robert,
Williams, Charles, James, Joseph, Sarah, married Thomas Williams; Jane,
married John Rockfellow. John Smith and wife were members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, and he was a strong anti-slavery man. Robert Smith
was educated in the common schools of French Creek Township, and served
as a justice of the peace for over twenty years. He and wife were members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Both are dead, and were the parents of
the following children; Peter M. , John, C. W. , Mary, married Dr. C. M.
Stewart; J. S., and Eliza, the wife of J. A. Painter. C. W. Smith was edu-
cated in the schools of his native township and was brought up at rural pur-
suits. At the age of eighteen he began learning the carpenter’s trade with
David Randall, with whom he remained for three years. He was afterward,
for several years, in partnership with Mr. Randall. He followed his trade
until 1861. He then, August 15, 1861, enlisted in Company B, Eighty-
third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served three years, being discharged
September 18, 1864, as lieutenant of said company. He was wounded in the
left shoulder at the battle of Gettysburg. On his return from the war he
resumed his trade, which he pursued until 1868, when he engaged in the oil
producing business at Pleasantville, Penn., and has operated in Butler, Arm-
strong, Clarion, McKean and Crawford Counties. He bought sixty acres of
land in New Vernon Township in 1876, and has lived in the borough, on a four-
acre lot, since. He was married, in 1857, to Elizabeth Livingston, danghter of
Daniel and Sarah (McCullough) Livingston. She was born in Center County,
Penn. By her he has four children: Cassie, married S. F. Newkirk; Ella,
married Harry Long; Mary, married George Lafferty; Charles S. He was
elected burgess of Sandy Lake in 1887 and 1888, and has been a member of
the council. He is a director of the E. M. B. A. , is a member of the A. Y. M. ,
I. O. O. F., A. O. H. W. and the K. T. He and wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is a Republican.
John W. Smith, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born April 15, 1852,
in Venango County, Penn., to Samuel and Eliza (McMillen) Smith, natives,
the father of some ^lortion of Eastern Pennsylvania, and the mother of
Venango County. The father died August 21, 1880, and the mother is living
on the old home in Venango County. They had nine children: John W. ,
Marion V., farmer of Venango County ; Willard F., also a farmer of that county ;
Sarah E., married Lybner Riddle, of Venango County ; David, deceased; Clay-
ton, farmer of Venango County; Sherman, a farmer of Venango County;
Alice, married Riley McDow; Mary, married D. W. Walters. The father
was a justice of the peace, and a member of the Church of God, to which
organization the mother belongs. The father was a very successful farmer,
and gave to each of his sons 100 acres of land, and to his daughters $1,000
each. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and was married, in
1872, to Angeline Henderson, of Venango County, Penn., by whom he has
four children: George, Laura, Myra and Sherman. He came to Mercer
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1067
County in 1882, having traded his farm in Venango County for one in this.
He is at present one of the school directors of the township. He is a member
of the A. O. IJ. W., and with his wife belongs to the Methodist Episcopal
Church. Although a new-comer to the county, he is to be found encouraging
everything that goes to build up the community in which he resides. He has
an excellent farm, and is raising sheep and other good stock. In politics he is
a Republican.
John Taylor, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born August 4, 1821, in
New Jersey, to Thomas and Anna (Elick) Taylor, the father being a native of
England and the mother of New Jersey. The parents both died in New Jer-
sey, and the father was a carpenter by trade. They had six children: John,
HughE., Mary, Eli, Ufamy, married Isaiah Bell, and Maurice H. , painter.
The parents attended the Lutheran Church. Our subject was educated in the
common schools. His father died when he was eighteen years old, and he had
to work to support the family. They drove from New Jersey, and a part of
the wagon and the buggy in which they came is yet in their possession. In
1856 he came to Mercer County and bought about eighty- five acres, then in
the woods. He erected a log cabin, a portion of which now stands. He has
since built good frame buildings. In 1848 he married Susan, a daughter of
David Heggar, of New Jersey. By this union he has one child, Isabella, who
married William Bailey, a physician of East Liverpool, Ohio. He assisted in
the defense of his country by hiring a substitute in the late war. Mr. Taylor
manages his own farm, and is a quiet, unassuming man, who attends strictly
to his own business, pays his honest debts and enjoys the fruits of his early
days’ labor.
H. W Troy, deceased, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., in 1804,
married Elizabeth Hendrickson, born in 1802, and settled in French Creek
Township at an early day. They had twelve children, of whom the following
are living: Hon. Cyrus, Dr. S. S., Mrs. S. S. Ross and Mrs. William Burns.
Those deceased were John, Gideon, Albert, Hiram, Rev. McVey, Martha,
Phoebe and Sarah. H. W. Troy died November 28, 1887, and Elizabeth Troy
November 4, 1877. Rev. McVey Troy was born November 12, 1846, in French
Creek Township. He was educated at Allegheny College, entered the Erie
Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church in July, 1868, and was first lo-
cated at Salem City, where he remained one year. The next two years were
spent at Punxsutawney, Jefferson County, and following that he was sent to
Rockland, Venango County. Here his health failed in one year, and he was
compelled to obtain superannuary relations. He died April 15, 1873, at the
early age of thirty-six. He was married to Maggie Perrine August 18, 1866.
Three children were born to them: Albert E., born April 4, 1868; Orvill M. ,
born April 7, 1870, died October 26, 1877, and Carrie L., born September 19,
1872. Albert E. Troy started the Weekly Tribune at Sandy Lake February
29, 1888. It only lived a few months; was a six column folio and independent
in politics.
H. M. Welton, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born January 23,
1846, in Venango County, Penn., to Milo and Jane (Morris) Welton, the
former a native of New York State and the latter of Venango County, Penn.
The father came to Venango County when he was a boy, and became the
father of eight children: John A., a lieutenant in Company K, Fourth Penn-
sylvania Cavalry, wounded in front of Petersburg May 6, and died May 12;
Matilda, married Lewis Baker, and lives in Venango County; H. M. ; George
M., of Venango County; Eliza, married Thomas DeWoody, who is deceased;
Lorene E., of Venango County; William S., of Venango County; Nancy,
1068
HISTOKY OF MEKCER COUNTY.
married to Elder Major, of Venango County. The father was a member of
Company K, Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, and died in October, 1863, of
chronic diarrhoea. The mother died March 18, 1884. Both were members of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the father was a Democrat. Our sub-
ject was educated in the common schools, and was married August 19, 1869,
to Maggie E. , daughter of John and Rachel Brown. He now owns fifty acres
of land where he settled in 1872. He and wife are members of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church, and he is a Republican.
James A. Winner, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born April 24, 1851,
in Fairview Township, son of Jesse and Elizabeth (Brest) Winner, natives,
the father of Westmoreland County and the mother of Lawrence County,
Penn. The father came to Mercer County about 1842; was married in Law-
rence County, where he lived some time, and finally settled in Fairview
Township, where he lived until 1857, when he moved to Deer Creek Township,
and there died in May, 1859. His widow died September 10, 1885. They
had the following children: Anna (married William Bowman), Levi, James,
Lizzie (married David Weston, a miner at Stoneboro) and Mary (married
Henry Rineman, of Mercer). The father and mother were Methodists, and
he was a Democrat. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and
brought up, principally, on a farm. After his father’s death he stayed at
home until twelve years old, when he went to live with V. B. Coulson, of
Lake Township, for five years. He began at $7 per month, and got $25 at
the close. He drove a huxter wagon two years for him, selling produce. At
the age of seventeen years he began as a brakeman on the Lake Shore &
Michigan Southern Railroad, running from Oil City to Jamestown and Girard
on a freight train. He then engaged in huxtering to Oil City, and continued
at it thirteen years. He bought butter and eggs in Cool Spring, Jackson,
Sandy Lake and Lake Townships, and also in Venango County. At the end
of that period, in 1875, he settled on the farm where he now lives, and has
been dealing in horses ever since. He was married, in 1871, to Sarah C.,
daughter of Jacob Smith, of this township, and has three children: William
J. , Nannie and Harry. He has been township supervisor, constable, and col-
lector three years, and is a Republican. He is rearing Clara Bell, the daugh-
ter of his brother, Levi Winner, whose wife died when the child was three
days old. The following reference is given to the mother of Mr. Winner:
“ Mrs. Elizabeth Winner died very suddenly of apoplexy, at the residence of
her son-in-law, David Weston, Main Street, this place, on Friday morning,
September 10, 1885. She had been in usual health, and fell dead over a
wash-tub without a moment’s apparent warning. Mrs. Winner was born
August 19, 1818, and consequently at the time of her demise was sixty-seven
years of age. She was the mother of Messrs. James and Levi Winner, and Mrs.
Elizabeth Weston, this place; Mrs. Mary Rineman, Mercer, and Mrs. Ann
Bowman, Stoneboro, Penn., and was a sister to Joseph Brest, Sharpsville;
Andrew Brest, Mercer, Penn. , and Mrs. Catherine Sweitzer, Cincinnati, Ohio. A
large number of relatives showed, by their sorrow at her funeral, the strong hold
Mrs. AV. had upon their sincere affection. After suitable religious service in the
Wesleyan Methodist Church, conducted by Revs. Foster and Crawford, of this
place, on the afternoon of Saturday, September 12, the remains were followed
to the cemetery at New Lebanon, and there interred beside those of her hus-
band, who a few years preceded her to the mysterious hereafter. The appro-
priate discourse, delivered by Rev. S. H. Foster, was founded on the words,
‘ Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his.’ ” —
Sandy Lake News.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1069
G. W. WoREELL, merchant tailor and dealer in ready made clothing, hats
and caps, boots and shoes, Sandy Lake, was born October 16, 1836, in Mont-
gomery County, Penn., to Thomas and Elizabeth (Rambo) Worrell, natives of
the same county. The family settled on the land in Jackson Township where
Dr. J. B. McElrath now lives in the year 1839 or 1840. They subsequently
located near where the widow of Thomas Clark now resides, in the same town-
ship, and later the father built a two and one-half story log house on the site
of Rev. J. M. Gallagher’s residence, in Jackson Centre, and there made boots
and shoos. After awhile he followed the same occupation at Terrell’ s Corners,
in Trumbull County, Ohio. After another settlement in Jackson Township
and a period on Otter Creek Hill, in Cool Spring Township, where he worked
at his trade, he finally settled on his present farm in Jackson Township.
He and wife are living, and have had four children ; G. W. ; J. R. ; Maggie A. ,
married James McKay, and Lewis A., married Maggie E. Garvin. The par-
ents belong to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Our subject was edu-
cated in the common schools, and was brought up at hard farm labor. In
1869 he engaged in the mercantile business at North’s Mills as a clerk for
North & Bowman, subseqently with North & Eberle and North & Bromley.
He bought North’s interest, and for nearly two years did business under the
firm name of Bromley & Worrell. He later bought out Bromley, and after
nearly two years moved the stock to Perrine’s Corners, five miles south of
Sandy Lake. There he remained for five years engaged in merchandising and
farming. In 1881 he came to Sandy Lake, and has been in partnership with
Watson, Zahniser & Co., Zahniser & Co., and is now doing business under the
firm name of G. W. Worrell & Co. They are the leading merchants in the
place in that line, and carry a stock of goods valued at from $8,000 to $10,000.
He was married August 22, 1865, to Miss S. Jennie McKay, daughter of
James McKay, of Lake Township, and has by her four children; J. M. ,
Thomas I., William A. and George B. He is a Prohibitionist, and he and
his wife belong to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and the K. & L. of H.
Albert W. Weight, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born May 5, 1846,
in Sandy Lake Township, to Sampson and Nancy (Egbert) Wright; "The father
was born in England, immigrated to Mercer County at an early day, and set-
tled in Sandy Lake Township. He was a farmer, and married in this county,
which union resulted in eleven children; Lewis, killed at the battle of the Wil-
derness, as a member of Company B, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers; John C., lives in Crawford County; Albert W., Matilda, mar-
ried J. S. Wright, a merchant at Hendersonville; Elizabeth, died at the age
of three years; Prudence, married A. ‘F. Perrine; Aseneth, married Samuel
Buckley; Harriet, married Robert Perrine; Charles S., Patience, single; H.
Ellsworth, lives in Franklin, Penn. The mother of the above children died
in 1866, and the father was again married, to Harriet Buckley, the widow of
John Buckley, by whom he had one child, Priscilla. He was the owner of
over 300 acres of land at the time of his death. He was a Republican. Our
subject was educated in the common schools, and attended an agricultural col-
lege in Centre County, Penn., for sixteen months. He taught two terms of
school after returning from Centre County. He was married to Rebecca,
daughter of Uriah and Mary (Taylor) Owen. Mr. and Mrs. ^Vright have six
children; Maurice E., Harry S., Mary G., Nancy E., Bessie A. and Albert W.
He enlisted in the Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Militia, and served three months.
Charles S. Weight, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born January 17,
1859, on the farm where he now resides. The history of his parents appears
in connection with a sketch of Albert W. Wright. Our subject was educated
r
63
1070
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
in the common schools, and has always been engaged in farming. He was
married November 3, 1880, to Miss Belle Small, daughter of Aaron Small,
and has been blessed with two children: Pearl and Inez. He was elected by
the Republican party treasurer of the township, which important office he
now holds. He is the possessor of eighty acres, the old homestead. He and
wife are members of the Wesleyan Methodist Church. He is one of the intel-
ligent and enterprising farmers of the township. He is a never-swerving
Republican, and always takes a deep interest in the welfare of that great
organization.
M. L. Zahnisee, cashier Sandy Lake Bank, was born October 8, 1846, in Lake'
Township. His father, David Zahniser, was born in the same township, and
married Elizabeth North, by whom he has eight children: William A., M. L.,
Mary, married Prank Fleming; Catharine, married R. D. Porter; Caroline,
married John Hamilton; Ira, Melissa and Maria. Our subject was educated
in the common schools and was brought up at rural pursuits. In 1864 he
was employed as a clerk by the firm of North & Zahniser, general merchants
at North’s Mills. This he continued for two years, and then, in partnership
with his father, started the first store at Jackson Centre, this being in 1866.
They continued here for two years with good results, and then sold, and he,
with his brother-in-law, Balliet, opened a hardware store at Sandy Lake. In
1873, when the bank was established, he was elected its first cashier, and
filled that position until 1880, when he retired from the bank and became
interested in the clothing business. In 1884 he resumed his old position in
the bank, and has been of great service to it. He was married in 1867 to
Susan, daughter of John Bell, of Mansfield, Ohio, and has been blessed with
four children: Harry, a book-keeper in Mansfield; D. Lester, Mabel and Jay.
Mr. Zahniser is a director of the bank; is a member of the K. and L. of H. ; he
and wife belong to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and he is a Repub-
lican and one of the enterprising men of Sandy Lake, one whose name is
always found in every movement that goes to build up the place and retain its
good name, as well as that of the county.
H. C. Zeiglee, oil producer and stock raiser, post-office Sandy Lake, was
born November 28, 1847, in Trumbull County, Ohio. His parents, Elias and
Elizabeth (Misner) Zeigler, had the following children: Mary M. , H. C. , J.
L. and Emma C. After the death of the father, the mother was married to
W. B. Smith, by whom she had six children. The father was a carder and
spinner, and at one time was interested in the woolen mills at Sharon. H. C.
Zeigler received his education in the common schools, mostly in Mercer County,
whither he moved when a small boy. He was reared principally in West Mid-
dlesex, and the first business he did for himself was “the book agency.” In
this he was quite successful, and later engaged in a hotel at Foxburg, Clarion
County. He also conducted a livery business in connection with his hotel.
While thus employed he began to operate in the oil business in Butler County,
which he continued for four years. He held prominent positions in the com-
panies connected in the pipe line brrsiuess. He engaged in the drug business
in Sandy Lake, in 1875, with DeFrance, for one year. In 1877 he resumed
oil producing, which he has since followed. He is interested in this project
in Venango, Butler, McKean and Warren Counties, Penn., and Allegany
County, N. Y. He has also an interest in Ohio and Indiana oil fields. He is
a member of a stock company at Sandy Lake, engaged in the breeding of
fine road and draft horses. He was married to Hattie J. Perrine, daughter of
Daniel Perrine, whose sketch appears elsewhere. By her he has two sons:
Fred D. and Roy A. He is a member of the K. of H. , A. O. U. W., A. F.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1071
M. , and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In
politics he is a stanch Eepublican, and is one of the self-made, representa-
tive young business men of Mercer County.
WOETH TOWNSHIP.
William Ball, deceased, was a son of Caleb and Phoebe (Walters) Ball,
natives of Washington County, Penn. In 1796 they came to Mercer County,
and located on a tract of land in what is now Worth Township. He was a
soldier in the War of 1812, and died in 1814. His wife lived to be about nine-
ty-five years old, and died in Indiana. They reared eight children, Aseneth, Mrs.
Stokely, of Illinois, being the only one now living. Our subject was born in
Worth Township in 1808, was educated at the log school-house of that period,
and in 1834 he married Sarah, daughter of Valentine Zahniser, of Cool Spring
Township, and settled on a part of his father’s tract of land. He voted the
Republican ticket, and was in sympathy with the Methodist Episcopal Church,
and died in 1888. His widow and two children still live on the homestead.
They reared ten children: Caleb and Henry are dead; Valentine Z., in Kansas;
Jacob, of this township; Elizabeth, Mrs. Bennett Hunter, of Venango County;
Rebecca, Mrs. William Kenniston, of Meadville; Phoebe, Mrs. Frank Bissell,
of Perry Township; Sarah, Mrs. B. Meadbury, of Worth Townships Beriah
aud Nettie, at home. Jacob enlisted in 1861 in Company (1, One Hundredth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until June 17, 1864, when he was hon-
orably discharged because of a severe wound. Beriah was the youngest boy,
and at the death of his father became possessor of the homestead. He votes
the Republican ticket. Henry enlisted in 1864 in Company A, Second Heavy
Artillery, and was discharged with his regiment January 1, 1866.
Olivek Beach, farmer and merchant, post-office Kilgore, is a son of
Stephen W. and Sarah (Simpson) Beach. James Beach, the grandfather of
our subject, was of Scotch descent and a settler in Sussex County, N. J.,
where the father of our subject was born. He learned the shoemaker’s trade,
and in 1809 married Sarah Simpson, and in 1816 they came to this county,
and first stopped in Wolf Creek Township, and remained until 1819, when
they settled on a farm in Venango County. The father died there. May 28,
1865. His widow remained on the homestead for a number of years, and then
went to live with her daughter in Butler County, where she died in February,
1888. Their family consisted of fourteen children: Morris, in Ohio; Caro-
line, deceased; Euphema, deceased; James, in Indiana; John, deceased;
Susanna, Mrs. Patrick McDowell, of Butler County ; Israel, of Venango County;
Sarah, Mrs. Samuel Baker, of Venango County; Stephen, in Indiana; William,
on the homestead; Jane, deceased; Oliver; Houston, deceased; Daniel, in
Butler County. The father was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian
Church, and voted the Democratic ticket. Our subject was born on the home-
stead, in Venango County, Penn., November 12, 1829, and when seventeen
years old he came to this county and learned the blacksmith trade at Centre-
town, and followed that for thirty years. In 1860 he purchased his present
farm, where he has since resided, and in 1883 established a general mercan-
tile business. He married, in 1851, Miss Anna Mulhulland, daughter of
William Mulhulland, a native of County Tyrone, Ireland, and a settler in
Venango County. By this union they have six children: James Austin, in
Venango County; Delilah Jane, Mrs. Aaron Blair, of Butler County; William
M. , professor in the college at Waynesburg, and who is studying for a physi-
cian; Martin Luther, at home; Sarah A., Mrs. W. W. Park, of Youngstown,
Ohio; Nancy K., at home. Our subject has been school director and consta-
1072
HISTOBY OF MERCEK COUNTY.
ble of tlie township. In 1862 he was appointed postmaster at Kilgore, and
held that office a number of years, and in 1883 was again appointed, and is
postmaster at the present time. He is an elder in the Cumberland Presby-
terian Church, and votes the Democratic ticket.
James Bestwick, farmer, post-office Hazzard, was born in Staffordshire, Eng-
land, January 1, 1807, and in 1833 immigrated to America and located on a farm
in what is now Worth Township, where he has since resided. His parents
were James and Hester Bestwick, who came to America in 1834, and located
on an adjoining farm. Hester Bestwick died in 1855, and James died in 1882,
at the age of ninety-nine years. Our subject, Jane, Mrs. O. W. Brigham,
of Franklin, and Esther, Mrs. Hiram Clawson, of Michigan, are the only ones
of their children that are living. In 1839 our subject married Miss Mary,
daughter of Francis Huey, of Jackson Township.. She died July 1, 1887,
leaving four children: Ann, Mrs. Alex McKee, of Wolf Creek Township; Sam-
uel C., of Jackson Township, who is an oil operator in Washington County,
married Miss M. C. Taylor, daughter of Benjamin Taylor, of Jackson Town-
ship, and she, having died in 1868, leaving one child, Minnie A., he again
married Mary J ane Crowley, daughter of Timothy Crowley, of J ackson Town-
ship, and has by her five children: Laura, Walter, Maiy, Samuel, infant;
James H, coal operator. Worth Township, married Eliza, daughter of Capt.
James Zanhiser; she died September 4, 1887, leaving eight children: Ella,
Harry, Myrtle, Valentine, Clyde, James, Mary, Bessie; George, living on part
of homestead, married Eliza Lewis, a native of Wales, who died May 4, l888,
leaving five children: Mary Jane, Warren, Charles, Lambert and an infant.
Our subject owns the farm on which the Ormsby Coal Mine is situated, and is
a member of the Democratic party.
Daniel Buckley, farmer, post-office Henderson, is a son of William and
Milcah (Perrine) Buckley. Samuel Buckley, the grandfather of subject, was a
native of England, and settled on a farm in Sandy Lake Township in 1819.
Three of his children by his first wife were born in England; William, Mary
and Ann. He married for his second wife Hannah Perrine, daughter of John
Perrine, and had by her John, Ella, Samuel and Sarah. All of his children
are dead except Ella, Mrs. William Fowler, of Sandy Lake Township, and Ann,
a maiden lady. He died in 1878 and his widow in 1885. William, the
father of subject, was born in England in 1807, and came to this country
with parents. He married Miss Milcah Perrine, daughter of John Perrine,
and a sister of his father’s second wife. They reared a family of eight chil-
dren: John, of Worth Township; Mary, Mrs. John Woods, of Venango
County; Samuel and Enoch, in Venango County; William, of Worth Town-
ship; Daniel, of Worth Township, our subject; Perry, deceased; Sarah, Mrs.
George Hart, of Venango County. He was a supporter of the Republican
party, and died in Venango County in 1868, and his widow died in 1878.
Our subject was born on the homestead, in Worth Township, in 1843, and
married Hannah Holmes. She died in 1882, leaving seven children: Milcah,
at home; Mary, Mrs. Moses Snyder, of Sheakleyville; Sarah, William, Joseph,
Daniel, John, all at home. Our subject again married, Mrs.,Wulliam Thomp-
son, daughter of Peter Boyle, and has by her one child — infant. Our subject
and his four brothers, John, Samuel, Enoch and William, were all members
of Company G, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers, the most of them re-
ceiving wounds, and they all served until the close of the war. They vote the
Republican ticket, and are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of
Henderson.
John Carmical, farmer, post-office Henderson, is a son of John and Char-
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1073
lotte (Wible) Carmical. John, the grandfather of onr subject, was born in
Scotland, and first settled in Allegheny County, Penn., where he was mar-
ried, and lived until about 1797, when they and their two sons, Duncan
and John, came to this county and settled on a tract of land in what is
now Worth Township. The grandfather died in 1808. In 1810 Duncan mar-
ried Catherine Crane, and moved into Ohio near Cincinnati, and afterward
moved to Indiana, where they lived and died. J ohn, the father of our sub-
ject, was born in Allegheny County, Penn., in 1780, and gained his education
mostly at home. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and engaged in clear-
ing up the land on which his father settled. He was an able supporter of the
Democratic party, and held several township offices. His wife was born in
1783. They reared a family of eleven children, six of whom are still living:
John, our subject, is the oldest; James, in Worth Township; Hiram, in Ne-
braska; Sarah, widow of James Wilson, Worth Township; Nancy, Mrs. Au-
gustus Giebner, Sandy Lake Township; Phoebe, widow of Elijah Thompson, of
Sheakleyville. Our subject was born on the homestead which he now owns
February 24, 1803. He attended the old log school-house of that period, and
cleared up the greatest part of his farm. In 1836 he married Jane Elder,
who died August 6, 1837. In 1838 he married Mrs. Sarah Geddes, daughter
of George and Rebecca Smith. She died April 11, 1854, leaving seven chil-
dren and one step-daughter (Rebecca Ann Geddes): Sarah Jane, married Amos
Snyder, and is dead; Charlotte Wyble, living at home; Nancy Laenna, Mrs.
AVilliam Dunn, of Sandy Lake Township; Mary Eliza, Mrs. Archibald Mar-
shall, Worth Township; John Andrew; Duncan, in Kansas; Clarinda, deceased;
Warren, living on the homestead with his father, married Inez, daughter of
Alexander and Sarah (Stokely) Miller, and has three children. Hazel, Howard
and Harry. Our subject has held the office of supervisor and school director
of the township, and votes the Democratic ticket, and is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church of Hendersonville.
James M. Carmichael, farmer, post-office Henderson, is the second son of
John and Charlotte (Wible) Carmichael, and was born in Worth Township
June 30, 1818. He received his education at the old log school-houses of that
period, and has always been engaged in farming. In 1861 he married Miss
Margaret Forringer, of Armstrong County, and located on his present farm.
They have reared six children: Martha, Mrs. Thomas McDonnell, of Titus-
ville, Penn.; Alice Ann, Amanda Jane, Sarah, Looie and Ralph E. , all at home.
Mr. Carmichael has always supported the Democratic party, and he and family
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Hendersonville.
Doncan Carmichael, farmer and county commissioner, was born May 4,
1843, in Mercer County, in the house in which he lives when on his farm. He
is a son of Aaron and Margaret (Henderson) Carmichael, both natives of
Worth Township. The Carmichael family were originally from Scotland, and
John Carmichael, the great-grandfather of our subject, fought under Wolfe,
and it is believed that he was the third man to climb the Heights of Abraham in
the battle of Quebec. John came to Allegheny County soon after this struggle,
and he and family were the first of the Carmichaels to come to Mercer County.
His two sons who came with him were Duncan, who went to Rushville, Rush
Co., Ind., where some of his posterity yet reside; the other was John, who
married Charlotte Wible, resulting in ten children: John, Sarah, married
Augustus Giebner; James, Margaret, married Alexander Elder; Charlotte,
married John Reed of Mill Creek Township, both dead; Phoebe, married Elijah
Thompson; Andrew, died in 1865; Hiram, lives in Nebraska. Aaron died in
January, 1885, and his wife died about 1873, both members of the Methodist
1074
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Episcopal Church, and he a Democrat. Duncan, our subject, was married,.
July 4, 1865, to Harriet E. Covert, of Butler County, who died in 1871,
having had three children, all of whom are dead. He was again married,
December 12, 1873, to Emily T. Mackey, of Meadville, and has two sons:
Clarence G. and Leon A. He was elected county commissioner in 1887 ; has
been school director, and is a member of the I. O. O. F., a stanch Democrat,
and he and wife are members of the Wesleyan Methodist Church. Mention
of the family is made in former chapters of this work.
George W. Carroll, farmer, post-office Millbrook, is a son of David and
Elizabeth (Alcorn) Carroll. IVilliam Carroll, the grandfather of our subject,
was a native of Ireland, and after immigrating to America first settled in Pitts-
burgh. He was among the early settlers of this county, and located on a
tract of land in what is now Worth Township, and which is owned by our sub-
ject. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and he and his wife are buried in
the family burying ground on the homestead. Their family consisted of sev-
eral children, all of whom are dead. The father of our subject was born in
1797, and was quite young when brought to this county. He was reared on
the homestead, attended the log school-houses of that period, and built a
foundry on his father’ s homestead, and afterward erected one at Millbrook, and
one north of there in Wolf Creek Township. These he conducted in connec-
tion with farming during his life-time. He voted with the Whig and after-
ward the Republican party, and was one of the first anti-slavery supporters in
this section. For many years he was an instructor of vocal music. He was first
a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but in the latter portion of his
life joined the Wesleyan Methodist Church of Millbrook. He died in 1869 and
his widow in 1885. Their family consisted of thirteen children: Three died in
infancy; Joana, Mrs. James E. Carroll, of Worth Township; William A., died
in 1887; Elizabeth, deceased, wife of S. B. Kerr; Rev. Jonathan E., of Cleve-
land, Ohio; Robert N. , of Fairview Township; Mary, deceased, wife of Joseph
B. Page, Mercer; Esther A., Mrs. A. J. Kerr, Mercer; Rozetta M. , Mrs. Hon.
G. W. IVright, Mercer; Jennie, Mrs. Robert McKnight, of Bradford, Penn.,
and our subject who is the youngest, was born on the farm he now owns
December 11, 1850. He attended the township schools, and has always fol-
lowed farming. In 1879 he married Mary, daughter of James M. and Maria
(Brandon) Rose, of Pine Township, and has two children: Clifton Clay and
James Rose. Our subject has been clerk of township for several years, and
is school director at present time. His wife attended school at the Grove City
Academy and normal school of Edinboro, Penn. , and was a teacher in the
public schools for several years.
James F. Carroll, farmer, post-office Millbrook, is a son of William and
Rachel (Sutton) Carroll, and was born in Worth Township, April 30, 1821.
He received his education at the log school-house, and in 1861 enlisted in
Company G, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until his
honorable discharge from disability. His wife was J oana, daughter of David
and Elizabeth (Alcorn) Carroll, and in 1858 they settled on their present
farm. They have had seven children, all of whom are dead except Newton T. ,
who lives on part of the homestead. He married Myrtle Turner, daughter of
Jones Turner, of Worth Township, and has one child, Elma L. Our subject
is a member of Sandy Lake Post, G. A. R., and of the Wesleyan Methodist
Church, and votes the Republican ticket. His parents reared eleven children:
John, deceased; Rebecca (Mrs. Nathaniel Hall), deceased; Elizabeth (Mrs.
Samuel McGinnis), deceased; Joana (Mrs. Stephen Yard), deceased; William,
living in Illinois; Margaret (Mrs. Robert Thorn), deceased; Mary (Mrs. Alex-
HISTOKY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1076
ander Campbell), deceased; our subject ; Reuben, in New York State; Stephen,
in Crawford County; Rachel (Mrs. E. H. Page), deceased. The father was a
Methodist Episcopal minister, and in the War of 1812, and came when but
a small boy with his father (William Carroll) from near where the city of
Pittsburgh now is, and probably made the first settlement in what is now
Worth Township.
Grace Family. — The first of the Grace family to locate in this county
was John and his wife, Milcah (Redding) Grace, who came here from Mary-
land about 1796-97, and located on a tract of land in Worth Township.
They reared a family of ten children: William, died when a young man;
Nimrod, settled and died in Indiana; John, located and died in Jackson Town-
ship; Nancy, married John Perrine, and afterward Thomas Graham, and
died in 1849; Bennett, died in 1849; Elizabeth (widow of Rev. Thomas
Lamb), is still living at the age of efghty-eight; Priscilla, Mrs. John Albin, of
Wolf Creek Township; Burchfield, lived and died on the homestead; Aquilla,
died in Lawrence County in 1888; Milcah (Mrs. Elijah Coleman), died in
1843. Bennett Grace married Mary Coleman, and settled in Worth Town-
ship. He was justice of the peace for several years, a member of the Meth-
odist Church, and voted with the Whig party. He died in 1849, at the age
of fifty-two, and his widow died in 1865. They reared a family of twelve
children, four of whom are living: Sarah A., Mrs. Robert W. Hoy, of Michi-
gan; Rebecca, Mrs. Frank Cochran, of Iowa; John J., of Grove City, and
Samuel R., of Millbrook. The youngest of the family was Thomas J. , who
was a member of Company G, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and died in 1861. Samuel R. Grace was born on the homestead in Worth
Township, June 5, 1839, and received his education at the public schools of
the township, and learned the shoemaker’ s trade, which he has since followed.
August 28, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, One Hundredth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, his company having been formed at Millbrook, and served until
the close of the war, he being captain of his company. In 1864 he married
Malinda, daughter of Fleming Smith. She died in 1879, leaving two children:
Fred A. and Estella M. George S. died in 1867. The present wife of our sub-
ject is Jane A., daughter of Benjamin Campbell, of Butler County. She has
had two children: Chester A. and Lester K. The latter died in 1887. Since
the close of the war Mr. Grace has lived in Millbrook, and worked at his
trade. He held the office of school director of the township, is a member of
Marion Craig Post, G. A. R. , and votes the Republican ticket.
John F. Grace, farmer, post-office Hazzard, is a son of Burchfield and
Rebecca Grace, and was born August 5, 1830, on the homestead. He attended
the schools of that period, and has since .followed farming. In 1852 he mar-
ried Emeline, daughter of Philip McConnell, of Jackson Township, and in
1858 they moved onto their present farm. Their family consisted of Wil-
helmina, Mrs. Oliver Perrine, of Sandy Lake Township; William B., of Worth
Township; Ida Jane, Mrs. Mathew Irwin, of Worth Township; Clarence, Mary
L. and Lauris O. , living at home. Mr. Grace and family are members of
Fairview Methodist Episcopal Church.
Samuel Giebner, farmer, post-office Perrine, is a son of Augustus and Nancy
(Carmichael) Giebner. Charles Giebner, the grandfather of our subject, was
a Hessian, and was brought to America by George Washington and family, and
located in Westmoreland County, Penn. In 1797 he came to this county and
located on a tract of land in what is now Sandy Lake Township, where the
father of our subject was born and reared. He went to school but ten
weeks, and in 1858 purchased a farm in Worth Township, which is now occu-
1076
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
pied by Jacob Bixler, where he lived until his death in 1882. He was a mem-
ber of the Republican party and of the Fairview Methodist Episcopal Church.
His widow is still living in Sandy Lake Township. Their family consisted of
eight children: Mrs. Sarah A. Rockwell, died April 5, 1870; Charlotte, died
August 15, 1859; John J. , died March 7, 1886. The living ones are: Samuel, our
subject; Wesley, in Erie County; Stewart, in New York City; Margaret Jane,
Mrs. D. W. Henderson, of Venango County, and Mary, Mrs. Alexander Wright,
ot this county. Our subject was born in Sandy Lake Township June 22, 1838.
He attended the township schools, and has always been engaged in farming.
In 1862 he married Miss Margaret, daughter of Robert Henderson, of Worth
Township, and by this union they have ten children : Mary, Mrs. F. A. Cozad,
of Cool Spring Township; Nancy, Sarah and Lucy, at home; Elmer, of this
township, married to Miss Lavina, daughter of William Anderson, of Mill-
brook; Robert, Samuel, Wesley and Frank, all at home. In 1861 our subject
purchased his present farm, where he has since resided. He and family are
members of Fairview Methodist Episcopal Church, and he votes the Demo-
cratic ticket.
James L. Griffin, farmer, post-office Henderson, is a son of James and
Elizabeth (Kohlmeyer) Griffin, the father a native of Huntingdon County,
Penn., and mother a native of Centre County. In 1835 they moved to Butler
County, where they lived for several years. He is a carpenter by trade; has
always voted the Democratic ticket, and has been a member of the Lutheran
Church of Butler County over fifty years, being elder of the church. His
wife died in Illinois, where they had moved in 1856. He remained there until
1880, and since that time has been residing with our subject and Henry J., of
this township. Their family consisted of eleven children: Margaret, married
John Mortland, of Butler County, and resides in Illinois; Sarah Jane, married
John Whan, of Venango County, and lives in Iowa; Henry J. , of this town-
ship; Susanna, Mrs. Orvill F. Follett, M. D., of Illinois; James L. ; Mary L.,
Mrs. Robert Gibson, of Worth Township, died in Iowa in 1884; John, of Illi-
nois; Hannah E., Mrs. David Stickles, of Iowa; George W. , of California;
Alfred M. , of Iowa; and Amanda B. , Mrs. Jacob T. Murdock, of Illinois. Our
subject was born in Butler County March 18, 1839, and received his education
at the township schools. In 1856 he went to Illinois with his parents, and
learned the carpenter’s trade, which he followed in Kansas, Iowa and Michi-
gan until 1862, when he came to this township, and located near his pres-
ent farm. August 15, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and
Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, served until the close of the war, and was
wounded at the battle of Gettysburg, July 2, 1863, and at Spottsylvania, May
12, 1864. August 17, 1862, he married Miss Mary E., daughter of Thomas
H. Taylor, of Worth Township. By this union they have six children: George,
of Worth Township, married Eva, daughter of Blackwood Porter, of Sandy
Lake Township; Maggie E., Mrs. Clement L. Andre, of Venango County,
who has two children, Carl and an infant; Orville F., Thomas W., Mabel, Jessie
M. , at home. Our subject has held the offices of school director, supervisor
and constable of the township. He is a member of Col. Dawson Post No.
224, G. A. R., and of Worth Lodge I. O. O. F. He and family are members
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He votes the Republican ticket.
Henry J. Griffin, farmer, post-office Henderson, is a son of James and
Elizabeth (Kohlmeyer) Griffin, and was born in Butler County April 22,
1885. In 1855 he went to Iowa, and in 1858 moved to Kansas, and followed
the occupation of a carpenter. In 1860 he returned to Hendersonville, and in
1864 moved to Sandy Lake. In 1868 he purchased his present farm, where
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1077
he has since resided, following carpentering and farming. In 1855 he mar-
ried Elizabeth, daughter of Benjamin S. Stokely, of Worth Township. She
died in 1867, leaving two children: John Alfred, of this township, married
Luella, daughter of Harvey and Jane Osborn, of Worth Township, and he has
three children, Marion, Ora and Homer; Jane, Mrs. Jason Osborn, of Hen-
dersonville, who has one child, Daisy R. Our subject was again married in
1808, to Elizabeth, daughter of James E. Hart, of this township, and has by
her eight children ; Rena B. , Minnie M. , Mary S. , Alma C. , Wyona P. , Catherine
E., Frank H. and Nellie E. Our subject has held the offices of school direct-
or, supervisor, etc. , of the township. He and family are members of Hender-
sonville Methodist Episcopal Church. Since 1860 he has voted with the
Republican party.
A. Henderson, farmer, post-office Henderson, is a son of William and
Nancy (Hutchison) Henderson. Robert Henderson, the grandfather of our
subject, was a native of County Cavan, Ireland, near Coats Hill. Here the
father of subject was born in 1770, and in 1795 Robert Henderson and his
family of five sons and two daughters, came to America and first settled in
Pittsburgh. His wife’s name was Margaret, and his children were William,
John, Letitia, Robert, Charles, Archie and Margaret, all of whom are dead.
In the latter part of 1795 they removed from Pittsburgh, and located on a tract
of land in what is now Worth Township. William was married in Pitts-
burgh, and settled on a tract of land of 150 acres, about two miles distant
from his parents, the first house between there and Pittsburgh being the old
Burns stand, twelve miles this side of Pittsburgh. Here he commenced in
the woods, and with the hoe and mattock engaged in clearing up his farm, and
afterward purchased the balance of his tract of 400 acres of land. He voted
with the Democratic party, and died about 1854, and his wife only lived six
weeks afterward. Their family consisted of eleven children, three of whom are
yet living: Polly, Mrs. Nathan Simcox, of Minnesota; William, of this town-
ship, and our subject, who was born on the homestead April 6, 1814; received
his education in the log school -houses of that period, and has been engaged
principally in farming. In 1839 he married Eliza Miller, daughter of John
Miller, of Lawrence County. They have reared five children: Martin, was a
member of Company G, One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment Pennsylvania
Volunteers, and died in Belle Island Hospital; Jane, Mrs. Lewis Armstrong,
of Fredonia, this county, who has five children: Minnie, Loyd, Nora, Hays
and Madge; Amelia, Mrs. Joseph Armstrong, of Worth Township, whose chil-
dren are Clyde H. , Elmer, Emma, Clara and J asper, a farmer on the home-
stead, married to Clara Barnes, and has no family; Mary, is at home, and un-
married. In 1865 he enlisted in Company E, One Hundred and Third Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. Our subject has
held the office of poor director for nine years, and about all the township offi-
ces. He votes the Republican ticket, and he and family are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church of Hendersonville.
William H. Howe, farmer, post-office Millbrook, is a son of Andrew and
Mary (Alcorn) Howe. The father was a native of Ireland, and a settler in Ve-
nango County, and afterward came to this county, and located in Worth Town-
ship in 1837, where he lived until his death, which occurred December 7, 1868.
His widow died September 15, 1888. He was a member of the Whig party
and of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His family consisted of four chil-
dren: Robert (deceased), William H. (our subject), Andrew J. and James W.
(in Meadville). Our subject is the oldest living one, and was born in Venango
County May 17, 1829; received a common-school education, and when about
1078
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
seven years of age came to this county with his parents, and has always been
engaged in farming. In 1860 he purchased his present farm, and cleared the
most of it. February 26, 1856, he was married to Jane M. , daughter of John
Miller, of Worth Township, and by this union they have eight children ; Arthur
J., in Omaha, Neb.; Mary, Mrs. G. W. McFarlin, of Worth Township, and
has two children, Alice and Luella; Lizzie, widow of Dr. C. H. Davis, who
was killed by the Indians in Arizona, June 3, 1886; she has two children,
Helen and Clinton, and resides in Mercer; Sarah Jane, Mrs. Charles A Lamb,
Millbrook; Agnes, of Panora, Iowa; Ella, Millie, Clara at home.
John Hunter, farmer, post-of&ce Henderson, is a son of James and Mary
Jane Hunter, natives of Virginia. About 1827 they moved to Ohio, and lived
there until their deaths. Our subject was born in Virginia December 28,
1819, and when about fifteen years old he went to Pittsburgh, and learned the
carpenter’s trade, which he followed until 1858, when he purchased his pres-
ent farm, and has since resided in Worth Township. In 1848 he married
Mary Jane, daughter of John Hutchison, of Allegheny County, Penn., and by
this union they have five children: Hutchison, a farmer of Worth Township,
vtho married Jane, a daughter of James Day, of Worth Township, and have
three children, Frank, Howard and Roy; John L., living on the homestead,
married to Margaret, daughter of Robert S. Henderson, of Venango County,
and has one child, Robert; Sarah, married M. C. Osborn, of Hendersonville,
and has one child, Elsie; Mary V., married Milton Porter, of Sandy Lake
Township, and has four children: Cora, Mary, Carl, Bruce and Harold; Clara
E. , living at home. Our subject has held the office of school director of the town-
ship for twelve years, also treasurer of the township, and for the past five years
has been justice of the peace, and votes the Republican ticket. He is one of
the charter members of Worth Lodge No. 554, I. O. O. F.
Huey Family. — The first of the Huey family to locate in this county was
Francis, a native of Fayette County, who located on a tract of land in what
is now Jackson Township in 1797. He afterward went back and married
Miss Carnahan, of Fayette County, and they lived on this tract of land until
their deaths. His wife died in 1825, and he in 1842. Their family consisted
of William Robert, James, Francis, John, Samuel, George, David, Elizabeth,
Mary, Samuel, David and John. Samuel Huey was born on the homestead in
Jackson Township in 1815, and attended the log school-house of that period.
He learned the stone-mason trade, which he followed for a number of years,
and after the death of his father he and his sister, Elizabeth, lived on the
homestead for many years, and after her death he, being unmarried, made his
home with his brother David, who was born on the homestead in 1823. He
also attended the log school-houses, and about 1848 purchased his present
farm. In 1848 he married Mary Davy, a native of England. She died in
1865. leaving four children: Leander, in Cool Spring Township, married
Mary Bestwick, of Cool Spring Township, and has two children, Jennie and
Hay; William, on the old homestead, married Sarah, daughter of Samuel
Londe, of Cool Spring Township, and has one child, Maud; Jennie, who died
March 10, 1880; Walter, of Cool Spring Tovvnship, married Emma, daughter
of William Fowler, of Sandy Lake Township, and has two children, Mamie
and William. The second wife of David was Mary Rodenbaugh, who died
March 28, 1882, leaving five children: John, Laura May, Clarence Ellsworth,
Louie, Samuel. His third wife was Angeline Rodenbaugh, a sister of his
second wife. By her he has no children. The Hueys have always been con-
nected with the Democratic party, and are members of the Cumberland Pres-
byterian Church.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1079
William Jamison, farmer, post-office Centretown, was born in County Ant-
rim, Ireland, November 25, 1823. His parents were Alexander and Jane
(McKay) Jamison. They came to America in 1847, landing in New York
April 14. In July of the same year they, with subject and two other children,
came by canal as far as Buffalo, N. Y. , and from there to Erie in a boat, then
on foot with his mother to Irishtown, this county, she being fifty-one years
old. They purchased a farm in Lake Township, where the father died in
1855. They reared a family of nine children. The oldest one, Jane, married
in Ireland, and never came to this country. The others are: William, our
subject; Alexander, farmer in Lake Township; John, who moved to Tennessee
in 1868; James, in Crawford County; Daniel, in Sharpsville, this county;
Sarah, Mrs. James Garvin, of Jackson Township; Ellen, Mrs. Andrew Ebbert,
Sandy Lake Township. Our subject is the oldest of their children, and started
in the world a poor boy. In 1849 married Martha McClure, daughter of
Andrew and Rosanna (Richie) McClure, of Lake Township, and in 1850 they
moved to their present farm. November 1, 1859, Mrs. Jamison died, leaving three
children; two daughters have since died, and the son, Andrew, lives in Aurora,
111. The present wife of our subject was Sarah Ann, daughter of Arthur and
Sarah Ann (McKee) Johnston, of this township. By this union they have
seven children: James O. , farmer of this township; Jennie, William Charles,
John F., Fred, Thomas A., Mary M., all living at home. Our subject has
been assessor of the township twice, and a member of the Stoneboro Agricult-
ural Society since its organization, having been one of its directors, and exhibits
a great deal of stock, horses and sheep, and other products of the farm. He has
always been a Republican until the last few years, and is now a supporter of
the Prohibition party. He and family are members of Ebenezer United
Presbyterian Church, of which he is a deacon.
Arch. Marshall, farmer, post-office Henderson, is a son of Hugh and Nancy
(Henderson) Marshall. James Marshall, the grandfather of our subject, was one
of the pioneer settlers of this county, and died February 24, 1852, aged eighty
years, and his wife, Martha, died in 1832. He reared two children: Jane,
Mrs. William Simcox, deceased, and Hugh, the father of our subject, who
was born in Venango County December 30, 1800, and came to this county
with his parents. Our subject now resides on the farm upon which they
located. He died March 1, 1877, and Nancy, his wife, died September 12,
1871. He voted the Democratic ticket, and was an elder in the Cumberland
Presbyterian Church. Their family consisted of thirteen children: Martha,
resides with our subject; Robert, enlisted in Company K, Second Missouri
Volunteer Infantry, and served two years, and died in the army August 25,
1863; William, resides in Kansas; Mary, died September 29, 1849; James, served
in Company K, Fifty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and lives in Kansas;
John, settled on a farm near his father’s old residence, and died October 23,
1879, he married Isabella Simcox, and had six children, all of whom are living
but one; Archibald; Hugh, lives in the West; Jane, died August 31, 1842;
Alexander, died in 1847; Nancy, died in 1847; infant, deceased. Alfred, the
youngest, was born March 14, 1848, and was married March 11, 1870, to Millie,
daughter of the laie William V. Perrine, of Worth Township, and had five
children; Allie, died August 4, 1885; W. L., Bertha L., L. S., Leroy.
Alfred died November 1, 1880, and his wife died September 21, 1879. Our
subject was born November 12, 1837, on the homestead he now owns, and
received a common-school education. In 1862 he enlisted in Company F,
Eighteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, and served until the close of the
war. He first married Fannie, daughter of Thomas Gadsby, of Venango
1080
HISTORY OF . MERCER COUNTY.
County; she- died in 1880, leaving one child, Robert, who died May 29, 1879.
In 1883 he married Mary E., daughter of John Carmichael, of Worth Town-
ship, and by this union they have two children: Arthur H. , born January 13,
1880, and Henderson, born February 23, 1888. Mr. Marshall has held the
office of school director and supervisor of the township. He votes the Repub-
lican ticket, and he and family are members of the Presbyterian Church.
O. L. Medbeeey, farmer, post-office Kilgore, was born in Chautauqua
County, N. Y. , February 11, 1832. His parents were Benjamin and Lydia
(George) Medberry. The father was a native of New York State, and mother
of Massachusetts, and in 1839 they moved to this county and located on a farm
in what is now Worth Township, and is owned by our subject. The father
voted the Democratic ticket, and died in 1806. His family consisted of three
sons and three daughters, four of whom are still living: Elizabeth, Mrs. Arch-
ibald Owens, Worth Township; Emiline, deceased; George B. , deceased;
Orson L., our subject; M. D., in Fayette County, Iowa; Orsina, Mrs. Isaac
Sopher, of Venango County. Our subject was reared in this, township, at-
tended the log school -houses, and has been principally engaged in farming.
In 1854 he married Miss Jemima, daughter of George and Fannie Westlake.
By this union they have two children: Emiline, Mrs. William P. Hoois, of
Crawford County; Burroughs, on part of the homestead with his father, mar-
ried to Miss Sarah, daughter of William Ball, of Worth Township. Our sub-
ject started in life poor, and by his own efforts made a fine farm of 130 acres.
He has been supervisor and school director of the township. He is a member
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and has been superintendent of Sun-
day-school for many years. He votes the Prohibition ticket, and was nominated
for the Assembly by the Prohibitionists in 1888.
William Patteeson, post-office Hazzard, was born June 6, 1804. His par-
ents were John and Mary (Euret) Patterson, natives of Ireland, who immi-
grated to America and located on a farm in what is now Jackson Township,
this county, about 1796. He was a carpenter by trade, and worked at that in
connection with farming, aod built the second house erected in Mercer. Their
family consisted of four children: Jane, Mrs. Andrew Todd, of Wolf Creek
Township; William, our subject; Robert, and Mary Ann, Mrs. Thomas
McElree, of Wolf Creek Township, deceased. He died, aged ninety-seven,
about 1856, and his wife several years previous. Our subject is the only liv-
ing one, and was reared in Jackson Township and attended the log school-
house of that period. He married Miss Catherine McClure, daughter of Rich-
ard McClure, of Cool Spring Township. She died in 1850, leaving no chil-
dren. His second wife was Elizabeth McDowell, daughter of John McDowell,
of Wolf Creek Township. She died in 1861, leaving four children: John S.,
who lives on the homestead; Mary Jane, Mrs. James H. McCurdy, of Jackson
Township; Sarah, who died in 1876; Martha Milissa, Mrs. Joseph A. Hovis,
of Worth Township. His third wife was Elizabeth Jordan, of Fayette County,
Penn. , who is still living. In 1827 our subject located on his present farm,
where he has since resided. He was captain in one of the early military com-
panies. He has held the office of supervisor, etc. , of the township. He and wife
are members of Springfield United Presbyterian Church, and he has always,
but once, voted the Democratic ticket. His eldest son, John S., was born on
the homestead September 7, 1851, and received his education at the township
schools, and learned the carpenter trade and also stationary engineering, but
has principally been engaged in farming, owning his father’s homestead. In
1876 he married Miss Martha J. , daughter of John McCurdy, of Wolf Creek
Township, and has three children: Jennie, William J. and John Wesley. He
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1081
votes the Prohibition ticket, and has been instrumental in erecting the Hazzard
Union Church, of which he is one of the trustees. He and wife are members of
Fail-view Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is also a trustee of that church.
Since the foregoing was written William Patterson died, that event occurring
June 28, 1888, and his widow died July 4, following.
John P. West, farmer, post-office Millbrook, is a son of Henry and Jane
(Hunter) West. The father was a native of England, and came to America
about 1834, and located in Cool Spring Township, this county. After his marriage
he moved into Venango County, remained two years, and then returned to this
county, and located on a farm in Worth Township, where he died in 1804, and
his widow in 1870. They reared but two children: Elizabeth, who is the
widow of David Gill, and now lives with her daughter, Mrs. Cousins, in Mer-
cer, and our subject, who was born in Cool Spring Township, this county, Sep-
tember 2, 1837. He received his education at the township schools, and has
always followed farming. In 1861 he married Miss Nancy Jane Condit,
daughter of William Condit. By this union they have five children; Jeanette,
Calista, Irena Belle, Clarence T. and George A. Our subject was first married
to Nancy Kee, who died in 1858, leaving no children. In 1858 he purchased
his present farm, where he has since resided. He and family are members of
Amity Presbyterian Church. He has held the office of supervisor, etc. , of the
township.
James Wheeler, farmer, post-office Henderson, is a son of Cyrus and
Margaret (Downs) Wheeler. The father of our subject was born in Provi-
dence, R. I. , and at the age of twenty years came to Mercer County, with the
Hawthorn and Wilkins families, and hired out to James Braden to manufacture
bricks, and lived with him several years. His wife was a daughter of Isaac
Downs, of Cool Spring Township, and after his marriage he located at Mer-
cer, and engaged in teaming from there to Pittsburgh. His wife died August
15, 1865, aged sixty-one years, and he lived with our subject until his death,
June 7, 1881, at the age of eighty-one years. In his early days he voted with
the Democratic party, and afterward joined the Republican party. He was a
member of the Hendersonville Methodist Episcopal Church. His family con-
sisted of seven children: Our subject, the oldest; Isaac, of Jackson Township;
Thomas, postmaster at Harmony, Butler County ; Almira, Mrs. Gibson Thomp-
son, of Oil City, Penn.; Mary, Mrs. James Goff, of Dakota; Elizabeth, Mrs.
John Buckley, of Worth Township; Ellen, Mrs. William Buckley, of Worth
Township. Our subject was born July 12, 1824, at Mercer, and all of his educa-
tion was gained entirely at home. In 1846 he married Miss Annie Maria Howe,
who was born in Sheffield. England, and is a daughter of Robert Howe, of
Jackson Township. By this union they have four children: Robert, of Worth
Township, married Mary C., daughter of Samuel Perrine, of Sandy Lake
Township, and has five children, Ellsworth, Ida, Elden, Herman, Nelson;
Margaret, living at home; Tina, Mrs. Martin Hicks, of Sharon, has one child,
Maggie; Elizabeth, Mrs. James Dick, of Irwin Township, Venango County,
and has two children, Nicholas, Linnie. Our subject first began farming in
Jackson Township, and remained there until 1857, when he purchased his
present farm, which contains extensive veins of coal, which he has opened. In
1883 he established a general store on his farm, which he has since conducted.
In 1861 he enlisted in Company G, One Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served until January 28, 1863. He has held the office of school director
and supervisor of the township, and has always voted the Republican ticket.
He is also a member of Worth Lodge No. 554, I. O. O. F., and of the Wes-
leyan Methodist Church of Hendersonville, having been steward of the
1082
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
church for over twenty years, and superintendent of Sunday-school for many
years.
Wilson Family. — The first of the Wilson family to locate in this county
were Peter and Margaret (Robinson) Wilson, natives of Ireland, who immigrat-
ed to America in 1777 and first located in Allegheny County, Penn. He was
a Revolutionary soldier and owned 160 acres of land on which the city of Alle-
gheny now stands. In 1796 he and his family, which consisted of two sons,
George and James, and one daughter, Mary, came to this county and located in
what is now Jackson Township. He engaged in farming and built the first
grist-mill on the Neshannock Creek just below where Jackson Station now
stands. At this place two more children were born to them, John and Jane.
He sold this farm and grist-mill and located in another portion of Jackson Town-
ship, which he afterward sold, and located 600 acres in what is now Worth
Township, where he lived until his death, January 20, 1843, at the age of sev-
enty-nine years. His widow died April 6, 1846, aged seventy-seven years.
George Wilson was the oldest son and was born in Allegheny County, 1792.
He was a soldier in the War of 1812. He married Mary McFetridge, daugh-
ter of George McFetridge, of Salem Township, and located on a portion of his
•father’s homestead. He purchased the grist-mill now known as the Montgom-
ery mills, which he operated about twenty years. He was a member of the old
Whig party, and afterward joined the Republican party, and a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church which held their meetings in the log house of his
father, and is now known as the Fairview Church. He died January 8, 1877,
and his wife March 10, 1871. Their family consisted of seven children: John,
living in Rock Island, 111. ; Margeret, Mrs. David Linn, of New Vernon Town-
ship, who is dead; George H. , on the homestead; Clara, died when young;
Milo A., Jackson Township; Catherine, deceased wife of J. D. Kirkpatrick,
of North Liberty; Peter Wesley, who died in Clarksville
George H. Wilson is the third son of George and Mary (McFetridge) Wil-
son, and was born on the homestead, on a part of which he now lives, November
23, 1823. He received his education at the schools of that period and was
reared a farmer, and helped his father in the grist-mill which he afterward
owned and conducted for some time. In 1849 he married Catherine B., daugh-
ter of William Stevenson, of Mercer. She died in 1850, leaving one child, Jos-
eph B., of Grove City, who married Urilla, daughter of Robert Stewart, of
Worth Township, and has four children; Pearl, Essie, Sarah and Wesley.
Mr. Wilson was again married in 1851 to Miss Rosanna M. Moreland, daughter
of Mordicai and Eliza Moreland, of Ohio. By this union they have ten chil-
dren: Marry, Eliza, married Joel Venable of Columbiana County, Ohio; she
is dead; Ambrose Lenhart, lives in Dillin, Colo.; Clara, marribd Orlando
Thompson and lives in Venango County, Penn., and has two children, Homer
and Edna; Alice May, married James Alexander and has three children, Clyde,
Mary and Lenora; Albert M., lives in Ohio, married to Miss Mary Cormer, and
has one child, Edith; Flora A., Edward D., John W., Lenora M. Our sub-
ject was a member of the Republican party for many years, but is now a
supporter of the Prohibition party. He and family are members of Fairview
Methodist Episcopal Church. He has held office of trustee and class leader,
and has been a bible teacher for over ten years.
Milo A. Wilson, farmer, Hazzard post-office, is the fourth child of George
and Mary (McFetridge) Wilson, and was born on the homestead December II,
1825, received his education at the township schools and has since been en-
gaged in farming. He was married in 1868 to Miss Mary McCurdy, daughter
of John and Jennie McCurdy, of W^olf Creek Township, and has five children:
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
10S3
Maggie L., Jennie A., Clara J., Eva L. and Lillie May. Our subject has held
the office of school director of the township. He is a member of the County Ag-
ricultural Society and a member of the Fairview Methodist Episcopal Church.
His wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Jackson Centre. James,
the second son, was born in Allegheny County in 1794, and came to this county
with his parents, and married Nancy McFetridge, of Leech’s Corners; she died
January 15, 1826, aged twenty-four years, leaving three children; one died in
infancy. Elizabeth first married George McConnell and located near Harris -
ville, and after his death she married the Rev. Isaac Scofield, of this county.
She died about 1865, leaving one daughter by her first husband, who is now
Mrs. John Daugherty, of Mercer. Peter R. always remained on the home-
stead. In 1846 he married Louisa Hazen, daughter of Nathaniel and Eliza-
beth (Egbert) Hazen, of Sharon. By her he had three children: Nancy L., Mrs.
Wilson Phillips, of Worth Township; Celestia E., Mrs. Ellsworth (McKee), of
Hazzard, and Wilbur James, living at home. He votes the Republican ticket,
and was class-leader in the Fairview Methodist Episcopal Church for many
years. He died July 29, 1887, and his widow and son W. J. remain on the
homestead. The second wife of James Wilson was Marry Holmes, who died
January 24, 1830. His third wife was Sarah Carmichael, who is still living on
the homestead with the widow of his son Peter. He was in the War of 1812,
and died in 1876. The third child of Peter Wilson was Mary, who married
Homer McFetridge, and first located in Jackson Township, and finally moved
to Indiana, where she died. The fourth child was John, who married Clara
Turner, and lived on the homestead for many years. He afterward purchased
a farm and grist-mill at Millbrook, and died at that place. The fifth child was
Jane, who married Hugh Todd and located in Springfield Township, and after-
ward moved to Rush County, Ind. , and again moved to California, and died
there, leaving three children.
Thomas J. Weight, farmer, post-office Perrine, is a son of Thomas and
Sarah (Fowler) Wright, and was born on the homestead, which he now
owns, December 6, 1849. He received his education at the township schools,
and has since been engaged in farming and dealing in wool, live stock, etc. ,
being the first man in Mercer and adjoining counties to own and raise thor-
ough-bred Hereford cattle. In 1879 he married Eliza J. Egbert, daughter of
John Egbert, of Sandy Lake Township, and by this union they have five chil-
dren: Mary Maud, Richard R., George W., John A. and Hazel Ann, all at
home. Mr. Wright, in 1878, was elected justice of the peace, which office he
has held for ten years. He votes the Republican ticket.
MILL CEEEK TOWNSHIP.
Abeaham Blatt, New Lebanon, was born in that portion of Union which is
now in Snyder County, Penn., July 14, 1833. His parents were Peter and
Rachel Blatt, who came to this county in 1837, and located on a part of the
Jacob Grove farm, in what is now New Lebanon Borough. In 1842 they
moved to a farm in French Creek Township, where they resided until death.
Peter Blatt was an elder in the Lutheran Church, and died August 6, 1867.
His widow died March 6, 1871. Their family consisted of six children: Daniel,
was a member of Company F, of the Buck Tail Regiment, and died from the
effects of a wound received at the battle of Spottsylvania; Jonas, Absalem,
Catharine, the wife of William Livingston, and Abraham. The last named was
educated at the township schools and learned the trade of a wagon and carriage
maker, establishing his present business in 1859. He has also added the
undertaking business, which he has followed for many years. In 1863 he
1084
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
enlisted in Company K, Fifty-fifth Militia, and served three months. He is
a member of the Norville Muse Post No. 251, G. A. R. , and the Lincoln
Lodge No. 54, A. O. U. W. He served the county as director of the poor
during the year of 1882; has held the office of school director, and is serving
his third term as justice of the peace. April 7, 1859, he married Isabella
McKissick, by whom he has; Eva A., married L. D. Wheeler, and has Charles
F. and Don H. ; Austa O. , Mrs. J. H. Grove; William B., telegraph operator
in Dakota; Clyde. Mr. Blatt is an elder in the Lutheran Church, and votes
the Republican ticket.
Daniel Beunnee, proprietor of woolen mill, post-office New Lebanon, was
born in Lebanon County, Penn., in 1816. His parents moved to Perry County,
Penn., where he was reared, and afterward moved to Huntingdon, Mifflin and
Venango Counties. In each of these our subject engaged in woolen mills. In
1862 he came to Mill Creek Township, and erected his present woolen mill,
which he has since operated in connection with farming. He also engaged in
manufacturing plows and cultivators for about ten years. In 1837 he married
Sarah Beaver, who died in 1840, leaving one son, Samuel, who was a mem-
ber of Company B, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers,
and served through the Rebellion, and received a wound at the battle of the
Wilderness, which caused the loss of one finger. He married Mary Horton, of
Jefferson County, and has three children; Hattie; Maggie and Mamie. In
1842 he married Miss Mary Staum, a native of Switzerland, whose parents
settled in Snyder County, Penn. By this union they have six children; Mar-
tha Ann, Rebecca, Sarah Elizabeth, William W., Kate and H. C. William
W., of Mill Creek Township, married Sarah, daughter of George Morton, of
Mill Creek Township, and has two children; Mary and Earl D. Henry C. ,
who was born in Clarion County, Penn., June 25, 1856, received his education
at the select schools of New Lebanon, and at the age of seventeen years, en-
gaged in teaching school. He had charge of schools in Findley, Deer Creek
Lake and Mill Creek Townships, and has charge of one room in the public
school of New Lebanon at the present time. In 1872 he entered into part-
nership with his father, in the manufacture of w'oolen goods, and has since had
charge of the mill. He has also been engaged in selling sewing machines since
1873. In 1882 he married Lizzie, daughter of Charles McMichael, of New
Vernon Township, and has one child, Leland. He is connected with the Re-
publican party, and has held various offices. Our subject has held the offices of
township trustee, township clerk, school director and supervisor, also the office of
exhorter and class-leader in the United Brethren Church of New Lebanon.
He votes the Republican ticket.
Robert Canon, farmer, post-office North Sandy, is a son of John and Jane
(McFarland) Canon, and a grandson of Thomas Canon, Esq. , a pioneer of She-
nango Township. The father of our subject was born in Washington County,
Penn., in 1787, and located on the Shenango River in Shenango Township,
where he lived until his death May 27, 1835. He served in the War of 1812,
was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and voted the Democratic
ticket. Their children are all dead except Eliza, Mrs. Joseph Clark, of Kan-
sas, and our subject, who was born in Hickory Township October 14, 1815. He
was reared in Shenango Township, and attended the old log school-houses of that
period. He remained on his father’s homestead until 1835, when he went to
Youngstown, Ohio, and worked on the cross-cut canal at that place, also in
Portage County, Ohio, and on the Erie extension. In 1840 he married Miss
Catherine, daughter of William Steele, of this county. In 1841 they located on
their present farm, where they have since resided. Their children are; John
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1085
IV., superintendent of Sharon public schools; Jane, Mrs. John Reynold, of Deer
Creek Township; Thomas Ewing, farmer of Mill Creek Township; Esther, Mrs.
Peter Urey, of Mill Creek Township; Elizabeth L., Mrs. Albert DeFrance, of
Sandy Lake Township; Mary, Mrs. William Ray gel, of Mill Creek Township.
Our subject is a member of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society and of the
Sandy United Presbyterian Church.
Elias Clayton, farmer, post-office North Sandy, is a son of John and
Mary (Ralston) Clayton, natives of Huntingdon County, Penn. In 1842 they
removed to Mercer County, and located on the Shenango River, in Pymatun-
ing Township, and afterward moved to Delaware Township, and in 1853
located on a farm now owned by our subject, where his father died in 1884,
and his mother in 1849. They reared live children, four of whom are still
living: Elias, Lewis, in Sandy Lake borough; Isabella, Mrs. William Glenn,
of Mill Creek Township; Florence, Mrs. Madison Breanman, of Venango
County. The father of our subject was again married, to Jane Tingley, who
still lives in Lawrence County. He was also a member of the Sandy Lake
Presbyterian Church, and voted the Democratic ticket. Our subject was born
in Huntingdon County December 2, 1827, and came to this county with his
parents, and has lived on his present farm since 1853. In 1858 he married
Miss Hattie, daughter of David Barr, of Venango County. By this union they
have one child, John M. , who lives on a part of the homestead. He married
Maria Reagle, daughter of Soloman Reagle, of Venango County, and has
two children: Lawrence A. and Florence H. Our subject has held the offices
of school director and supervisor of thd township, and votes the Democratic
ticket.
De. C. F. Daubenspeck, New Lebanon, Penn., was born in Butler County,
Penn., January 24, 1850. He attended the township schools, and Tableau
Seminary, Emlenton, Penn. His medical education was gained at the West-
ern Reserve Medical College, graduating from that institution in 1877. He
located in Clarion County, Penn. , where he practiced for eighteen months, and
then removed to New Lebanon, Penn. , where he has since resided, and engaged
in a very extensive practice, having established a reputation as a physician
excelled by none in his part of the county. In 1876 he married Miss Mary C.
Pontious, of Donegal Township, Butler Co., Penn. By her he has one son,
Charles V. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church -of New Lebanon.
He has always been a supporter of the Democratic party. For a long time he
was familiarly known as the “lone fisherman voter” of New Lebanon.
Wilson Dean, farmer, post-office New Lebanon, is a son of Henry and
Elizabeth (Duff) Dean, of French Creek Township. He was born in Lawrence
County, Penn. , October 20, 1838, and in the spring of 1839 his parents moved
to this county and located in French Creek Township, where he was reared
and educated. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and
Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war.
In 1858 he became united in marriage with Mary, daughter of James Muse, of
New Lebanon. By this union they have four children: Rosetta, wife of
George Amon; Kit C. , Milo E. and Harry P. Our subject moved to his
present farm in Mill Creek Township in 1871. He has held various township
offices, such as school director and supervisor. He is a member of the Nor-
ville Muse Post No. 251, G. A. R., and of the A. O. U. W., No. 54, of New
Lebanon, and votes the Republican ticket.
Samuel Deemer, farmer and miller, post-office North Sandy, is a son of John
and Mary (Butts) Deemer, natives of Washington County, Penn. They moved to
Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1823, and in 1839 they came to Mercer County and
64
1086
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
located on a tract of land in what ia now Cool Spring Township, where they
lived eight years, and then moved to Mill Creek Township, where both resided
until death. He died in 1872, and his widow in 1876. He was a school
director and supervisor of the township, voted the Republican ticket, and was
a member of the Lutheran Church. Their family consisted of ten children:
Sarah, wife of William Fonner; Mary, Elizabeth, Susanna, Jonathan, David,
Martha, wife of John McWilliams; John, Samuel, Emeline, wife of Arthur
Martin. Our subject was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, August 27, 1833,
came to this county with his parents, and has always followed farming. He
was a member of the State Militia, and corporal of Company K, Fifty-fifth Regi-
ment. In 1865 he married Miss Sarah, daughter of David Raymond, of Mill
Creek Township. By this union they have five children: Minnie B., wife of
L. M. Rice; Myrtie M., Elva E., Armand E. and Loy. In 1865 they moved
to Trumbull County, Ohio, and remained there till 1880, when they moved to
Venango County, Penn., and in 1887 purchased the present farm and the
Glenn grist-mill, which he has since conducted. He is a member of Worth
Lodge No. 554, I. O. O. F., and formerly voted the Republican ticket, but is
now identified with the Greenback party. His wife is a member of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church.
John B. DeFeance, farmer, post-office New Lebanon, is a son of Allison
and Martha (Montgomery) DeFrance, who were among the early settlers in
this county, locating on a tract of land in what is now Mill Creek Township.
Allison DeFrance was a soldier in the War of 1812. He voted the Demo-
cratic ticket, and was counted one of the leading men of the township, and
died in 1862. His wife was a member of the United Presbyterian Church,
and died in 1885. Their family' consisted of eleven children: Sarah,
deceased; James M. , an attorney at Kirksville, Mo.; John B. ; Eliza, wife of
Rev. Sears; William; Isabella, deceased; A. H., an attorney, and at present
one of the supreme commissioners of Colorado; Mary J. ; Mattie A., deceased;
Archie M. , and Albina, deceased. Our subject was born on the homestead
February II, 1828, and was educated at the township schools, Greenville
Academy and the Grand River Institute of Ohio. Mr. DeFrance has always
lived on the homestead where he was born, and is one of the wealthy and suc-
cessful farmers of Mill Creek Township. He has served the township as jus-
tice of the peace for five years, and is connected with the Democratic party.
J. Addison DeFrance, farmer, post-office New Lebanon, is a son of James
and Mary (Moore) DeFrance. The father of our subject was born in Craw-
ford County, Penn., in 1800, and was one of the early settlers of this county,
having located in Mill Creek Township at an early day, and afterward pur-
chased a tract of 225 acres of land, which is now owned by our subject. He
was an elder in the North Sandy United Presbyterian Church for many
years, voted the Democratic ticket, and died February 15, 1875, and his widow
died September 11, 1884. Their family consisted of three sons: Hugh, Albert,
and our subject, who was born on the homestead where he now lives Decem-
ber 17, 1842. He received his education at the New Lebanon Academy, and
has always followed farming. In 1887 he married Miss Mary E. , daughter
of Dennis Kennedy, of Venango County, and by this union they have one
child, J. Addison. Our subject votes the Democratic ticket, and he and wife
are members of the Utica United Presbyterian Church.
171 A. C. Grove, merchant. New Lebanon, is a son of Jacob and Catharine
(Voorhis) Grove, and a grandson of Abraham Grove, a native of Union County,
Penn. In 1813 Abraham and his family, consisting of wife and children,
Jacob, David, Abraham, Elizabeth, Barbara, Mary, Hannah and Rachel, came
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1087
to Mercer County. Jacob was born in Union County, Penn., in 1811, and
attended the log cabin schools, and was brought up at farm labor. He held
some of the small township offices, and died February 23, 1881. His wife
was killed at Summitt by a train on the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern
Railroad in 1873. Their children were Absalem, was in Company G, One
Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was killed at Cold
Harbor in 1864; Mary E. , Mrs. Reuben Stewart; A. C. ; Elizabeth, Mrs.
Thomas Law; Sarah J., Mrs. William Conn; Jacob T., was in the Eighty-
third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and came home without a wound; Jonas B. ,
Jeremiah M., Jay C., telegraph operator; Kate, Mrs. A. H. Banes. A. C.
was born in New Lebanon September’ 3, 1838, and was educated at the select
schools of that borough. In 1861 he enlisted in Company B, Eighty-third
Pennsylvania Volunteers, served eight months, and on his return he, in com-
pany with Col. J. T. Giebner and Col. Rogers, organized Company B, One
Hundi’ed and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served throughout the
Rebellion, and held the commission of second and first lieutenants and cap-
tain of the company. He was wounded at the battle of the Wilderness. He
was married to Mary, daughter of J ames A. Leech, by whom he has six chil-
dren: Leon V., Nettie C. , Marshall M. , Darwin C. , Victor H. and Lebch A.
William Glenn, farmer, post-office North Sandy, is a son of Samuel and
Jennie (Barr) Glenn, natives of County Derry, Ireland, who came to America
in 1790 with John Glenn, the grandfather of our subject. They remained
near Philadelphia three years and then settled in Allegheny County. They
first came to Mercer County in 1803, and in 1806 purchased the farm now
owned by our subject, in Mill Creek Township, where the parents of our sub-
ject died. His father, Samuel, was in the War of 1812, served the township as
justice of the peace for about forty years; voted the Whig, afterward the Re-
publican ticket, and was a member of the Rocky Spring United Presbyterian
Church. His wife died in 1855 and he followed in 1859. Their children
were Eliza, Mrs. John Brandon; John; Margeret, Mrs. James Pinkerton;
David, Mary, Martha, Matilda and Samuel, in Erie County, Penn.; Jane, Mrs.
Joseph Stevens, of French Creek Township. Our subject was born on the
homestead he now owns May 28, 1820, attended the log school-house of that
period and has been engaged in farming principally. In 1855 he erected a
grist-mill on North Sandy Run, which he conducted for about fourteen years.
The mill has since been known as the Glenn Mill. He also built a saw-mill on
the same run, which he conducted for about twenty years. In 1847 he married
Miss Esther, daughter of John Dickey, of Mill Creek Township. She died in
1865, leaving eight children, six of whom are still living; Ann Eliza, Mrs.
Charles Baker of Erie, Penn. ; Oscar, in the United States Navy, now on board
the “Michigan” and stationed at Erie; Melvina, Mrs. A. L. Reid, of Butler,
Penn. ; Jennie, Mrs. John Deemer, of Venango County, Penn. ; Margaret,
Mrs. George Bright; Hettie, Mrs. John Cleland. The second wife of our sub-
ject was Mrs. Isabella Free, daughter of John Clayton, of Mill Creek Township.
He has held the offices of school director and supervisor of the township ; is a
member of Worth Lodge No. 554, I. O. O. F., and a member of the Sandy
United Presbyterian Church, and votes the Republican ticket.
James Lindsay, farmer, post-office Utica, Venango Co., Penn., is a son
of Robert and Adeline (McDonald) Lindsay. His father was born in Venango
County,near Utica, and settled in Mill Creek Township, this county, about 1829
or 1830. He was a member of the Democratic party. He died in 1844, and
his widow in 1854. Their family consisted of six children: Finley, was a member
of Company B, Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was killed at the
1088
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
battle of Fredericksburg; the living are Samuel M., was wounded at the Sec-
ond Bull Run; John M., of Franklin, Venango County; Walter R. (with
Samuel), dealer in hardware, etc., in Riceville, Crawford County; Ellen,
wife of Frank Stranahan, of Kansas, and our subject, who was next to the oldest,
and was born on the homestead he now owns, October 24, 1832. His educa-
tion was gained at the schools of the township and his principal occupation has
been farming, although for the past twenty years he has acted as agent for all
kinds of agricultural implements, and owing to his enterprise and energy he is
counted one of the leading farmers and business men of his section of the coun-
ty. He is now serving his second term as justice of the peace, and has- also
acted as school director of the township for a number of years. He is a mem-
ber of the Sandy Lake Lodge No. 434, of the Masonic fraternity, and of the
Stoneboro Agricultural Society. Politically he is a Republican. In 1872 he
married Miss Sarah, daughter of Robert Reed, of Mill Creek Township. By
this union they have three children : Phemie, T. W. and C. D. His wife and
daughter are members of the United Presbyterian Church of North Sandy.
Arthur Martin, post-office Sandy Lake, is a son of Thomas and Mary
(Williams) Martin. His father was born in Lawrence and his mother in Butler
County, Penn. In 1864 they located on a farm in what is now Mill Creek
Township, where he died in 1882. His widow is still living on the homestead.
He was a member of the New Lebanon Methodist Episcopal Church, and voted
the Republican ticket. They reared ten children: Arthur, Isaac, George,
Harrison, Cassay, Esther, J. A., Philip, Eliza andMalinda. Our subject was
born in Lawrence County, Penn., October 12, 1838. He came to this county
with his parents and attended the New Lebanon Academy for three years; he
engaged in teaching in the township schools, and has since followed farming,
moving to his present farm in 1866. In 1865 he married Miss Emeline,
daughter of John Deemer, of Mill Creek Township. By this union they have
John, Samuel, Richard and Horace. Mr. Martin has acted as school director
and supervisor of the township and at the present time is justice of the peace.
He is a member of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society, and one of the trustees
in the Methodist Episcopal Church of Sandy Lake. He votes the Democratic
ticket.
Galbreath McMullen (deceased). — Probably one of the oldest, if not the
oldest man that ever lived in Mercer County was Galbreath McMullen, of Mill
Creek Township, who died at the home of his son, A. J. McMullen, about mid-
way between Sandy Lake and New Lebanon, on the 24th of September, 1884,
aged one hundred and four years, five months and sixteen days. He was born
at Winchester, Va. , on the 8th of April, 1779, the son of Galbreath and Mar-
garet /Lukens) McMullen. His ancestry was of Scotch descent. He was twice
married, the first time to Rebecca Angell in 1809. By her he had these chil-
dren; John A., Margaret, Ellen, Elizabeth, James, Sarah, Hannah, Galbreath
and infant unnamed. The second, in 1824, to Mary Park; by her he had Sam-
uel, Archie, Joseph, William, Andrew J. and two girls who died before they
I'eceived names. He was a soldier in the War of 1812 from what is now Law-
rence (then. Beaver) County. F or more than seventy years he was a resident
of Pennsylvania. In early days he hunted on the site of the present city of
New Castle. He was always a Democrat, and cast his first vote for Thomas
Jefferson, at his first election in 1800. He never used tobacco in his life, and
never used spectacles. He could read ordinary print with ease up to a point
within a few weeks of his death. His descendants are numerous in Mercer
County.
Andrew J. McMullen, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, is a son of Gil-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1089
breath, Sr., and Mary (Park) McMullen. He was born near Edenburg, in
that part of Beaver County which is now Lawrence County, August 30, 1832,
and was educated at the public schools of Venango County. About 1844 he
and his parents came to Mercer County. In 1857 he married Miss Julia Ann,
daughter of William Christie, Esq., of Venango County, and in 1875 they
moved onto their present farm in Mill Creek Township. Their children are :
Margaret L., widow of James McClimans, living with subject, who has two
chil^en, David Earl and Alice May; William Clarence, farmer in Hempfield
Township, married Della, daughter of Esquire Price, and has two children,
Frank and Carl; Samuel, living at home; Alice, Mrs. William Grove, of New
Lebanon Borough; James Park, Maud May, Oliver and Homer. Mr. McMullen
has held various township offices, and at the present time is assessor. He is a
member of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society and of the Democratic party.
His family attend the Presbyterian Church of Sandy Lake.
D. S. Nelson, farmer, post-office New Lebanon, is a son of John and
Mary (Stewart) Nelson, natives of Ireland, who settled in Lawrence County,
Penn. In 1860 they removed to this county and located in what is now Find-
ley Township, and remained three years, and then purchased the farm now
occupied by our subject, where the father died in 1877 and the mother in 1888.
Mr. Nelson formerly belonged to the United Presbyterian Church of Mercer,
and after his removal to Mill Creek Township he united with the United
Presbyterian Church of Utica. He voted the Republican ticket. Their
family consisted of seven children: D. S. ; Robert, of Columbus, Ohio; Lizzie
J. , William, Mary E., Maggie M. and John, all living with D. S. on the
homestead. Our subject was born in Lawrence County, Penn., October 2,
1859, and received his education at the high-schools of Utica and New Leba-
non, and has always followed farming.
William N. Nicklin, farmer, post-office North Sandy, is a son of Will-
iam and Frances (Moore) Nicklin. [See sketch of Charles S. Nicklin, of
Sandy Lake Township, for further mention of the parents.] Our subject was
born in England September 9, 1825, and came to this county with his parents
in 1833. He attended the common schools of this county, and has principally
been engaged in farming. In 1850 he married Miss Ann, daughter of Fran-
cis Mears, of Sandy Lake Township. By this union they have: Lizzie, living
at home; Sarah, widow of William Brennan, of Stoneboro, who has four
children: Thomas, Joseph, Winifred and Anne; Eva, Jane and Harriet, at
home; Emma, Mrs. C. L. McFetridge, of Mill Creek Township; William, in
Colorado Springs. Our subject settled on his present farm in 1864. He is a
member of the Stoneboro Agricultural Society, and of the Catholic Church.
He votes the National Greenback ticket.
E. C. VooEHiES, livery. New Lebanon, is a son of Abraham and Sarah
(Hathaway) Voorhies. Rhyneer Voorhies, the grandfather of our subject, was a
native of New Jersey, and an early settler in Washington County. In 1805
he located on a farm in what is now New Lebanon Borough. He was a soldier
in the War of 1812, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and voted the
Whig ticket. His children were Price, Abram, Ephraim, Jane, Sarah,
Catharine, Calvin, Margaret, Rhoda and Ira, all of whom are dead. The
father of our subject was born May 11, 1800, came to this county with
his parents, and after his marriage he located on an adjoining farm,
which is now in the borough of New Lebanon. He built a tannery, which he
conducted for many years, and was constable and deputy sheriff of this county,
also supervisor and school director, and a Republican. He died in 1879.
His first wife died in 1842, leaving J. Arnold, E. C., Ebenezer, Chloe, Abi-
1090
HISTORY OF MEROEK COUNTY.
gail, Phoebe Jane, Kyneer and Adeline. His second wife was Laura Smith.
His third wife was a Mrs. Lowe, and his fourth a Mrs. Owens. Our subject
was born in the borough of New Lebanon March 11, 1825, attended the
public schools and learned the shoemaker’s trade, which he followed for
about thirty years. In 1802 he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and
Thirty- ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until the close of the war,
receiving wounds at the battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania and' Peters-
burg. After the close of the war he returned to New Lebanon and worked at
his trade. He held the office of postmaster for five years, and was school
director. He established his livery business in 1882, and in 1884 was elected
constable, which office he now holds. In 1847 he married Miss Emeline
Andrews, and has the following children: Cyrus M., a Presbyterian mission-
ary in New Mexico; Samuel A., Martha J. , A. A., J. A., Sarah Belle and
Miller. Mr. Voorhies is commander of Norval Muse Post No. 251, G. A.
R. , and a member of the A. O. XJ. W. He is a Republican, and has been
trustee and steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church for many years.
John Voeous, farmer, post-office New Lebanon, is a son of W. G. and
Leah (Firster) Vorous, of Mill Creek Township. The first to locate in this
county was Rhyneer Vorous, the great-grandfather of our subject, who was a
native of Washington County, Penn., and located on a tract of land in what is
now Mill Creek Township early in the century. His son Price, the grand-
father of our subject, was also born in Washington County, and after his mar-
riage located on the farm, a part of which is now owned by John. He reared
six children, all of whom are dead except W. G. and Jane (Mrs. Albert Klin-
gensmith), who lives on the old homestead. W. G. was born in 1820, and has
always been engaged in farming. Our subject was the eldest of his family,
and was born March 18, 1843. He attended the township schools, and after-
ward learned the stone-mason trade, which he followed for a number of years.
In 1861 he enlisted in Company I, Fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Cavalry,
and served until the close of the war, receiving wounds at the battles of Deep
Bottom, Va. , St. Mary’s Church and Sailor’s Creek. In 1864 he married Miss
Margaret A., daughter of William Miller, of Mill Creek Township. By this
union they have seven children; Cora Lee, wife of John Steelsmith; William
F., Hattie A., Adison V., Emma J. , John I. G. and Hugh S. M. Our sub-
ject was elected county auditor in 1875, which office he filled for three years.
He has also been school director, supervisor and assessor of the township. He
is a member of the Sandy Lake Lodge No. 573, I. O. O. F. fraternity, also of
the A. O. IJ. W., No. 54, of New Lebanon, and votes the Republican ticket.
He and wife are members of the Fairfield Presbyterian Church.
FRENCH CREEK TOWNSHIP.
John W. Cooper, farmer, post-office Milledgeville, is a son of William
R. and Mary (Thompson) Cooper. William Cooper, the grandfather of our
subject, was a native of Westmoreland County, and settled on a tract of
land in Mill Creek Township, this county, about 1796, and died there in 1809.
His family consisted of six children, all of whom are dead. The father of our
subject was next to the youngest, and was born in Mill Creek Township. In
1803, after his marriage, he located in French Creek Township. He was a
carpenter by trade. He was one of the organizers of the Milledgeville Presby-
terian Church, in which he was ruling elder until his death in 1865. His
widow is still living on the homestead with her son, Samuel J. His family
consisted of twelve children: Martha and Charles R. are dead. The living
are: Rebecca J. , wife of Robert M. Jackson, the treasurer of Lynn County,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1091
Iowa; Keziali, wife of James S. Williams; Eliza, wife of F. S. Whitling,
of Cocbranton, Penn. ; John W. ; Clara, wife of Isaac Canfield; William H. ;
lumberman in Parksburg, W. Va. ; Margaret, wife of Eli Ward; Samuel J.,
Albert T., lawyer of Cedar Eapids, Iowa; Annie V., teacher in the public
schools of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Our subject was born on the homestead at
Milledgeville, September 2, 1841. He was educated at the public schools and
Cochranton Academy. From 1868 to 1875 he engaged in manufacturing lum-
ber, erecting a saw mill at Milledgeville. Since that time he has followed
farming. In 1888 he purchased the general mercantile business of George E.
Hamilton, which he conducts in connection with farming. March 24, 1868,
he married Eliza J., daughter of John Hamilton, of Allegheny County. By
this union they have four children: Charles William, Jean M. , John Hamil-
ton and Thomas Logan. Our subject has held the offices of school director,
supervisor and constable of the township, and is now serving a second term as
justice of the peace, having been elected in 1880 and again in 1885. He
votes the Republican ticket, and has been an elder in the Presbyterian Church
since 1874.
Samuel J. Cooper, farmer, post-office Milledgeville, is a son of William R.
and Mary (Thompson) Cooper, and was born on the homestead, where he now
resides, February 23, 1852. He was educated in the township schools,- and
November 8, 1882, was married to Matilda G. , daughter of Joseph Stevenson,
of French Creek Township, and by whom he has two children: Arthur and
Carrie Annabel. Mr.* Cooper is engaged in general farming and breeding draft
and driving horses and pure Poland-China hogs. He is a stanch Republican.
Isaac Crowell, farmer, post-office Milledgeville, is a son of Dennis and Kate
Crowell, of Clearfield County, Penn. He was born in Decatur Township, Clear-
field County, this State, in 1831. In 1866 he moved to Mercer County, and lo-
cated on his present farm in French Creek Township. In 1855 he married Miss
Elizabeth Baughman, of Clearfield County. By this union they have had five
children: Sovilda, born May 9, 1857, died May 13, 1859; Allen, on the home-
stead, married Eva Grinnold, of Geneva, Crawford County; Lucinda, mar-
ried A. A. Lasher, of Venango County; H. H. , on the homestead, and Ashley
W. Our subject has served as a justice of the peace since 1887. He has also
held the office of supervisor. He is a trustee of the New Lebanon United
Brethren Church, and votes the Republican ticket.
Henry Dean, farmer, post-office New Lebanon, is a son of Abner and Su-
sanna (Remley) Dean, natives of Huntingdon County, who settled in that part
of Mercer County which is now Lawrence County in 1818. About 1858 they
removed to New Lebanon Borough, where the mother of our subject died in
1866, leaving ten children, of whom Allie and Nancy are dead. The living
are: Elizabeth, widow of William Corbin, of Akron, Ohio; Henry, Wdlliam,
John, Abner, Eliza, Susanna and Washington. Mr. Dean, Sr., married for
his second wife Mrs. Elizabeth Whitman, who is still living. By her he had
two daughters: Eula May and Cora. Mr. Dean was treasurer of New Leba-
non for a number of years, a devoted member of the Lutheran Church, and
voted the Republican ticket. He died in January, 1888. Our subject was
born November 11, 1818; he attended the log school-houses of that period, and
has always followed farming, moving onto his present farm about 1839. In
1837 he mai’ried Elizabeth Duff, of Lawrence County; she died in March, 1852,
leaving five children, of whom Susanna and Susan are dead. The living are:
Wilson ; Elizabeth, Mrs. Solomon McBride; Sarah Jane, Mrs. Robert Mitchell;
Martha Ellen, Mrs. Theodore Klingengsmith. His present wife is Susanna Mc-
Cammant; by her he has two children: Lucy, deceased, and Dessie, Mrs. Urias
10SJ2
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Jewell. Our subject lias held the offices of school director, tax collector and
constable of the township, and votes the Republican ticket.
George E. Dilley, farmer, post-office New Lebanon, is a son of Lewis
and Jane (Elliott) Dilley. His father was born in New Jersey in 1786, and
moved with his father. Price Dilley, to Washington County, Penn. About
1800 they came to Mercer County and located on a tract of land in what is now
Mill Creek Township. The father of our subject first married a Miss Cooper,
of Milledgeville. The children of that union are: William, of Kansas; John,
of Illinois; Rev. Samuel, of Kansas; Price, of Lackawannock Township;
Sarah, Mrs. William Gordon, of Illinois. His second wife was Jane Elliott.
Their children are: Robert E., of Venango County; Mary, Mrs. William
Miller, of Mill Creek Township; James, of Venango County; Elliott, in French
Creek Township; Jane, Mrs. Christopher Evans, of Mill Creek Township;
George E., of French Creek Township; David W., of Mill Creek Township;
Adam C., was a member of Company B, One Hundred and Fortieth Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and died from the effects of wounds received at Gettys-
burg. Price and George E. were also members of that regiment. David
and James were in the Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. He, Lewis,
was a member of the Republican party, and a deacon in the Fairfield Presby-
terian Church for many years. He died in July, 1863. Our subject was born
in Mill Creek Township September 15, 1834, and attended the township
schools. In 1862*he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Fortieth Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and was honorably discharged in 1863. In 1858 he mar-
ried Eliza, daughter of Abner Dean, of New Lebanon. By this union they
have one child, Ona Daisy, living at home. Mr. Dilley has acted as school
director and treasurer of the township. He is a member of the Norval Muse
Post, G. A. R. , and of the Cochranton Lodge No. 902, I. O. O. F. , and votes
the Republican ticket.
Oerin Farver, farmer, post-office Milledgeville, is a son of John and Mar-
garet (Stright) Farver, the father, a native of what is now Lawrence County.
In 1840 he came to this county and located in what is now French Creek Town-
ship, on the present homestead, which was then an unbroken wilderness. For
many years he acted as surveyor and justice of the peace; was a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and politically a Republican. He died in
1886, and his wife in 1884. They reared three children: Cerilla, Mrs. Alva S.
Bailey,of| Oregon; our subject, and Emma, Mrs. Charles E. Stevens, of French
Creek Township. The father was born in the Shenango Valley January 11,
1811, and married December 6, 1843. In 1844 he located on the farm now
owned by our subject, where he remained until his death. Our subject was
born October 27, 1847, attended the township schools, and always remained
on the homestead. In 1878 he married Esther, daughter of Charles Buchanan,
of French Creek Township. By this union they have four children: Myrtle,
Winona, Earl and Fern. They are members of the Presbyterian Church.
They are also members of Saunder’s Grange, and earnest advocates of Grange
principles. Their highest ambition is to assist in the mental, moral and finan-
cial advancement of their class. They are also earnest advocates of Republi-
can principles.
Hon. James W. McConnell, farmer, post-office Milledgeville, is a son of
Joseph and Elizabeth (Wallace) McConnell, natives of Beaver County, Penn.
William McConnell, the great-grandfather of our subject, was born near Phil-
adelphia prior to the Revolutionary War, and afterward settled near the village
of Clinton, in Allegheny County, Penn. His son John, the grandfather of
our subject, after his marriage, located on a tract of land across the line of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1093
Alleglieuy County, in Beaver County, Penn. Their home is in the heart of
the Shannopin oil fields, and is still owned by the descendants of his family.
Joseph, the father of our subject, was born in Allegheny County in 1801. He
was reared in Beaver County, and lived there until his death in 1882. He
was an elder in the United Presbyterian Church for many years, and voted
the AVhig ticket. His wife died in 1863. Their family consisted of eight
children, two of whom are dead, Agnes and Elizabeth; the living are James
W., John, Susanna, Rachel, Joseph IV. and Mary Alice. Our subject was
born in Beaver County, November 21, 1825, and remained on the homestead
until 1849, when he married Jane McCorkle, of Mahoning County, Ohio, and
came to Mercer County, and first located in French Creek Township, near
Evan’s Bridge, which is now known as Carlton. In 1853 he moved onto his
present farm. Mr. McConnell has experienced the many hardships of the
early pioneers. For many years he engaged in teaching school during the
winter months, and in clearing and improving his land during the summer.
His first wife died in 1881, leaving five children: Alice, Joseph F., William
W'^., Charles C. and Elizabeth L. He was again married, in 1882, to Mrs.
Mary L. Braden, daughter of Samuel McCleary, of Lawrence County,
Penn. Mr. McConnell has held the offices of justice of the peace and school
director of French Creek Township for ten years. In 1879 he was elected to
the Legislature, and filled that position with credit for one term. He has
always been a leader in the interest of the Republican party, and is connected
with the Stoneboro and Cochranton French Creek Valley Agricultural Societies.
O. P. Shirk, farmer, post-office Milledgeville, is a son of John and Martha
■(Mains) Shirk, the father a native of Germany, and reared in Centre County,
Penn. At the commencement of the War of 1812 he went to Erie, and volun-
teered and served during that war on one of the Government boats. He re-
ceived a silver medal for his bravery in the naval action under Commodore
Perry on the 10th of September, 18l3, which medal is in the possession of O.
P. Shirk. After the close of the war he returned to Centre County, and moved
his family to the vicinity of Erie, where they lived until 1824, when they re-
moved to Mercer County, and located in that portion of Shenango Township
which is now in Lawrence County. In 1841 they purchased the farm in French
Creek Township which is now owned by our subject. Here the father died,
December 11, 1864, aged eighty- one years, and his widow April 8, 1869, aged
seventy-two years. They were members of the Milledgeville Presbyterian
Church, and he voted the Democratic ticket. Their family consisted of
twelve children, seven of whom still live: Mary, Mrs. William Bell, of She-
nango Township; O. P. ; Amelia, Mrs. Robert Bell, of Lackawannock Town-
ship; Lafayette, in Shenango Township; Jane, Mrs. Hiram Bell, of Ohio;
Joseph, of Kansas, and Walter, of Wisconsin. Our subject was born in
Centre County, Penn., August 5, 1821; came to this county with his parents,
where he has since resided. In 1847 he married Miss Jane, daughter of
George Morstler, of New Vernon Township. They had eight children, six
living: Martha Jane, Mrs. John Baughman, of French Creek Township;
Efegenett, Mrs. James Melon, of Crawford County; Oliver Jesse, farmer,
French Creek Township; George, living at home; Arabella, Mrs. John Cratty,
of French Creek Township. Our subject has held the offices of school direct-
or, supervisor and constable of the township. He and family are mem-
bers of the Cochranton Methodist Episcopal Church, and he votes the Demo-
cratic ticket.
James S. Williams, post-office Milledgeville, is a son of Daniel and Ele-
nora (Smith) Williams. The father was born in Lancaster County, and in
1094
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1798 moved to Crawford County, where he remained until about 1825,
when he located in Lackawannock Township, this county, and in 1837
purchased a farm in French Creek Township, now owned by our subject,
where he died in 1847, and his wife in 1867. He was an officer in the
War of 1812. He voted the Whig ticket, and was always connected with the
Methodist Episcopal Church, joining the Deer Creek Church after locating in
French Creek Township. Their family consisted of six children: Sarah Jane,
died in 1887; the living are Elizabeth, Mrs. James S. Price; Amanda,
widow of Robert Cooper; James S. ; Matilda, widow of Samuel Markle;
Catherine, widow of Josiah Cratty. Our subject was born in Lackawannock
Township September 20, 1831, and was reared on the homestead he now
occupies. He learned the carpenter trade, which he followed for a number of
years, and for the last ten years has been entirely engaged in the lumber busi-
ness. In 1880 he entered into copartnership with Gaston & Kline, under the
firm name of Gaston, WTlliams & Kline. In 1859 he married Keziah,
daughter of WTlliam E. Cooper, of French Creek Township; by this union
they have nine children: Joseph E., married Sadie, daughter of Andrew Bean,
of Venango County; Mary E. , wife of Prof. S. H. Sheakley, of Greenville,
now living in Nashua, Iowa; William Grant, now living in Butler County,
married Ida M. Braden, and has one child. Hazel K. ; Frank J. , Robert H.,
Charles C., Ethel L., Harold J. and Edna K. Our subject and family are
members of the Milledgeville Presbyterian Church, and he votes the Repub-
lican ticket.
CHAPTER XL.
BIOGRAPHIES OF SANDY CREEK, DEER CREEK, NEW VERNON AND
PERRY.
SANDY CEEEK TOWNSHIP.
WILLIAM H. AXTELL, physician, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son
of Dr. Samuel and Mary (Loveridge)Axtell, natives of W’ ashington County,
Penn. The father of our subject came to Sheakleyville, then Georgetown, in
1825, and engaged in the practice of his profession until 1853, when our sub-
ject succeeded him in the active duties of his practice, and he engaged in farming
and mercantile business in New Vernon. He died in 1864 in that place, his
widow surviving him uniil 1886. His family consisted of twelve children, of
whom our subject was the third. He was born in 1816, in Morris Township,
Washington Co., Penn. His early education was received at the common
schools, and he completed his education at the Meadville Academy and Alle-
gheny College. His medical education was obtained in his father’s office.
He commenced the practice of medicine in Sheakleyville in 1839, and has been
in active practice until the present time, in connection with his son, John L. ,
under the firm name of W. H. & J. L Axtell. Our subject was twice mar-
ried. His first wife was Mary J. , daughter of Moses Findley, whom he married
in June, 1841. She died in 1856, leaving six children: Mary E., Mrs. Ste-
phen Morrison; Henry S., deceased; Cynthia, Mrs. Horton Balster; Samuel H.,
deceased; Anna-M., Mrs. William McElhaney; Mary J., Mrs. 'William Schnau-
HISTORY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
1095
ber. His second wife was Miss Sadie, daughter of John S. Showers, of Dela-
ware Township. The result of this union was eight children, six of whom
are living: George W., Deer Creek Township; John L., physician, Sheakley-
ville; Abraham L., Sheakleyville; Grace, Stella, and Nannie. Our subject
has tilled the office of county coroner; has held the office of school director
for twenty years, and has been a member of the borough council. He is a
member of the Prohibition party, with Republican antecedents.
William Bell, deceased, was a son of Sir William Bell, of Scotland, and
grandson of Lord John Bell, colonel of a Highland dragoon regiment of Scot-
land, and afterward a general. The subject of this sketch was born in the
parish of Killade, County Antrim, Ireland. He received a collegiate educa-
tion, and was a graduate of one of the celebrated institutions of Belfast,
Ireland. He was educated as a civil engineer for the India service, but immi-
grated to this country. His first location was in Quebec, and while there he
engaged in teaching school. He subsequently purchased a farm at the head
of Lake Chautauqua, N. Y. Afterward he removed to Pittsburgh, Penn. ,
where he engaged in teaching and farming. He also taught and resided in
Ohio, and in 1838 he settled in Mercer County, in Sandy Creek Township, on
the farm where his sons now live. While in Canada he enlisted in the Eng-
lish army, and served in the War of 1812, and was afterward engaged in
the Irish rebellion in 1816, and was wounded by a cannon ball in the leg
below the knee. He was an active citizen of Sandy Creek Township, and
held all the important township offices. He was married twice. His first wife
was Catherine McChain, of Ireland, who bore him four children, three sons;
William J., Arthur and James; one daughter died in infancy. All are dead
excepting Arthur. His second wife was Lavina Boylau, and by this marriage
they had nine children: Charles J. ; Samuel T. , who was born July 3, 1844,
and married September 10, 1867, Miss Ada, daughter of David Amon, and
they have eight children: Edith E., Charley A., Florence R., Laura S.
Elsie D., J. Garfield, Bessie R. and Albert T. January 14, 1862, Samuel T.
enlisted in the One Hundred and Eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, Company
K, and served three years and three months. He participated in all the bat-
tles from Winchester to Gettysburg; was wounded at Antietam in the knee,
and at the battle of Gettysburg was wounded in the right ear, breast, left arm
and finger of the left hand; engaged in farming in Sandy Creek Township,
and is an enterprising citizen. He is one of the present school directors
(also township road commissioner), having filled the office for eleven years;
belongs to the Elijah Thompson Post No. 417, G. A. R. , of Sheakleyville, and
is a member of the Presbyterian Church. The balance of Mr. Bell, Sr’s, family
were: Hannah, widow of Dr. Feather, of Sandy Lake, Penn.; Mary, wife of
Eli Robinson; David, deceased; Joseph, Jane, John, deceased, and Sarah,
deceased. Mr. Bell died in 1878, at the age of nine-five years, nine months
and fifteen days, and his wife died in 1875, aged sixty -two years, eight months
and sixteen days.
Chaeles j. Bell, justice of the peace and insurance agent, post-office
Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son of William and Lavina (Boylan) Bell, natives of
Ireland and Mercer County, respectively. The sketch of Mr. Bell, Sr.
appears in this chapter. Our subject was born December 21, 1842, on the
homestead farm in Sandy Creek Township. He received his education at the
public schools. He was apprenticed to the shoemaker’s trade at the age of
sixteen, which he followed for eighteen years. He then entered the employ
of T. K. Cochran, of Sheakleyville, as a clerk, where he was employed for a
number of years. He then engaged in the insurance business, and represents
1090
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
the following companies: Allemania Fii’e Insurance Company, of Pittsburgh,
Penn. ; City of Pittsburgh; Pymatuning Fire Insurance Company, of- Mercer
County; Travelers’ Accident, of Hartford, Conn., and others. In 1883 our sub-
ject was elected justice of the peace for Sheakleyville Borough, and re-elected
in February, 1888, which office he now holds. Mr. Bell has served as school
director and in various other township and borough offices, and while a resident
of Porter County, Ind. , was postmaster for Porter Cross Roads, Ind. , which
office he held for two years, 1866-67 . He was married, September 17, 1863,
to Miss Catherine, daughter of Justius Meibert, of Perry Township, who died
December 23, 1878, leaving three children: William, George and Emma. He
was united in marriage, December 24, 1879, to Alice Dearmont, of Crawford
County, and by this marriage they have four children: John, Leoida, Ralph
and Bernice. Our subject is a member of the K. of H. , Norman Lodge 1640,
of Sheakleyville. Penn., and is one of the charter members. He is a promi-
nent member of the Presbyterian Church of Sheakleyville (became a member in
March, 1864), of which he has been a deacon for fourteen years. Politically
he is a Republican, and first voted for A. Lincoln.
Thomas J. Bbadbdky, retired, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son of
David Bradbury, a native of Washington County, Penn. In 1828 he came to
Mercer County, and settled in Sandy Creek Township. Our subject was born
October 18, 1810, in Greene County, Penn. He came to Mercer County with
his parents, and was brought up to a farmer’s life until 1831, when he began
running a boat on the Ohio River from Lawrenceburgh to Cincinnati and New
Orleans, which he continued until 1834, when he came home, married and settled
on a farm until 1847, when he moved to the Mineral Ridge Furnace, and acted
as engineer, and kept a boarding-house until 1851, when he moved to a farm
until 1854, and then bought a saw-mill on Pine Run, near the little Shenango.
This he operated for three years, and traded for pine land in Crawford County,
Penn. , which he sold to Thaddeus Simmons, and then went to Illinois, and
after four years he returned to this county, and bought a saw-mill on Ball Run,
in Otter Creek Township, which he afterward sold, and bought a farm, which
he subsequently traded for a mercantile business in Sheakleyville, which he
conducted for a number of years. He was married in 1835 to Miss Margaret,
daughter of John McLean, of Mercer County, and by this marriage they have
had four children: William, a member of the Thirty-eighth Pennsylvania
Volunteers, who died at a Philadelphia hospital from wounds received at the
battle before Petersburg; Hugh, a member of the One Hundred and Fortieth
Pennsylvania Volunteers, now resides in Greenville; Sarah, wife of William
Welker, of Erie County, Penn. ; Lillie, wife of Joseph Baxter, of Greenville,
Penn. Our subject was constable for six years. Mr. Bradbury is one of
Sheakleyville’ s oldest and most respected citizens. He is a prominent member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and an ardent supporter of the Republican
party.
John Byees, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., was born February 1,
1804, and is a son of Ross and Sally (Elliott) Byers. The father of our sub-
ject was a native of Cumberland County, Penn., and his mother of York
County, Penn. The grandfather, John Byers, removed to Pittsburgh, Penn.,
and in 1797 the father of our subject came to Sandy Creek Township, and took
up a tract of 400 acres of land. He was one of the progressive men of his
day, was one of the first county commissioners elected in Mercer County, and
was one of the board of county commissioners that erected the county court-
house. He was the father of seven children: Jonathan; Sally, wife of John
Thompson; John, Elliott, Polly, Nancy and Peggy, all dead except our sub-
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
1097
ject. Mr. Byers, Sr., died in February, 1843; bis wife survived him, dying
in 1856. Our subject was reared upon the home farm, where he spent his life
engaged in farming. He received such education as the schools of that time
afforded. Mr. Byers has always lived a retired life, a plain, unassuming farm-
er, and is respected for his integrity by the people of his community. He has
been a life-long Democrat. He was married in 1839 to Miss Sarah, daughter
of John Caldwell, of Sandy Creek Township, who died in 1862, leaving five
children: Charles W., deceased; Mary, Mrs. John Davis, of Greenville, Penn. ;
Nancy J., Sinnus and John S.
Thomas C. Cochran, merchant, Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son of Samuel
and Mary (Cunningham) Cochran. The grandfather of our subject was Thomas
Cochran, a native of Adams County, Penn., who settled in Sandy Creek
Township, where our subject now resides, in 1812. He subsequently removed
to Crawford County, Penn., and settled one mile east of where the town of
Cochranton now stands, which place was founded by his son Joseph. Thomas
is deceased. Samuel, the eldest son of Thomas, was born January 5, 1790,
in Adams County, Penn., and removed to Mercer County with his parents.
He was a farmer, and was also extensively engaged in the lumber business.
His family consisted of ten children, five of whom are now living: James,
who resides in Sugar Grove Township; William, of Sandy Creek Township.; Mar-
garet; Mary J., wife of A. D. McCracken, of Mill Creek Township, and Thomas
C. , who was born April 25, 1823. He received his education at the common
schools. In 1851 he engaged in mercantile business in connection with T. K.
Cochran, under the firm name of T. K. & T. C. Cochran, at Sheakleyville. In
1856 he severed his connection with T. K. Cochran, and formed the firm of
Cochran & Eobinson, which firm remained in existence until 1861, when he
went to farming. In 1865 he again engaged in business with T. K. Cochran,
and was connected with him until 1874, when T. K. Cochran sold his interest
to T. A. Eobinson, when the firm again took the name Cochran & Eobinson,
and remained so until 1879, when he, too, sold to Eobinson. He then engaged
in farming again, which occupation he followed until 1884, when he was
appointed assignee for T. A. Eobinson. The business then passed into the
hands of Minnis & Thompson, and in 1885 he formed the present company of
Cochran, Minnis & Co. Our subject was married twice, his first wife being
Miss Sibby, daughter of Thomas Sterrell, of Erie, Penn. , to whom he was
married March 25, 1852. She died in September, 1877, leaving four children:
Wilson H., attorney of Mercer, Penn.; Samuel S., of Sandy Creek Township;
Joseph E., of Sandy Creek Township, and John K., of Sandy Creek Town-
ship. He married for his second wife Arilla, daughter of Joseph Gordon,
of Mill Creek Township, and by this marriage they have one child, Mary E.
Our subject has served as school director about fifteen years, is a member of
the United Presbyterian Church of Sheakleyville, of which he was elder for
many years, and in politics he is a Eepublican. He was a delegate to the
National Eepublican Convention, at Chicago, in 1884.
William P. Couse, of the firm of Morrison & Couse, stave manufacturers,
post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., was born in Sandy Creek Township Novem-
ber 26, 1832. He is a son of James and Lydia (Wetmore) Couse, who
came to this county from New York, about 1817, and settled one mile north
of Sheakleyville. They reared a family of three children: A. W. , William P.
and F. H. James Couse was an enterprising farmer, was also engaged in the
saw-mill and lumber business, and was recognized as a man of sterling integ-
rity. He was an unceasing opponent of slavery, a warm friend of the op-
pressed race, and a conductor on the underground railroad through this sec-
1098
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
tion of the State, and assisted many a poor fugitive slave on the road to free-
dom. He died upon the old homestead June 14, 1864, his widovr surviving
him till January 21, 1887. Our subject was reared on the old homestead,
receiving a good education, and taught school several terms in his native
township. He was engaged in the lumber business with his father, and was
one of the pioneer oil operators of Venango County. In 1872 he formed^a
partnership with Hon. Levi Morrison for the manufacture of shingles and
staves, this firm being among the pioneer dealers in the latter commodity.
They have carried on the stave business for a number of years in West Vir-
ginia. Mr. Couse is also interested in the grist and saw-mills of Sheakleyville.
He was married October 14, 1862, to Miss Sarah I., a daughter of Isaac
Phillips, whose family sketch appears in this chapter. Three children have
been born of this union: Edwin, Emily and Charles. At the time of Lee’s
invasion of Pennsylvania Mr. Couse joined Company H, Fifty-fifth Pennsyl-
vania Volunteer Militia, which was afterward mustered into the United States
service. Since reaching manhood Mr. Couse has taken an active interest in
the growth and development of the public schools of Sandy Creek. He is a
consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Sheakleyville, a
class-leader in that body, and superintendent of the Sabbath-school, and is
one of the enterprising and respected citizens of his native township.
Socrates Dunn, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, son of James and Maria
(Thompson) Dunn. The grandfather, Alex. Dunn, was a native of Eastern
Pennsylvania. He settled in French Creek Township, Crawford County. He
was a farmer and one of the early justices of the peace, appointed by Gov.
Snyder in 1809. The father of our subject was born in Crawford County, and
settled where the borough of Sheakleyville is now located in 1828. He entered
the service of the United States in the War of 1812, at the age of twelve years.
By occupation he was a carpenter, and was engaged for many years at that
trade. He was the father of thirteen children: William T., Mary L., Alex-
ander, deceased; Maria B., deceased; Socrates, Euphrates, deceased; Sarah
C., Harriet, Hettie, James J. , Arvilla, Julia, deceased, and Lucy, deceased.
He was burgess of Sheakleyville, and filled the office of postmaster for eight
years, and was a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of
that village. His wife died in 1865, and he in 1874. Our subject was born
in June, 1831, and was reared on a farm. At the age of twenty-four he located
on his present farm, lying within the borough of Sheakleyville, where he
has farmed with good success. He was married in 1856 to Sarah, a daughter
of Thomas D. Richardson, of Mercer County, by whom he had the following
children: William J. ; George E., deceased; Laura A., married Charles D.
Ray; Hettie M. , Charles T. , Frank B. , Sarah E. and Mary A. Mr. Dunn is
a Prohibitionist, and one of Sandy Creek’s progressive farmers.
The McCracken Family. — Among the early settlers of Mercer County was
Alexander McCracken, a native of County Antrim, Ireland. He came to
America some time in the last century, and his first settlement was east of, the
Allegheny Mountains. He came to Mercer County in 1798, and settled in
Sandy Creek Township. He married Mary Larimer, and his family consisted
of eight children: James, John, Alexander, Thomas, Ann, married Robert
Findley; Jane, married Joseph Williams; Mary, married John Cooper, and
Martha, married John Williams. The children are all dead except Thomas,
of this township. Alexander took up a tract of 400 acres, which has descended
to his posterity. He was a public spirited man, and filled all of the prominent
township offices, and was a leading member of the Presbyterian Church, of
which he was a ruling elder for many years. The parents are both dead.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1099
Thomas was born on the homestead May 9, 1829, was brought up a farmer,
and educated in the common schools. He subsequently erected a saw-mill on
Dawson’s Run, in Sandy Creek Township, and for many years was engaged in
the lumber business. Mr. McCracken has been twice married. His first wife
was Elizabeth, daughter of John Williams, to whom he was married in 1831,
and to them wex’e born eight children, seven of whom are living: Louesa, wife
of Wilson Eells; Mary J. , wife of Edward Eells; John, Cyrenus, Thomas A.,
Sarah C., wife of Herman Dingman, and Frank S. His second wife was Miss
Mary, daughter of William Logan, who died in 1866, leaving three children:
William L. , Martha F. and Margaret E. Our subject is a member of the Sheak-
leyville Presbyterian Church, and is a Republican and one of Sandy Creek’s
oldest and most respected citizens.
Samuel H. Minnis, merchant, Sheakleyville, son of Asher and Elizabeth
(Newbold) Minnis, was born in Sandy Creek Township in 1840. Hugh Min-
nis was the first of the family to come to this county. He was a native of
Ireland, a pioneer of Washington County, Penn., and settled in Sandy Creek
Township at an early period. He died before completing a house in which to
locate his family, his death being the first that occurred in that township.
His widow came to the county, bringing her six sons and two daughters^ Of
these children, Samuel was the ancestor of the Minnis family of Sandy
Creek Township. He served through the War of 1812, and died on the old
homestead. Asher, his only son, and the father of our subject, was born in
the township, and became one of the best educated and most efficient school-
teachers of that period, he having received his educational training under
Prof. Gamble, who was the founder of Jamestown Academy. His children
were eleven, nine of whom grew to maturity: Caleb, who died from exposure
in the army; Squire, of Salem Township; Thornton A., of Sandy Creek Town-
ship; Thomas B., Elmer E., Harry V., Nancy (since deceased), married James
Osborn; Sophia, married Oliver McCracken ; Clare, married Harvey Hazen, and
our subject, who was reared and educated in the township. His early life was
spent on the farm, and afterward in stock dealing. In 1864 he enlisted in
the Second Pennsylvania Cavalry, and served under Phil. Sheridan until the
close of the war. On his return from the war he resumed farming and stock
dealing until 1884, when he purchased his stock of goods and has conducted
a prosperous business since. He was married in 1867 to Miss Melinda, daugh-
ter of James Keen, of Crawford County, Penn. She died in 1884, and he
was again married, in 1887, to Augusta, daughter of John Davison, of Craw-
ford County. He is a member of Elijah Thompson Post, G. A. R., of Sheak-
leyville, and in politics he is a Republican.
Hon. Levi Moeeison, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son of Daniel and
Julia Ann (Snyder) Morrison, the latter a daughter of Joshua Snyder, of Trum-
bull County, Ohio. Daniel Morrison, the father of our subject, was a native of
Butler County, Penn. In 1835 he came to Mercer County, and located in the
southeast part of Sandy Creek, and purchased a farm of fifty acres. He was twice
married. By his first wife he had eight children; Levi, Sarah Ann (deceased),
Eleanor, Mrs. J. B. Yard, of Hubbard, Ohio; Joseph (deceased), Aseneth (de-
ceased), Dillon P., manufacturer of staves. West Virginia; Julia E., wife of
Alpheus Allen, of Hubbard, Ohio; Fannie, Mrs. Sylvester English, of Cochran-
ton, Penn. Mrs. Morrison died in 1864. His second wife was Mrs. Maggie
Hamilton, of Sheakleyville, Penn., by whom he had two children: Maggie C. and
Phoebe C. He died in 1884. His widow survives him, and lives in Sheakley-
ville, Penn. Our subject was born August 8, 1839, in Sandy Creek, and was
educated at the common schools, completing his education at the Sheakleyville
1100
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
High-school. In 1860 he engaged in the drug and grocery business at
Sheakleyville, in which he was engaged for fifteen years. In 1870, in connec-
tion with his brother-in-law, W. P. Couse, he engaged in the manufacture of
shingles and staves, manufacturing the first sawed staves in this section of
the country, and is at present one of the firm of Morrison & Couse, operat-
ing extensively in this line at Elizabeth, Wirt Co., W. Va. Mr. Mor-
rison takes an active interest in the public affairs of his county and borough,
having served as school director for many years, treasurer, township clerk, etc. ,
and in 1882 was a member of the State Legislatiu’e, being the only Republican
elected from the county that year. Mr. Morrison is also a prominent member
of the Baptist Church of Sheakleyville; was elected clerk in 1868, which office
he has continued to fill until the present time. In 1885 he was elected moder-
ator of the French Creek Baptist Association, held at Greenville, Penn. Po-
litically he is a Republican. He was married May 28, 1867, to Miss Caroline
S. , daughter of Isaac Philips, of Sheakleyville, and by this union they have
had three children: John L., Anna (who died at the age of ten, in 1884) and
Nellie. In 1863 Mr. Morrison enlisted in Company H, Fifty-fifth Pennsyl-
vania Militia, which was transferred to the United States service. Our subject
is a member of the G. A. R., Elijah Thompson Post, of Sheakleyville, Penn.,
also of the Royal Arcanum, French Creek Council 328, of Meadville, Penn.
Geoege W. Moyee, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son of
Daniel and Catherine (Madoria) Moyer. The grandfather of our subject was
Philip Moyer, of Kutztown, Penn. , who was a native of Berks County, Penn.
He married Barbara Ditts, and they had one son, Daniel, who immigrated to
Ohio in 1831, and located at Lordstown, Trumbull Co. , Ohio. He afterward
came to Mercer County, and settled in Sandy Creek Township, two and one-
half miles west of Sheakleyville, where he died in 1866, his widow dying in
1883, in Meadville, Penn., at the home of her daughter, Catherine. She
is buried in the old grave-yard at Sheakleyville. Our subject was born
October 16, 1819, in Kutztown, Berks Co., Penn. He was reared and edu-
cated in Berks County, Penn. , and Ohio, at the public schools. He learned
the trade of a blacksmith and carriage-maker at Warren, Ohio. He followed
his trade, working in Philadelphia until 1843, when he located in Sheakleyville,
Penn., and established the first manufactory for carriages and wagons in that
borough. He conducted the business for some twelve years, when he pur-
chased a farm one mile north of Sheakleyville, where he resided for a short
time, when he returned to Sheakleyville, and in connection with W. G. Brown
engaged in the banking business, which they operated some five or six years.
In 1878 he removed to his farm where he now resides, which he had purchased
in 1855, and has since been engaged in general farming. Our subject was the
first burgess of Sheakleyville, and filled that office for two terms, and has
served as school director. Mr. Moyer was married in February, 1843, to Miss
Emeline, daughter of Adam Weir, one of the early hotel-keepers of Sheak-
leyville, and by this union they have had three children: George, who mar-
ried Teressa Canon, and has three children, Charley, Eva and Lillie; Emma,
Mrs. Prentice Fry, of Meadville, and has one daughter, Anna; James F.,
who married Lillie Caldwell, and have three children, Lena, Estella and Mar-
vin. Our subject is a member of the F. & A. M. , also I. O. 0. F. He is one
of the enterprising citizens of Sandy Creek Township, and is a supporter of
the Prohibition party.
William Palm, deceased, was born in 1825, in Austintown, Trumbull
Co., Ohio, and is a son of John and Sally (Beil) Palm. The father of our
subject was a native of Cumberland County, Penn. He located in Trumbull
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1101
County, Ohio, and about 1835 he came to Mercer County and settled at
Leech’ s Corners, where he remained for a few years, and then removed to Sandy
Creek Township. He was a carpenter by trade, and while a resident of Ohio
he was engaged in hotel business. After his removal to Mercer County he pur-
chased the grist and saw mill at Leech’s Corners, which he operated a few
years. After his removal to Sandy Creek he built the grist and saw mill on
Rinn’s Run. He there died, and his widow survived him till 1850. Their family
were: Peter, of Chicago, 111. ; Jacob, who died in Cumberland County, Penn. ;
Mary (deceased), married Benjamin Ross, of Salem Township; Samuel, de-
ceased; Elizabeth, deceased; David, deceased; William, deceased; Sarah A.,
who married James Rook, at whose death she married William Klingensmith,
of Crawford County, Penn., and John, of Sandy Creek. Our subject was
reared in Mercer County. He was bred a farmer, an occupation he always
followed. He located in 1847 on his late homestead, and the same year he
was married to Miss Catherine, daughter of William White, one of Sandy
Creek’s prominent citizens, of which union live children survive: Andrew J.,
the publisher of the Western Press, of Mercer, Penn.; Milton A., physician
of Dwight, 111.; Emma; Rev. William J., of Omaha, Neb., and Myrta, Mrs.
Charles Ogden, of Greenville, Penn. Mr. Palm was one of Sandy Creek’s
enterprising citizens, and politically he was a Democrat. He died on Wednes-
day evening, October 10, 1888, after an illness of four months.
The Philips Family.— Joseph Philips, the ancestor of the Philips family
of Mercer County, came to America in 1755. He was born in 1716, but of his
birthplace and parentage nothing is known by his family. In 1775, with his
wife and three children, David, Josiah and John, he sailed from Pembrokeshire,
South Wales, and made his first settlement in Chester County, Penn., where
he followed the occupation of a weaver. His eldest son, the Rev. David
Philips, was the progenitor of the Philips family of Mercer County. He served
as a captain in the Continental army under Washington, and was one of the
pioneer Baptist preachers of Western Pennsylvania, and is said to have
preached at Sharon as early as 1801. He died in 1829, never having had any
residence in Mercer County. He had thirteen children, none of whom are
living. His descendants are scattered over Western Pennsylvania, Ohio and
Tennessee. Thomas, his son, settled in Sandy Creek about 1798. He took
up a tract of 424 acres of land. His patent calls for the land known as Phil-
ipsburg, situated in Sandy Creek. He married Sarah B. Hazen, and by this
union they had David, Isaac, Thomas, John, Sarah B. , Mary and Martha.
Thomas died in 1837, and his widow survived him until 1854. Isaac, the only
living representative, now residing in Sandy Creek, was born October 1, 1803.
He was reared and educated in the common schools of the day, and learned
the trade of a tailor. In 1826 he located in Sheakleyville, and conducted that
business until 1853, when he was elected justice of the peace for the borough,
and tilled that office for twenty-five years, giving his time and attention to the
duties of that office. He married, in 1827, Miss Emily, daughter of William
Church, of Sandy Creek Township, and by this marriage had eleven children,
eight of whom grew to maturity: Clarinda, Mrs. Alexander Dunn; Elvira,
widow of W. S. McCoy; Weltha, widow of David McDowell; Sarah, Mrs.
William P. Couse; Augusta, deceased wife of Joseph Limber; Anna, deceased;
Meranda, Mrs. John Clark, and Caroline, Mrs. Levi Morrison. Mrs. Philips
died in 1885. He is a member of the Georgetown Baptist Church, and held
the office of deacon for over forty years. Politically he is a Republican.
The Sheakley Family. — Among the Irish immigrants to the colony of Penn-
sylvania during the year 1751 were William Sheakley and wife, who settled in
65
1102
HISTOEY OP MEKCEK COUNTY.
what is now Mount Pleasant Township, Adams Co., Penn., then a portion of
York County, close to the Maryland line. He was a man of industrious and
frugal habits, and at his death, about 1799, had accumulated considerable
property. About eight years prior to his death he sold his land, and removed
into Franklin Township, four miles north of Gettysburg. During the last
two years of his life he was entirely blind, and at his death left a family of
two sons and one daughter: John, George and Margaret. In 1803 John Sheak-
ley visited Mercer County, and purchased from William Byers 400 acres of land,
on a part of which the village of Sheakleyville now stands. His purchase con-
tained what the pioneers designated an improvement, consisting of an unfin-
ished log cabin, surrounded by a small clearing. He returned to his home, and
in the spring of 1804 .sold his farm, lying in Cumberland Township, some three
miles north of Gettysburg, and with his family of five sons and three daugh-
ters removed to his new purchase in the unbroken forest of Mercer County. The
farm he sold in Adams County was subsequently the home of Thaddeus Stevens
for twenty- five years, and was also the scene of the first bloodshed in the great
battle of Gettysburg July 1, 1863, forty-nine years after his removal there-
from. At the time the Sheakley family settled in Mercer County there were
no wagon roads in this part of the State, and emigrants were obliged to cut
their way through the dense forest to their places of destination. In 1812 one
of the sons, Alexander, died, leaving four sons and three daughters to assist
the father in clearing the farm. These were William, Moses, George, John,
Margaret, Ann and Fannie. The three first mentioned were among those pa-
triotic pioneers who went to the defense of Erie when threatened by the Brit-
ish in the War of 1812. In 1816 the father died, and his land was divided
between his sons. The Pittsburgh & Erie Turnpike Hoad was surveyed through
the Sheakley farm, and a town was subsequently laid out at that point. On
the 4th of July, 1822, one of the ceremonies of the day was that of naming
the village, which was called ‘ ‘ Georgetown ’ ’ in honor of the proprietor, George
Sheakley. This was subsequently changed to “ Sheakleyville,” as a more ap-
propriate remembrance of the family. Of the children of John Sheakley, Sr.,
we have gathered the following information: William married Easter Wallace
and reared three sons, Thomas, William and John, and one daughter, Nancy,
who married Thomas White, and died near Sheakleyville. Thomas and Will-
iam reside near Sheakleyville, while John immigrated to Iowa after the war and
there died. The parents lived and died near the village which bears their name.
Moses married Susan Limber, and reared four sons and three daughters:
Thomas, who died near Pittsburgh; James and W. H. , residents of Green-
ville, the former being now United States Commissioner for Alaska, stationed
at Fort Wrangle; Moses, a resident of Grayson, Cal. ; Mrs. Malinda Christy,
of Greenville; Mrs. Mary Leech, of Salem Township, and Susannah, deceased.
The father died on the old homestead in 1840, his widow surviving him until
1884, and dying in Greenville. George married Ann Wallace, who bore him
one son, John W., deceased. His wife died, and he was again married to
Cynthia Culbertson, and reared five sons and two daughters from this union:
Joseph, who died in 1863; Alexander, of Ion City, Cal.; Hiram, of Crawford
County; George, a farmer near Sheakleyville; Robert, who died in 1887 near
that village, and Mrs. Mollie Tiffany, Mrs. James McNamara, and Mrs. Mar-
garet Brown, all residents of Crawford County. The parents died near Sheak-
leyville, where the father was justice of the peace twenty-five years. John
married Susan Sellers, who died without issue, and he then married Susannah
Coulter, and reared two children: Josiah, deceased, and Margaret, of Craw-
ford County. He died near Sheakleyville, and his widow in Putnam County,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1103
Ohio. Margaret married James Brush, Anne married Hugh Moore, and Fan-
nie became the wife of Adam Hill, and all died in this county. All left large
families, and many of their descendants are living in this part of the State.
JohnW. Sheakley, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son of John MV. and
Jane (Moffett) Sheakley, of Sheakleyville, Penn., and was born January 13,
1845. The father of our subject was one of the early merchants of Sheakley-
ville, and subsequently removed to Cleveland, where he engaged in the mer-
cantile business. He died there in 1859. His wife survived him, and mar-
ried David Palm, of Venango County, Penn., where she died in 1875. Our
subject was the only child, and was reared and educated in Sandy Creek Town-
ship. He learned the carpenter trade, and followed it for an occupation until
1873, when he purchased his present farm, and has since been engaged in gen-
eral farming in connection with his carpenter business. He was married, in
March, 1878, to Miss Emma, daughter of Thomas Morrison, of Perry Town-
ship, and by this marriage they have three children; Marshall L., Jennie E.
and Mertie E. In politics he is a Democrat.
John and Adam Thompson, natives of County Antrim, Ireland, immigrated
to America at an early date. They landed in Philadelphia, and while there
purchased 200 acres of land, in what is now Salem Township, from a Revolu-
tionary soldier, and settled upon the same. They subsequently purchased, in
what is now Sandy Creek, a farm of 200 acres from David Chess, where David
Thompson now lives. John subsequently traded his interest in the Salem
farm for the Sandy Creek farm, and it then passed to his descendants. John
Thompson married MaryA. , daughter of John Findley, natives of Ireland, and
residents of Crawford County. He died in 1849, and his widow in 1859. He
was a soldier in the War of 1812, and elder in the Second United Presbyterian
Church. Their family were: John, died in 1878; Rosanna (deceased), wife of
Elliott Logan; Mary (deceased) ; Adam, died in 1845; Rhoda (deceased), who
married William Parks; Jane, Mrs. Archibald Montgomery, of Deer Creek
Township; David L. (deceased); Eliza (deceased); Sally and Ellen, who died
in infancy, and Moses F. , who was born September 7, 1824, on the old home-
stead, where he was reared and educated at the common schools. He was
brought up on a farm, and remained at home until twenty-four years of age,
when he engaged in the lumber business, which business he conducted at var-
ious places until 1884, when he located at Sheakleyville and engaged in the
hotel business, which he has since followed. At the time of Lee’s raid into
Pennsylvania Mr. Thompson enlisted in Company H, Fifty- fifth Pennsylvania
Militia, and served ninety days. He was married in 1850 to Miss Sarah,
daughter of Charles Montgomery, of Sandy Creek Township, and by this mar-
riage they have born to them six children: John, deceased; Charles; Eliza-
beth, Mrs. Prank Parks; Frank, deceased; James; Mary Ann, Mrs. James
White. Mr. Thompson is the present constable for his township, and a mem-
ber of the borough council, and politically is a Republican.
David, the sixth son, was born February 21, 1826, in Sandy Creek Township,
and has always lived there and followed farming. He was married to Miss
Martha, daughter of John McCracken, of Sandy Creek Township, in 1850;
she died in 1868. By this marriage they had seven children; William, de-
ceased, 1886; Annie, Mrs. Calvin Collner, of St. Petersburg, Penn.; John E. ;
Sadie J., Mrs. James L. Riley; Emma, Mrs. A. K. Steel; Hattie, Mrs. Charles
Drives; Rosie, deceased, who married John Hughs. His second wife was
Mrs. Maggie E. Carringer, and by this union, which occurred in 1869, they
have one son, Warren C., of Findley, Ohio. Mr. Thompson is a member of the
Sheakleyville Methodist Episcopal Church, and politically is a Republican.
1104
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
Maria, the daiigliter of John, Sr., married James Dunn, of Meadville, Penn.
Emetine, deceased, married Thomas Chess, and Cynthia is the widow of Justus
Hall, and resides in Greenville, Penn.
Robert F. Thompson was born December 6, 1818, in Deer Creek Township,
and was married in 1842 to Miss Jane, daughter of Charles Montgomery, by
whom he had six children : Maria, Elizabeth M., Mary A., Martha J. , Sarah
and Rhoda. Mr. Thompson served as justice of the peace for ten years, and
in 1856 was a county commissioner. He is a member of the United Presbyte-
rian Church at Sheakleyville, and has been treasurer of the same for thirty
years. In politics is a Republican.
A. P. White, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn., is a son of William
and Eleanor (Farrell) White, and was born in 1836 in Ohio. The grandfather,
James White, was a native of Ireland, and at the age of eighteen he came to
this country and settled in Youngstown, Ohio. He married Fannie Pittenger,
a native of New Jersey, by whom he had four children: John, William, James
and Jane, who married James Kyle. The father of our subject settled in Sandy
Creek Township, where our subject now resides, in 1837. His family were:
James, deceased; Elizabeth, Mrs. Isaac Mackey; Thomas, deceased; Jane,
deceased, who married Thomas Morrison; John, of Sandy Creek; William
P., deceased; Mary A., wife of James Crawford; Fannie, Mrs. Dr. Axtell, of
Warren County, Penn.; Catherine, Mrs. William Palm"; Nancy, Mrs. Hum-
phry Church, of Kansas; Angeline, Mrs. A. M. Crawford; Almira, Mrs. S.
H. Dunn, and Ellen. William died in 1858; his wife survived him, dying in
1882. Our subject was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, and was reared on
the homestead farm, where he has always lived. His education was received
at the public schools. He was bred a farmer, an occupation he has always fol-
lowed. He has served as school director for ten years. He is a member of
the I. O. O. F. , W. G. Brown Lodge No. 592, of Hadley, Penn. Mr. White
is a Democrat, and takes an active interest in the success of his party. He
was married in 1859 to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Walter Hall, of Sandy
Creek Township, and by this marriage they have six children: Hattie, George,
Laura, Mrs. Charles Steel, of Sheakleyville, Penn. ; Andrew, W illiam and
Genevieve.
DEEE GREEK TOWNSHIP.
William Burnett, farmer, post-office New Vernon, was born in Trumbull
County, Ohio, August 8, 1821. His father, William Burnett, was reared in
New Jersey, and settled in Trumbull County, Ohio, about the year 1800. He
married Barbara Huff, by whom he had the following children: Joseph, Zilla,
Peter and William Our subject was married in his native county to Eleanor
Snyder, in 1842, daughter of Joshua Snyder. In 1864 he removed to this
county, and settled on the farm where he now resides. His marriage gave
him six children: John, married Sarah, daughter of William Boylan, and
has seven children: Flora, Olive, Winnie, William, Julia, Elizabeth and
John; Elisha, married Caroline, daughter of William Boylan, and has one
child, Ellen C. ; Julia, married Henry Rom, and has one child, Eleanor;
Eugene, at home; Lincoln, married Jennie, daughter of James Wilson, and
has two children, Earl and Gal; Hershell, at home. Our subject votes the
Republican ticket, and is one of the enterprising farmers of the township.
Oliver Caldwell, post-office Sheakleyville, is a son of O. P. and Merilla
(Stright) Caldwell. The father was born in Crawford County, Penn., and came
to what is now Deer Creek Township in 1835. In 1839 he married and located
on a small farm. He worked at carpentering and accumulated a good deal
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1105
of property. He was constable for six years, poor director in 1878, and helped
to build a place of worship in Deer Creek Township. He died in 1882, and
his widow in 1885. Seven of their ten children are living: Oliver, George,
Lewis, Ellen, Eva, Lillie and Dorie. Our subject was born January 1, 1810,
on the homestead, and was educated in the common schools. He learned the
carpenter’s trade, and was married in 1861 to Mary E., daughter of David
Linn, and by her has had the following children: Flora, Ambrose, EldaM. ,
Stella, Maggie and Addie. He has been school director and held other town-
ship offices. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
and he is identified with the Republican party.
Lewis A. Caldwell, post-office Sheakleyville, son of O. P. Caldwell, was
born April 25, 1857, on the homestead, a portion of which he now resides
upon. He received a common school education, and was married in 1881 to
Miss Matilda, daughter of Samuel Mook, of French Creek Township, and has
one child, Dennis Murel. His estimable wife is a member of the Lutheran
Church of New Lebanon, and he is a stanch Republican.
Robert M. Curry, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, is a son of Robert and
Catherine (Moyer) Curry. His father was born in Washington County, Penn. ,
came to Mercer County in 1801 and engaged in hunting, trapping, etc. ■ He
was in the War of 1812, and finally settled in Deer Creek Township, where he
died in 1851, and his wife in 1848. They reared six children, of whom
George, of Butler County, Penn. , and Robert M. , are living. Our subject was
born in this county January 15, 1825, and at an early age he learned black-
smithing, and first located at Hendersonville. He served for eighteen months
in Company A, Twelfth Pennsylvania Artillery, and held the commission of com-
pany artificer. After the close of the war he returned to Hendersonville and
remained until 1870, when he located on his present farm. In 1850 he mar-
ried Miss Rachel, daughter of Alexander McCleary, of Perry Township. She
died in 1879, leaving seven children: Asenath, Mrs. Calvin Gealy; Rachel L.,
Mrs. J. Pearsall, of Salem Township; James B., of Lake Township; Hettie
M. , Lizzie A., Alma E., Irene S. Mr. Curry was appointed postmaster by
President Buchanan, and again by Lincoln, and served seven years, also held
township offices of Deer Creek. He has always supported the Democratic
party, and is a member of the Sheakleyville Presbyterian Church.
Albert Price, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, is a son of David and
Julia Ann (Hice) Price, natives, the father of Bucks County, Penn., and
the mother of Mercer County, N. J. He spent two years in North Carolina,
building railroads, and in 1840 located in what is now Worth -Township, and
in 1852 settled on a farm in Deer Creek Township now owned by his grand-
son, D. A. Price. He was a prominent Democrat, and received the nomina-
tion for county commissioner in 1856. He was trustee and steward of the
Mount Hope Methodist Episcopal Church for many years. His wife died in
1868, and he in 1883. Our subject was their only child, and was born at
Easton, Northampton Co., Penn., July 25, 1822. He came here with his par-
ents, and for a number of years engaged in teaching in the township schools of this
and Venango Counties. Since then he has been principally engaged in farming.
April 19, 1843, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Bennett Grace, of Worth
Township. She died April 2, 1877, leaving eight children: Julia A., Mary,
Nancy, Caroline, Phoebe P. , David A., Elizabeth D. and Albert D;. one son,
Harry P., died in infancy. Our subject was elected county auditor in 1847,
and served three years. In 1861 he was elected county commissioner for
three years. He has also served two different terms as State auditor, and has
acted as justice of the peace for fifteen years. Mr. Price is a member of the
1106
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Masonic fraternity and of the I. O. O. F. He has always been an ardent sup-
porter of the Democratic party.
Samuel S. Ross, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, is a son of Stephen and
Hannah (Sisley) Ross, and a grandson of Aaron Ross, a native of New Jersey,
and an early settler of Mercer County. The father of our subject was born
in this county, and after his marriage located in Deer Creek Township. He-
was justice of th*e peace for ten years, a member of the Presbyterian Church,
and voted the Whig and Democratic tickets successively. He reared five chil-
dren; Samuel S., Elizabeth (wife of Joseph Casbee), Sarah M. (wife of George
Sheakley), Louisa (wife of Jacob Fisher) and Maria I. (deceased wife of Albert
Shaffstall). Our subject was born on the homestead which he now owns,
March 22, 1829, and attended the township schools. In 1855 he married
Miss Catherine, daughter of H. W. Troy, of Deer Creek Township. By this
union they have three children: Charles A., Clara A. (wife of James B.
Curry) and Phoebe (a teacher of music). Our subject has held the offices of
constable, supervisor and school director, votes the Republican ticket, and he
and family are members of the Sheakleyville Methodist Episcopal Church.
John H. Ross, post-office New Vernon, is a son of William and Abigail (Har-
ris) Ross. The father was born in Mercer County, on the homestead where our
subject now lives, and was a soldier in the War of 1812. He was a descendant
of Aaron Ross, a pioneer of this State. William came to the farm in 1817; was
a member of the Fairfield Presbyterian Church and a Democrat, and died in
1877. His widow died in 1879, the mother of Polly, Almina, Sarah, John H. ,
Lucinda, Louisa, Angeline and Elma E. Our subject was born November 2,
1829, and was educated at the common schools. He was married to Isabella,
daughter of Maj. Joseph Stright, of New Vernon Township. Their children
were Fannie, James H., William J. , Charles W., Hattie, Clement, Nellie,
Lydetha, Frank M. and Hortense. Our subject has served as justice of the
peace, school director and constable; is a member of Madison Lodge No. 591,
A. O. U. W. , and belongs to the Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trus-
tee. In politics he is a Democrat.
James P. Steeritt, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, was born in Venango
County, Penn., February 18, 1840. He attended the township schools of this
county, and learned the plasterer’s trade, which he followed for fifteen years.
He then located on a farm in Worth Township, and in 1878 purchased his pres-
ent farm, and is engaged in general farming and bee culture. In 1871 he was
married to Miss Catharine, daughter of William Bardon, of Wolf Creek Town-
ship. Mr. Stdr'ritt is township clerk at the present time, and has served
as assistant assessor. He is a deacon in the Fairfield Presbyterian Church,
and votes the Republican ticket. His father, Alexander Sterritt, was married
first to a Miss Montgomery, by whom he had six children; Rebecca, the wife of
William Simpson, of Springfield Township; John, deceased; Robert, resides
in Venango County; W’illiam, lives in Morrow County, Ohio; Matthew, lives in
Montana, and Thomas is dead. The father’s second marriage was to Margaret
Davidson, by whom he had three children: James P. ; Martha, is married and
resides in Butler County, Penn. ; Mary A. , lives in Ohio.
John W. Stright, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, is a son of John L.
and Mary (Warnock) Stright. She was a native of Ireland, a weaver by
trade, and located in New Castle, Del. , and thence to New Castle, Penn. , at early
periods. Her husband, John L., was a native of New Jersey, and settled at
an early day in Crawford County, and in 1818 located on the farm where our
subject now resides, for which he traded his farm in Crawford County. He
served in the War of 1812, died in 1847, was a member of the Presbyterian
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1107
Church, and in politics a Whig. His widow died in 1853, and was the mother
of Jane (deceased), and John W. Mr. Stright was married to a Miss Dodd prior
to his union with Mary Warnock, and had by her six children: Charity,
Margaret, Young, D. Freeman, Rhoda and Chloe; all dead except Freeman.
Our subject was born January 6, 1824, on the farm he now resides upon;
received a common-school education, and was married in 1852 to Elvira H. ,
daughter of Amos Hall, of Venango County, by whom he had seven children:
William H., Orville L. , Mary, Leonard L., Jane M., Frederick L. and Anna
A. Mr. Stright has been school director and held other small township
offices. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church of Fairfield.
He was twelve years an elder in the Fairfield Church, and is a Republican.
Joseph Steight, farmer, post-office Sheakleyville, Penn, is a son of Amasa
and Mary (Dodd) Stright, natives of New Jersey. The grandfather was
Laurance Stright. The father of our subject was born in New Jersey in
1789, and came to Mercer County with his parents and settled in what is now
Deer Creek Township about 1815. He was a prominent member of the
Presbyterian Church of Sheakleyville, of which he was an elder for many
years. In politics he was a member of the Free Soil party, and was the first
man to vote that ticket in the township, and subsequently became a Repub-
lican. He died in 1861, and hfs widow in 1806. Their family consisted of six
children: Lovinia and Teressa, deceased; Sarah, the widow of Nathaniel Axtell;
Marilla, wife of Perry Caldwell; Ithiel, who resides in Kansas, and our sub-
ject, who was born March 11, 1826, on the old homestead where he has
always lived. He married, July 2, 1857, Elenor, daughter of James Myers, of
Sandy Creek Township, and by this marriage they have two children: J. H.
and William S. Mr. Stright has filled many of the township offices. He is a
consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Sheakleyville, and
politically is a Republican.
D. R. Vaughn, county clerk, was born February 17, 1852, in Deer Creek
Township, to Russell and Susan (Carson) Vaughn, natives of Trumbull County,
Ohio, and who came to Mercer County about 1848. They settled in Deer
Creek Township, where the father built and operated a mill for twenty years.
He died in 1872, and his widow survives on the old farm. They had eight
children: Seth; Robert J. , was at his death, in 1881, foreman of the stone
work on the county poor-house; D. R. , George J., Lucy B. , married George
T. Hadley, and she died with the typhoid fever, which she contracted while
attending her brother, Robert J. ; Lilly, Allen L. , is now an agent for the Lake
Shore Railroad at Reno, to where he was transferred from Hadley, where he
had been a clerk for our subject for five years, and Elsie. The iiarents of our sub-
ject were Presbyterians, and the father became a Republican at the breaking
out of the war. D. R. Vaughn was educated at the district schools till the age
of seventeen years, when he went to Kansas for a period. On his return he
began studying telegraphy at Cochranton, Crawford Co. , Penn. He was soon
after appointed an agent for the A. G. W. Railroad at Utica, Penn., and served
five years. He was then employed by the Lake Shore at Hadley, where he
continued for seventeen years, or until his election to the office of county clerk.
He has been school director, auditor and treasurer of Deer Creek Township.
He was married June 25, 1872, to Hattie J. Hays, daughter of William and
Agnes Hays, of Utica, and has Gertrude L. , Blanche, Amy, Nellie (deceased),
David R., Lucy, Fred W. and Alice. He is a member of Blue Lodge, A. F.
& A. M., of Jamestown, and Chapter of Greenville. He and wife are Presbyte-
rians. He is a Republican.
IIOS
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
NEW VERNON TOWNSHIP.
Daniel Axtell, deceased, was born May 4, 1787, and came to Mercer
County with his parents, Daniel, born in 1748, died June 7, 1826, and Ruth,
born in 1750, died April 8, 1831. The family settled in what is now Sandy
Creek Township, where they died. Their children were Daniel, Eliab, Lin-
coln, Joseph, Polly, Ruth and Elizabeth. Daniel Axtell, Sr., was one of the
first elders of the old Fairfield Church. Daniel, Jr., was educated in the
country schools, was married to Euphemia Lynn, a native of New J ersey, and
settled where Sylvester Axtell lives. He once owned a saw-mill and tannery
on that farm. He was strongly identified with the Fairfield Church. He
died September 20, 1858, and his wife December 22, 1870. They had twelve
children: Ruth, born August 28, 1808, died November 30, 1883; Hannah,
born December 4, 1809, died October 21, 1844; Alexander, born July 5, 1811,
died November 8, 1847; Rhoda, born March 30, 1813, died March 21, 1874;
Thomas, born October 25, 1814, died January 15, 1852; Eliab, born December
22, 1817, died March 1, 1855; George, born November 10, 1820, died Febru-
ary 16, 1859; Louesa, born May 5, i822, died June 19, 1855; Mary L. , born
November 2, 1824, died October 16, 1825; Martha, born December 18, 1826,
died May 9, 1861; Andrew, born July 12, 1828, and is living; Loretta B.,
born June 17, 1831, died August 6, 1832. George was educated in this
county, and was married to Isabella McCracken October 30, 1849. Isabella
was born February 3, 1822, in French Creek Township, to Joshua and Mary
(Zahniser) McCracken, the parents of Alexander, Mary, Isabella, infant,
David and an infant. He settled at marriage on the old place, where George
engaged in a lumber mill. He had four children: Sylvester; Mary, deceased;
Eliab, deceased; Daniel, deceased. George was an elder of the United Pres-
byterian Church at the time of his death. His widow is a member of the same.
Sylvester Axtell was born September 19, 1850, on the farm where he now re-
sides. He was married May 27, 1875, to Eliza E. Jenkins, daughter of M.
M. Jenkins, and she died September 16, 1882, leaving three children: Maude
L., William N., dead, and Matilda B. He was again married, to Martha R.
Condit, October 30, 1884, by whom he has had two children: Infant, dead, and
Mary. He is school director, has been township auditor and assessor. In
politics he is a Republican.
Isaac Borland, deceased, was born February 25, 1834, on the farm where
his widow now lives. His father, Houston, was born August 18, 1803, and
his mother, Eleanor Holloway, was born July 12, 1804. They were married
March 1, 1827, and settled on the farm mentioned above. They owned 150
acres, which has never been out of the possession of the family. Isaac added
to it until the farm contained 212 acres. Andrew Borland, the father of
Houston, was the first to come to the county. He was of Scotch-Irish extraction,
and married Margaret Houston. She was the first white woman who came to
live in what is now New Vernon Township. Houston Borland and wife had
eight children: John, born March 15, 1828, studied medicine with Dr. J. R.
Andrews, the old pioneer physician of New Vernon, and later practiced in
Lawrence County, and is now at Franklin, Penn. ; Isaac; Martha, born Novem-
ber 22, 1839, and married Daniel McClure; Anna M. , born September 24,
1842, and married Andrew Montgomery, who put up the first house in York,
York Co., Neb. The following children are dead: Catharine, born April 15,
1830, and died August 27, 1831; Samuel, born July 8, 1832, and died the
same day; Margaret, born November 8, 1836, and died December 29, 1839;
Isabella, born June 2, 1845, and died April 13, 1848. Isaac H. Borland was
educated in the common schools, and farmed the greater part of his life. He
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1109
made cheese on bis farm for many years. He was married December 24,
1857, to Sarah E. Allen, born June 10, 1835, in Mercer County, to George
and Ann (Fisher) Allen, natives, the father of Ohio and the mother of what
is now Lawrence County. Her parents had eleven children: Margaret R.,
died the widow of James McCracken; Anna M. , died widow of Robert Stew-
art; William F., Sarah E., Elizabeth L., Martha J., deceased; George; Harvey,
was killed at the battle of Gettysburg, where his body was buried among the
unknown, and some time after was taken up and a letter and testament were
found in his pocket, wliich Mrs. Borland has in her possession; James R. was
also in the war; JohnC. , Emma and Mary C. The father of the above children
died in 1863 and his wife in 1850. His second wife, Mrs. Lydia Stewart,
whose maiden name was Gibson, is still living, and bore him one child, Sam-
uel W. Isaac Borland died August 6, 1887, with apoplexy, dropping dead,
like his father, while at work. He had nine children: Anna B., married
George Infield; William A. and George H. are deceased; James H., married
Laura Reihard April 19, 1888; JohnC., married Belle Boylan, January 29,
1886, and he graduated at the Edinboro Normal School in June, 1888 ; Robert S. ,
died July 11, 1888, was also a student at Edinboro when taken sick; Edgar
A., Lydia E. and Samuel W. Mr. Borland was an elder of the United Presby-
terian Church at the time of his death, and was one of the most respected and
honorable citizens who ever lived in New Vernon Township. He was a
Republican, to which organization his sons are attached.
Andrew Borland, deceased, was born April 15, 1812, in New Vernon
Township, and is a brother of Houston Borland, whose sketch appears in this
work. Andrew was educated in the common schools, was married March 31,
1835, to Elizabeth McCormick, born April 28, 1815, in Mercer County, to
Archibald and Jane (Hill) McCormick, and settled on the farm where Adam
Borland now lives. It was then in the green wood. He put up a log cabin
20x24 feet, and later built the house now standing on the farm. In
1844-45-46 he worked in a coal bank near Greenville. He died September
13, 1873, and his widow died September 15, 1880. He was in partnership
with Dr. J. C. Andrews, whose office Mr. Borland erected near his own resi-
dence. He furnished the means to buy medicine, and was to have half of
the income of the practice. Andrews was a man of intemperate habits, and
Mr. Borland was a continual loser by the partnership. He studied medicine,
and became to some extent a practitioner. He was initiated in the Know-
nothing party, but soon after renounced it and became a Democrat, which he
continued until his death. He has seven children: Jane, born October 5,
1836, married David Gosnell, lives in St. Louis; Archibald, born June 3, 1838,
died in Salisbury Prison; James, born March 18, 1843; Cyrus, born June 11,
1850, died September 19, 1851; Evaleen, born March 18, 1853; Ella, born
January 25, 1857, died March 21, 1858. The parents were members of the
United Presbyterian Church. Adam C. Borland, post-office New Vernon,
the son of the deceased, was educated in the common schools, and was
brought up on a farm. He worked for a while at the harness manufacturing
business in Tylersburg, Clarion Co., Penn. He was married September
24, 1874, to Sarah A. Carmichael, who was born December 2, 1852, and
was one of nine children: Sarah A., Eliza J. , Andrew, Mary, Alanson,
Victoria, Ellsworth, Charles and Lizzie. The parents of the above children
were Hyram and Elizabeth (Fowler) Carmichael, who were members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Borland has two children: Roland and
Andrew. He and wife are members of the Fairfield Presbyterian Church,
and he is a Democrat.
1110
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
George Boyd, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born May 28, 1844,
in New Vernon Township. His father, Joseph Boyd, was born in County
Cork, Ireland, April 22, 1808, to James and Jane (Haggertie) Boyd.
Robert Boyd was the first to settle in this county, and was engaged for some
time in the hardware business in Mercer. He was a plasterer and a cooper,
and, while on his way to this county from Philadelphia, while employed at
his trade, he became acquainted with and married Isabella Butler. He was
killed by the fall of his brick house in West Virginia. The Boyds and their
relatives came to Mercer County in the following order: John Phipps and
his wife, Dora Boyd, who settled in Cool Spring Township; Edward Boyd
and wife, Betsy Jennings, who located in Fairview Township; John Jen-
nings and wife, Mary Boyd, who settled in Cool Spring Township; and in
1821 came James A. Boyd and wife, and his father and mother, James
and Elizabeth (Atkins) Boyd; Archibald Boyd and wife, Elizabeth McGiv-
ern; Henry Boyd, and the children of James A. : Thomas, Henry, William,
Archibald, Joseph, James, Robert, Elizabeth, Mary and Dora. Isaac
Waugh married Frances Boyd, a sister of James A., and came to this
county, and later moved to Iowa. Joseph Boyd, a brother of James A., emi-
grated here from Ireland, and subsequently went back to his native country
for a son whom he had left, and was never heard of afterward. His wife,
son and daughter moved to Michigan. Joseph Boyd was married to Rhoda
Axtell, by whom he had Ezra, Caroline, George, Euphramy J. (wife of
Robert Dunlap), William H. and Milton E. Joseph Boyd was employed on
the canal from Franklin to Meadville for three years, and also on a canal near
Cleveland. He bought land in New Vei’non Township, where he lived for over
fifty years. He helped to build the Mercer court-house. His wife, after a
lingering illness of twelve years, was relieved of her sufferings by death in
1874. She was a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Boyd
united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1825, and for twenty years
was blind in one eye and is now totally blind. He is a man of exceptionally
good memory, pure character and an earnest Christian. He is a stanch Re-
publican, and must be taken to every election. George Boyd was educated in
the common schools, and has always farmed and bought and sold stock. He
was married December 23, 1875, to Martha J. Elliott, born November 25,
1858, in Pittsburgh, to John and Mary (Smith) Elliott, who came to this
county in 1864, and settled in New Vernon Township. Her parents have
had the following children: William H. , book-keeper in Pittsburgh; John F.,
engaged in cutting glass in the same city; Lizzie A., married William Young,
superintendent of the S. S. Marvin cracker factory, Pittsburgh; Maggie, mar-
ried Robert D. Kerr; Albert J. , a glazer of glass in Allegheny City; Thomas
J., Josephine B. and Mary M. , who are at home. Her parents are members
of the United Presbyterian Church at Sandy Lake. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd have
had three children: Fred (dead), Mabel E. and Joseph Elliott. Mr. Boyd
has been assessor, and is a Republican. Further mention is made of the
family in the general history.
Barber Boyd, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born April 19, 1833, in
Cool Spring Township. His father, Thomas Boyd, was born September 15,
1799, in County Cork, Ireland, son of James, whose father was also called
James. The family came to America in 1821 and settled in Cool Spring
Township. James, the grandfather of our subject, bought, in 1831, a farm of
200 acres of Lewis Clopier and W. Robinson, and here he lived for many
years, and finally died August 15, 1860, oq the farm where his son, Thomas,
lived, in New Vernon Township. He had ten children: Betsey, Dora, Mary,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
• 1111
Heniy, Robert, James, Joseph, William, Archie and Thomas. Thomas, the
father of our subject, married in Ireland, settled in New Vernon Township
in 1844, and died April 14, 1880, his wife preceding August 3, 1871. They
had nine children: Catharine, born August 5, 1821, married John Barber, and
died May 22, 1842; James, born May 5, 1823, and died October 27, 1837;
Robert, born October 18, 1825, and died August 6, 1826; Jane, born July 4,
1827, died February 27, 1855; Mary, born January 19, 1831, married to John
Bachelor June 30, 1857, died March 9, 1886; Marmaduke, born January 27,
1836, died August 24, 1882; John, born June 21, 1838; Caroline E., born
November 29, 1840, married to Henry Flickner October 10, 1872, died April
30, 1885; John F., married. May 19, 1870, Margaret McGee. The parents
were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject was educated
in the common schools, and has always been a farmer. He was married April
I, 1862, to Isabella Burrows, born February 15, 1837, in Mahoning County,
Ohio. Her parents, George and Mary Burrows, had the following children:
Elizabeth, William, Sarah, Isabella, James, Margaret, Mary, Ellen, George
and John. Her parents settled in New Vernon Township in 1843, and there
the father died February 2, 1883, and the mother lives with her son, John.
Mr. and Mrs. Boyd have had eight children: Guy, born January 24, 1863; -Syl-
vester, born July 1, 1864; Findlay J. , born September 30, 1865; Nancy J.,
born July 6, 1867; Mary E., born October 4, 1869; Walter T., born February
27, 1873; Lina, born August 4, 1877; Newton G. , born November 7, 1886.
Mr. Boyd has 115 acres of good land, is a member of the K. L. ofH.,
with his wife and six of his children belongs to the Methodist Episcopal
Church of New Vernon, has always taken a deep interest in church matters,
and is a Democrat.
Julius Boyd, farmer and justice of the peace, post-office Clark’s Mills, was
born April 1, 1837, in New Vernon Township. His parents, Henry and Ann
(Phipps) Boyd, were natives of Ireland, and came to this county about 1821.
They settled in Cool Spring Township. They were married in this county
and finally settled on a farm adjoining the one our subject now resides on,
and which is owned by some of the heirs. Here he died April 2, 1866, and
his widow died December, 1872; they were the parents of the following chil-
dren: James C. ; Charles, was strangled to death with a grain of corn; Jane
J. , married Calvin Clark; Melissa, married William James; Wesley, deceased;
Julius; P. J. , ex Representative Fairview Township; Helen; R. E., deceased;
John F. The parents were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of
which he was once class-leader. Our subject was educated in the common
schools, and was married, in 1860, to Sarah J. Perrine, daughter of Armon
and Eliza Perrine, by whom he has seven children: Emma C. and an infant
are deceased; Ettie A., Curtin C., Nathan J., Lula A. and Myrta T. Mr.
Boyd settled on his present farm of 150 acres in 1861, bought in pieces at
various times, and the most of which he has improved, and has erected there-
on fine buildings. He enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Ninety-
ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served one year. He is engaged in gen-
eral farming and stock dealing. He has served as school director, assessor and
other small offices where pay is not considered. In 1888 he was elected a
justice of the peace. He is a member of the K. of H. He and wife are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is trustee, class-leader
and steward. He was one of the Republican central committee in 1887.
Richabd Forbes, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born March 1, 1821, in
County Cork, Ireland, to George and Sarah (Haggertie) Forbes, natives of the
same county, and who immigrated to this county in 1821. They settled first
1112 ■
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
in wliat is Wilmington Township, and later in Hickory, about three miles from
Sharon, where they lived until about 1827, when they moved to the farm where
our subject now lives. Here the father bought 400 acres, and here he died in
1847. His widow died September 9, 1873, and had blessed her husband with
eight children: Ellen, married John McBride; Thomas; Mary, married John
Slater; George; Alice, married Thomas Sweesy; Elizabeth, married William
Sweesy; Richard; Jane, married John Burrows; all are dead but Elizabeth
and Richard. The parents were members of the Boyd Church, and are buried
in the Presbyterian church-yard at Sandy Lake. Our subject was educated in
the common schools, and has always been a tiller of the soil. He was married
to Hannah Goswell, who died, leaving no issue. He was again married to
Maranda Lusher, born December 17, l842, daughter of Jonathan and Eliza
(Smith) Lusher, natives of this State. Her father was an early settler of
Venango County. He had twelve children: Jacob, Sarah, John, Martha,
Harry, Catharine, Maranda, Lizzie, Peter, Almira, Miles and David. Mr. and
Mrs. Forbes have two children: Willie and Harry. When the family settled
on this farm it was all in the woods, except a small patch where stood a cabin,
on the site of which is an old mill. Wild animals were plenty, and our subject has
killed many rattlesnakes. He is the possessor of 280 acres of the best of land, and
has recently erected a tine brick building at a cost of over $3,000. He has
always been a stanch Democrat, and read the Western Press while William S.
Garvin was editor of that paper. His wife is a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and he is one of the enterprising farmers of the township.
George Haggertie, deceased, was born June 22, 1792, in County Cork,
Ireland. He came to this American continent in 1827. He settled for about
two years in Canada, where he was engaged on canals. He married Mary
Shannon, of the same county. In 1829 they came to this county, where he
was, for awhile, engaged in working on the canal. He had only $1.50 when
he arrived in Mercer County. He bought land in New Vernon Township
in 1835, where he farmed until April 22, 1866, when he died. His widow
died May 24, 1879. They had the following children: Mary, married Thomas
Norris; Jane, is a maiden lady, and lives on the old homestead; Ann, died
in Canada; James, died in Ireland; Martha, married John Stout and died
in Canada; Elizabeth, married John Haggertie, and had nine children:
George, James, Mary, Adam, Marmeduke, Thomas, Anna M. , Jane and John;
Sarah, married E. O. Clark; John, deceased; William, deceased; Amy A.,
deceased; Adam, deceased, and George. The parents were members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. The parents of our subject were possessed of a
strong constitution, and endured the hardships that go to make up the life of
the early settlers. They were buried at the Little Boyd grave-yard, in New
Vernon Township. George Haggertie, who lives on the old place, was born
November 12, 1840, and was educated in the district schools in his neighbor-
hood. He was married September 27, 1869, to Maria McGreggor, born July
24, 1840, in Trumbull County, Ohio.
Joseph Hill, farmer, post-office Clark’s Mills, was born October 26, 1804, in
Ontario County, N. Y. His parents were Joseph and Elizabeth (Wait) Hill.
He was educated in the country schools and an academy. He learned the art
of making stone-ware, which he followed for five years. He lived the greater
part of his younger days with his grandfather Wait. He was married in 1825
to Nancy Mitchell, who died in 1854, the mother of nine children: Lovica,
married Peter Ross; Jefferson, Cordelia, Elizabeth, married Alexander Car-
penter; Christina, Williard, Joseph, who was in the war; PBlina and Warren, also
in the war. He was again married, to Elizabeth Dickson, born July 9, 1820,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1113
daughter of Samuel and Margaret (Caldwell) Dickson. Her parents had six
children; Eebecca, Nancy, Elizabeth, Samuel, James and Mary. Mr. Hill
came to this county in 1831, and settled where he now lives in a log cabin. He
boarded while he was building a cabin, 18x26 feet and two stories. The hrs
night he stayed in Mercer County he had 12^ cents. He made pine shingles
and sold a part of them to get glass and nails. He set to work in earnest, and
is to-day in excellent circumstances. By his last wife he has two children: H.
C. and Florilla. He was baptized into the Christian Church in the State of
New York, and when he came to this county united with the Methodist Church.
He was a Whig during the existence of that party, and then joined the Repub-
licans. He is one of the reputable citizens of New Vernon Township. Note. —
Since the above sketch was written Mr. Joseph Hill died, July 31, 1888, aged
eighty-three years, nine months and hve days.
Joseph Infield, farmer, post-office New Vernon, was born July 23, 1828,
in Maryland, to Daniel and Sarah (Winger) Infield. A reference is made to
the family in Jackson Township. Joseph Infield was educated in the common
schools at Jackson Centre. Three of his early teachers were Henry Hosack, a
Mr. Johnson and Elizabeth Supple. He has worked some at stone masonry,
but has devoted the greater part of his active life to farming. He purchased
his first piece of land in 1856, in Jackson Township, where is now the Hall
Shaft. Sixteen years later he sold the farm for coal purposes. March 12,
1873, he settled on his present farm, known as the Ira Condit farm, in New
Vernon Township. He was married May 2, 1854, to Mary McGee, daughter
of George and Sarah (Cross) McGee. Her father died January 6, 1887, and
his children were Mary, John, Eliza J. , Emmeline, William, Margaret,
George, Melinda and Henrietta. Mr. Infield has had seven children; George
W., Sarah, Silvia, Ida M., John, Della and Henry B. Mr. and Mrs. Infield
are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Sandy Lake. He is
a Democrat, one of the representative citizens of New Vernon Township, and
a man of large means, of which he is the artificer. Mrs. Infield’ s father was
born January 12, 1806, in Mifflin County, Penn., and who came to Mercer
County in 1812. He had, by hard labor, careful management and frugal deal-
ing, accumulated a large fortune. He died January 6, 1881. He was one of
the most respected citizens who lived in Eairview Township, and other mention
is made of him in this work.
Hugh Lackey, farmer, post-office Clark’s Mills, was born July 9, 1826, on
the farm where he now lives. His parents, Henry and Eunice (Hazen)
Lackey, were natives of Crawford County, Penn., and New Jersey, respect-
ively. The ancestor of the Lackeys of this county emigrated from Ireland
over 130 years ago, and settled near the site of Pittsburgh. The first of the
family to come to Mercer County was Henry Lackey, who settled on the farm
spoken of above, and there died in 1878. His wife died in 1855, the mother of
Agnes, married David Wolf; Martha, married Joseph Hazen; Margaret H.,
married S. Hood; Hugh and Joseph. The parents were members of the Pres-
byterian Church, and he was a Republican. Hugh Lackey was educated in the
country schools, and in the academy of Greenville, where he studied some of
the higher branches. He taught a number of terms of school, perhaps twenty
in all. He was married July 1, 1852, to Sallie Ann Snyder, daughter of
Jesse and Catharine (Eenstermesher) Snyder, the parents of ten children:
Sallie A., Lucinda, Lydia, Mary E., Elmira, Nancy, Caroline, Susannah,
Catharine and Joseph. Her parents were members of the German Reformed
Church. Mr. Lackey settled, at his marriage, on the old homestead, where he
has since remained. He has eleven children: Joseph C., married Maggie Orr;
1114
HISTOEY OF MEECEB COUNTY.
Celinda; John W., a professor, married Ella Abrams; William I., a professor;
Frank, married Maggie Canon; Angelo L., a professor; Fannie E., a student;
Mary J., a student, and David H. Two, Jesse and Bert, died when infants. Mr.
Lackey served as poor director, to which position he was elected by the Re-
publican party. He was for ten years a justice of the peace, has been town-
ship assessor, auditor and school director. He suffers from the loss of one
eye, which was put out by a stick striking him while chopping. He was once
connected with the Grange lodge. He and wife are members of the Presby-
terian Church, of which he has been an elder for twenty-five years. He has
been a superintendent of the Sunday-school of their neighborhood, which was
organized before any church was near.
Johnson McCaetney, farmer, post-office Clark’s Mills, was born June 11,
1823, in the County Fermanagh, Ireland, son of John and Jane McCartney. In
1839 the family, consisting of father, mother and children, Esther, Rebecca
and Johnson, immigrated to America and settled in Coitsville, Ohio, where
they engaged in farming. In 1842 they left Ohio and settled in the woods in
what is now New Vernon Township, this county, on land which they bought in
1843. Here they erected a log cabin in which they lived for many years.
The father died on this farm, also the mother and Rebecca, all of whom were
buried in Perry Chapel grave-yard. Our subject was educated in the common
schools in the pioneer cabins, and learned the trade of a shoemaker, which
occu]3ation he followed during the winters, in connection with his farming, for
many years. He learned his trade in Youngstown, Ohio, and was married
April 13, 1854, to Rachel Feather, a sister of Dr. Ira C. Feather, late of
Sandy Lake. This union has given him nine children; Cynthia, deceased;
Bleakley, a lumber dealer in Nebraska; Alva, a carpenter in Nebraska; James
H. , a postmaster at Ogalalla, Neb.; Stephen, deceased; John; Findley, is a
student at the Edinboro Normal, and a teacher; P. L., Louise. Mr. McCart-
ney is the owner of a fine farm of eighty- eight acres, which is the result of
his energy, economy and frugal dealings. He is a Republican and a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while his estimable wife belongs to the
Presbyterian Church of Sandy Lake. The family is one of the best known and
most respected in the community in which they reside.
J. L. McCoemick' farmer, post-office New Vernon, was born October 15
1836, in New Vernon Township. His father, William H., was a native of this
State, and of Scotch-Irish extraction. The mother, Rachel Hogue, was born
in Ireland, and came with her parents to Wolfe Creek Township when a child.
She was the daughter of John Hogue, whose children were named as follows:
Mary, Margaret, Rachel, Jane, William, Alexander, Nancy, James and Eliza.
John Hogue and wife died in Jackson Township, and are buried in the old
Springfield grave-yard. William H. McCormick was married in what is now
Jackson Township. He was a carpenter, and a number of barns are yet stand-
ing which he built. He was born in 1810 and died in 1878. His wife died
in 1867. Their children were: Alexander, a carpenter in California; John
L. ; Euphemia Jane, married William McClain; W. A., an attorney of Mercer ;
Thomas H. , is in the oil business in Clarion County; Rachel Emily, married
A. A. McClain; James Harvey, Edward Small and Eliza. The last three died
young. William H. afterward married Mary Jane Cambell, of Jackson Town-
ship. He was a county commissioner one term. He began poor, and at the
time of his death he was the owner of some valuable land and other property.
He and his wife were members of the old Rocky Spring United Presbyterian
Church, of which he was an elder at the time of his death. Our subject was
educated in the common schools, and brought up on a farm. He was mar-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1115
ried, April 13, 1858, to Susan M. Uber, daughter of John H. Uber, and has
by her four children: Charles G. and infant are dead; EllaM., married Eobert
Nelson, now living in Mercer; Maggie B., married J. D. McCaughtery;
Thomas F. Our subject was for awhile engaged in the saw-mill business
with his father. He is now the owner of the old homestead. He was drafted,
and served nine months in the war. Three of his brothers served in the
defense of their country. He has been township assessor, school director, and
took the census of the township in 1880, also of Mill Creek Township and the
borough of New Lebanon. He is a member of the K. and L. of H. , the
G. A. E., and he and wife belong to the United Presbyterian Church of
Sheakleyville. In politics he is a stanch Eepublican, and gladly devotes a
part of his time to the interest of that party at all elections. Alexander
McCormick, the grandfather of our subject, settled on the farm now owned by
Charles Schmeltzer in 1820, where he died. His children were William H. ,
James, Eosannah, Mary, Adam H., Alexander, Jane and John E. He was a
cooper by trade; carried on the business in connection with his farm. He
married Euphrenia Hill, whose father was a soldier in the War of 1812. He
died about 1853, in the sixty-ninth year of his age, and with his wife belonged
to the Seceder Church.
W. J. McCracken, farmer, post-office New Vernon, was born November 25,
1862, in Sandy Creek Township, to A. P. and Mary (Houston) McCracken,
who live in Deer Creek Township. He was educated in the public schools,
also at Sheakleyville, New Lebanon and Grove City. He was married, Feb-
ruary 15, 1883, to Laura J. Canon, daughter of Alfred and Euphamia
(McClure) Canon, the former of whom is dead. Our subject settled at mar-
riage on his father’s farm, and later located on the farm in New Vernon Town-
ship now owned by Thomas Carnahan, of York County, Neb. He is a
member of the K. of H. at Sheakleyville, and the K. and L. of H. at New
Vernon. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In
politics he is a Eepublican, and one of the enterprising young business men
of the township.
J. N. McCutcheon, merchant, post-office New Vernon, was born April 29,
1858, in New Vernon, to James and Mary (Montgomery) McCutcheon. The
father was born in 1809, in County Tyrone, Ireland, to Porter and Jennie
(Johnson) McCutcheon, natives of the same country. The former died in this
county October 26, 1869, and his wife about 1861. Their children were
Mary, John, Polly, James, John, Eobert, Joseph, Andrew, Margaret, George,
Thomas and David. James McCutcheon came to this county in 1840, after
having followed weaving in Philadelphia awhile. He was married in 1842 to
Mary Montgomery, born October 22, 1818, daughter of Capt. James and Sarah
(Fulton) Montgomery, natives of Westmoreland County. James Montgomery
was a captain in the War of 1812, and did service at Erie. He died in 1860,
and his wife November 22, 1859, the mother of Isabella, John, Martha, Sarah,
James, Margaret, Archie, Margaret (2), Mary and Eliza J. The parents were
members of the United Presbyterian Church. James McCutcheon and wife
had nine children: William (served in the war four years, was in prison four-
teen months, and died from the effects of burns received at a fire at North
Clarendon, Penn., July 4, 1887, leaving a wife and six. children), James (died
at Annapolis while in the service), Sarah (died in Philadelphia October 19,
1869), Mary J. (married Jefferson Stright), Almira (married William Breck-
man), Ellis P., Archibald, John N. and Joseph E. Mr. and Mrs. McCutcheon
are members of the United Presbyterian Church, and he is a stanch Eepubli-
can and a protectionist. He has been blind for two years. John N. McCutch-
1116
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
eon entered his present business September 20, 1887, and carries a general
stock of goods. He was married to Maggie, daughter of John and Eachel
(Kirk) Gallagher, by whom he has two children: James E. and John C. He
has served as township collector and auditor, is a member of the K. and L. of
H., and is a Republican. May 1, 1888, the post-office was placed in his store-
room, and his brother-in-law, A. J. Gallagher, appointed postmaster. Mr.
McCutcheon is one of the progressive young business men of the township.
David McElwain, merchant. New Vernon, was born October 24, 1845, in
what is New Vernon Township. His father, John, was a native of Mill Creek
Township, where his wife, Mary McCracken, was also born. John died Jan-
uary 29, 1883, and his widow survives in New Lebanon. They had eleven
children: Cyrus, David, Alexander, Harvey, Watson, Mary, Emma, Adam,
William, Anna B. and Melinda. Emma married William Findley, and Anna
married Charles Hannah; Mary is single, and Melinda married George Miller.
The father entered the mercantile business in New Vernon about 1843, and
continued till 1880. He also owned a store at New Lebanon. He and wife
were members of the Fairfield Church. Our subject was educated in the
common schools. He entered his present mercantile business in 1870, and
carried a stock of about |3,000. He was postmaster at New Vernon from 1876
to 1888. He married, July 8, 1869, Elizabeth Ross, by whom he has two chil-
dren: Maude and John. He is a member of the K. and L. of H., and his wife
is a member of the Fairfield Presbyterian Church. He is a Republican, and
an enterprising man.
James S. Mooee, farmer, post-office New Vernon, was born July 19, 1843, son
of William and Sarah A. (Clark) Moore. William Moore was born July 29, 1800,
in Washington County, son of John and Elizabeth (Arbuckle) Moore. William
Moore came to Mercer County about 1804, and settled near Sharon. He mar-
ried Sarah Clark, a native of Albany, N. Y., who came to Ohio with her
parents, W. A. Clark and wife. The parents of our subject settled in dif-
ferent parts of the county before they died inFairview Township. Their chil-
dren were ten in number: Wesley, Harriet, W. A., John, Mary, Rufina, W.
R. , James S. , Joseph and Sarah. James S. Moore was educated in the com-
mon schools and one term at the Mercer union schools. He learned the car-
penter’s trade with his father, and has followed that the greater part of his life.
He was married September 4, 1866, to Zilpha D. Hill, daughter of John and
Isabella Hill, of this county. Her parents are dead and had ten children:
J. Morton, Nathan, Nancy, Sarah, Dorcas, Hannah, Zilphia, Margaret, James
and an infant. Mr. Moore settled at marriage in Fairview Township, and in
1874 he moved to Sandy Lake Township, and lived on the farm where W. A.
Moore resides until 1880, when he bought land and located in New Vernon
Township. He erected buildings on his pleasant farm, which burned and left
him to replace them with others. He was constable and collector of the town-
ship for four years, and has served in several of the small offices where
pay is not considered. He cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lin-
coln, and has Mways been a stanch Republican. He enlisted in Company A,
One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was in twenty-
two battles and skirmishes. He suffers deafness in one ear because of the
service in the war. He has had six children: J. R. , who was married Sep-
tember 12, 1888, to Miss Mamie McElwain, grand-daughter of John McEl-
wain; Mary M., Emma M., Sarah A., Hattie B. and Nellie B. He and wife
are members of the Presbyterian Church at Fairfield, of which he is deacon,
and has been superintendent of the Sabbath -schools of the same. His father
is thought to have cast the first Abolition vote in Mill Creek Township, and
his house was a station on the underground railroad.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1117
J. K. Ross, farmer, post-office New Vernon, was born June 1<, 1838, in
Deer Creek Township, to Stephen and Hannah (Seisley) Ross. The father was
born in what is now Deer Creek Township, to Aaron and Sarah (Harris) Ross,
of Scotch-Irish extraction. Aaron and his wife are Imried in the grave-yard
at Fairfield, and their children were, Stephen, John, Jacob, Harvey, Joseph, Jared,
Alva, Aaron, Elizabeth, Abigail, Hannah, Mary and Sarah. John, married
Louisa Wetmore, and had Almera and John S. ; Jacob married Anna Seisley,
and had Benjamin, Elizabeth, Sabina, Samuel, Monroe, Edwin, Sarah and
John; Harvey married Caroline Custard, and had James, Sarah, Albert,
Richard, Wilson, Henry, Stephen and Emily; Joseph married Sophia Ervy;
Jared married Martha Custard, and has Harris, Sarah, William, Stephen,
Mary, Martha, Nancy, Taylor, Eva and Almera; Aaron married Martha Tif-
feny, and had Henry, Mitchell, Loretta, Harriet, Elda, Charles, James, Bert
and A. M. ; Elizabeth married Alexander Miller, and had Fannie, Mary, Sarah,
Josephine, Elizabeth, Mitchell, Henry and Nettie; Abigail maa-ried Nathan
TifPeny, and had Newton, Caroline, George, Henry, Aaron, Cory, Charles
and Frederick; Hannah married Samuel Roberts, and had Addison, Madison,
Mary, Milton, Myram, Hyram and Sarah; Mary married James Logan, and
had Elizabeth, Harvey, Mary and Samuel. Stephen Ross was educated in the
country schools of this county, and was married to Hannah Seisley, daughter
of Samuel and Elizabeth (Rhodes) Seisley, natives of this State, and of Ger-
man extraction. By her he had Jacob, Hannah, Anna, Benjamin, John and
Mary. He was in the War of 1812. Stephen died April 19, 1871, and his
widow is living. His children are Samuel, Elizabeth, Sarah, John, Louisa,
Stephen and Maria. He was a stanch Democrat. J. K. Ross was married
July 3, 1862, to Julia A. Price, born March 3, 1844, in Worth Township. Her
father’s history appears in another part of this work. In 1866 Mr. Ross set-
tled where he now resides, in New Vernon Township. He has had seven chil-
dren by his marriage: Ella, married J. C. Thompson; Anna, married. William
Custard; Frank T., Harry, Grace, Mary and Maude. Mr. Ross has been con-
stable and collector of the township, and he and wife are members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church at Mount Hope, of which he has been a class-
leader and trustee. He is a Democrat.
John Sauees, farmer, post-office Clark’s Mills, was born July 12, 1852, in
Otter Creek Township, this county, to Michael, born in 1807, and Josephine
(Hinkle) Sauers, born in 18 10, natives of Germany, where they were married and
came to Greenville about the year 1848. After a short residence at that place
they removed to Otter Creek Township, and in 1860 bought seventy -one acres
where they now live, in New Vernon Township. The father was a cabinet-maker
in the old country, and followed carpentering some in this country. He began
here with but little means, and by careful management and hard labor has
accumulated a nice little home upon which to live the rest of his life. He has
been a sufferer with the rheumatism since 1860. They have had five^children:
Kate, married D. C. Reed; Christina, married Hyram Feather; Nellie, mar-
ried Henry Meibert, deceased; John, and Mary A., married Joseph Stewart.
The father is a believer in the Catholic religion and bis wife is a Lutheran.
John, our subject, took charge of his father’s farm w'hen a mere boy. He was
educated in the common schools and at Hadley. He was married September
11, 1873, to Maggie J. Carnahan, daughter of John L. Carnahan, and by her
he has five children: Minnie M., dead; Nellie E., dead; Tena B. , William
C. and Josie R. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church at Clark’s Mills, of which he is a steward. He spent four year's in the
oil regions of Clarion and Forest Counties, and owns valuable land in the
66
1118
HISTORY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
former, on whicli there are some good oil wells. He is one of the progressive
young Democrats of Mercer County, is strictly honest, a gentleman who has
the esteem of all who know him, and was a candidate for poor director on the
Democratic ticket in 1888.
Key. Isaac Scofield, retired Methodist minister, post-office New Vernon,
was born September 12, 1812, in Albany County, N. Y. , to Daniel and Olive
(Brown) Scofield, natives of the same county. The parents had twelve
children. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and during his
early days he was employed on a farm. He was licensed to preach at the age
of twenty-two, and began preaching at Chagrin Falls, Ohio. His regular
appointments were at Edinboro, Portage Co., Ohio; Centerville Circuit,
Evansburg, Crawford Co., Penn.; Shippensville Circuit, Venango and Clarion
Counties; Red Bank Circuit; Cambridge Circuit, Crawford County; Sheridan
Circuit, Chautauqua County, N. Y. ; McKean Circuit, Erie County; Columbus
Circuit, Warren County and Chautauqua County, N. Y. ; Leon Circuit, State
of New York; Perrysburg Circuit, State of New York; Villenovia Circuit,
Chautauqua County, N. Y. ; Quincy Circuit, Chautauqua County, N. Y. ;
Harrisville Circuit, Butler County, Penn. ; Espyville Circuit, Crawford County,
Penn.; Williamsfield Circuit, Ashtabula County, Ohio; Salem Circuit, Mercer
County; Evansburg, Crawford County; Jamestown Circuit, Mercer County;
Delaware drove Circuit, Mercer County; New Lebanon, Mercer County;
Waterloo, Venango County; Hendersonville, Mercer County. He retired from
active service about 1873, since when he has only preached occasionally. He
was married in 1837 to Ellen McConnell, who died in 1853, the mother of
John, George, Wesley and Daniel. He was again married, to Mrs. Elizabeth
McConnell, the widow of George McConnell, by whom he had no children.
She died in 1866, and he again married Louisa Ferree, and by her he has had
four children: Emma, May, Ettie and Harry B. Rev. Scoffield settled with
his family where he now resides in 1872, where he has a small piece of land.
He is a Republican, and the good he has done in this world will only be known
in that day when the secrets of all hearts shall be opened and revealed.
B. S. White, farmer, post-office Sandy Lake, was born February 18, 1824,
in Lake Township. His father, Hiram White, married Polyxenia Stokely,
daughter of Benjamin Stokely, a character sketch of whom is given in this
work through the pen of William S. Garvin. Hiram White was born in West-
moreland County, Penn., and came to this county with his parents, John and
Nancy (Dugan) White, and settled at the head of what is known as Wild Cat
Hollow, in Lake Township. Here John White died in 1828, and Nancy, his
wife, died about four years later, in Cool Spring Township, at the home of her
daughter, Mrs. Lanagan. The children of John and Nancy were Hiram,
Joseph, David, James, Sarah, Anna, Betsey and Rebecca. Sarah, married
Aaron Scroggs; Anna, married John Scroggs; Betsey, married Valentine Zahn-
iser; Rebecca, married Fergus Hill. Hiram and Polyxenia White had nine
children: David, died with the typhoid fever; John, married Jane Robb, and
had two children, John, Rebecca; Esther, married Hugh Mitchell; Nancy,
married A. Jackson Carnahan, by whom she had Jerome, Andrew, Tezetta,
Betsey, Cindarilla, Nellie, Hiram, Gustavis A. and Wilmina; Mr. Carnahan
died in 1846, and was a member of the Presbyterian Church; Rebecca, mar-
ried Charles Barton, and is a widow at Council BlufPs, Iowa; Benjamin S.,
Hiram, Nathaniel and Euclid are dead. Hiram White, the father of our
subject, died in 1841, and his widow died in 1856. B. S. White was educated
in the common schools, and brought up on a farm. He read medicine with
Dr. Hiram White, his brother, at New London, this county, for two years.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1119
His brother practiced in this county about twenty- seven years, retired, and
died at the home of our subject. Mr. White was married January 16, 1858,
to Catharine Hettenbaugh, of Lawrence County. He settled on his present
farm, consisting of 100 acres, in 1839, and has mostly developed it from the
woods to its excellent condition. He has always been an ardent Democrat.
PEEEY TOWNSHIP.
James W. Beal, merchant, post-office Clark’s Mills, is a son of Edmund
Beal, of Perry Township, whose parents were Thomas and Mary (Sudbury)
Beal, of England, where Edmund was born November 22, 1828. About 1851
he came to America, and went to live with his uncle, James Beal, who had
formerly located on the farm which Edmund now owns, and where he has
since resided. In 1855 he married Mary E., daughter of Samuel and Martha
McCleary, of Perry Township. She died April 7, 1887, leaving five children:
James W., Emma A. (wife of David Mille, of Perry Township), Edmund G.,
Charles S. and Lewis L. Mr. Beal has been supervisor of Perry Township,
votes the Republican ticket, and has been a deacon in the Georgetown Baptist
Church of Sheakleyville for over twenty years. James W. was born in Perry
Township in 1856. He attended the township schools, the academy of Sheak-
leyville and New Lebanon, and remained on the homestead and engaged in
teaching school during the winter months until 1881, when he entered the
store of L. L. Keck, of Greenville, as clerk. In 1882 he purchased an interest
with Mr. McCormick in the store at Clark’s Mills. The partnership continued
until March, 1888, when Mr. McCormick sold his interest to W. H. Simons,
and the present firm is Beal & Simons. Mr. Beal was appointed postmaster
at Clark’s Mills in 1882, and still holds that appointment. In 1879 he mar-
ried Ida M. , daughter of Joseph Infield, of New Vernon Township. By this
union they have three children: Carl, Nellie and Jennie. He is a member of
the Sheakleyville Baptist Church, and of the Select Knights of the A.O.U.W.,
of Clark’s Mills, and votes the Republican ticket.
Geoege Beggs, farmer, post-office Hadley, is a son of Alexander and Su-
san (Dickson) Beggs, of Scotch-Irish descent, who settled in Mahoning County,
Ohio, in 1822. Our subject was born in that county January 31, 1823, and
remained on the homestead until 1848, when he came to Mercer County and
purchased his present farm. He is an agent for an iron roofing company of
Niles, Ohio. He has also held various township offices. In 1850 he married
Miss Rebecca, daughter of William Hutchison, of Perry Township. By this
union they have had nine children: John and Warren are deceased; Susan a A.,
wife of William Roff, of Clark’s Station; Mary A., wife of Edward Cochran,
of Sandy Creek Township, and their children are Clinton T. and George L. ;
Jennie, at home; Milton, of Cleveland, Ohio; Marvin R., farmer, Perry Town-
ship, married Mary, daughter of John Cole, of Perry Township, and have two
children, Neva and John; George F., living at home, and married Clara,
daughter of Edmund Farrah, of Sandy Lake; Dickson A., of Sharon, married
Annie, daughter of Samuel Long, of Perry Township; their children are
Lillie M. and Edith M. Mr. Beggs is an elder in the United Presbyterian
Church of Sheakleyville, and votes the Republican ticket.
Maetin Caeeingee was a native of Westmoreland County, Penn., and came
to this county in 1796; was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. He settled in
Perry Township, and died in 1838. He was the father of Jacob, George,
Henry and Joseph, all dead. Jacob was in the War of 1812. George was
born in W estmoreland County, and married Isabella Montgomery. He was an
early member of the militia. He died in 1876, aged eighty-one years, and
1120
HISTORY OF MEBCEE COUNTY.
was the father of the following children: John, George, Emily, Matide, de-
ceased; Milton, Isabella, married Humphrey Orr; James, deceased, was in the
war; Harvey, and Jane, the wife of Stephen Feather; Isabella Montgomery,
wife of George Carringer, died September 24, 1888, aged eighty-five years,
making a residence on the farm they first settled on of sixty- seven years.
Jeremiah Corel, farmer, post-office Hadley, is a son of Jonathan and Maria
(Sechler) Corll, natives of Lehigh County, Penn., who settled in Trumbull
County, Ohio, in 1824. Our subject was born in Lehigh County May 22, 1816.
He removed to Ohio with his parents, where he remained until 1845, when he
purchased his present farm, and has since resided there. The country being
new he engaged in clearing land, and made shingles, which business he fol-
lowed for about twenty years, covering the roofs of many houses in the county.
In 1843 he married Miss Mary E., daughter of Abraham Cramer, of Trum-
bull County, Ohio. By this union they have eight children; Isaac M. , in
Brookfield, Ohio, married to Amelia Sault; Maria S., Mrs. J. W. Thompson,
of Iowa; Louisa J., at home; Mary M. , Mrs. Cameron Orr, of Iowa; Charles
K. , at home, and married to Miss Laura L. Phillips; Emma, Mrs. Cyrus M.
White, of Clark’s Mills; Sarah E., Mrs. James Haggertie, of Otter Creek
Township, and Julia A., at home. Mr. Corll has acted as school director,
supervisor, etc., of Perry Township. He is a member of Sheakleyville Bap-
tist Church, and votes the Democratic ticket.
J. B. Donaldson, post-office Hadley, was born in that part of Mercer
County which is now Lawrence County in 1820. He was educated at the
schools of that period, and in 1836 came to Mercer County and located on a
farm in Perry Township, remaining there until 1873, when he moved to Had-
ley Station, where he has since resided. He has served as justice of the peace
of Perry Township for twenty-five years. For the past five years has been
notary public. He has also been identified with the school interests, helping
to build the first school-house after the division of the township, and serving as
school director for sixteen years. Also held the offices of supervisor and auditor
of township. He served in the late Rebellion as a member of the State militia.
February 26, 1845, he married Mehitable, daughter of Andrew Loveland, of
Otter Creek Township. She died in 1872, leaving three children: William A.,
on the homestead in Perry Township, married to Wilhelmina, daughter of
Peter Sault, of Delaware Township, and has three childi’en; John, Dora and
Horace; John A., on the homestead in Perry Township, married to Clara,
daughter of John Morton, of Otter Creek Township, and has the following
children; Myrtle, William, Albert, Ray, Jackson, Blanche, Effie, Clyde and
Freddie; Jane, married David E. Sault, of Indianapolis, Ind. , and has four
children; Frank, Albert, Claude and Edward; one daughter by adoption, Nel-
lie, Mrs. Alfred Morton, of Hadley Station, who has four children: John,
Floyd, Clara and Olive. The present wife of our subject was Mrs. H. A. Salis-
bury, daughter of Frederick Jackson, of Sandy Creek Township. Our subject
is a member of the Baptist Church, and has always been a stanch member of
the Republican party.
The Feather Family. — Cornelius Feather was a native of Westmoreland
County, Penn. , and a settler in Trumbull County, Ohio, about 1800. He came
to Mercer County and located in what is now Otter Creek Township, about 1823,
where he died in 1852. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
voted the Democratic ticket and was in the War of 1812. His family consisted
of John, George, Mary, Mrs. Charles Milner; Sarah, Mrs. Henry Carringer;
all of whom are dead except George, who was born in Warren, Ohio, in 1808.
In 1836 he married Miss Keelen, daughter of William Keelen, and located on
HISTORY OT MERCER COUNTY.
1121
his present farm. His wife died in 1855, leaving six children, all of whom are
dead except Ettie, living at home. Mr. Feather has held several township
offices, and has been a leader in the United Brethren Church for many years.
He is a strong Prohibitionist and a supporter of the Democratic party.
John Feather was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, in 1806, and after
moving to this county he engaged in farming, saw-milling, etc. He also run
a carding machine for many years. He married Phoebe Condit, and located
on a farm one mile north of Clark’ s Mills, in Perry Township. He was school
director, supervisor, etc., of the township, and first voted the Whig and then
the Republican ticket. For many years he was a deacon in the Sheakleyville
Presbyterian Church. He died April 22, 1878, and his widow still lives in
Perry Township. They reared eleven children; Ira C., deceased, and men-
tioned in Sandy Lake Township; Cornelius, born in 1836 and died in 1874;
David, born in 1838 and died in 1870; Mary, born in 1831 and lives with her
mother; Rachael, born in 1832, wife of Johnston McCartney, of New Vernon
Township; William, born in 1834, lives in Wood County, Ohio; Stephen, born
December 1, 1840, lives in Perry Township; Hiram, of Nebraska, born Janu-
ary 1, 1843.; Nancy J., wife of John Vaughn, of Kirksville, Mo., born in 1845;
John, living in Michigan, born in 1847 ; George, living on the homestead and
born in 1850.
Stephen Feather, farmer, post-office Hadley, was born on the homestead
December 1, 1840. He was educated at the schools of that period, and
has always followed farming. In July, 1861, he enlisted in Company F,
Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served until February 12, 1863,
where he was honorably discharged because of wounds received at the sec-
ond battle of Bull Run. After his recovery he enlisted in Company H,
Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Militia, and served three months, holding
commission of first lieutenant; was commissioned captain August 13, 1864, in
the Iowa State Militia, by Gov. Stone, of Iowa, which position he held until
the close of the war. After leaving the service he went to Iowa and remained
eight years, and since that time has lived on his present farm. February 28,
1865, he married Mary J. , daughter of George Carringer, of Perry Township.
One child was born to this union, Rolla J. , who was born in 1867, and lives on
the farm with his father. Mr. Feather has been school director, town clerk
and treasurer of Perry Township. He is a member of John C. Dickey Post
No. 433, G. A. R., of the E. A. U. of Hadley, votes the Republican ticket,
and is an elder in the Hadley Presbyterian Church.
George Feather, Jr., farmer, post-office Clark’s Mills, was born on the
homestead August 7, 1850. He attended the township schools, and for seven
years he engaged in oil operations, and has since lived on the homestead. In
1874 he married Miss Lizzie M. , daughter of George Cassedy, of Venango
County, Penn. They have born to them three children: George C. , Lizzie L.
and Lula N. He is a member of Madison Lodge No. 122, A. O. U. W., is a
member of the Sheakleyville Presbyterian Church, and votes the Republican
ticket.
Richard C. Foulk, farmer, post-office Hadley, is a son of George and Re-
becca (Tompkins) Foulk. The father was born in Virginia, and mother in Phil-
adelphia. They settled in Trumbull County, Ohio, and about 1842 came to
Mercer County and located on a farm in what is now West Salem Township.
From there they moved to Salem Township and built a steam saw mill, which
his father conducted for a number of years, and then sold the same to
Lewis Lindsay and removed to Iowa; after a short time he returned to Salem
and located on the farm of John Pearsoll. This farm he traded to T. B.
1122
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Roberts for an interest in the old Salem Grist-mill, which he conducted for
about five years, and traded with the Hon. J. C. Brown for the farm of 182
acres which is now owned by our subject. After selling this to two of his
sons, he followed his trade of carpenter, and finally located in Sugar Grove
Township, where his wife died in April, 1877, aged sixty-nine years. He is
now living in Greenville at the age of eighty years; is a member of the Green-
ville Methodist Episcopal Church, and votes the Democratic ticket. His
family consisted of eight children: Daniel B. , Esther A., Mrs. W. B. Mc-
Grannahan; Rev. C. W. , a Methodist Episcopal minister; he was a member
of Company 1, Second Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry; Richard C., Alfred
R. , also served in Company I, Second Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry;,
Samantha, Mrs. W. H. H. Vulliams; George, a physician of Geneva, Craw-
ford Co., Penn.; Sydney W. Our subject was born in Trumbull County,
Ohio, September 22, 1840, and came to this county with his parents, where he
was reared and attended the township schools and the academy of Greenville
and Meadville. He learned the carpenter trade, which he followed for many
years. In 1869 he moved to his present farm and engaged in mill-wright-
ing and farming. In 1865 he married Miss Amanda T. , daughter- of George
G. McGranahan, of Sugar Grove Township, and had three children, one of
whom, Sarah E. , died young; Edward E. and Charles M. Our subject held
the offices of assessor of Sugar Grove Township and supervisor of Perry Town-
ship. He is a member of Madison Lodge No. 122, A. O. U. W., steward of
Hadley Methodist Episcopal Church, and votes the Democratic ticket.
Joshua Gilgee, merchant, post-office Hadley, is a son of Jonas and Eva
(Great) Gilger, natives of Clarion County, Penn. , where our subject was born
in 1833. He learned the carpenter’ s trade, and in 1853 engaged in the mer-
cantile business and continued for three years, when he went to Iowa and
engaged in carpenter work and contracting. In 1865 he returned to Oil City
and engaged in the mercantile business. From 1868 to. 1871 he operated in
oil at Oil City and Pleasantville, Penn., and in 1871 came to Hadley and
established his present general store. In 1880 he was joined by his nephew,
Mr. A. F. Gilger, and has since continued the business under the firm name
of Gilger & Co. Mr. Gilger owned and operated a grist-mill in Perry Town-
ship for a number of years, and at present is engaged in farming in connec-
tion with his store. In 1857 he married Miss Susan Mong, of Clarion County,
Penn. By this union they have two children: Jessie G. , wife of William
Long, of Perry Township, and Claude, at home. Mr. Gilger is a member of
the Adelphic Lodge No. 424, E. & A. M. , of Jamestown; of the Greenville
Chapter No. 212; G. W. Brown Lodge No. 592, I. O. O. F., of Hadley, and
the A. O. U. W. of Clark’s Mills. He and family are members of the Hadley
Methodist Episcopal Church.
A. F. Gilgee, merchant, post-office Hadley, is a son of Adam and Lavina
(Neely) Gilger, of Clarion County, Penn., where our subject was born in 1848.
He learned the carpenter’ s trade, which he followed at Monroe for a number of
years. In 1875 he came to Hadley, and entered the store of Joshua Gilger as
clerk, and in 1880 became the junior member of the firm of Gilger & Co. In
1872 he married Miss Ella, daughter of Jeremiah Heeter, of Clarion County,
and by this union they have three children: Jessie, Harry and Waldo. Mr.
Gilger is a member of Eureka Lodge No. 272, F. & A. M. , of Greenville, and
G. W. Brown Lodge, I. O. O. F., No. 592, of Hadley. He and family are
members of the Presbyterian Church, and he votes the Republican ticket.
Mes. Maey Goodeich, farmer, post-office Hadley, is the widow of the late
David S. Goodrich, who was a son of Roswell and Abigail (Blossen) Goodrich,
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1123
natives of New York State, who moved to Ashtabula and then to Trumbull
County, Ohio, where they died. David S. was born in Granville, N. Y. ,
and at the age of fourteen moved with his parents to Ohio. In 1846 he mar-
ried Miss Mary, daughter of Isaac and Margaret (Kitchen) Patterson, natives
of Adams County, Penn., and settled in Trumbull County, Ohio. In 1856
they removed to Mercer County, and located on a farm in what is now Perry
Township. He was an enterprising farmer, and was elected justice of the
peace, but refused to serve. He was one of the charter members of the Had-
ley Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he was afterward trustee for many
years, and a supporter of the Republican party. He died in 1880, leaving his
widow, who bore him the following children: Isaac B. , on the homestead; Ma-
ria J. , wife of James Baxter, of Shawnee County, Kas. ; Alice M. , wife of John
Lyons, of Perry Township; Luella, wife of John McCurdy, of Crawford
County, Penn. ; Albert, his son, was a member of Company G, One Hun-
dred and Forty- fifth Pennsylvanias, and died at Alexandria, Va. , November
24, 1863. Isaac B. was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, May 6, 1845, and
has always been engaged in farming. In 1869 he married Miss Eva, daughter
of Joel Smith, of Greenville. By this union they have four children: Fred,
Basil, Ralph and Frank. He has been school director and supervisor of the
township, and is trustee and superintendent of the Sunday-school in the Had-
ley Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he is a Republican.
D. C. Hadley, farmer and stock dealer, Hadley, Penn., is a son of David
and Jane (Robinson) Hadley. David Hadley, the father of our subject, was
born in Sussex County, N. J. , in 1806. In 1817 his father, John Had-
ley, moved to Columbiana County, Ohio. About 1843 David came to Mercer
County and purchased a tract of land in what is now Perry Township. He
followed his trade of shoemaking, and he and his family engaged in clearing
up and settling the land, erecting saw-mills, etc. He was prominently identi-
fied with the building of the village of Hadley, which is named after him, and
in getting the railroad station located there, donating the land for that pur-
pose. He also built several miles of the road, and was one of the first stock-
holders. He held the office of justice of the peace for many years. He was
one of the organizers of the Hadley Presbyterian Church, and was ruling
elder for many years. Mr. Hadley was thrice married. His first wife, Jane
Robinson, died July 15, 1874. Their family consisted of seven children;
William R., of Hadley, being the eldest; John D. and Robinson T., of Sharps-
ville; Robert B., David C., Sophia A. (wife of Ezra Boyd, of Perry Town-
ship), Jane (wife of S. H. Lyons, of Ohio). His second wife, Hannah Kelso,
died April 15, 1876. David Hadley died December 2, 1884, and his third wife
is still living at Grand Island, Neb. Our subject was born in Hubbard Town-
ship, Trumbull Co. , Ohio, March 6, 1843. He was reared in Perry Town-
ship, this county, and educated in the township schools. He was bred a
farmer, which he has always followed, and in 1873 he engaged in dealing in
stock, which he has since continued. In 1865 he married Miss Evaline,
daughter of Thomas and Jane Morrison, of Perry Township. By this union
they have had two children, one of whom, Edwin T. , was killed by accident
at the age of fifteen years, and Warren M. lives at home. They also have
one daughter by adoption, Josie E. Smock. Mr. Hadley occupied his pres-
ent farm since 1873. He and family are members of the Presbyterian Church,
and politically he is a Democrat, as was also his father.
George W. Hoefackee, farmer, post-office Hadley, is a son of George and
Mary (Werner) HofPacker, of York County, Penn., who settled in Mahoning
County, Ohio, and in 1853 they came to Mercer County and located on a farm
1124
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
in what is now Perry Township. The father of our subject was a member of
the Lutheran and German Reformed Church, and of the Democratic party;
also was in the War of 1812, and drew a pension. His wife, Mary, died in
Ohio, and six children were born to them, three of whom are still living:
Adam and Jacob, of Perry Township, and our subject, George W. His sec-
ond wife was Mary Oshall. She died in 1886. Four of their children are
still living: Juliana, Mrs. Thomas Daniels, of Ohio; Harriet, Mrs. Jesse
Euhlman; Susan, Mrs. S. J. Cleeland, and Lucy, lives with Mrs. Ruhlrnan.
The father died in 1842, Our subject was born in Mahoning County, Ohio,
May 28, 1836, and was educated at the public schools. He was drafted in
the late Rebellion, and sent a substitute. In 1864 he married Miss Sophia
Lipply, of Mahoning County, Ohio. Two children have been born to them:
Sylvanus W. and Martha A. Mr. Hoffacker has been school director and as-
sessor of Perry Township. He and family are members of the German Re-
formed Church of Otter Creek Township, and politically he is a Democrat.
He is engaged in general farming and raising fancy horses, cattle and
sheep.
Thomas M. Jackson, M. D., is a son of Joseph and Jane (Mathews) Jack-
son. His father was born in that portion of Mercer County which is now
Lawrence County, in 1808. His parents were William, brother of Philip Jack-
son (the praying elder), and Margaret (Little) Jackson, natives of Washington
County, Penn., who purchased a tract of land, near where West Middlesex now
stands, in 1812. Here the father of our subject was reared and learned the
blacksmith trade, which he followed for a number of years. In 1844 he pur-
chased a farm in what is now Mill Creek Township, where he lived until his
death, in 1877. He was for many years an elder in the IJtica Presbyterian
Church. His wife died in 1881. She was the daughter of Thomas Mathews,
a personal friend and follower of Robert Emmet, and an ofl&cer in the Irish
rebellion of 1798. The English Government having offered a reward for his
head after the capture of Emmet, he was compelled to flee from Ireland, and
found a home in the United States. He finally located in Trumbull County,
Ohio, where he died. Their family consisted of nine children: Two died
when young; Margaret A., died in 1884; Eliza J., died in 1881; John C.,
firm of Jackson, Walker & Co., which opened the Bradford oil field, putting
down the first well in August, 1875; he afterward moved to Kansas, and died
in Hadley, this county, in 1885. The living are: Homer, the eldest, who
was born in Mahoning County, Ohio, December 29, 1836. He received his-
education at the schools of IJtica, New Lebanon and Edinboro State Normal
School. For a few years he engaged in teaching school, and operated in oil,
and afterward engaged in running flat-boats from Green River, Ky., to
New Orleans. He studied medicine, and graduated from the Cincinnati College
of Medicine and Surgery in 1871, and practiced his profession for four years
at Clintonville; he then graduated from the Jefferson Medical College of
Philadelphia, and returned to Clintonville. He also practiced in Missouri.
In 1885 he came to Hadley, and has since been practicing with Dr. T. M.,
our subject. He is a member of the Mercer County Medical Society, of the
Lodge of Craft No. 333, F. & A. M. , of New Castle, Penn. In 1876 he married
Miss Elizabeth A., daughter of Judge Robert Cross, of Venango County. By
this union they have five children: Justina P. , Albert B., Levis E., Joseph
M. and Charles E. His wife is a member of the Hadley Presbyterian Church;
Sarah M., Mrs. W. H. Hanna, of Cooperstown, Penn. ; Thomas M., our subject,
and William, on the homestead in Mill Creek Township. Our subject was
born in Mill Creek Township March 19, 1846. He was educated at the town-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1125
ship schools and at New Lebanon Academy. He engaged, in teaching for a
few years, and in 1870 began the study of medicine under Dr. T. M. Cooley,
who was located at Utica, Penn. In 1874 he graduated from the Cincinnati
College of Medicine and Surgery, and practiced in Clarion County, Penn., for
six months. In 1875 he came to Hadley, the first physician to locate here,
and he and his brother, Homer, are engaged in an extensive practice. He is a
member of the county and State medical societies, a member of the Eureka
Lodge No. 290, F. & A. M., of (Ireenville. For the past ten years he has
been examining physician for Madison Lodge A. O. U. W., of Clark’s Mills,
and an honorary member of the Hadley E. A. U. December 9, 1875, he
married Miss Mary J., daughter of William Sheakley, of Perry Township.
By this union they have four children: Thomas C., Jennie P., Joseph W.
and Mary E. He has held the office of school director of Perry Township,
and is an elder in the Hadley Presbyterian Church. In- religion they are
thorough Presbyterians, and in politics Democratic.
Samuel C. Long, farmer, post-office Hadley, is a son of David P. and
Jane M. (Coulter) Long. Samuel Long, the grandfather of our subject, was
a native of W estmoreland County, Penn. , and first settled in Mercer County
about 1805-06. In a few years he returned to W'estmoreland County, learned
the blacksmith trade, and returned to, this county and located in what is now
Hempfield Township, where he followed farming and blacksmithing until his
death in 1862. He was a member of the Seceder Church, and a soldier in the
War of 1812. He afterward voted the Republican ticket. The father of our
subject was his oldest son, and was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., in
1806. He located in Hempfield Township in 1837, and purchased the farm
now owned by our subject, where he died October 25, 1885, and his wife
February, 1886. He was once elected justice of the peace of Perry Township,
but refused to serve. He was an elder in the Sheakleyville United Presby-
terian Church for many years, and voted the Republican ticket. His family
consisted of J. C., who was a member of Company G, One Hundred and
Forty fifth Regiment, and died at Washington, D. C., July 2, 1864, from the
effect of wounds, and our subject, who was born in Hempfield Township April
15, 1832. He attended the schools of that period, and has since followed
farming. In 1854 he married Mary J ane, daughter of Alexander McCleary,
of Perry Township. They have had born to them the following children:
Miles O., who died young; Annie M., wife of A. D. Beggs, of Sharon, and
have two children, Lillie M. and Edith M. ; Rachel A. , wife of J. A. Roberts,
of Perry Township, and have two children. Myrtle B. and Samuel L. ; David
A., farmer of Perry Township, married Mary N., daughter of Henry Wizner,
of Perry Township. Mr. Long was reared in the faith of the United Presby-
terian Church, which he attends, and votes the Republican ticket.
John McCluee, farmer, post-office Clark’s Mills, is a son of Andrew and
Mary (Hazen) McClure. Robert McClure, the grandfather of our subject, was
a native of Ireland, who came to Mercer County about 1797, and located on a
tract of land in what is now Lake Township, where he lived until his death.
The father of our sxibject was born in Ireland in 1790. He was reared on the
farm in Lake Township, and served in the War of 1812. After his marriage
he located on the farm now owned by our subject. He was a member of the
Democratic party, and died in 1833, and his widow in 1876. Their family con-
sisted of seven children: Eliza, Mrs. Dr. McMeans, of Iowa; John, Martha, a
maiden lady; Mary, Jane, Matilda and Ezra, deceased. Our subject was born
on the farm he now owns November 1, 1817. Pie attended the log schools of
that period, and has always resided on the homestead. In 1847 he married
1126
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Mary Jane, daughter of Samuel Kerr, of Salem Township. She died Decem-
ber 12, 1884, leaving seven children: Eliza, Mrs. Hugh C. IVallace, living
with our subject; Malinda, wife of William McGee, of New Vernon; she died
December 11, 1887, leaving four children: Claud, Maud, Frank E. and Jennie;
Samuel A., of Sandy Lake Township; Joseph, of Dakota; Sarah, EichardP.,
of Perry Township, and.Frank I. Mr. McClure served as county commissioner
for one term, and has been school director, supervisor, etc., of Perry Town-
ship, and justice of the peace for twenty years. He is an elder in the Hadley
Presbyterian Church, and votes the Republican ticket.
William J. McClure, farmer and carpenter, post-office Clark’ s Mills, is a
son of Robert and Hannah (Axtell) McClure. Robert McClure, the grand-
father of our subject, was a native of Ireland, who came to America about
1796, and located on a tract of land in what is now Lake Township. His fam-
ily consisted of John, Andrew, Richard, James, Robert, Nancy, all of whom
are dead. The father of our subject was born in Lake Township April 3,1804.
He always remained on the homestead, purchasing more land and adding to it.
He died in 1876, and his wife died in 1844. They had born to them: Sarah,
deceased; Euphemia, wife of Alfred Canon, of Lake Township; Daniel, of
Nebraska; William J. , George, of Lake Township; Mary, wife of George
Ross, of Lake Township. Our subject was born in Lake Township March 11,
1838. At the age of sixteen years he learned the carpenter trade, and has
since followed that in connection with farming, purchasing his present farm in
1880. In 1861 he married Miss Lovina Bissle,of Perry Township. They have six
sons : Charles E. ; George E. , married Miss Dora Scribbens, of Sandy Creek Town-
ship, and has one child, Carl; Frank E.. James L. , William Loyd and John
R. Mr. McClure served nine months in Company A, One Hundred and Sixty-
ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers. He is a member of Elisha Thompson Post,
G. A. R. , of Sheakleyville, of the K. & L. of H. , No. 1640. Politically
he is a Republican.
David Moeneweck, farmer, post-office Hadley, was born March 31, 1861,
in Perry Township, to Michael and Catharine (Lipply) Morneweck, natives,
the father of Germany, and the mother of Mahoning County, Ohio. They
were married in Ohio, and settled soon afterward in Mercer County. The
father followed farming and threshing, having operated a machine for over
thirty years. The parents have had ten children: Solomon, Ephraim, Sarah,
Susannah, Samuel, infant, deceased; David, Harriet, George W. and Obediah.
The parents are members of the Lutheran Church. Our subject was educated in
the common schools, and learned the painter’s trade, and follows that business,
in connection with farming. He also teaches vocal music during the winter,
and on Saturday nights during the summer. He was married June 9, 1881,
to Sarah E. Snyder, daughter of Charles Snyder, whose sketch appears else-
where. By her he has had two children: Charlotte, deceased, and Pearl V.
He is serving as township auditor, and with his wife belongs to the German
Reformed Church. He has been deacon of the same, and is now superin-
tendent of the Sunday-schools of said church. In politics he is a liberal
Democrat.
James Stright, retired, post-office Clark’s Mills, is a son of Joseph and
Olivia (Coulter) Stright, father a native of Virginia. George, the uncle of
the father of our subject, was a native of New Jersey, and settled in this
township about 1800. At the death of his parents, the father of our subject
came to this county to live with his uncle, and after his marriage he located
on a farm in what is now New Vernon Township, where he lived until his
death in 1877. He belonged to the old Militia companies, and was captain of
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1127
the Georgetown Eifles, and major of the battalion. He attended the Presby-
terian Church, and voted the Democratic ticket. He reared six children:
James, Amanda, Mrs. Charles Stewart, of New Vernon Township; George
W., Isabella, Mrs. John H. Eoss, of Deer Creek Township; Sabina E., Mrs.
Samuel McCracken, of Franklin, and Andrew J. Our subject was born in New
Vernon Township March 2, 1832, received his education at the schools of that
period, and engaged as clerk in the old Mineral Eidge store, under J. & William
Ward, where he remained a number of years, and then entered the store of
Montgomery & McElwain in New Vernon. In 1860 he formed a copartner-
ship with John McElwain, which continued two years, conducting a general
mercantile store. For one year he engaged as time-keeper in the building of
the Jamestown & Franklin Eailroad, and engaged in manufacturing shingles
and lumber on the homestead. In 1872 he formed a copartnership with J. M.
McCormick, and established a general mercantile store at Clark’s Mills. They
dissolved in 1880, and since then he has been engaged in the lumber business.
Mr. Stright is an honorary member of the K. & L. of H. and a member of
the A. O. U. W., of Clark’ s Mills. In i860 he married Miss Mary J., daughter
of James McCormick, of New Vernon Township, and has one child: Lizzie,
wife of Ira Zahniser, of Perry Township, who has three children: Edna, Mary
and Wilber. Mr. Stright is a member of the Democratic party, and has held
several township offices.
David T. White, farmer and miller, post-office Clark’s Mills, is a son of
James and Eunice (Tuttle) White, early settlers of Warren County, Penn.,
where our subject was born January 6, 1826. He received his education at
the public schools, and engaged in lumbering in that county until he became
twenty- five years of age. In 1853 he came to Mercer County, and located in
New Vernon Township, and engaged in farming and lumbering. In 1873
he purchased his present farm and grist-mill, which he conducted under the
firm name of D. T. White & Sons. They have added the roller process,
both for wheat and buckwheat, and make it one of the best mills in the
county. In 1850 he married Miss Norcissa, daughter of William Stright, of
this county. By this union they have three children: Cyrus M. , married
Emma, daughter of Jeremiah Corll, of Perry Township, and has three chil-
dren: David, Penelope and Maude; Madison, married Mary, daughter of
Gustavus Kattenbough, of New Vernon Township, and have three children:
Clara, Norcissa and Nancy; Elmer, living at home. Mr. White has held the
offices of school director, supervisor, etc., of New Vernon Township, and
votes the Eepublican ticket, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. Cyrus is a member of A. O. U. W., of Clark’s Mills, and I. O. O.
F., of Sandy Lake.
Peter Yeager, farmer, post-office Clark’s Mills, was born in Prussia Feb-
ruary 5, 1824. His parents were Peter and Mary C. (Wadenphul) Yeager,
who landed in New York City October 26, 1840. Here the mother of our
subject died, and the father and his family came to Pittsburgh, November 12 of
the same year, and engaged in market farming in. Chartier Township, where
the father died. He reared nine children, eight of whom still live, and are:
Catherine, widow of John Bartz, of Perry Township; Peter, Margeret, Mrs.
Martin Frederick, of Allegheny County, Penn. ; Elizabeth, Mrs. Webster, of
Allegheny County; Mary, Mrs. Wheeler Burgess, of Steubenville, Ohio; Eva,
Mrs. Henry Shafer, of Pittsburgh; Christopher and Jacob, of Allegheny County.
Our subject married, March 7, 1848, Mary, daughter of Jacob Smith, of Woods
Eun, Allegheny County, and in 1853 they moved to their present farm.
Eleven children have been born to them: John, deceased; Peter J., of Perry
1128
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
Township, married Eosa Quinn; Mary, Mrs. Alva Minnis, of Sugar Grove
Township, and has two children, Floy and Glenn; Matilda, Mrs. Ezra Unger,
of Crawford County, Penn. , whose children are Leavitt and Leavant (twins)
and Mary; Louisa, Mrs. Leslie Wentz, of New Vernon Township, who has four
children: Floyd, Paul, Albei't and Harley; Albert, Lewis, Annie C., Sadie,
Eichard and Ernest. Mr. Yeager has held the office of school director for six
terms. He has been class-leader in the Perry Chapel Methodist Episcopal
Church of Clark’s Mills since 1861, and is also trustee. Politically he is a
Eepublican, with prohibition proclivities.
CHAPTER XLI.
BIOGRAPHIES OF SALEM, SUGAR GROVE, HEMPFIELD AND OTTER
CREEK.
SALEM TOWNSHIP.
Francis BEATTY, deceased, was born May 8, 1789, in Westmoreland
County, Penn. , of Scotch-Irish parentage, and came to Mercer County with
his parents, David Beatty and wife, in the year 1802. His father settled on a farm
in Delaware Township near where Salem Presbyterian Church stands, and he
there grew to manhood. On June 10, 1812, he was married to Isabella Will-
iamson, daughter of Capt. James Williamson, a veteran of the Revolutionary
W^ar. She was born in Cumberland County, Penn., June 6, 1792, and came
on horseback with her father to Mercer County in 1800. They reared five sons
and seven daughters: David M. , deceased; James W., Henry W. , Samuel B. ,
deceased; Jane, deceased, wife of Stewart Caldwell ; Caroline, deceased; Ellen,
deceased, wife of Thomas M. Eeznor; John A., deceased; Susan, wife of W.
K. Fulton, of Illinois; Isabel, deceased; Sarah Ann, of Greenville, and Eliza
H. , wife of J. A. Fulton, of Nebraska. In 1814 they settled on a farm in
Salem Township, where his two sons, James W. and Henry W. Beatty, now
reside. He went to Erie as a soldier in the War of 1812. In 1824 he was
appointed a justice of the peace by Gov. Gregg, and served till 1836, when
the new constitution made the office an elective one. He was elected a county
commissioner in 1834. In 1837 he was elected a member of the Legislature,
and was re-elected the following two years. He and his wife were members of
the Presbyterian Church of Georgetown (now Sheakleyville), in which he was
a ruling elder from 1833 up to his death, October 18, 1872, in the eighty-
fourth year of his age. His widow died May 31, 1879, in her eighty -seventh
year.
James W. Beatty, farmer, post-office Hadley, was born December 11,
1814, in Salem Township, and is a son of Francis Beatty, previously mentioned.
Our subject was reared on the homestead and educated in the common schools.
On January 5, 1858, he was married to Mrs. Emeline Brown, whose maiden
name was Long, by whom he has one child, Ella A. L. B. Brown, who re-
sides with them, is the son of Mrs. Beatty by her first marriage. Our subject
purchased a part of the homestead, upon which they now reside. He is a Ee-
publican, and for many years has held the office of justice of the peace, and
HISTOBY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
1129
has served in many of the local township offices. He and his wife are members
of the Presbyterian Church.
Baptist Beush was one of the early settlers of Salem Township. He was
a native of Ireland, and came to this county with his family about 1798. He
located on the farm now owned by Samuel North, where he resided until his
death. His son, Baptist, was born in Ireland in 1782, and had reached the
age of sixteen when the family settled in Mercer County. He married Esther
Simpson, whose parents were from Ireland and early settlers of the county, and
located on the homestead, where the balance of his life was passed. Eight chil-
dren were born of this union, four of whom are living, viz. : Simpson, John
P., Jane, wife of Nelson Dingman, of West Salem, and Mary, wife of William
Allen, of Salem Township. Baptist Brush was a sergeant in Capt. Gilliland’s
company in the War of 1812. He died June 18, 1857, and his widow October
8, 1860, both in the faith of the United Presbyterian Church.
Edwaed Callahan, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born October 6, 1819,
in Fayette County, Penn. His parents, Edward and Jane (Thompson) Calla-
han, were of Scotch-Irish parentage, and came to Mercer County in 1827,
and settled on a farm near Greenville. Of the twelve children born to them
seven are still living: David, of Mill Creek Township; Edward; William, of
Greene Township; James, of West Salem Township; Nancy, widow- of J.
Button; Margaret, widow of H. Wade; Eebecca, wife of A. P. Hill, of Greene
Township. Politically Edward was a Democrat. He and his wife were mem-
bers of the Associated Deformed Church. Edward died May 19, 1839, aged
sixty-three years, and his widow died September 20, 1850, aged seventy years.
Edward, our subject, was married January 2, 1840, to Isabella, daughter of
Andrew and Catharine (Harfield) Wade, of Crawford County, Penn., and lived
on a farm near Greenville one and a half years, when he went to Mercer and
worked for Mr. Junkin one year in a grist-mill, after which they purchased a
piece of land near Greenville, where they resided for five years. They then
purchased a farm, now owned by Jacob Kechler, in Sugar Grove Township,
where they lived three years, when they bought the farm now owned by C.
Stoll, in Sugar Grove Township, where they lived five years, and then pur-
chased a farm of A. Riley, in Salem Township, where they lived until 1884, when
he left the farm to his two sons, John and Frank, and purchased a homestead
at Kennard, and retired from farm labors. To Edward and Isabella Callahan
were born six children: William, lives in Missouri ; James, deceased; John, lives
in Salem Township; Frank, of Salem Township; Joseph, of Sugar Grove: Catha-
rine, wife of David Faulk, of Salem Township. On the 5th of January, 1877,
Edward’s wife died, in the sixty-second year of her age. For many years she
had been a devoted Christian and member of the Seceder Church. Edward
was again married, August 1, 1878, to Mrs. Hannah Riley, nee McCurdy, of
Sugar Grove Township. Politically our subject is a Democrat. He was
elected justice of the peace in 1856, which position he filled for five years,
and in 1876 he was elected jury commissioner, and served three years. He
and his wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church.
John G. Donaldson was born March 5, 1789, in Philadelphia. His wife,
Ann Roberts, was born April 7, 1789, in Bucks County, Penn., and their mar-
riage was on the 5th of June, 1809. They lived in Frankford (now a ward in
Philadelphia) until 1815, where he was engaged as a bookbinder. During
this time there were three children born to them: Ann; Elizabeth, widow of
William S. McLean, of Salem Township; Josephine. In May, 1815, the
parents came to Mercer Connty, and lived in Otter Creek one year, when they
purchased a farm in Hempfield Township, and lived there until 1835, when
1130
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
they purchased a farm iu Salem Township, where they lived until their de-
cease. While living in Mercer County there were eight children born to them :
James R. , Susan, Adaline (widow of J. W. Young, of Hemplield Township),
Joseph R., Maria, Penelope, John W., Almira, all of whom are dead except
Adaline. While living in Mercer County John G. made several trips on foot
to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and would there work at his trade a few
months at a time, to earn money with which to support his family and pay for
his farm. He died November 21, 1871, in his eighty-third year. His wife
died June 6, 1878, in her ninetieth year. James R. Donaldson, son of John
G. , was born April 25, 1817, in Hempfield Township. He was reared at home,
and married, July 6, 1818, to Jane G., daughter of Robert and Rebecca Rob-
erts, of Sugar Grove Township. They resided on a farm in Salem Township,
which is now in possession of their son, John G. Donaldson. To James R. and
Jane G. Donaldson were born two children: Robert R. and John G. Politically
James R. was a Republican. He and his wife were members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. He died February 21, 1886, in his sixty-ninth year; his
wife died September 18, 1877, aged forty-nine years. Robert R. was born
June 29, 1849, in Sugar Grove Township. He was reared at home, and was
married January 14, 1878, to Ada V., daughter of David and Margaret Linn.
He purchased a portion of the Grier farm, in Salem Township, where they
settled and still live. John G. Donaldson was born December 6, 1853, in
Salem Township. He was reared at home, and educated at the common
schools. He was married July 5, 1877, to Felicia, daughter of J. Ross and
Elizabeth (Keck) McLean, of Salem Township. They located on the family
homestead deeded to him by his father. To them were born three children:
Edna J. , Burdette and Lizzie. He and his wife are members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, as also are Robert R. and his wife.
Thomas J. Euard, farmer, post-office Hadley, was born August 20, 1827,
in Allegheny City, Penn. His father, Thomas Euard, was born in 1795 in
Ireland, and was married to Miss Anna Woods. They immigrated to this
country in 1820, and located in Allegheny City, where he was engaged in rope
making until 1830, when they purchased a farm of 200 acres of James Ander-
son, in Salem Township, on which they located. The farm was a dense forest,
but with his strong arm he felled the trees, cultivated the soil, and lived to
see it brought under a high state of production. Nine children were born to
Thomas and Anna: Anna, wife of B. Burns; Isabella, deceased wife of Joseph
Milner; James, Thomas J., Eliza J., deceased; Jane, wife of Thomas Roberts;
John, deceased; Rosanna, wife of E. Harshaw, of Ohio; Irwin, deceased;
Mary Althouse, deceased. The first five were born in Allegheny City and the
rest in Salem Township. Politically Thomas was a Democrat. He died Feb-
ruary 18, 1869, at the age of seventy- four. His wife survived him several
years, and lived to be eighty-three years old, dying December 13, 1879.
Thomas J. was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca J. McCoombs, of Alle-
gheny County, November 15, 1855, and located on a portion of the paternal
homestead, where he followed the occupation of a stone-mason, stock broker
and merchant in connection with farming. There were two children born to
them. Flora, wife of George Euard, and Levica, the deceased wife of Isaac
McKean. Our subject was educated at the common schools. In March, 1863,
his wife died, and he was again married, November 1, 1871, to Mary C. Shiner,
of Venango County, Penn., and by this union they have two children: Nannie
A. and D. Leroy.
Philip Hoobler, retired, post-office Osborn, Penn., was born May 5, 1816,
in Allegheny County, Penn. , and is a son of Abram Hoobler. Caleb Hoobler,
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1131
the grandfather of our subject, was born in Germany, and immigrated to this
country when a young man, and lived in Allegheny County for several years,
and while there he met and married Mary Mantle. They were old pioneer
settlers in Mercer County, but the date of their settlement we are unable to
learn. There were eight children born to them: Abram, Jacob, Philip, Dan-
iel, George, Martha, Susan and Elizabeth, all of whom are deceased. Abram
came to this county in 1820, with his family, consisting of his wife, Catherine
Maits, and three children: Mary, widow of E. Davis, of Crawford County;
John, deceased, and Philip. They settled on a farm in Sugar Grove Town-
ship, where they lived until their deaths. There were four children born to
them in this county: Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Flowers, of Allegheny County;
Catherine, wife of H. Laferty; William and Jacob, of Sugar Grove Town-
ship. Politically Abram was a Democrat. He died June 12, 1829, and his
widow in October, 1854. Philip remained at home until he was fourteen
years of age, when he went to learn the shoemaker’ s trade. He was married
October 3, 1839, to Elizabeth J. Croco, of Allegheny County. They resided
in Pittsburgh for three years, when they came to Sugar Grove Township and
lived there until 1855, since which time they have resided in Salem Township.
There were six children born to them: John, of Crawford County; James,
Henry C., Sarah J. , widow of A. Hood, of Yenango County; Elizabeth A.,
deceased, and Joseph L., of Salem Township. Politically Philip is a Repub-
lican. He, his wife and his daughter, Sarah J. , are members of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church. John was a soldier in the War of the Rebellion, where
he lost an arm. James and Henry C. were also there, but were less fortu-
nate than their brother, and were killed on the field of battle.
Richaed Matthews, farmer, post-office Hadley, was born September 28,
1824, in Poland, Mahoning Co., Ohio, where he was reared and educated at
the common schools. In 1845 he came to Deer Creek Township, this county,
where he worked as a laborer in various localities. He was married February
15, 1855, to Rhoda, daughter of George and Martha Yosler, of Salem Town-
ship. They settled on a farm in Perry Township, which he had previously
purchased, and where they lived until 1866, when he purchased another farm
in Salem Township, owned by George Yosler, and on which they settled and
still live. There were three children born to them: Thomas, died in infancy;
Julena, married Warren Flick June 20, 1878; and Lucy, married John Euard,
of Hadley, December 25, 1885, who was born in Salem Township, moved to
Illinois in 1862, where he lived until his marriage. Politically Mr. Matthews
is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. They have accumulated their propei’ty by their own efforts and hard
labor. Julena and her husband are living on the Matthews farm, in Salem
Township, and are the parents of three children: Richard, Blanch and Elsie.
Lucy and her husband live at Hadley, where he is engaged in blacksmi thing.
To them have been born two children: Mertie May and Josephus.
Jacob Young McLean,. farmer, post-office Leech’s Corners. The subject
of this sketch was^the youngest son of William and Elizabeth McLean. William
McLean was born in Somerset County, Penn., in October, 1770, and was a son
of Andrew McLean, of Scotch descent, who served as a soldier in the War of
the Revolution. He received his pay in continental money, which depreciated
so as to become worthless, and was finally consumed in a bonfire in an old-fash-
ioned fire-place. William McLean was married to Elizabeth Ross, daughter of
James Ross, of Ligonier Yalley, Westmoreland Co., Penn. They settled per-
manently in this county in 1798, purchasing a small farm in Salem Township
from J ohn Caughey, on which they lived and died. He was a mechanic as well as
1132
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
a farmer. In 1806 he was appointed justice of the peace by Gov. McKean, which
office he held until his hearing became impaired. He held the position of class-
leader in the Methodist Episcopal Church for nearly forty years, and was active
in' all the interests of the church. To him were born ten children: James, Andrew,
John, 'William S. , Margaret, Cornelius, Jane, Eliza, James Ross and Jacob
Young, all of whom are deceased except J. Y. and J. Ross. He died August
5, 183^9, in the sixty-ninth year of his age. His wife, Elizabeth, died April
4, 1862, in the eighty-third year of her age. Of the sons, John and William
5. were ordained ministers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. John entered
the Pittsburgh Conference in 1827 ; was afterward transferred to the Erie, and
on the division of that conference fell into the East Ohio, and at the -end of an
itinerancy of fifty years died at Elyria, Lorain Co. , Ohio, in February, 1887,
in the eighty-second year of his age. William S. served the church for many
years as a local elder, and died at his home, in Salem Township, in December,
1866. Cornelius married Eliza A. Walker, of Greenville, and in 1853
removed with his family to Plenry County, 111. Prom there he went to Iowa;
enlisted in an Iowa regiment, and died at Quincy, 111., in 1863. Jacob Young
McLean, the subject of this sketch, was born November 23, 1820. He re-
ceived his education at the country schools and at the old Mercer Academy,
and for several years taught school in the winter seasons. He was married,
October 24, 1847, to Miss P. Donaldson, and settled on a small farm in
Salem Township, a part of his brother Andrew’s tract, originally purchased
from David Leech. To them was born one child, Nellie, wife of J. W. Steven-
son. Mrs. McLean died August 5, 1849, at the age of twenty-two. After the
death of his first wife, J. Y. engaged in mercantile business for three or four
years, and May 12, 1853, he was married to Miss Ada Holcomb, of Trumbull
County, Ohio. In politics he is a Republican. In 1855 he was elected justice
of the peace, and again elected in 1864. In 1868 he was elected county com-
missioner for three' years, and at different intervals was elected several terms as
school director of his township. In 1878 he was a candidate at the Republican
county convention for the State Legislature, and lacked but a few votes of receiv-
ing the nomination. At the next convention he declined to be a candidate. He is
now (1888) living on his farm in Salem Township, which he cleared up from
the original forest, and thus far is enjoying the results of a busy life. J. Ross
McLean was born July 22, 1818, and was married May 25, 1842, to Elizabeth
Keck, of 'West Salem Township. They settled on the old homestead, which
descended to him from his father. To him were born ten children, seven of
whom are now living: Esther E., Celia, B. O. Plympton, J. Theodore,
Felicia, Chloe J. and Andrew Curtin. Politically J. R. is a Republican, and
for some years has been deaf from the effects of chill fever.
Stephen A. Osboen, farmer, post-office Osborn, Penn., was born April 2,
1840, in Jackson Township, Mahoning Co., Ohio, and is a son of John Osborn,
who was born December 4, 1806, in Fayette County, Penn. , and was married
March 31, 1832, to Abigail Allen, of New York St^e, one of the descendants
of Ephraim Allen. John and his wife located on a farm in Jackson, Ohio.
There were born to them six children: Hiram B. , of Kansas; Almira, wife of
L. N. Stephenson, of Wisconsin; Sarah, wife of J. Chess, of Sandy Ci’eek
Township; Stephen A., lives in Salem Township; James P., and William, who
lives in Wisconsin. John’s wife died in 1844, and he married for his second
wife, in 1848, Miss Mary M. Lewis, of Jackson, Ohio. They remained in
Ohio until 1850, when they purchased a farm of 108 acres of Jacob Foulk, in
Salem Township, this county, on which they settled. John obtained his edu-
cation at the common schools, and taught school a few terms. Politically he
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1133
was a Whig and Republican. Stephen A. was reared at home until he was
eighteen years old, then he was in the South and West for three years and a
half, when he returned to Mercer County, and enlisted in the late war under
Capt. Wood, One Hundred and Forty- fifth Regiment, Company G, Penn-
sylvania Volunteers, and served three years. He enlisted as a private, and
was gradually promoted to the office of second lieutenant. During his soldier
life he spent about six months in the various Southern prisons. He was mar-
ried October 1, 1865, to Malinda, daughter of Lewis and Sarah (Newbold)
Rhodes, of Salem Township. They lived in Salem Township one year, in
Crawford County two years, and then returned to Salem Township, and settled
on the farm where they now live. There were three children born to them:
May, Lewis M. , and one who died in infancy. His wife died in 1870 at the
age of twenty-five, and he married for his second wife, in May, 1871, Hannah
M. Rhodes, and by this union they have two children: U. Leon and Ira M.
Politically our subject is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the
Free-Will Baptist Church.
J. Leslie Riley, farmer and lumber dealer, post-office Leech’s Corners,
was born May 6, 1842, in Sugar Grove Township. John Riley, grandfather of
our subject, was a native of Westmoreland County, where he was reared. and
married to Barbara Simons, and came to Sugar Grove, Mercer County, in a
very early day, and settled on a farm now owned by David McGranahan,
where they lived until their decease. There were eight children born to John
and Barbara Riley: James T. , John W., Abigail, wife of David McGranahan;
Cornelius, deceased; Jane, wife of James Elwood; Hannah, wife of Edward
Callahan; Margaret, wife of Lewis Lindsey; Elizabeth, wife of Thomas El-
wood. James T., father of our subject, was born June 24, 1812, in Sugar
Grove Township, where he was reared and educated. He was married
to Mary E. Miller, of Crawford County, and settled on a part of his
father’s homestead, where they spent the most of their days. For many years
James T. was a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church, as was also
his father. To James T. and Mary E. were born six children: Elizabeth, wife
of G. H. Dumars; William L., a clergyman in Corry, Penn.; J. Leslie; Lo-
vina, deceased; Emily, wife of George Linn, of Iowa; Lewis L., of James-
town, N. Y. Politically James T. was a Prohibitionist, with Republican pro-
clivities. He died May 22, 1885, in his seventy-third year, and his wife died
in February, 1883, and the age of sixty- six. J. Leslie was reared at home and
educated at the common schools. He was married, July 16, 1863, to Melissa,
daughter of David and Margaret (Wilson) Linn, of New Vernon Township.
They first settled in Sugar Grove Township. J. Leslie was engaged in coop-
ering, and remained there until 1875, when they went to Salem Township and
lived on a part of the Caughey farm until he purchased the Dean farm, where
they now live. There were two children born to them: Ellis A. and Ada E. ,
wife of A. L. Beil. J. Leslie is a member of the Eureka Lodge No. 290, F.
& A. M. , and of the I. O. O. F., and is also a member of the State police.
Politically he is a Prohibitionist. He and his wife are members of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church.
Thomas Rhoades, farmer, post-office Osborn, was born November 2, 1832,
in Salem Township. His father, Jacob, was born December 9, 1779, in
Schuylkill County, Penn. In 1796 Jacob came ’to Salem Township, this
county, and made a settlement on a tract of 200 acres of land, and remained
there until 1798, when his parents, Caleb and Hannah, also arrived, and made
a permanent settlement, the original settlement of Jacob being made for his
father. Some years afterward Jacob purchased 200 acres more for himself.
67
1134
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
adjoining his father’s, and at the death of his father purchased the interests of
the heirs in the homestead. The entire 400 acres of Jacob Ehoades is still in
the possession of the descendants. There were nine children born to Caleb and
Hannah Rhoades: Betsey, Martha, Anna, Sebina, Hannah, Sarah, Lewis, Jacob
and Polly. All of these -are dead. Jacob, the father of our subject, was mar-
ried September 14, 1813, to Anna, daughter of Philip and Elizabeth (Young)
Burrier. Jacob remained on the homestead with his parents until their deaths.
He then purchased the farm. Caleb died in March, 1830, aged ninety-one
years. His widow, Hannah, died in 1850, aged ninety- seven. To Jacob and
Anna were born ten children: John, deceased; Lewis; Susannah E., wife of
P. Vosler; Hannah, wife of R. Bates; Martha, wife of N. Simmons; Samuel
H., Jacob C. , Benjamin, Thomas, and Anna M. , wife of A. Boush. Jacob
was a Democrat, but never aspired after ofBcial positions. He died August
23, 1853. His widow died September 2, 1874. Jacob was drafted twice and
served in the War of 1812. Thomas, our subject, was reared at home, and
obtained a limited education at the common schools. He was married March
6, 1862, to Charlotte, daughter of Robert and Mary (Critchfield) Roberts,
of Salem Township. They settled on a part of the homestead, willed to him
by his father. There were seven children born to them: Emily M., wife of
W. McCracken; Adolphus M., Mary A., Anna M., Jacob S., Melva F. and
Lena D. He is a Democrat.
John R. Rhoades, farmer, post-office Eennard, was born August 7, 1855,
in Salem Township. Lewis Rhoades, his father, was born in Salem Township
November 23, 1816, and was married September 3, 1841, to Sarah Newbold, of
Crawford County, Penn. , and settled on a farm of 101 acres, in Salem Town-
ship, which was left to him by his father, Jacob Rhodes. Unto Lewis and
Sarah Rhoades there were fifteen children born, of whom only seven are living:
Anna E., wife of Thomas Roberts; Martha, widow of Levi Gifford; Hannah
M., wife of S. A. Osborn; Ira N., of Crawford County; Thomas S., of Salem
Township; John R., of Salem, and Ida C. , wife of J. D. Tiffany, of Crawford
County. John R. was married to Samantha, daughter of J. C. McAdoo, of
Kennard, on the 26th of September, 1876. They settled on the portion of the
farm which was given to him by his father. Politically John R. is a Repub-
lican. He and his wife are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church.
Caleb Rhoabes, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born February 22, 1841,
in Salem Township, on the farm on which he now lives. His grandparents, Caleb
and Hannah Rhoades, natives of Schuylkill County, came to Salem Township,
this county, in 1798, and settled on a tract of 200 acres selected by their son,
Jacob, in 1796, and on which he had remained the two intervening years.
There were nine children born to Caleb and Hannah Rhoades, of whom Lewis
(father of our subj ect) was born the year of their arrival in this township, or on
the 5th of October, 1798. Lewis was reared at home, and educated at the com-
mon schools. At the age of twenty-one he went to learn the carpenter’s trade,
at which he worked for several years. He was married June 11, 1825, to Eliza-
beth, daughter of James and Elizabeth (McDowell) Fetterman, pioneers of
Crawford County, Penn. They settled on a farm of 150 acres, which he had
previously purchased of David Leech, in Salem Township, where he engaged
in farming in connection with carpentering. There were seven children born
to them: Elizabeth, wife of James Riley; Hannah, wife of George Davenport;
James, of Sugar Grove Township; William, of Salem Township; John, of
Otter Creek Township; Lewis (deceased) and Caleb. Politically Lewis was
a Democrat. He died in March, 1886, aged eighty-eight years. His widow
resides on the homestead with her two sons, William and Caleb.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1135
Robert R. Roberts, deceased, was the son of Thomas and Leanah (W atters)
Roberts, and was born May 15, 1829, in what is now Sngar Grove Township.
He was reared and educated at home. On the 12th of January, 1858, he was
married to Louesa, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Palm) McCorkle, of
Salem Township. For fourteen years after marriage they lived on a farm near
Kennard, and then moved to another farm in Salem Township, where the fam-
ily now live. They have had four children: Clare E., Mary J. , wife of C. E.
Miller, of Crawford County; Thomas M. and William O. Robert R. was
drafted in the late war, but,, being unable to leave his family, he furnished, a
substitute. He was a Democrat, and died August 24, 1886. His widow
resides on the old homestead with her two sons, Thomas and M illiam. The
Roberts’ are among the best known and most respected families of the town-
ship.
James F. Roberts, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born April 12, 1840, in
Salem Township. His father, Robert Roberts, was born June 11, 1793, in the
southeastern part of this State, and was there united in the holy bonds of mat-
rimony to Mary Critchtield. They came to Salem Township, Mercer County,
in 1818, and purchased a portion of the Bishop Roberts tract, on which they
settled. For several years he was in the employ of Bishop Roberts, in con-
ducting business at his grist-mill, and when the milliog business was aban-
doned, Robert gave his attention to farming, There were thirteen children born
to them, all of whom grew to maturity, and were all, excepting one, the heads
of families, viz. : John, lives in Wisconsin; Joanna, wife of Mr. Tiffany;
Phoebe, deceased; Martha, deceased; William C., deceased; Mary, deceased;
Sarah, wife of Mr. Cook, of Washington Territory; Susan, wife of N. Kline,
of Wisconsin; Robert, deceased; Jane, widow of J. Partridge; Charlotte, wife
of Thomas Rhoades, of Salem Township; James F. ; Emily, deceased. In pol-
itics Robert was a Whig, and he and his wife were members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. Robert died July 22, 1844, in his fifty-second year. His
widow died January 30, 1879, in her eighty-fifth year. She spent the lat-
ter years of her life with her son, James E., on the homestead on which she
first settled. James E. was reared by his widowed mother, and educated at
the common schools. He was married February 18, 1863, to Susan, daughter
of Isaac and Elizabeth (White) Mackey, of Sandy Creek Township. They
located on the paternal homestead, and purchased the interests of the heirs.
There were seven children born to them: Sophia, William, John, Nettie,
Milton, Sherman, Hattie. In politics Mr. Roberts is a Republican. He and
his wife are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church.
George Stevenson, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born August 22, 1832,
in Salem Township, this county, and is a son of Findley Stevenson. James
Stevenson, the grandfather of our subject, was born October 18, 1760, in the
County Down, Ireland, where he was reared, and married to J ane Caughey on
the l3th day of July, 1782. They immigrated to this country in 1790, and
settled in Chester County, Penn., and lived there and in Westmoreland
County until 1798, when they came to Salem Township, Mercer County, and
made a final settlement on the lands now owned by D. M. Stevenson. James
was a blacksmith, which occupation he followed through life. There were
three children born to them in Ireland: James, William and Mary; one born
to them in Chester County, Elizabeth, wife of Benjamin Stokely, of Cool
Spring Township, and two born to them in Mercer County, John and Findley.
James died March 5, 1813, aged fifty-three, and his widow in August, 1847, at
the age of eighty-seven. Finley, the father of our subject, was born Septem-
ber 3, 1804. He was reared at home, and was married June 29, 1826, to
1136
HISTOBY OP MERCEB COUNTY.
Elizabeth, daughter of John and Nancy (Roberts) McGranahan. They settled
on the old homestead, where he and his brother John lived for over twenty
years, with all of their interests undivided. There were eleven children born
to Finley and Elizabeth Stevenson: John, James E., George G., William, Rob-
ert (deceased), Jane, wife of J. Wick; Margaret, widow of G. Hunter; Findley
(deceased), Nancy, wife of H. Dick; David M. , and Elizabeth E., wife of E. A.
Jones. In after years, when their families grew to maturity, John and Findley
divided their interests with perfect satisfaction to all concerned, each one remain-
ing on their respective portions until death. Politically/ Findley was a Whig,
and afterward an Abolitionist. He died September 28, 1847, aged forty-three,
and his widow October 17, 1887, in the eighty-first year of her age. Both
wei’e members of the Methodist Episcopal Church from youth, and he had
been class-leader and Sabbath school superintendent for many years. George
G. , our subject, was married, June 22, 1852, to Martha A., daughter of Leon-
ard and Catherine (Frittz) Watters. They located on a portion of the Bishop
Roberts farm of seventy acres, purchased by the father and deeded to him,
and to which our subject has added seventy more adjoining, where they still
live. To George G. Stevenson and Martha A. (Watters) Stevenson there have
been born eleven children: Almira J., widow of Francis M. McDowell; John
L. (deceased), Ida T. , wife of Robert A. Christy; Findley R. , Electa K.
(deceased), Elda E., Vista L., Alta A., Judson L., Adelbert G., Clyde C.
Politically our subject is a Republican. He was drafted in the late war
and furnished the means to procure a substitute.
SUGAR GROVE TOWNSHIP.
Lewis N. Benninghoef, farmer and oil operator, post-office Greenville,
was born August 13, 1850, in Cherry Tree Township, Venango County, and
is a son of George and Julia (Baney) Benninghoff. Our subject was reared
at home, and in 1866 moved with his parents to a farm near Meadville, Craw-
ford Co., Penn. In the following year Lewis returned to Venango County to
oversee some interests for his father, where he remained until 1877. He was
married in 1873 to Miss Mary M. , daughter of A. J. McClintock, of Cherry
Tree Township, Venango Co., Penn. In 1877 they removed to Tarport, Mc-
Kean Co., Penn., where he followed contracting and operating for oil until
1882, when they removed to Meadville, where they lived two years. He then
settled on a farm that he had previously purchased of the Benninghoff heirs
in Sugar Grove Township. He still follows contracting and drilling oil
wells, and still has some undeveloped territory. There were six children born
to them: Harry, Comer, Wilbur, Buss, Laura and Earl. Our subject ob-
tained his education at the common schools, and attended one term at the
Commercial College at Meadville. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. , and
politically is a Republican.
William F. Burton, farmer, civil engineer and surveyor, post-office Leech’s
Corners, was born in Delaware Township, this county, in 1846. William Bur-
ton, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Tyrone County, Ireland, where
he was reared and married to Jane Stinson in 1794. By this union they had
five children: Mary A., Ellen, James, William and Henry. In the year 1824
the family immigrated to America and rented a farm of Gen. Scott, in what is
now Sugar Grove Township, where they remained for two years, when they
moved to Delaware Township and purchased a farm of 200 acres, in the Fourth
Donation District, No. 698, issued to a soldier of the Revolutionary War, on
which they resided until their deaths, he dying in 1851, at the age of ninety-
seven, and she in 1854, at the age of eighty-four. Henry Burton, the father
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1137
of our subject, was bom in 1806, and was reared and educated at home. He
was married November 3, 1848, to Amelia Tait, daughter of Fergus and Agnes
(Gift'en) Smith, of Cool Spring Township. They located on a portion of his
father’s farm, where they remained until 1852, then rented the Byron Hull
farm one year, and then bought a farm of ninety-five acres of Asbury Leech,
in Salem, now Sugar Grove, Township. There were five children born to them:
W. F., Nancy J., Martha E., wife of W. Hardy; Mary A., deceased, and
Elizabeth, wife of F. D. Bary. Politically Henry is a Republican. He and
his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. William F., our subject,
was married December 26, 1876, to Clara C., daughter of John and Sarah
Ellis, of Jackson County, Iowa. They settled in Eastland County, Tex. , where
he followed surveying and stock raising on a farm of 600 acres, which he still
owns. There was one child born to them, John McKean. His wife, Clarissa,
died May 29, 1878. In the fall of 1878 he returned to Mercer County, and is
now living on the old homestead. Politically he is a Democrat, and a member
of the United Presbyterian Church.
Edward M. Campbell, farmer, post-office Leech’s Corners, was born No-
vember 9, 1827. The Campbell family are among the pioneer families of
Mercer County. Edward Campbell, the grandfather of our subject, and his
wife, Margaret (Satterfield) Campbell, settled . on a farm in Hickory Town-
ship in 1800. Margaret was a sister of the Rev. James Satterfield, of Hickory
Township. They had seven children: William, James, Anna, Margaret, Jane,
Mary and Eliza, all of whom are deceased. James, the father of our subject,
was born in Washington County, Penn., in 1800^ and was reared in Hickory
Township, this county. He was married to Nancy Thompson, of Hickory
Township, and located on a farm in Hickory, where he remained about ten
years, when he purchased a farm near Wheatland, on which the Sharon fair
grounds are now located. There were five children born to them: Edward
M., Rev. David T. , Margaret J., wife of J. M. Pettit; William B. and Ade-
line, deceased. He was a Democrat, and was also a member of the F. & A.
M. , and of the Mercer County Agricultural Society. They were identified
with the Presbyterian Church. James died March 7, 1885, in his eighty-fifth
year, and his wife died June 22, 1869, aged sixty- one years. Edward M. was
married in 1851 to Martha Conover, of Brookfield, Ohio. They located on a
farm in Pymatuning Township, this county, and remained there until 1854,
when he purchased a stock of goods from J. A. Waugh at Greenville, . where
they resided until 1859. They then went to the Indian Territory, Choctaw
Nation, and engaged in the dry goods trade, also in stock shipping. After
remaining there one year they returned to Greenville, leaving his brother
William in charge of the goods and stock. At the breaking out of the war
the Confederates took the stock, paying $17,000 in Confederate scrip, none of
which was of any value. Edward M. then purchased a farm in Sugar Grove
Township, this county, of John Reznor, where he still resides. Two children
have been born to Edwar'd M. and Martha Campbell: James M. and Albert, de-
ceased. Politically he is a Democrat, and has filled the office of justice of
the peace for fifteen years, and school director for twenty-three years. He
was president of the Shenango Agricultural Society one term and treasurer
three years. He was master of the P. of H. of Mercer County for several years,
and is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Greenville.
John M. Dumars, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born July 12, 1816, in
what is now Sugar Grove Township, and was a son of Noble Dumars. Timo-
thy Dumars, the grandfather of our subject, was born in County Tyrone, Ire-
land, in 1745, and came to America in 1800, with his family, consisting of his
1138
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
wife and seven children: Adam, Joseph, Claudius, Margaret, Sally, Noble and
Nancy. In 1812 the family located in Mercer County, but of their exact lo-
cation we are unable to learn. Noble Dumars, father of our subject, was
born in County Tyrone, Ireland, in 1794, and came to America at the age of
seven years. He was married October 27, 1814, to Margaret, daughter of
John and Sarah (Hart) Kline, of Crawford County, Penn. They located on
a farm near Leech’s Corners, in what is now Sugar Grove Township, it being
a portion of the Kiley lands. They lived there until 1822, when they pur-
chased a farm of 130 acres near Kennard, in the same township, where they
lived until their decease. To them were born eight children: John M. ; Sarah,
wife of B. F. Unger; Joseph H., deceased; Timothy B. ; Nancy M., wife of
"\V. F. McAdoo; George H. ; Fannie, wife of Jesse Stephenson; Mary G.,
wife of John Parks. Politically Noble was a Whig and Republican. He was
a soldier in the War of 1812. He and his wife were connected with the
Methodist Episcopal Church in their earlier days, and lived a long life of devo-
tion to the cause of Christ. Their children all espoused thecaixse of Christ in
their youthful days, and have not departed therefrom. Noble died December
19, 1880, in his eighty- seventh year. His wife died February 20, 1864, aged
seventy years. John M. , our subject, was reared at home, and on the 9th of
December, 1841, was married to Nancy, daughter of John and Nancy (Roberts)
McGranahan, after which he settled on a farm of forty acres, left him by the
will of his father, to which he has added thirty-five acres by purchase, and on
which they still reside. To their marriage have been born six children: John
C. ; Marilla, wife of George Rail; Noble W., Joseph M. , Lewis K. and Emma.
Our subject is a Democrat. He has been justice of the peace for fifteen years,
and has held the offices of school director and assessor of his township. He
and wife are members of the United Brethren Church.
Balsee Geim, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born September 24, 1824,
in Beaver County, Penn. At the age of three years he came to Mercer County
with his parents, Adam and Mary Grim, who settled in Wilmington Township,
where they lived until their decease, excepting a year or two in Lackawannock
Township. Adam was a miller, which occupation he followed through life.
To their union were born nine children: Abraham, Polly, Adam, Andrew,
John, Jacob, Catherine, Balser and Elizabeth, of whom only Jacob and Balser
are living. Adam died in 1844; his widow died in 1871 in her ninety fourth
year. Balser was married, in 1871, to Margaret A., daughter of Thomas and
Sarah Donaldson, of Sugar Grove Township. They settled on a farm in Sugar
Grove, which he had previously purchased, and on which they still live. To
them have been born three children: Mary, deceased; John H. and Clara A. In
politics Mr. Grim is a Democrat. He and his wife are members of the Baptist
Church.
John Leech (deceased). Few pioneer families of Northwestern Pennsyl-
vania are more widely representative than the Leechs. Their immediate
ancestor, John Leech, was born in York County, Penn., November 29, 1767,
and was a son of Thomas and Phoebe Leech, of that county, and grandson of
William Leech, who came to America with William Penn. He there grew up,
and married Miss Jane Morrison November 25, 1788. She was born in that
county January 16, 1769. In October, 1792, they moved to Somerset County,
Penn. , and ere their removal to Mercer County she was the mother of six sons:
David, Thomas, William, Joseph, John and Samuel. Mr. Leech was a prac-
tical surveyor, and in the spring of 1802 he removed with his family to this
county and settled at the place since known as “Leech’s Corners,” on the
Little Shenango, in what is now Sugar Grove Township, where he arrived
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
1139
on the 4tli day of May. The whole country was then a vast forest, with a
cabin here and there at long intervals, while game of every sort was far more
abundant than the necessities of the pioneers demanded. Four sons and two
daughters were born to John and Jane Leech after coming to Mercer County:
Phoebe, James, Morris, Joshua, Jane and Asbury, who, with the four born in
York County, constituted one of those old-fashioned families of ten sons and
two daughters. Every one of these grew to maturity, and a remarkable fact
is that all lived to be over sixty years of age, the last survivor, Morris, dying
in September, 1884. John Leech was first a Whig, then a Democrat, and
afterward a Republican. He and his three eldest sons went to Ohio in the
War of 1812. In 1821 he ran for the Assembly and was defeated, but in 1825
he was elected to the State Senate and served four years. In 1828 he was the
Adams and Rush elector for this district, then composed of Mercer, Crawford
and Erie Counties, James Duncan, of Mercer, being the opposing elector on the
Jackson and Calhoun ticket. Mr. Leech was a good scholar and a fine conver-
sationalist, and after serving in the Senate he represented the county in the
Legislature. He was justice of the peace over thirty years, and throughout
the pipneer days was one of the most influential citizens of his adopted county.
He lived to see his ten sons and one of his daughters, Jane, who married Jesse
Smith, settled on farms in the vicinity of the old home, while the other
daughter, Phoebe, married Rev. Charles Elliott, a Methodist preacher, and
shared his itinerant life. Mrs. Jane Leech died October 16, 1841, her hus-
band surviving her till May 1, 1864, passing away at the ripe old age of nearly
ninety-seven years. The ancestors of the Leech family were Quakers, and
came to Philadelphia with its great founder, Penn, but soon after Mr. Leech’s
marriage he and wife united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and all of
their children were ‘ life-long members of that denomination. Three of their
sons, John, Samuel and Joshua, were Methodist preachers. The memory of
this pioneer couple will be revered among the hills and valleys of Mercer
County as long as the history of pioneer life finds a sympathetic chord in the
hearts of their numerous descendants.
Joseph Leech, deceased, was the fourth son of John and Jane (Mor-
rison) Leech. He was born in Somerset County, Penn., December, 7, 1797,
and grew to manhood on the old homstead at Leech’s Corners. He mar-
ried Miss Bethana Hazen, November 7, 1818, and settled on an adjoining farm
to the old Leech homestead. Mrs. Leech was born in Crawford County,
Penn., November 7, 1799, and reared a family of nine children: Isaac,
Mary, William B., Jane, Thomas, Jerome, Joseph, Harrison and Sarah.
Of these, William P., Mary, wife of David Linn, and Jerome are the only
survivors, and all are residents of Mercer County. Joseph Leech spent
nearly his whole life in the vicinity of Leech’s Corners, and died June 2,
1863. His widow survived him until October 3, 1872, and both died in
the Methodist Episcopal faith. Mr. Leech maintained through life an un-
blemished character, was an industrious, enterprising citizen, and liberal in
the support of every worthy cause.
William F. McAdoo, farmer, post office Kennard, was born January 27,
1829, in County Donegal, Ireland. His parents, George and Sarah (Fletcher)
McAdoo, came to America in 1846, with their family of five children: William
F., Mary J., Sarah, Catherine and Esther. They located on a farm near James-
town, Penn. , where they resided for three years, and then went to Crawford
County, where they lived five years, after which they purchased a portion of
the Donaldson farm in Sugar Grove Township, where they lived until his
decease. Politically George was a Democrat. He and his wife were mem-
1140
HISTOBY OP MERCEB COUNTY.
bers of the United Presbyterian Church. He died September 9, 1872, in his
seventy-first year. His widow still lives with her son, William F., in her
eighty-fifth year. William F. was reared at home and educated in the com-
mon schools. He was married January 29, 1861, to Mrs. Maria Minnis {nee
Dumars), and lived for two years on a portion of the Donaldson farm, when
they bought a farm of 100 acres near Kennard, on which they still live. There
have been two children born to them: Fannie E., wife of I. J. Lackey, and
George K. Politically our subject is a Democrat. He has filled the offices of
school director and road commissioner, and is a member of the United Presby-
terian Church. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Samdel McClimans, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born February 5,
1814. His father, Hugh R., was born in Virginia, September 22, 1777, and
was of Scotch descent. He came to Pennsylvania in his earlier years, and was
married about 1793 to Elizabeth Ferguson, of Indiana County, Penn. They
first located in Butler County near North Washington. About 1828 they came
to Mercer County and located on a farm of 100 acres, in West Salem Town-
ship, which was known as the Sheriff Scott farm. To them were born fourteen
children: William, James, Margaret, John, Elizabeth, Hugh, Mary, Robert,
Samuel, Jane (wife of William J. McClimans, of West Salem Township),
Elliott, Isabella, David and Haynes, of whom only Samuel, Jane and Haynes
are living. Hugh P. was a Democrat. He and his wife were members of the
United Presbyterian Church. He died about 1854. Samuel was reared at
home, and was married April 20, 1838, to Jane, daughter of Thomas and
Margaret Canon, of Salem Township. They settled on a farm in Salem Town-
ship, where they remained about twelve years, and then lived in various places
in the county until 1869, when they made a final settlement in Sugar Grove
Township. There were ten children born to them: Margaret L., deceased;
Martha, wife of Lewis Roberts, of Sugar Grove; David A. ; James B. ; Eliza-
beth, wife of David M. Stevenson; Matthew E. ; Sarah M. , wife of W. H.
Hill; William E., Samuel A. and Thomas M. Two of the sons, David A. and
James B., were in the service in the late war. Samuel is a Republican, and
a member of the United Presbyterian Church. His wife died November
23, 1883.
Jacob C. McGeanahan, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born January 10,
1811, in Sugar Grove Township. His father, William, located here about
1800, on a farm of 106 acres. He was married to Mrs. Margaret Covodor, to
which union there were born five children: Jared, Jacob, John, John (2nd) and
Susanna, of whom Jacob is the only surviving one. William was a soldier in
the War of 1812, where he served three months. Politically he was a Demo-
crat, and he and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
He died in 1863 in his eighty-second year, and his wife died in 1851 in her
eighty-second year. Jacob, our subject, was married, in 1835, to Nancy A.,
daughter of Samuel Walker, of Sugar Grove Township. They located in
Salem Township, where they lived two years, when they moved to Adamsville,
Crawford County, where he engaged in mercantile pursuits. He was elected
justice of the peace, which office he filled for ten years. In 1852 he located
on a farm that was left to him by his father in Sugar Grove Township, where
he still resides. There were two children born to them: Eliza J. , wife of P.
Boltner, and William. Jacob’s wife died November 18, 1842, and he was
married the second time, July 6, 1843, to Miss Ellen, daughter of John Irvine,
of Crawford County. To them were born six children: John, Alonzo, Lewis
C.; Emeline, wife of David Callahan; Amanda, wife of K. M. Wright, and
Andrew. Lewis C. was killed instantly, on the second day' of May, 1888, by
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1141
a plank falling from a derrick and striking kim on top of the head. Politi-
cally our subject is a Democrat, and he and wife were members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church for thirty years. His wife died November 18, 1885,
at the age of sixty-two.
Joseph McGeanahan, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born August 7, 1831,
in Sugar Grove Township, on the premises where he now lives. His father.
Smith McGranahan, was a native of Westmoreland County, was married in
Crawford County, and came to Mercer County about 1800. He located on a
farm of seventy acres, in what is now Sugar Grove Township. To Smith
McGranahan and wife were born the following children: Ellen, wife of D.
Luce; Eobert, William, Mary, wife of T. Canon; Margaret, wife of William
Bates; George, Nancy, wife of J. Andrews; Martha, widow of E. Martin;
Sarah, deceased; John, deceased; Eebecca, wife of John Eiley; Susanna,
wife of William Lackey; Betsey, deceased. Mr. McGranahan was a Demo-
crat, and served at Erie in the War of 1812. He was a man of irreproach-
able character, whose word was as good as his bond. He was always bearing
the burden of some local township office. He died October 1, 1869, and his
widow March 6, 1870. Joseph was married July 3, 1860, to Margaret,
daughter of John and Betsey (Patterson) Callahan, of West Salem Township,
and settled on the paternal homestead, where his aged parents spent their
declining years: They have no children, but two have been reared by them :
Edward B. McGranahan and Emma Beighle. In politics Mr. McGranahan is
a Democrat, and one of the respected citizens of the township.
John McGranahan, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born January 15, 1849,
in Sugar Grove Township. His grandfather, John McGranahan, was one of
the pioneers of Salem Township, and located there about 1800. He was
married to Nancy, a sister of Bishop Eoberts. They settled on a farm near
Kennard, in what is now Sugar .Grove Township, on which they lived until
their decease. There were eleven children born to them, of whom George,
the father of our subject, was the eighth, and who was born on the 4th of
March, 1811. He was reared at home, and was married to Sarah A., daugh-
ter of William Leech, and settled on a farm, part of which descended to him
from his father. To this union were born ten children, two of whom died in
infancy. Those living are: Jane, wife of Eobert Courtney; Amanda T. ,
wife of E. C. Faulk; Amelia, John, William L. , Beriah, Thomas E. and
George E. Politically George G. was a Democrat. He and his wife were
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. George G. died January 15,
1876, in his sixty-fifth year. His widow ,is living on the old homestead.
John, our subject, was married June 16, 1873, to Louisa J. , daughter of
Jeremiah and Eveline (Arthur) Ealston, of Sugar Grove Township. They
settled on a farm in Sugar Grove Township, a portion of which was deeded to
him by his father. There have been four children born to them: Sarah E.,
Jeremiah V., Blanch and Eichard A. He is a Democrat, and he and wife are
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Levi W . McGranahan, oil producer, post-office Summit City, McKean Co. ,
Penn, was born in Sugar Grove Township, Mercer Co. , Penn, November 5, 1841,
and is a son of David and Abby (Eiley) McGranahan, pioneers of that portion
of the county. Levi W. grew to manhood in Sugar Grove Township, and
Venango County, Penn., and was married April 22, 1873, to Flora J. , daughter
of Samuel W. and Mary A. (Hunter) McDowell, of West Salem Township.
Two sons have been born of this union: Harry L. and Ealph B. Mr.
McGranahan has followed the oil business in the Pennsylvania oil country
since the early excitement, and has been fairly successful. Politically he is a
1142
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
stanch Democrat, and belongs to the K. T. M., K. of L. and the Columbia
League.
Hugh Ray, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born October 3, 1853. His
father, James Ray, was born in County Down, Ireland, in 1804. In his young-
er days he immigrated to America and located in Greenville, Penn. . where he
engaged in contracting on the Erie Canal, which was being built at that time.
He was married to Christena Snyder, a native of Union County, in 1837.
After the completion of his contracts he purchased a farm in Greene Township,
where he settled and remained until his death. There were seven children
born to them: William, Oscar, Margaret, wife of J. Donaldson; Rebecca,
deceased; James M., Hugh and Emma, deceased. James was a Democrat.
He died February 4, 1860, and his widow died April 21, 1867. Hugh, Qur
subject, was married October 30, 1879, to Rachel, daughter of Godfrey and
Catherine Stroup, of Otter Creek Township, natives of Germany. They located
on a farm in Sugar Grove Township, purchased from George Donaldson.
They have three children: Henry O., Harriet and James B. Hugh is a
Democrat, and his wife is a member of the Lutheran Church.
John W. Riley, farmer, post-office, Kennard, was born September 16, 1814,
in Sugar Grove Township, this county. His father, John Riley, was born in
Maryland in 1.780, came to Mercer County in 1798, and purchased the farm
now owned by David McGranahan, in Sugar Grove, formerly Salem, Township.
John Riley was married about 1802 to Miss Barbara Simons, of Westmoreland
County, Penn. They settled on the farm that he had previously purchased,
and where they spent the remainder of their lives. There were ten children
born to them: Cornelius, Catherine, Margaret and James, all deceased; John
W., Abigail, wife of David McGranahan; Jane, wife of J. Elwood; Elizabeth,
deceased; Hannah, wife of E. Callahan, and George, deceased. John and
his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he was a
local preacher for many years. Politically he was a Whig up to the time of
the late war, and afterward voted with the Democrats. John died March 16,
1864, aged eighty-four, and his wife died in February, 1864, aged seventy-
seven. Our subject, John W., was married November 6, 1851, to Christina,
daughter of Thomas and Lena (Watters) Roberts, of Sugar Grove Township.
They located on a portion of the family homestead given to him by his father,
and on which they still live. They have four children born to them: Amanda
L. , born August 1, 1852, was scalded to death April 22, 1858; Thomas
Jefferson, born September 28, 1859; Westley McKendre, born August 1, 1859,
drowned June 10, 1880, and George B. Politically our subject is a Demo-
crat, and his wife belongs to the United Brethren Church. George B. was
born March 9. 1864j and reared and educated at home. He was married Sep-
tember 29, 1885, to Susanna, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth Battiger, of
Sandy Creek Township. They are living with his parents on the family home-
stead.
Alexander D. Roberts, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born September
29, 1836, in Sugar Grove Township, this county. Thomas Roberts, the grand-
father of our subject, was born in 1764. He was married to Miss Margaret
Covode. They settled in Salem Township, now Sugar Grove, in company with
his brother. Bishop Roberts, at a very early date, on a tract of 400 acres, near
Kennard, which Thomas purchased. There were four children born to Thomas
and Margaret Roberts: Mary, Betsey, Robert and Thomas. The daughter,
Mary, is believed to be the first white female child born in this part of ShenangO'
Valley, her birth dating in 1798. Her life was one of single blessedness. She
spent the latter part of it with the family of John McGranahan, dying Octo-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1143
' ber 15, 1882, at the age of eighty- four years. Thomas was stricken down in
I the prime of life, dying May 8, 1804, and his widow June 27, 1851, at the age
; of seventy-nine. Robert, the father of our subject, was born February 12,
' 1802, in Salem Township, now Sugar Grove. He was reared at home and re-
' ceived a limited education at the common schools. He spent two years in In-
j diana with his uncle. Bishop Roberts. He was married July 12, 1827, to Re-
becca L., daughter of Alexander and Jane (Griffin) Dumars, of Salem Town-
ship. They located on a portion of the paternal homestead and engaged in
farming. There were five children born to them: Jane, deceased; Susan, de-
ceased; Thomas B. , living in Kansas; Alexander D. and Robert M., deceased.
Robert and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for
many years and lived very exemplary lives. He died March 20, 1808, at the
age of sixty-seven, and his widow June 18, 1871, in the sixty-seventh year of her
age. Alexander, our subject, was married April 2, 1871, to Nancy, daughter
of John M. and Betty (Patterson) Callahan, of West Salem Township. They
settled on the paternal homestead, a portion of which was willed to him by his
father, and the rest of which he purchased of the heirs. There have been two
children born to them; Betty and Rebecca L. Our subject wase ducated in the
common schools. He has been extensively engaged in buying and selling stock
in connection with farming. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the
United Workmen.
Cheistian Stoll, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born March 6, 1840, in
the Kingdom of Wurtemberg, Germany, and is a son of Jacob and Christina
(Beard) Stoll. Our subject was reared and educated in Germany. He was
married May 10, 1863, to Christina Roof. They immigrated to America in
1865, and located in Delaware Township, where he worked as a laborer for
eight years. He then purchased a farm of Eli George, in Hempfield Town-
ship, where they lived five years, when he purchased the Joseph McKean farm,
in Sugar Grove, where they still live. There have been five children born to
them: Lewis, Elizabeth, wife of George Riley; Philip, Anna and M^garet.
Politically our subject is a Democrat. He and his wife are members of the
Lutheran Church.
James Walkee, deceased, was one of the very earliest settlers of Mercer
County. He was a native of Ireland, and about 1793 immigrated to Ligonier,
Penn. In the fall of 1797 he settled in the forest half a mile west of Leech’s
Corners, in what is now Sugar Grove Township, purchasing the improvement
of William Lindsey. He was accompanied by his wife and three sons, and
April 27, 1798, a daughter, Martha, was born, who is said to have been the
first while child born in that part of the county. His wife died in 1811, and
soon afterward he married Catharine McFetridge, also a native of Ireland, of
which union one daughter, Mary Ann, was born March 13, 1812. This
daughter married Marvin Loomis in 1829, and he took charge of the Walker
hoinestead, the parents making their home with Mr. Loomis until they died.
Mr. Walker died February 20, 1834, and his widow January 10, 1849. All
of their children are dead, the two daughters and two of the sons dying in
this county, and one son in Minnesota. The Walker family were Whig and
Republican in politics, and Methodists in religious belief. They were up-
right, industrious, respected citizens, and did their full share in developing
the interests of Mercer County. When James Walker built his cabin in
Sugar Grove Township the whole country was one vast, unbroken forest, and
during his life-time he often illustrated the density of the forest by relating
how he once got lost in the woods within twenty rods of his own cabin door.
Samuel Young, farmer, post-office Kennard, was born August 23, 1824, near
1144
HISTOBY OF MEBCEE COUNTY.
Greenville, Penn. His father, William Yonng, was born in Cumberland County II
in 1780, and came to Mercer County in 1801, soon afterward purchasing a farm |jr
near Greenville. On March 21, 1805, he was married to Ann, daughter of I
John and Jane (Irving) Williamson, and settled on his farm. He was drafted I
in the W"ar of 1812, and supplied his place with a substitute. They had twelve 1
children: Elizabeth, John, Ellen, Eliza, Sarah, James W., Lacy, Samuel, [
Nancy, Maria and two others who died in infancy. The survivors are Sam- ,i
uel, and Maria, wife of William Baker, of Otter Creek Township. William ob-
tained his education in the common schools of Cumberland County, and polit-
icall}’ he was a Democrat. He arrd his wife were members of the Presbyte- I
rian Church. He died October 12, 1860, aged eighty years, and his widow died |
April 18, 1864. Samuel, our subject, was married June 5, 1851, to Emily,. I
daughter of Thomas and Prudence (Gibbons) Leech, and settled on a farm of I
fifty acres in Hempfield Township, where they resided about four years, when
they removed to the Thomas Leech homestead, in Sugar Grove Township,
where he now resides and where Mr. and Mrs. Leech spent their declining years.
Four children were born to Samuel and Emily Young: Lydia, who married
Reuben Beil; Prudence, wife of J. C. Hare; Phoebe, wife of J. C. McMichael,
and Endora. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and politically
is a Democrat. His wife, who died January 5, 1874, was a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church.
HEMPFIELD TOWNSHIP.
Henry Aldenderfer, farmer and carpenter, post-office Greenville, was born
May 20, 1844, on the farm where he now resides. His parents, Benjamin and
Sarah (Heckman) Aldenderfer, were natives of Lehigh County, Penn., and |
came to this county with their respective parents about the year 1830, George
Aldenderfer being the father of the former and Conrad Heckman the father of j,
the latter. Benjamin and Sarah had the following children: James, deceased; !
Henry, Samuel, George, Reuben and Mary. The eldest of these children L
was in^he service of his country, in the One Hundred and Forty-fifth Penn- |
sylvania Volunteers, and died in a hospital with typhoid fever. The father ?
died in 1854, and the mother married James Hecker, whose sketch appears ti
elsewhere. The parents were Lutherans. Our subject was educated in the |i
common schools, and at the age of twenty learned the carpenter’ s trade with i
his uncle, Jacob Aldenderfer, who resided where the late James Hecker lived. i
Our subject has fcontinued the carpenter business, and also follows slate roof- ’
ing. He was married, in 1868, to Lucinda Rosier, by whom he has one son, t
Anson, who attends to the farm. He is a member of the Carpenter and Joiners’
Lodge No. 398, of Greenville, is a Republican, and he and wife belong to the |
Old Salem Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trustee.
Col. Andrew Christy, deceased, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn.,
December 22, 1775. He was a son of John Christy, a native of Ireland, who
immigrated to the colony of Pennsylvania prior to the Revolutionary War, and
with that love of freedom inherent in the Irish race served in that struggle for
liberty as a scout on the frontier. Andrew grew to maturity in his native
county, and in the fall of 1796 joined a party of land prospectors, among whom
were the Loutzenhisers, Klingensmiths and Kecks, and visited the country now
embraced in Mercer County. He selected land in what is now Hempfield
Township, began an improvement, and then returned to Westmoreland County.
The following spring, 1797, accompanied by his father, brothers John and
Samuel, and two sisters, he again made the trip to Mercer County, and
settled permanently on his laud. The balance of the family located about
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1145
one mile south of the site of Greenville, where his father died, on the farm
now known as the Thomas Callen place, in Hempfield Township. Soon after
coming, the father, John Christy, was appointed justice of the peace for this
portion of Allegheny County, and was no doubt one of the first pioneers, to fill
that office in what is now Mercer County. Andrew built a cabin on his land,
and devoted his energies to clearing away the forest then covering the soil. In
May, 1803, he was married, by Kev. Samuel Tait, to Miss Sarah Williamson,
a native of Centre County, Penn. , who bore him a family of fifteen children,
nine sons and six daughters, of whom six sons and five daughters grew to matu-
rity: Margaret, James W., Samuel L., John G., Eliza J., Andrew J., Susan,
William W., Nancy A., Oliver B. and Isabel. All of these are dead except
James W., of Greenville; Nancy A., wife of Samuel Long, and Isabel, widow
of John K. Sheakley, both residents of Iowa. Andrew Christy and wife were
Presbyterians, and lived and died on the old homestead, the latter April 16,
1856, aged seventy-three years, and her husband March 27, 1865, in the
ninetieth year of his age. During the War of 1812, when Erie was threatened
by the British, Lieut. -Col. Christy marched at the head of his regiment of
Pennsylvania Militia, largely composed of the pioneers of Mercer County, to
assist in repelling British invasion. He was also brigade inspector of the Mer-
cer District five years, and was one of the best known men in this part of the
State. In early life he was a warm political adherent of Andrew Jackson, but
subsequently became a Whig and then a Republican. Col. Christy was elected
sheriff of Mercer County in 1827, and served one term. Coming to the county
among the very first settlers, he lived to see its lands converted from a wilder-
ness into a garden of agricultural prosperity, and did his full share toward
accomplishing this result. Like many of the pioneers he was very fond of
hunting, and was never more happy than when following the chase. He died
full of years and honor, and possessed of a comfortable competence, the result
of his own unaided efforts.
Jacob Babe, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born May I, 1841, in Mercer
County, to Daniel and Elizabeth (Snyder) Baer, natives of Pennsylvania. The
parents were married in this county, and their children were Jacob, David, Levi,
James, Sarah, Mary, Hettie, Caroline, Kate and Melinda. The father was a
tailor by trade, began for himself with $12, and at his death was worth $40,000.
Our subject was educated in the common English schools, and was brought
up at farm labor. He was married to Anna Aldenderfer, by whom he has had
six children: George, Lila, John, Harvey, Mary and Lizzie. He and wife
are members of the German Reformed Church. Mr. Baer is the owner of a
fine farm, and is one of the prosperous farmers of the county. Joseph Alden-
derfer, the father of Mrs. Baer, was born October 7, 1816, in Berks County,
Penn. His parents, George and Kate (Mowry) Aldenderfer, were natives of
Lehigh County, came to this county in 1834, and settled in a log cabin in
the woods. George was a gunsmith, and made axes, chisels, sickles and other
necessary articles. He died in 1868, and his wife died in 1837. They had
seven children: George, Jacob, Henry, Polly, Joseph, Benjamin and John.
George was married again, to Miss Elizabeth Shaffer. The parents were Luth-
erans, and the father helped to build the church edifice where they worshiped,
and was an elder in the same. Joseph was educated in the log school-house,
and began learning the trade of a gunsmith with his father at the age of
sixteen years. He has followed that business the greater part of his active
life. He was married in 1841 to Sarah Moyer, by whom he had six children:
George, lives in Wichita, Kas., and is engaged in the mercantile business;
Louesia, married John Hawes, and has two sons, Anderson J. and James H. ;
1146
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Elizabeth, married Eev. William Busch, and Anna B. The other two are
dead. Mr. Aldenderfer started out in the world a very poor man, and by
hard labor, strict economy and frugal dealing accumulated a large fortune.
He is a member of the Lutheran Church, to which his deceased wife belonged.
In politics he is a Democrat.
George Beaver, farmer and carpenter, was born April 2, 1847, on the
farm where he now lives. His father, Peter Beaver, was a second cousin of
Gov. James A. Beaver, and came to this county about 1828. He married
Julia A. Stenger, who bore him five children: William, a physician in Colby,
Kas. ; Reuben, a Presbyterian preacher, died in 1884; Alice, married Frank
Huber; Drucilla, married William Reichard, and George. The father’s first
wife was a Miss Wasser, by whom he had five children: Valentine, Edwin,
Maria, Polly, Eliza. The parents of our subject were members of the Ger-
man Reformed Church, and he was a Democrat. George Beaver was edu-
cated in the common schools, and began to learn his trade in 1878, with John
Koser, and has followed it since. He was married in 1874 to Emma Koser, a
daughter of John Koser, and has one child, Ralph Stuart. Mr. Beaver owns
and lives on twenty acres of the old homestead. His wife was born in Mifiiin
County, and some of her brothers and sisters were classmates of Gov. Beaver.
Her father married Sarah Shellenberger, who blessed him with seven children:
Mary J. , Sarah A., A. L., Lucinda, Levi, Melinda and Emma. Her parents
came to Lawrence County in 1852, and the father died January 15, 1886. The
mother resides in Hempfield Township with her daughter. Her brother, A.
L. Koser, was in Company D, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Pennsyl-
vania Volunteers, and is a member of the G. A. R. Our subject and wife
are members of the Presbyterian Church of Greenville, and he is a Repub-
lican. His brother William spent fifteen years in a drug store at Greenville,
and then went west and studied medicine, practiced in Iowa and Nebraska
for some time, and is now in Colby, Kas. Another brother, Reuben, was
educated at the common schools. Mount Pleasant Academy, and took a theo-
logical course at Allegheny City.
D. T. Belton, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born April 6, 1832,
in Philadelphia. His parents, Israel and Elizabeth (Pacy) Belton, were
natives of England, and immigrated to Philadelphia about the year 1828.
Four years later they settled in Columbiana County, Ohio, and subse-
quently moved to Stark County, the same State, where the father died
in 1852, and his widow several years later. The children were Mary,
Caroline, John, Samuel, Elizabeth, Nancy, Daniel and Joseph. The father
had, by a prior marriage in England, two children, Israel and Eliza. Israel
is a Disciple minister of South Bend, Ind. Joseph entered the war from an
Indiana company, and died in camp. The parents were consistent members
of the Baptist Church, and he was a Whig. Our subject received his edu-
cation at the common schools and at Mount Union, Ohio. He was married
in 1857 to Angeline Leet, a sister of Dr. Leet, of Greenville, whose sketch
appears in this work. Two years after his marriage he left Stark County,
Ohio, and settled in Otter Creek Township, this county, where they remained
until 1871, when they settled on the farm they now occupy in Hempfield
Township. They have had four children: William F., deceased, was educated
at the Edinboro Normal School, taught several terms, including terms at West
Middlesex and Sharon, married Elizabeth Conner, who died, and he again mar-
ried, Clara Ames, and had one child, Jessie; Atlas L., married Lula, a daugh-
ter of Esquire Hofius, of Hickory Township; Mary, died August 11, 1886, at
the age of twenty four, and Jesse C., engaged in the manufacture and sale
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1147
of the Pollard Improved Patent Barrel Swing and Counter Support. He
owns the exclusive right of this valuable patent. Mr. Belton is the possessor
of a good farm in Otter Creek Township, is one of the worthy citizens of
the county, is a stanch Eepublican, and he and his estimable wife are
members of the Baptist Church of Greenville.
Simeon Betts, who died in 1888, was born March 6, 1830, in Crawford
County, Penn., son of Abraham and Chloe Betts, the parents of thirteen
children; Johnson, Erastus, Nancy, Elizabeth, Simeon, Lorinda, "William,
Peter, Mary, Orena, Abram, Theodore and Leonard. The parents reside
in Minnesota. Our subject received a common-school education, and was em-
ployed on a farm during his boyhood days. He was engaged in boating on the
canal for sixteen years. In 1865 he turned his entire attention to farming,
and was very successful. On his farm of forty acres he averaged 150
bushels of wheat, 300 to 600 of corn, 150 to 600 of potatoes, 100 of oats,
other vegetables in proportion, and from sixteen to twenty-four tons of hay.
He was married to Elizabeth Hill, in 1848. She was born in 1827, and had one
infant, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Betts reared Charles Betts, who married
Elizabeth Eoseberry, a daughter of Jasper and Isabella (Callahan) Eoseberry,
and the parents of the following children; Elizabeth, John, George, Martha,
Zella, Henry, Trixy and Isabella. Charles Betts is a carpenter on the
P. S. & L. E. E. E., and is a Eepublican. Eichard Hill, the father of Mrs.
Simeon Betts, was born in Ireland in 1794, served seven years at the printer’s
trade in England, and also learned the book-binding business. He was em-
ployed as a printer for three years in the king’ s office. He came to Mercer
County at an early day, worked in the Western Press office in Mercer, later at
"W arren, Penn. , and Ellicottville, N. Y. He was the first printer to work in
Greenville, a mention of which appears in the sketch of the newspapers of the
place. He was married about the year 1825 to Jane Hill, who blessed him
with three children; Allen, infant, deceased, and Elizabeth. He died in 1841,
and his widow died June 7, 1876. He was once identified with the Methodist
Episcopal Church, but at the time of his death was a member of the United
Presbyterian organization.
T. W. Beown, deceased, was born December 6, 1822, in Centre County,
Penn. , son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Hayes) Brown, natives of Northumber-
land and Northampton Counties, Penn., respectively. Elizabeth was born
July 21, 1788, and removed with her parents, Eobert and Mary Hayes, to
Northumberland County in 1790. She married Thomas Brown in 1814, and
lived in Centre County until 1832, when they removed to Venango County,
Penn., and engaged in farming, and where he died in 1864. In 1865 Mrs.
Elizabeth Brown came to the home of her son, T. "W. , and one year later went
to Cochranton, Crawford County, where she lived with her daughter, Amanda,
till her death, J anuary 24, 1884. She retained her memory to the last, although
she lost her eyesight seven years before her decease. Her children were "Will-
iam, Eobert, John, Joseph, Elizabeth, Jane, Sarah, Amanda, T. W. and an
infant. Thomas and Elizabeth Brown were consistent members of the Pres-
byterian Church. Our subject was educated principally in the common
schools of Venango County, learned the trade of a carpenter, and followed
house-building’for many years. He was married December 16, 1852, to Sarah
J. McCalmont, born July 14, 1831, in Venango County, Penn., daughter of Jos-
eph and Margaret (Linn) McCalmont, natives of Centre and Union Counties,
Penn. , respectively. J oseph McCalmont came to Venango County with his par-
ents, John and Elizabeth (Conrad) McCalmont, when a boy, and died April 22,
1874. His widow died February 7, 1873, having been the mother of the follow-
1148
HISTOKY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
ing: Emily, Jemima, Sarah J. , Fleming, Murray, John L. and Elizabeth, all
living except Jemima. The McCalmonts were Presbyterians. T. W. Brown,
when married, settled in Conneautville, Crawford Co., Penn., where he fol-
lowed carpentering. He bought a farm of sixty acres in Hempfield Township,
this county, in 1865, where he at once settled, and died June 27, 1886. He
has two sons: George H. , who married Alma Davis, of Cleveland, Ohio, where
he engaged in the clothing business, and Charles M. , at home. The Advance-
Argus said in a notice of his death, that ‘ ‘ Mr. Brown, by a life-long course
of honorable dealing, had gained the confidence of all who knew him, as was
attested by the regret expressed on all sides when the news of his death came.”
He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, to which organization his widow
belongs.
W. E. Davidson, farmer, was born May 9, 1845, in Mahoning County,
Ohio. His parents came to Mercer County in 1865, with their children:
Ramsey, engaged in the lightning-rod business in Pittsburgh; Carmillus, em-
ployed in an implement house of Pittsburgh; Frances, married D. D. Linn,
and lives in Sugar Grove Township, and W. E. , who is the second son. The
family moved from Ohio to Venango County in 1850, where the father made
$16,000. He retired to Greenville in 1875, where he and his consort enjoy
the fruits of their early labors. They are members of the United Presby-
terian Church of that place. Our subject was educated in the common
schools, and has devoted his life to rural pursuits. He was married in 1869
to Rhoda, a daughter of David Linn, whose sketch appears elsewhere. She
was born October 6, 1851, in this county. Mr. Davidson remained on the
old homestead of his father until 1876, when they purchased a part of the old
Beaver farm, in Hempfield Township, where they have remained since, with
the exception of nearly two years, when they lived in Greenville. He and
his wife are members of the United Presbyterian Church of Greenville,
while the daughter, Della M. , belongs to the Presbyterian Church. He is a
Republican.
Alexander Ddmaes, an Irish school-master, was born in the County Tyrone,
Ireland, December 3, 1769, and immigrated to America in 1793, where he
married Jane Gilliland, a native of County Donegal, Ireland, in 1795. At
the time of marriage both resided in Westmoreland County, Penn., whence
they removed to a tract of land east of Greenville, Penn., in what is now
Hempfield Township, in the spring of 1800. After coming here he taught
school in the winter and the balance of the year engaged in farm labor.
About the year 1810 Gov. Snyder appointed him a justice of the peace, which
office he held until the adoption of the constitution of 1838. In the War of
1812 he went to Erie, but being near-sighted he was not accepted. The
sword he carried is yet in the possession of his grandson, A. D. Gillespie, of
Greenville. Seven children were born to Alexander and Jane Dumars:
Nancy M. , born August 1, 1796; Jane, August 3, 1798; Hannah (in Mercer
County), June 15, 1800; Susannah, December 16, 1802; Rebecca L., Novem-
ber 22, 1804; Samuel S., March 9, 1807, and David G. , October 8, 1808.
Nancy married Alexander Donnell; Jane married John Bean; Hannah mar-
ried David Gillespie; Susannah married Samuel Lowry, and Rebecca became
the wife of Robert Roberts. All of the children lived to have families, but
are now dead. Of their descendants residing in the county, there are A. D.
Gillespie and sister, Mrs. Sarah J. Turner, Alexander D. Roberts and Mrs.
Sarah Nelson, while several of Mrs. Lowuy’s children reside near Sandy Lake.
His wife died in 1811, and her husband survived her until May 25, 1854, and
both are buried in the old United Presbyterian Cemetery in Greenville. Mr.
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1149
Dumars was one of the organizers of the Seceder Church of Greenville, and
a member of the Masonic fraternity. He wms a man of strong convictions, of
tirm opinions and good judgment; hospitable and kind to friends, he never
tried to conceal his animosity from his enemies. His defective sight was a
great drawback to him all his life, yet by his habits of economy and sound
jxidgment he acquired a nice fortune. At the time of his death he owned
about 500 acres of land and money securities, amounting in all to at least
$40,000.
Samuel Feitz, Je., farmer, post-office Greenville, was born November 30,
1859, on the farm where he now lives. His father, Samuel, was born August
26, 1822, in Lancaster County, Penn., son of John and Polly Fritz, natives of
the same county, and the parents of twelve children, ton of whom grew up :
Elizabeth, Daniel, William, Samuel, Susannah, Mary A., Sarah, Jacob, John
and Isaac. Samuel, Sr. , was educated in the common schools and brought up on
a farm. He began for himself by hiring out. He was married in 1842 to Maria
Bouch, born January 10, 1817, in Lancaster County, Penn., to Ephraim and
Elizabeth (Kiskel) Bouch, the parents of ten children: Elias, Maria, Susannah,
Rebecca, Aaron, Elizabeth, Levi (deceased), Leah (deceased), TJrias and Cath-
arine. Mr. and Mrs. Fritz have had seven children: Salinda (deceased),
Ephraim, Susannah, Albert, Urias, Elizabeth and Samuel. The family came
to this county in 1856, and have been residents of Hempheld Township since.
Samuel, our subject, received a good common-school education, and was mar-
ried in 1880 to Mary E. Benninghoff, by whom he has four children: Stella,
Cora, Delos and Winnie. He is a Democrat, and has been township auditor for
several terms, and he is a Lutheran, while his wife belongs to the United
Presbyterian Church.
William Gibson, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born June 15, 1834,
in Jefferson Township, to James and Mary (Stewart) Gibson, natives, the
father of Lawrence County and the mother of Hickory Township, this county.
The parents settled in Jefferson Township on a farm, where the mother died
in 1839. They had three children: William, Stewart and an infant. The
father afterward married Mary Sample, by whom he had five children, who
survive: Alfred, Almira, Jane, Sadie, Eve. He died June 15, 1884, and was
buried at Unity Church. With his first wife he was a member of the Seceder
Church, but with his last wife became a Presbyterian. Our subject was edu-
cated at the common schools, and began for himself when he was nineteen
years old, working for $9 a month. He then helped his father for two years,
and in 1856 went to Iowa and worked on a farm. Finally, in 1861, he located
in Venango County and worked in the oil business one year, afterward work-
ing for his uncle, Vance Stewart, near Greenville. In 1864 he was married to
Margaret McMillen, born January 22, 1834, in what is now Hempfield Town-
ship, to Alex, and Margaret (Thompson) McMillen, the parents of two children:
Wilson and Margaret. The father married for his second wife Elizabeth
Blair, by whom he had: Nancy, married John Reznor; Jennie; William,
belonged to Company K, Fifty-third Regiment, and was killed at the battle of
the Wilderness; Henry, died when four years old; Thomas. The father died
in 1886; was a member of the Greenville United Presbyterian Church, and a
Republican. His last wife still survives. In 1873 our subject settled on his
present farm of seventy-five acres, known as the McFetridge farm. He has
one son, Delos W., who married Melinda Hittle, daughter of George Hittle,
and has two children: Carrie and Sadie. His wife is a member of the United
Presbyterian Church, and he is a Republican. He operated fhe old mill which
McFetridge built on this place at an early date.
68
1150
HISTOKY OF MERCEB COUNTY.
Jacob Hecker, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born March 19, 1850, in
Mempfield Township. His father, James Hecker, was born September 13, 1812,
in Northampton County, Penn. , to J acob and Mary Hecker. J ames was the only
son, and was educated in a German school. He married Eliza Moyer, daughter
of Casper Moyer, of Lehigh County, and had by her Dianna, John, Jacob,
Reuben, Henry and George. He was married a second time, the last wife
being Sarah, the widow of Benjamin Aldenderfer, and daughter of Conrad
Heckman. James came to this county in 1834. Our subject was educated
in the common schools, the select school at Jamestown and the Greenville
schools. He began teaching at the age of seventeen years, and taught twelve
terms, all in Mercer County, except two in St. Clair County, 111. He was
married in St. Clair County, 111., in 1877, to Augusta Pfadler, only daughter
of Philip and Maggie Pfadler, and soon after settled on the farm where he
now lives. He has in all seventy-six acres of good land, a part of which he
inherited. His two children died in infancy. He is a Republican, and takes
a deep interest in the welfare of that organization. He and wife are members
of the German Reformed Church, to which his father and present wife belong.
Mr. Hecker is one of the representative farmers of Hempneld Township.
J ames Hecker, who has been a respected citizen of Hemptield Township, died
at his late residence, September 8, 1888, at the age of seventy-five years,
eleven months and twenty-six days.
Peter Hittle, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born July 20, 1826, in
Berks Coxmty, Penn. His parents, George and Mary (Wetzel) Hittle, were
natives of Lehigh County, Penn. , where they were married, and moved soon
after to Berks County, from where they came to this county in 1833 by teams.
They finally bought 100 acres, and settled in a log cabin on the farm where
our subject now lives. The father died here about 1849, and his widow died
in 1873; they had twelve children : Catharine, marriedPeter Wageman; Anna,
married James Reichard; George; Caroline, married Jonathan Moyer; Elmira,
married Joseph Stoyer; Peter, William, John; the others died small. The
parents were Lutherans, and helped to build the little church near by. Peter
Hittle received a common- school education. Aside from farming, he worked
at shoemaking for over thirty years. He also worked at stone masonry. He
was married in 1855 to Mary Haas, a daughter of John and Sarah Haas, the
parents of Charles, Eliza, John, Stephen, Thomas, Henry, Mary, Sarah and
Daniel. Her parents are dead, and were Lutherans. Mr. Hittle settled at
marriage on his present farm, which is now in a state of good improvement.
He is the possessor of over 200 acres of arable land, of which he is the artificer.
Near his residence there are six springs, all on less than one acre. He has
dealt considerable in horses. His union blessed him with twelve children: Ed-
win, Eliza, Elias, Sarah, Daniel, Ellen, George, John, Reuben, Louesa, Charles
and James M. Mr. Hittle has served as school director twelve years, treasurer
of that board for three years, auditor three years, assessor and assistant asses-
sor each three terms, and treasurer of the Farmers’ Mutual Fire Insurance
Company for ten years. His property is worth about $20,000, including twelve
acres of a sandstone quarry. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, and is
a Democrat.
Byron S. Hull, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born August 3, 1843;
is one of ten children born to Hiram and Lucinda Hull. He was married
April 29, 1879, to Carrie, daughter of Robert Fruit, and has one child, Jennie
F., a graduate of the Greenville High-school in the class of ‘‘’88,” and is
now a student of the State Normal School at Edinboro, Erie Co., Penn. Mr.
Hull’s fine farm of 116 acres is situated one and a half miles east of the Green-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1151
ville Borough line, and is somewhat noted on account of Greenville’s magnifi-
cent water works being located on it. Over-brook farm is well named, as
the two reservoirs form two lovely little lakes or brooks just below the resi-
dence. Mr. Hull is a successful farmer, a strong Republican, and a good
citizen.
Benjamin Kameeer, deceased, was born July 31, 1831, on the farm where
he died in the fall of 1888, to Samuel and Elizabeth (Lininger) Kamerer,
natives, the father of Westmoreland County and the mother of Maryland.
The father came to this county in 1812, and with his brother Jacob bought
land. The mother came to the county with her parents, and when married
settled with her husband in a log cabin in the wilderness. She died in 1840,
after having blessed her consort with ten children: David, died in Delaware
Township; Esther, married Frank Cooper; Elizabeth, lives on the homestead;
Mary, married Reuben Bortz; Joseph, Leah, Benjamin and John. The father
died December 28, 1863. He held some small offices, and he and his wife
were members of the Lutheran Church of Good Hope. He was a friend of
William S. Garvin, and took the Western Press for many years. Our sub-
ject was educated in the log cabin schools, and brought up on a farm. He
began for himself when twenty-one years old, with but little means. He in-
herited a portion of the old homestead and bought the balance. He was mar-
ried in 1862 to Elizabeth House, daughter of Henry House. He took his
bride to a log cabin, and there remained until he constructed the present fine
residence. They had three children: Clara E., Loretta and Laura (twins).
The latter is the wife of Lon E. Roberts, grocer, of Youngstown, Ohio. Mr.
Kamerer was assessor, with his wife was a member of Good Hope Lutheran
Church, and held office in the same, and was a Republican, although the first
newspaper he ever read was the Western Press of Mercer.
Joseph Kameeer, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born January 30, 1826,
on the farm where Benjamin Kamerer died. He was educated in the common
schools, and learned the shoemaker’ s trade with Reuben Bortz, at Leech’ s Corners.
He followed that business about ten years, and got his start that way. The
first land that he owned was a gift from his father. He was married, in 1853,
to Miss Levina Dieffenderfer, daughter of Solomon and Nancy Dieffenderfer,
and settled on his farm of 125 acres in Pymatuning Township, which he now
rents, having moved to where he now lives in 1874. Fie has here thirteen
acres and building, worth $3,000, which are the fruits of his own industry.
He has three children: Mary A., at home; Benjamin F. and Charles M. , twins,
the former dead, and the latter, married to Anna Vigrass, lives at Hilliard,
Butler Co. , Penn. , and is a conductor on the S. & A. R. R. Our subject has
been supervisor of roads, and is a Republican. He is an elder in the Green-
ville Lutheran Church.
William Laird, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born January 1, 1825,
near the site of the old Greenville fair grounds. His father, Alexander, was
a native of Ireland, and immigrated to America when seven years old, with his
parents, and settled in Chester County, Penn. When twenty-one Alexander
came to the forests of Mercer County. His wife, Jane Donnell, came from
Ireland to America in 1812, in company with her sister, Isabella, and
brother, John. Her parents came here about the year 1817, and are bur-
ied in the old Salem grave-yard. The parents of our subject were married in
this county, and settled in what is now Hempfield Township, and died on the
farm where our subject resides; he, December 1, 1880, and she, October 11,
1875. They had the following children: William, Susan, married Henry Mel-
vin; John, Rebecca J., married John Stewart. The mother was married prior
1152
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
to her union with Mr. Laird to John Youngblood, and has one son, Isaac.
William Ijaird was educated in the common schools, and was brought up on a
farm. He was married, in 1851, to Jane Whittick, who died in October, 1853,
and he was again married, in 1860, to Lizzie Oakes. She was born December
15, 1833, in Staffordshire, England, to Samuel and Hannah (Bolton) Oakes.
Her parents settled in Greenville in 1850. The father soon after went to
farming, and died August 2, 1884, and was a member of the Wesleyan Meth-
odist Church. Her parents had the following children: Robert, Lizzie, Isaac
fdeceased), Rachel, Leah, Emma, Rhoda, Eliza, Sarah and Samuel. Mr.
Laird owns seventy-five acres where he now lives, well improved. He and wife
reared Isaac A. Youngblood from the age of five years. Mr. and Mrs. Laird
are members of the Salem Presbyterian Church, of which he is a trustee. He
is a Democrat, and one of the substantial farmers of Hempfield Township.
John Love, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born November 11, 1816, in
Mercer County, Penn., to James and Anna (Gault) Love, natives of Fayette
County, Penn., where they were married. They came to this county about 1800,
and located in a log cabin in what is now Lackawannock Township. In part-
nership with his brother-in-law, James Gault, he bought a tract of 300 acres.
Mr. Gault died here, his wife, Margaret Chain, having blessed him with the fol-
lowing childi’en : Polly, William C. , Matthew, Margaret, John, Sarah, Nancy,
Benjamin, Elizabeth and Rufina. James Love, who was born November 19,
1777, died in 1856, and his wife died the same month. Their children were:
Mary, born September 14, 1806, married William Hutchison; Hugh, born
October 26, 1807; Matthew, born June 28, 1809; Margaret, born March 11,
1811; James, born February 3, 1813; Agnes, born September 15, 1814; John,
born November 11, 1816; Jane, born October 4, 1818; Robert, born September
7, 1820; Betsey, born September 13, 1822; Benjamin, born February 13,
1825; Sarah, born March 16, 1828; Lovina, born April 1, 1830. The parents
were Presbyterians. Our subject was educated in the schools of his native
township. He learned and followed the tannery business for many years. He
was married in 1840 to Margaret J. Carmichael, born December 17, 1817,
in Hickory Township, to Thomas and Mary (Pollock) Carmichael, natives, the
former of America and the latter of Ireland. They settled in Mercer County
about 1798. Their children were John, Anna, Thomas, James, William,
Mary, Daniel and Margaret. The mother died in 1814, and the father was
afterward married to Margaret Bean, this union resulting in one son,
Alexander. Mr. and Mrs. Carmichael were Presbyterians, in which church he
was an elder. He died in 1835. John Love farmed in Lackawannock Town-
ship until 1869, when he bought seventy-five acres where he now lives. His
union has given him six children: Myra, Mary; Hugh C., deceased; Lizzie,
died November 18, 1863; Benjamin, died July 13, 1884; Zettie, died
November 21, 1863. In 1869 Emma, infant daughter of John Carmichael, of
Hartford, Ohio, was taken into the family, and still resides with them. Mr.
Love enlisted in Company B, One Hundredth Regiment, served nearly one year
and was injured while hauling timbers. He was elected a justice of the peace,
but did not take out a commission. He is a .Republican, a member of the
G. A. R., and with his wife belongs to the Presbyterian Church, in which he
has been elder for several years.
William McCaffertv, deceased, was born March 22, 1811, in Butler
County, Penn. His father, Charles McCafferty, immigrated to America in
1794, from the parish of Raphoe, County Donegal, Ireland, and settled in
Fail-view, Butler Co. , Penn. The deceased was married April 22, 1838, to
Maria Johnston, born December 6, 1812, in Butler County, Penn. Her
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1153
parents, James and Nancy (Best) Johnston, had the following children: Mary,
Eliza, Jane, Maria, James, John and Eobert. Mr. and Mrs. McCafiferty set-
tled for a short time in Pittsburgh after their marriage, where he engaged in
the cabinet-making business. They remained there but a short time, and re-
moved to Fail-view, Butler County, where he continued his trade. They sub-
sequently engaged in the hotel business in the latter named place for nineteen
years. After a period of farming in Butler County, and a residence in West-
moreland County, he sold and bought 240 acres of land in Hempfield
Township, on which he put up a residence costing about $15,000. He was
the father of fifteen children, five of whom are living. A friend says the fol-
lowing in the Advance- Argus, June 17, 1880: “More or less accustomed to
hard work from his youth, he was no idler, and the handsome fortune he
amassed was ample proof of his industry, enterprise and business tact. In his
dealings with his fellow-man he was scrupulously honest, conscientiously ful-
filling his promises, and thus might one at any time place the most implicit
confidence in his word. Of an even temper, genial and sociable, he won golden
opinions from all with whom he became acquainted, and great will certainly be
the regret of his host of friends when they learn that he is no longer in the
flesh. With an ear ever willing to listen to the appeal of the needy and desti-
tute, and a hand ever ready to assist them, his generosity was unbounded, and
of that laudable kind about which there was no loud talk or boasting. As an
instance of his beneficence, attention need not be called to his recent donation
of $1,000 to the Catholic Church in Murrinsville, and also to a donation lately
given to St. Michael’s in this place. But, lest the reader grow weary of
further eulogy of the deceased, let us close this poor tribute to his memory by
adding that the many good qualities which William McCafferty possessed, and
which shed such a beautiful luster on his life, will long be remembered by the
many to whom he had endeared himself. To mourn his departure out of this
world, he leaves a wife and five children, for whom he always entertained the
greatest love and afPection. To them, in this the dark hour of their affliction,
is tendered the sympathy of the entire community, with the assurance that
their loss, immeasurably great though it be, is his eternal gain. The obsequies
were performed on Sunday, June 13, in St. Alphonsus Church, Murrinsville,
Butler Co. , Penn. His remains were conveyed thither by special train ; and
there, in the cemetery attached to the aforesaid church, buried beside all that
is mortal of several loved children, lies the body of William McCafferty, await-
ing the resurrection. May he rest in peace.’’ His death occurred June 11,
1880, at 7 o’clock in the morning, surrounded by his faithful and be-
loved wife and children, and fortified with the last sacred rites of
the Catholic Church, which were administered to him by Rev. Bernard Don-
ahue. His surviving consort is a consistent member of the United Presby-
terian Church of Greenville.
Jeremiah H. Moeeoed, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born November
28, 1814, in Pymatuning Township, to Thomas and Susan (Hazen) Morford,
natives, the father of New Jersey and of Scotch-Irish extraction, and the
mother of Mercer County. Thomas Morford was a son of John and Mary
(Cox) Morford, who immigrated to New Jersey from England prior to the
Revolutionary War, and to Mercer County about 1803 or 1804, and were
the parents of Richard, Rebecca, Thomas, Betsey, James, John, William
and Joseph, all of whom are deceased. They were Baptists. Thomas
Morford was thirteen years old Avhen he came to this county, and received
his education in a log cabin school house. He married Susan Hazen,
daughter of Jeremiah and Dorothy (Sears) Hazen, and settled with her in
1154
HISTORY or MERCER COUNTY.
Pymatuning Township, where she died in 1866. He died in 1873, at the
home of our subject, in "West Salem Township. Their children were Jer-
emiah, Mary (married Josiah Brown) and Sears. Thomas was a member
of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, while Susan belonged to the Baptist
organization. Our subject received a limited education in the log cabin
schools, early learned the trade of a stone-mason, and was married June 20,
1839, to Lovina Brown, born March 6, 1818, in this county. Her parents,
Andrew and Mary (McLaughlin) Brown, settled in West Salem Township
about 1800, where he died in 1828 and she in 1873. Five children were born
to them: Sarah, Nancy, Josiah, Lovina and Maria. Mrs. Brown was married
after the death of her first husband to Richard Morford, and had by him
four children: Emeline, Eliza, Andrew and Richard. Our subject settled
with his wife in a log cabin in Salem Township, where they remained for
twelve years. They then sold and bought land in West Salem, where they
lived until 1881, when they moved to Greenville. They have had seven chil-
dren: Thomas, Susan, Mary, Sarah, Vina, Reuben and Lina. Mr. Morford
served as a justice of the peace in both W est Salem and Hempfield Townships.
He went out, at the time of Lee’s invasion of Pennsylvania, in Company C,
and is a member of the G. A. R. He is a Republican in politics. His wife
is a Baptist.
Jacob Mowey, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born November 10,
1820, in Lehigh County, Penn., to John &. and Elizabeth Mowry, natives of
the same county. The parents came to Mercer County in 1830, and settled
in Greene Township, but later moved to Hempfield Township, where the
father died in April, 1875, the mother having died about 1858. They had
twelve children: George, John, Caroline, married Michael Grover, and died;
Jesse, Polly, married Benjamin Eornick; Jonas, Lucy, wife of Benjamin
Grimm; Elizabeth, married William Grimm; Jacob, Sarah, married Mandis
Bortz; Mary, married Samuel Beil, and Benjamin S. The parents belonged
to the Lutheran Church, and he was a Republican. Our subject was edu-
cated in the common schools, brought up on a farm, and was married in 1855
to Lucy A. Bigler, born July 16, 1835, in Mercer County, Penn., a daughter
of John and Elizabeth (Houpt) Bigler, natives of Lehigh County, Penn., who
came to Mercer County at an early day, and had eight children: Eli, Polly,
Reuben, Jonas, Sarah, John, Lucy A. and Sullivan. The parents belonged to
the Reformed Church, and he was a Democrat. Our subject, when married,
settled on his present farm of 107 acres, well improved, which he bought
from his father. They have had twelve children, eleven of whom are still
living; Levi G. , Benjamin, Edwin H., Milton, deceased; Jane, married George
Hecker; Helen, married Elmer Dingman; Louesa. Elizabeth, Martin, Fred,
Ida and Lillie. Levi married Jennie Trenon, and lives in Buffalo, where he is
engaged in the carriage making business. He got up and had patented a
pole for steamers, for the patent of which he has been offered 120,000.
Benjamin married Aggie Reinhart, and lives in this county; Martin lives in
Buffalo with his brother. Our subject and wife are members of St. John’s
Lutheran Church, and he is a -Republican.
Benjamin S. Mowey, post-office Greenville, was born August 30, 1855;
was educated in the common schools, brought up on a farm, and was mar-
ried May 27, 1880, to Aggie Reinhart, daughter of David and Sarah (Balic)
Reinhart, residents of Delaware Township. He has been school director,
constable, collector of taxes and inspector on election board. He and his
wife are members of the Lutheran Church, of which he was trustee one
term. He is a strong Republican, and a member of the county committee.
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
1155
He is farming for his father, and has very fine horses. His children are
Dells and Anna.
Levi A. Moyer, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born July 22, 1855, son
of Adam and Mary A. (Snyder) Moyer. He was married, March 14, 1878, to
Eliza J. Hittle, daughter of Peter and Mary A. (Haas) Hittle, whose sketch
appears in Hempfield Township. They settled on a farm of seventy-six acres
in Pymatuning Township. They have four children: George F., Mary A.,
Laura L. and Alvin R. His education was obtained at the common schools in
Hempfield Township. He sold his farm in the spring of 1888 and moved on a
farm in Hempfield Township. It comprises 135 acres, which was purchased
by his grandfather, Casper Moyer, and it has ever since remained in possession
of sons of the family. He is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the
Reformed Church.
Stephen M. Paine, deceased, was born January 11, 1814, in Rhode
Island, to Tyler and Alice (Bassett) Paine, natives of the same State. The
father was a tanner, and died in that State in 1830—31, and his widow
died four years later. Their children were: Albert, Mary, Stephen, David,
was a school teacher in Massachusetts, having charge of a department in
the Worcester schools for sixteen years, and followed the foundry business
awhile prior to his death; Aseneth, died young; William, Tyler, Addison;
Lydia, a teacher a. number of years, and is now a missionary in Salt Lake
City. Tyler was a lieutenant of a Massachusetts company in the late Rebellion.
The father of our subject was of Quaker stock. Stephen M. Paine was edu-
cated in the common schools and received instructions one term at an academy.
Because of the early death of his father he was compelled to do for himself
when quite young. He therefore applied himself at any kind of labor he could
get to do. He worked awhile in Michigan, Ohio and Covington, Ky. He
boated on the Johnstown and Pennsylvania Canal, and then came to Mercer
County, taught a few terms of school and afterward took charge of a company
of Irishmen, who were working on the canal. He and James Young built a
small-sized canal boat and followed boating one season. He was married June
10, 1849, to Elvira McKean, born March 30, 1832, in what is now Otter Creek
Township, to James and Eliza (Hazen) McKean, the parents of Elvira, Robert,
Mary, Jane, Bethena and Isaac. Mr. Paine settled at marriage in what is now
Otter Creek, and after a time he sold and resided for awhile in Salem Town-
ship, and in 1868 he bought his late homestead, in Hempfield Township, where
he died in December, 1888. The following are the names of his children: Jane,
born December 10, 1850, married November 6, 1883, Jacob Waggoner; she
died February 13, 1887; Alice, born July 18, 1853, married October 8, 1870, to
Charles Ludwig; Tyler, born February 28, 1856, is a teacher and farmer in
Adair County, Mo. ; Charlotte H. , born June 26, 1859, and was married July
23, 1880, to A. G. McKean ; Sarah B. , born February 20, 1858 ; Addie B. ,
born May 28, 1862, married Thomas Foley May 26, 1880; James U., born
July 28, 1865, married April 5, 1885, to Alice Tanner, of Adair County, Mo. ;
he is engaged with his brother Tyler, and is carpentering a part of his time;
Nora G., born May 9, 1868; Maude M., born ^February 14, 1872, and Stephen
M. , born May 24, 1874. Mr. Paine served as path-master, school director,
constable and collector; was a Republican, and believed in the doctrines of the
Quaker Church.
Simon Reigelman, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born February 8,
1844, in Berks County, Penn. His father, John Reigelman, was born Febru-
ary 19, 1819, in the same county, and was a son of Conrad and Magdalena
Reigelman, the parents of six children: Polly, Solomon, Betsey, Benjamin,
115G
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
John and Jonas. John Keigelman attended the German schools, and has al-
ways been a farmer. He was married March 6, 1847, to Teressa Hines, a
native of Berks County, and by her he has had four children: Maria, married
Samuel Moyer; Simon, Kasiah, Sarah A., married Daniel Mowry. John
Keigelman settled in Mercer County in 1851, and has followed farming. He
is a member of the Lutheran Church, and a Democrat. Our subject was edu-
cated in the English schools and brought up at farm labor. He came to Mer-
cer County in 1851 and settled in Hempfield Township. He was married in
1869 to Kate Bower, of Delaware Township. By her he has one child, Ida
Jane, who received a good education at the Fredonia and Greenville schools.
Mr. Keigelman picked up the trade of a blacksmith, which he follows in con-
nection with the cultivation of his farm of 100 acres. He has held some of
the small township offices, and he and wife are members of the Lutheran
Church. In politics he is a Democrat.
Geoeoe J. Keimold, a retired farmer, post-office Greenville, was born June
4, 1814, in Germany; son of J. G. and Eva B. Keimold. The parents were mem-
bers of the Keformed Church, and died in their native country. Our subject was
educated in the German schools, baptized in his infancy, and joined the Ke-
formed Church in 1829. He was married May 8, 1838, to Eva B. Derr, born May
12, 1818. They came to America in 1846, and settled in Mahoning County,
Ohio. They brought with them $2,000, bought 100 acres of land at $16 per acre,
and sold out in 1850, when they moved to Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co. ,
Penn., and bought 170 acres. He was a prosperous farmer, and kept adding
to his farm until he had 400 acres. His wife died January 23, 1877, and in
1883 he sold all his land. Since then he has made his home with his eldest
son, John G. P., a farmer and stock dealer. About this time he divided
$29,000 among his eight children, who were Dorothea B. , born April 14,
1839, married August 13, 1867, to Kev. J. H. Stepler; John G. P. , born June
19, 1841, married March 26, 1867, to Eva E. Kummel; Christena E., born
October 19, 1843, married May 28, 1863, to George Horning; Jacob, born
May 29, 1847, married in 1874, to Sarah M. Tininger; George H., born
October 12, 1849, married in 1881 to Ella J. Miles; Philip, born May 14, 1852,
married June 9, 1881, to Mary M. Templeton, died April 25, 1888; Kosana
T., born June 20, 1855, married September 23, 1875, to D. L. Nisbet, and
August, born April 13, 1859, married Septembr 20, 1888, to Jennie T. Hum.
Our subject has had twenty seven grandchildren, five of whom have died.
He was an elder in the church of his choice for many years, and has been ex-
ecutor of several estates. He is one of the most respected citizens of the county,
and is a Democrat in politics.
Samuel Kidgeway, farmer, post-office Greenville, wms born August 26,
1812, in Franklin, Venango Co., Penn., to John and Susannah (Titus) Kidge-
way, natives, the father of New Jersey and of Quaker and German parentage,
and the mother a native of Pennsylvania and of Irish extraction. John Kidge-
way located in Venango County, in the year 1800, with his father, Nore.
They built the first saw-mill in Venango County, along the “Broken Straw ”
stream. They subsequently went to Brownsville, Penn., and later Nore built
a combined grist and saw-mill aBout two miles northeast of Franklin. John
Kidgeway was married, near Titusville, to Susannah Titus, daughter of Peter
Titus, whose son, Jonathan, was the founder of Titusville. Susannah came
to Crawford County in 1799. John Kidgeway followed building flat and keel
boats for many years. These boats were used on the Allegheny Kiver. He
and his wife had the following childi’en: Samuel, Titus, Harriet, Susannah,
Thomas S. and John. The father was a Whig and Kepublican. Samuel Kidge-
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1157
j way was educated in the Franklin schools, and learned the trade of a tanner,
I beginning at the age of eighteen years, at Franklin, with William Brown, with
I whom he continued two years, when his employer failed, and Mr. Ridgeway
went into the rolling mills at Franklin, where he labored for ten years, and lost
'"$1,500 through the dishonesty of his employers. He was then appointed
street commissioner of Franklin for one year, after which he went to hauling
goods from Franklin to Oil City, at which he made money. In one year he
sold out, and in 1865 came to Greenville and bought sixty acres, which after-
w"ard became valuable property and is mostly owned by Thiel College. In
1ST6 he bought the J. W. Christy farm of 185 acres, in Hempfield Township,
where he now resides and enjoys the fruits of his hard labors. He was mar-
ried, in 1848, to Isabella Wilson, of Venango County, by whom he had nine
children: John W^. ; Jane, married Robert Moats; Wilson; Susannah, deceased;
Staunton S. ; the others are dead. Mr. Ridgeway is a Republican, and one of
the respected citizens of the community in which he lives.
Joseph Robinson, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born August 10, 1824, in
Cheshire, England, to William and Mary (Frith) Robinson, both of whom are
dead. The father was a wealthy farmer, and, with his wife, a member of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church. Neither of them ever came to America. Their children
were: Thomas, Matthew, William, John; Mary, married George McGorgle,
and is dead. Joseph was educated in the common schools of his native coun-
try, and learned the blacksmith trade, beginning at the age of twelve years.
He was bound out for seven years, but after working four years left and went
to Scotland, where he worked at his trade two years, and then, in 1844, came
to Philadelphia and worked in a machine-shop one year, making spindles.
In 1845 he came to Mercer County, traveling by rail, stage and canal. He
started his first blacksmith shop at Greenville, and after running it for several
years, in 1844 went to IVisconsin, where he worked in a carriage shop. In
1854 he went to California, mined a short time, and then resumed his trade.
He returned to Mercer County in the fall of 1852, went back to California and
worked at his trade about one year, returned to Mercer County again in 1864,
went once more to California, and after a few months returned to Mercer
County to stay. He was married in 1846 to Nancy Law, daughter of James
Law, born November 19, 1829, in Mercer County, and they have ten children:
James, grocer in Greenville; John, a farmer in Washington Territory; George,
William, a farmer at home; Andrew, attending school at Edinboro, and has
taught school; Emma, married A. D. Gillespie, Jr. ; Mary, wife of George Allen,
of Washington Territory ; Josephine, married J. Melvin; Cora and Eva, at home.
He is a Democrat, and has been supervisor. He owns 160 acres of land, and de-
votes much time to breeding improved draft horses, having brought the first
heavy draft horse to Mercer County. His wife is a member of the United Pres-
byterian Church, and has one brother, Addison, who lives in the West. Her
father and mother were Presbyterians, and he was a Democrat. Her father,
James Law, and his four brothers, Thomas, Andrew, Wilson and William, came
to Mercer County from County Tyrone, Ireland, with their parents, Richard
and Ann (Hunter) Law, and settled on a farm in Jefferson Township, where the
parents died. The children are also probably all dead. William went West,
and has not been heard from for years.
Isaac Ruttee, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born June 3, 1828, in
Dauphin County, Penn., to George and Susannah (Leopold) Rutter, natives
of the same county. They came to this county in 1856, and the father died
December 18, 1884, and the mother died June 9, 1886. They had the following
children: Jacob, Daniel, Isaac, Henry, George, William, Elizabeth, Rachel,
1158
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Sarah, Mollie and Maggie. The parents were members of the Lutheran
Church. Our subject was educated in the common schools and taught three
terms. He was a clerk for a period in Halifax, Dauphin County, and Green-
ville, Penn. , and St. Louis, Mo. In 1854 he went to California via steamer
and the Isthmus. He mined for nine years with poor success. He kept hotel
for a period with J. N. Hudson at Marysville, Cal., and at Los Angeles, same
State, with Henry Brubaker. He spent about sixteen years in the West, and
soon after his return he made a trip to Kentucky, Kansas and Texas, and in
the latter he, in partnership with his brother, Henry, and brother-in-law,
Giles Walker, bought a herd of cattle, which they drove to Kansas and win-
tered them with a loss of 274 of the herd of 369. He came home and was
married, in 1882, to Susan Moyer, and has three children: James C., Julia
and Chauncey. He resides near Greenville, is a stanch Democrat, and he and
his wife are members of the Lutheran Church.
William Saul, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born July 9, 1831, in
Lehigh County, Penn., to Daniel and Polly (Reichard) Saul, natives of the
same county. The parents came to this county in 1833. The father
was a tailor, and followed that business after locating here. Greenville com-
prised only two houses when Mr. Saul began his labors. He made clothing
for laborers on the canal, and in that way obtained the means to buy land,
which afterward brought him a fortune. He died May 1, 1887, and his wife
died August 10, 1887. Their children were: Henrietta, married Simon
Kamerer; Aaron, Daniel, William M. , Mary, married George Kremm; Nancy
J., married Levi Kamerer; James A. and an infant. The father was once
overseer of the poor, was a strong Abolitionist, a Whig and Republican, and
with his wife belonged to the Reformed Church, in which he was an elder.
Our subject was educated in the common schools, mostly in the log cabins,
with its slab seats, puncheon floor and big fire-place. He began for himself
by learning the tanner’s trade, with Simon Kamerer, for whom he worked for
fifteen years. He finally located near his residence, and continues the busi-
ness. He began with no means, and by frugality, hard labor and economy
he has become the possessor of a snug little fortune. He was married Novem-
ber 3, 1852. to Sarah Lane, born September 29, 1832, in the State of New
Jersey, to Mathias and Susan (Linebarger) Lane, natives, the father of New
Jersey and the mother of Lehigh County, Penn. Her parents came to this
county in 1839, and settled in Hickory Township, where they died, he July
6, 1861, and she in 1855. They had the following children: William C.,
Frank J., both deceased; Mary M. , married Samuel Fry; Sarah, Charles L.,
Peter and Fred H. Mr. and Mrs. Saul have two children: Simon A., married
Emma Mowry, and has one son, George W. ; Mary, married George Benning-
hofP. Our subject and wife belong to the Reformed Church of Greenville,
and he is a Republican.
James A. Saul, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born March 28, 1841,
in what is now Hempfield Township, son of Daniel and Polly (Reichard) Saul,
natives of Pennsylvania, and of German extraction. They came to Mercer
County about 1833, and settled on a farm in Hempfield Township. Daniel was
a tailor by trade, and made clothing for laborers on the canal. He was worth
about $30,000 at his death, which occurred in May, 1887, and his widow died
August 10, 1887. They had eight children : Henrietta, Aaron, Daniel, AVilliam,
Mary (married G. W. Kremm), Nancy J. (married Levi Kamerer), infant, dead,
and James A. The parents were members of the Zion Reformed Church. Our
subject was educated in the common schools, and brought up at farm labor.
On reaching his majority he set out for himself. He was married September
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1159
.10, 18G3, to Susannah Beil, who died in 1870, leaving two children, Harry
and Lottie. He was again married, in 1873, to Mrs. Melinda Hamlin, the
widow of James E. Hamlin, died November 21, 1870. Mrs. Saul was born
November 20, 1845, and had by her union with Mr. Hamlin two children;
AVilliam H. and Lillie E. Her parents, Jonathan and Elizabeth (Groover)
Mowry, had three children, of whom Mrs. Saul and Jonathan survive. Mr.
Saul has by his last wife Fred. W. , James E. and Edna G. He and his
wife possess 154 acres of tine land, are members of the Zion Reformed
Church of Greenville, in the construction of which edifice he was one of the
building committee. In politics he is a Republican.
Henry Snyder, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born December 25, 1835,
in Lehigh County, Penn., son of George and Mary (Smith) Snyder, natives of
Germany. The father came to this country by himself, worked for the money
to bring his family, sent it to his wife, who brought their only son, Peter, and
joined him in this country. She was forty-one weeks on the ocean. It was
not until she arrived he learned that two of his three children, born to them in
the old country, had died. They had seven children born to them in this
country: Henry, George, Jacob, Mary, Joseph, Samuel and Catharine. After
a short residence in Lehigh County they came to this county by team and on
foot, bringing a small amount of household goods. They arrived among
strangers with only 25 cents, and settled in a house owned by Alex. Dumars,
of whom he rented five acres, for two years, at $25 and $30. He then moved
into a house of Daniel Saul, and rented of him for one year. In partnership
with his brother, Jacob, he bought twelve acres where Henry Snyder lives,
where he settled until his death, in 1887. His widow survives, and makes her
home with our subject, as per the request of him on his death-bed. He was a
German scholar, wrote in German; was a member of the German Reformed
Church, and was a Democrat. Henry Snyder was educated in the common
English schools. He began for himself by hiring to Samuel Goodwin to labor
for six and a half years in a combined saw and grist-mill. He saved $100 of
the $120 he received the first year, $110 of the $140 the second, $130 of
the $150 the third, and in the fourth, fifth and sixth years he saved $132,
$165 and a colt, and $175, respectively. He then went to working on the
Eastern Pennsylvania Railroad, helping to lay track. Later he hired to
William Gibson, then of Jamestown, but now deceased, and drove a team,
doing labor on the railroad for nearly one year. He worked in the foundry
for Heath & Hamblin, at Greenville, for two years. The following two
seasons he w’as a hod-carrier, and after three years more in the foundry
he retired for two years on account of ill health. He then came to his
farm and lived until 1883, when he moved to the old homestead. He was
married July 5, 1863, to Louisa Blank, by whom he has two children,
Charles and Hattie. He and family are members of the German Reformed
Church of Greenville, to which he has belonged since fourteen years of
age, and is a Democrat in politics.
Edward H. Stenger, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born March 19, 1829,
in Lehigh County, Penn. His parents, Philip and Mary M. (Greenermoyer) Sten-
ger, were natives of Northampton County, and of German extraction. The fam-
ily came to Mercer County in 1831, and settled on the farm now owned by George
Beaver and W. E. Davidson. The father bought thirty acres where our siibject
lives, and here he died September 11, 1855. His widow died fourteen years later.
They had eleven children, all of whom survived them: Susan, married Joseph
Hecker, and died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. John Baker; Mary, mar-
ried Benjamin Bush, and remained in Lehigh County until her death; John;
1160
HISTOEY OF MEECEE COUNTY.
Rebecca, the widow of Aaron Blank; Catherine, died at her son-in-law’s, J. E.
Millhouse, in Greenville, in 1875; Lydia, married Adam Seiple; Julia, the
widow of Peter Beaver; William, dead; Samuel H. and Edward H. The
father was a Lutheran, and his wife was a Presbyterian. Our subject was edu-
cated in the common schools, and was married January 25, 1856, to Mary J.
Ford, born June 30, 1834, in Clinton County, Penn. Her father, Hiram,
died in Centre County in 1838, leaving two children: Mary J. and D. H. Her
mother, Barbara E. (Ream) Ford, came to Mercer County in 1853 with her
second husband, John Durst, by whom she had six children: Frances, Peter A.,
Luther, Charles, Robert and Claude. Mrs. Durst died June 25, 1886, and
Mr. Durst January 24, 1887. They were Methodists. The children of Mr.
Stenger are Philip, Mollie E., married Charles Adamson; Joseph, George E.,
William H. , now attending Allegheny College, where he expects to graduate;
Vinnie G. , Lottie M. and Allie. He has followed farming, buying and selling
stock. He at one time sold beef in Greenville. He and wife are members of
the Presbyterian Church at Salem, of which he has been trustee for fifteen
years, and has collected and made all payments, to the ministers. He has also
been superintendent of the Sabbath-schools. He was secretary of the school
board for twenty years, and has served the township as judge, inspector and
auditor. In politics he is a liberal Democrat.
James C. Stewart, deceased, was born September 12, 1834, in Hickory
Township. His father, James Stewart, was a son of Vance and Mary (Sample)
Stewart, .who were married in Huntingdon County, Penn., and settled in
Hickory Township, this county, and their children were James, Josiah, Vance,
Robert, Samiiel, Nancy, Mary, Elizabeth, Sallie and Julia. James Stewart
was married in 1832 to Jane Thompson, born in 1812 in County Derry, Ire-
land, daughter of James and Jane (Courtney) Thompson. The parents of Jane
came to America in 1813, and after a short residence in New Jersey they settled
in Hickory Township, Mercer County, and were blessed with six children: John,
Robert, Mary, Betsy, Jane and Sarah. James Stewart, Sr., died April 22,
1 838, was a member of the United Presbyterian Church and the father of three
children: James C., born September 13, 1834; Vance, born February 21, 1836,
and John, born November 3, 1837. His widow, Mrs. Jane (Courtney) Stewart,
survives. Our subject was married to Elizabeth H. Watt, a native of Mifflin
County, Penn., born June 10, 1828. Her parents, Andrew and Eliza (Clark)
Watt, had two children: Anna and Elizabeth. Her father’s second wife was
Sarah Rudy, by whom he had five children: Andrew C., Maggie, Hugh, Bessie
and John. In 1865 the old Stewart homestead in Hickory Township was sold
by the heirs, and James C. (our subject) located on a farm near New Hamburg,
which his widow yet owns. Six years later they purchased a farm of thirty-
eight acres in Hempfield Township, where he died April 14, 1888. His four
children, Jennie T., Clara A., Warren W. and James C., are all at home. Mr.
Stewart was a Republican, and served in all the township offices. Early in life
he united with the United Presbyterian Church, and was always a consistent
member. His widow is a member of the same church, and by his death she
and the children sustained a great loss. The community feels heavily his tak-
ing away, and all with one accord sympathize with the family in the irrepar-
able calamity.
The Stinson Family. — The ancestor of the Stinson family in this county
was James Stinson, a native of Ireland, who immigrated to Westmoreland
County, Penn. , when about eighteen years of age. There he married Hannah
Donaldson. In 1797-98 he visited the Shenango Valley as one of a party of
twelve land prospectors. He selected a tract of land at “ the Rocks,” some two
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1161
miles east of Greenville, in what is now Hempfield Township, and spent the
first night under the shelter of a tree, near where he subsequently built his
cabin. Eight children were reared by James and Hannah Stinson: Betsey,
married King Caldwell; Polly, married John Bean; Jane, married Eobert
Martin; William, James, Samuel, Hannah, married Joseph Gibson, and
Julia Ann. The parents died upon the old homestead, and none of their chil-
di'en are now living. James was born August 12, 1803, and on reaching man-
hood located on a part of the homestead. He was married J anuary 19, 1826,
to Amelda Bean, also a native of Mercer County, and a daughter of James and
Mary Bean, who came here from Westmoreland County at an early day. She
bore him the following children: John W. , Mary A., wife of W. R. Baird, of
Crawford County, Penn.; James, Alexander, Hannah, Harriet, married Alex-
ander McCullough, of this county; Wilson B., Amelda, Alonzo, Eliza J. , mar-
ried Samuel C. Dickey, of Greenville; Melissa, Emma J., married W. A.
Keck, of Greenville; I. D. and J. M. In 1867 Mr. Stinson removed to Green-
ville, and purchased an interest in the Keystone Mills. He was also interested
in the Mathers Mill. Some four years prior to his death he retired from active
business. His wife died March 9, 1871, and he survived her till November
13, 1879. Both had been Presbyterians for over half a century. Politically
he was ever a stanch Republican, and an ardent supporter of the Government
throughout the dark days of civil strife. Mr. Stinson was an active, enter-
prising man, possessed of a kind and honest heart, and was always recognized
as a worthy citizen.
H. W. Teoy, deceased, was born January 8, 1803, and his wife, Elizabeth
Hendrickson, was born October 26, 1800. Their children were Mary A.,
born November 5, 1822, married William Burns; John, born March 4, 1824,
died in Wisconsin; Gideon, born March 3, 1826, died in California: Martha,
born February 11, 1828, married Fantly Muse, a minister of the Methodist
Episcopal Church; Cyrus, born June 27, 1830, lives in Wisconsin; Sarah J.,
born June 24, 1832, died when young; Samuel S., born Juno 24, 1832,
lives in Nashua, Iowa, is a- doctor, and was a doctor in the army; Albert,
born October 17, 1834, dead; Catharine, born August 27, 1836, married
Samuel Ross, lives near Sheakleyville; Phoebe, born December 23, 1839,
married Rev. William Clark, of the Methodist Episcopal Church; Hiram,
born April 19, 1842, dead; Sarah C., born February 6, 1845^ died when
young; McVay, born November 12, 1846, was a minister of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. Mrs. Troy died November 3, 1877, and was a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Troy traveled for awhile after the
death of his wife. He was married again in October, 1878, to Susie Wolford,
born in Butler County, Penn. She is the daughter of Henry and Susie (Eol-
son) Wolford, natives of Butler County, and the parents of ten children, nine
of whom are living: Mary E., married William Wadsworth; John; Maude,
married Warren Lindsay; Henry T., an attorney at Davenport, Iowa, a
graduate of the Edinboro Normal, Ithica, N. Y., and the law school at Ann
Arbor; Sadie, single; Susie; Amy, married A. E. Pearson; G. W. , owns
and operates two mines in New Mexico; and Jennie, married G. S. Rodgers.
Mr. Troy settled near Salem Church about the year 1838, and later in Deer
Creek, where he followed farming. He finally settled where his widow resides,
where he died November 15, 1887. He was buried in the Deer Creek Cem-
etery. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for over sixty
years, and held all of the offices of the same. He was a man highly respected
for his goodness of heart and uprightness in intercourse with his fellow men.
He began in the world with only a willing heart and strong hands, but by
1162
HISTOEY OF MERCER COUNTY.
economy, frugality and careful management accumulated a good share of this
world’ 8 goods, and left his widow, who cared for him in his declining years,
in moderately fair circumstances. In politics he was a Republican.
William S. Wasser, farmer and stock dealer, post-office Grreenville, was
born September 1, 1846, on a part of the farm where he now lives, to Thomas
and Eliza (Christman) Wasser, natives of Lehigh County, Penn. Tobias Was-
ser was the first to come to this county. His children were Eli, Thomas,
Edward, Charles, Ellemina, Eliza and Catharine. He was an active member
of the German Reformed Church, an officer in the same, and was a strong Re-
publican. Thomas was married in this county, and his children were Catha-
rine, William S., James O., Maria, Emma J. , Eliza N. , Charles, Ellen, Frank,
Alice, Sadie and George. Thomas died in 1874, and his widow resides in
Greenville. They were members of the German Reformed Church at Good
Hope. Our subject was educated in the common schools, was brought up at
farm labor until thirteen years of age, when he began clerking in the drug
store of Allen Campbell, of Greenville, and later clerked for Charles McMich-
ael and G. W. Achre, at Clarksville; Winternitz, at Greenville, Penn., and
Rouseville, Venango County. He then clerked in a restaurant at Oil City, and
subsequently bought one-half of the same and continued to operate it for two
years. He was married December 31, 1868, to Harriet J. Dieffenderfer, by
whom he had one child, Frank S. His wife died in 1871, and he was again
married to Henrietta Goubeaud, and has by her one child, Willie W. He re-
mained on his father’s farm for some time after marriage, then engaged in the
butcher business for two years, and settled permanently on his farm in 1871.
In 1874 he began buying horses for his brother-in-law, Charles Goubeaud, of
Brooklyn, N. Y. , and so continues. He has been school director, is a Democrat,
an officer of the Good Hope German Reformed Church, to which he and wife
belong, and is also superintendent of the Sabbath-school of that organization.
David Young, farmer, was born April 26, 1816, in Huntingdon County,
Penn. His parents, John and Sophia (Burns) Young, were natives of this
State. They came to Mercer County in 1833, and settled in East Lackawan-
nock Township. Here the mother died in 1845, and the father in 1850. Their
children were Catharine, Elizabeth, Mary, Margaret, Susan, John, Jacob and
David. Our subject was educated in the schools of his boyhood days, and
learned carpentering, beginning the trade at the age of eighteen years. He
followed this vocation for thirty-five years. He was married in 1836 to Mary
Duncan, of Stark County, Ohio. Three children were born of this union:
James, Nancy, and Elizabeth, who was married to William Stanton in 1871.
His wife died, and he was again married, to Margaret Anderson, of Ohio, who
has borne him three children: John, William and David C. Our subject came
to this coanty in 1836, and for several years was engaged at his profession in
Wilniington Township. He bought and settled on his present farm of 100
acres in 1866. His son, James D. , served three years in Company D, One
Hundredth Pennsylvania Volunteers, was wounded at the battle of Cold Har-
bor, and married Miss Fannie Durst, of Pittsburgh, April 3, 1888. William
A. is engaged in the feed business in Leadville, Colo. ; married Miss Cathe-
rine Thompson April 22,1885, who died June, 1887. David C., born 1864,
married April 12, 1887, to Mary Anderson, of Lawrence County, is a horse-
shoer by profession, having learned his trade under Isaac Peters, who had
over forty years’ experience. Nancy married William Shaw and resides in
Mercer County. John A. is in the grocery business with James D., at 28 Ful-
ton Street, Pittsburgh, having located there in the spring of 1888. Mr. Young
was a strong Abolitionist and a Republican.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1163
OTTER CREEK TOWNSHIP.
I
Henry W. Beatty, farmer, was born October 7, 1816, on the old homestead,
and is a son of Francis Beattj, whose sketch appears elsewhere. He was
educated in the common schools. He went to the Southern States in 1843,
where he spent five years. He was married, November 22, 1849, to Nancy L.,
daughter of James and Mary (Philips) Limber, of Sandy Creek Township.
They settled on a part of the old homestead, which he bought from his father,
and where he now lives. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and his
wife of the Baptist. His only child, Frank, was born September 1 5, 1850, and
was reared and educated at home. He also attended the Normal schools at
Edinboro and at Steubenville, Ohio. He spent three months in Akron, Ohio,
learning telegrahpy, afterward going to California, where he spent two years
in the mines. He was married October 20, 1887, toDeEtte, daughter of James
and Mary A. (Jackson) Campbell, of Jamestown, Penn.
William C. Eich, farmer, was born February 2, 1823 in Oberstedten, near
Frankfort on the Main, Germany. His parents, Frederick and Elizabeth
(Steckel) Eich, were natives of Germany, where the father died in 1844, and
the mother in 1849. They had fourteen children: Mary, married Peter Mat-
ley, and settled in West Salem Township; William C., Eva, married Alexan-
der Wood, of Greenville; Stephen, lives in West Salem Township; Fred, is dead;
Margaret, married John Ramb; Catharine, is a widow in New York State; Lot-
tie, married Fred Brown, of Albany, N. Y. ; Lewis, lives in Hartford, Ohio;
Louesa, married Philip Knice; Elizabeth, married to Henry Fischer, New
York City; Jane, married George Deitz. Our subject was educated in Ger-
many, and learned to read English. He early learned the trade of a miller,
and followed it both in his native country and this. He came to America in
1847, leaving his family behind, and engaged in the mill of Henry Miller, of
Greenville, for a few months. After working awhile in the mill of Hildebrand,
of the same city, he was employed in a coal bank. He was a miller for Robert
Fruit for eleven years. In 1848 his wife, Justina Bender, joined him, and is
the mother of thirteen children: William, is a miller at Conneaut Lake,
Crawford County; Fred, deceased; Kate, Stephen, Lewis, Elizabeth, Mary,
Theodore, Simon, Augustus, Lydia, Austin and Martin. In 1862 Mr. Eich settled
in Otter Creek Township, and now owns a farm of 125 acres, the result of his own
labor. He is distinctively a self-made man, and to illustrate his beginning we
note that, when on his way to this country, he bought a ticket at Buffalo,
for a passage on the canal to Cincinnati, and at Erie he sold a jacket to pay for
his lodging, and at Greenville he sold his ticket for 25 cents, which was all the
money he had when he arrived at Greenville. He is now worth about $7,00 0.
He has been assistant assessor of Otter Creek Township and school director.
He and wife are members of the Lutheran Church, and he is a Democrat.
J. C. Haggerty, farmer and school-teacher, post-office Greenville, was born
October 9, 1856, in County Hastings, Ontario, Canada. His grandfather, James
Haggerty, emigrated from Ireland to Canada in 1829, where he resided until his
death. His wife, Nancy Morley, and seven children, accompanied him from
his native country to where he settled. John, the father of our subject, was
the fifth child, and was born June 22, 1822. He married his cousin, Elizabeth
Haggerty, November 3, 1854, and came to this county in 1864. They
resided in New Vernon Township one. Mill Creek five, Jackson five, and East
Lackawannock Township four years, and finally purchased a farm of 105
acres, a portion of land once given to Mad Anthony W ayne for services ren-
dered in war. Their children were George W. , Mary, Adam, Marmaduke,
Thomas M. and Anna M. James C., our subject, attended the common
1164
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
schools, and one term at the Edinboro Normal, also at the Sheakleyville
Academy. He was married June 1, 1882, to Miss S. E. Corll, daughter of
Jeremiah and Mary E. (Cramer) Corll, of Perry Township. James and his
wife settled on the farm of M. E. Pauley, in Otter Creek Township, which
they rented from him in the opening of 1883, and where they still live. Dur-
ing the winter months he is engaged in teaching school. They have one
child, Lewis L. Our subject is a Democrat, and has been auditor and assessor
three years each, and assistant assessor one year. His wife is a member of
the Baptist Church.
Jonas Kasner, farmer, post-office Greenville, Penn., was born in August,
1813, in Columbia County, Penn.; is a son of Peter Kasner, who died when
Jonas was but an infant. Jonas was reared by his widowed mother until he
was twelve years of age, when he went out into the world to earn his own
living and seek his own fortunes. In 1834 he went to Ohio and purchased a
farm, and was soon afterward married to Abigail Smith, of Trumbull County,
Ohio. There were eight children born to them; Henry, Reuben, Daniel,
James M. , Hattie, wife of Levi Moyer; Catherine, wife of William Beatle;
Mary, wife of Samuel Royal, and Susan, wife of Charles Wiles. At their
marriage they settled on their farm in Ohio, and remained six j ears, when
they sold and purchased a farm in Delaware Township, Mercer County, where
they lived until 1855, when they purchased a farm of 100 acres of Joseph
Kitch, in Otter Creek Township, where they now reside. His wife died in
1882, at the age of sixty-one. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church,
and politically a Republican.
Seth Koon, farmer, post-office Hadley, was born December 26, 1834, in Py-
matuning Township, to Israel and Joannah (Johnson) Koon, natives, the father
of Westmoreland County, Penn. , and the mother of the same State. The family
records were burned a few years ago, and it is not in the power of the subject
of this sketch to learn where she was born. Israel Koon was brought up in
Westmoreland County by William and Betsey Koon, his parents, and settled in
Pymatuning Township about the year 1838, where he engaged in blacksmith-
ing and farming. He bought 200 acres, put up a shop on said farm, made
augers and did other smithing. He died about 1865. He was married in
Mercer County to Joannah Johnson, daughter of John and Jane (Hayes) John-
son, who were early settlers of Hickory Township, and natives of New Jersey.
David Hayes, the father of Jane, was a Revolutionary soldier. Israel had by
his marriage seven children, five of whom grew to manhood: William J. (was
a minister of the Wesleyan Church, and died in 1848), Johnson (died in in-
fancy), Absalom (resides on the old home place), John (resides in Nebraska),
Alva (deceased), Seth and Joseph S. (deceased). The widow of Mr. Koon died
in 1863, and she and her husband were members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, having united at or before the time of their marriage. He was a
Whig and Republican, was strictly opposed to slavery, and was highly respected
by his neighbors and acquaintances. His father, William, was taken prisoner
in the War of 1812, and held as such for some time; and his father, Benja-
min, was a soldier in the Revolutionary struggle, and made augers, scythes,
and even swords for the American soldiers. At a time the British army came
along, found him in bed sick, and made demonstrations to murder him, when
his brave wife sprang forward with the remark ‘ ‘that while they were killing
him she would slay a few of them. ’ ’ They finally destroyed his tools and left
him unharmed. Our subject vvas educated in the common schools of Mercer
County, and received some instructions by Prof. Scott at an academy at Clarks-
ville. He taught one term of school, and has devoted the remainder of his
HISTOBY OF MEBCEE COUNTY.
1165
lif0 to farming, and has improved two farms. He inherited a part of the old
homestead, improved it somewhat, and sold it to his brother, Absalom, and in
1864 he bought a farm of 100 acres in Otter Creek of Hon. J. C. Brown, a
portion of the old farm known as the Harry West property. There he settled
in 1866, and lived upon the same until 1888. He was married in 1856 to
Florena Bower, daughter of Stephen Bower, and by her he had four children;
Hannah J., William J., Flora B. and Emma (deceased). His wife died April
14. 1877, and he was again married, to Eliza Pearson, who died April 14, 1887.
Mr. Koon has been school director. He is a member of the Methodist Epis-
copal Church, to which his deceased wives were attached. He is a member of
the Grange lodge. He united with the Cadets of Temperance when a boy. In
politics he is a Republican, and is the owner of a good farm and other personal
property.
James R. McMillen, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born May 16,
1825, in the portion of Salem Township that is now in Hemplield Township.
His father, William McMillen, was born in New Jersey, and came to this
county from Fayette County, Penn., in 1800; subsequently returned to Fay-
ette County, there married Nancy Parker, and brought her and his entire
household goods on horseback, and settled for awhile near the present site of
Jamestown. They finally located on land where the P. S. & L. E. Railroad
crosses the Greenville and Mercer road in Hempfield Township. Here Mrs.
McMillen died about the year 1816 or 1817, and was the mother of Mary,
married Rev. William Smith; Alexander, Thomas and an infant. Mr.
McMillen was again married, to Margaret McClimans, a native of Pennsylva-
nia. He died in 1855, and his widow December 25, 1869. They had seven
children: Nancy, William M. (deceased), Sarah, married David McKnight;
James R. , Hugh P. , Thompson and Margaret (deceased). William McMillen
was a prominent man, a Democrat, and with his wife belonged to the United
Presbyterian Church. Our subject was educated in the common schools and
was brought up on a farm. He was married, in 1848, to Eliza Errel, daugh-
ter of George and Jane Errel, and by her has eight children; William E. ,
Margaret J., married David Wier; Chauncey L., Mary E., married William
Metzler; Leander, James L. , Reuben and Laura I. Mrs. McMillen died in
1870, and he was again married, to Anna Carver. He settled on his present
farm of sixty acres in 1853, and has been successful. He has served as
school director eleven years, and is a Republican and one of the enterprising
citizens of Otter Creek Township. He and his wife belong to the Presbyte-
rian Church.
Ezekiel H. Sankey, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in 1823 near
New Castle, Penn., son of John R. and Cynthia (Espy) Sankey. Ezekiel, the
grandfather of our subject, came to Mercer County in about 1800, and set-
tled in that portion which has since been subdivided and is now in Law-
rence County. He was an officer in the War of 1812, and soon after his
return from the war died, comparatively a young man. He wms married
to Miss Jane Cubbison, who survived him many years, and died in the one
hundredth year of her age. John R. settled near New Castle, where he and
his wife, Cynthia, both died in the prime of life. To them were born seven
children: Mary A., wife of R. R. King; Ezekiel H., John E. ; Sarah J.,
deceased; one daughter scalded to death at the age of four or five years; Ruth;
Rebecca, widow of S. McMillen. Politically John R. was a Democrat. He
was postmaster at the Old Harbor on the canal for many years. Ezekiel H.
was married in 1845 to Nancy Espy, of Crawford County, and they settled near
Linesville, Crawford County, where they lived about sixteen years, when they
69
1166
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
purcliased a farm in Otter Creek Township, and settled thereon. They were
the parents of seven children: Nancy, wife of W. F. Braden, of Greenville;
Cynthia, Mary A.; Sarah, wife of H. Bishop; Emma, deceased; George F. ;
James H. , deceased. His wife died August 15, 1873. He was again married
in 1875 to Bathenia, daughter of James and Eliza McKean. There have been
two children born to them: Enoch F. and Eliza. Politically our subject is a
Democrat.
Charles Snyder, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born June 30,
1826, in Lehigh County, Penn., to Jacob and Elizabeth (Keistler) Snyder,
natives of Lehigh County. The parents came to Mercer County in 1836, and
after one year’s residence in what is now Otter Creek Township they removed
to Delaware Township, and seven years later returned to Otter Creek, where
the father died in 1846, and his widow died in 1870. They were the parents
of thirteen children: Charles, deceased; Catharine, Sallie, Jacob, David,
Betsey, Mary, Priscilla, Charles (2), John, Caroline, Lucy A. and Susan. The
parents were members of the German Reformed Church, and the father a
Democrat. Our subject was educated in a log cabin school-house. He was
brought up at farm labor, and was married in 1859 to Emeline Miller, daugh-
ter of George Miller, of Jefferson Township. By her he had two children:
Reuben S., married Hattie Fellnagle, and has two children, Irvy and Elmer;
and Sarah E. , Mrs. Morneweck. Mr. Snyder settled on his present farm in
1860. He possesses 124 acres of excellent land, all of which is the result of
his own labors. He is a Democrat, and a member of the German Reformed
Church.
Henry Wagner, farmer and carpenter, post-office Greenville, was born
December 20, 1842, in Jefferson Township, this county. His father, Philip,
was born in Lehigh County in 1805, where he was reared and married to Lu-
cinda Reinhart. They came to Mercer County about 1828, and lived on the
Richard Tunison farm, near Greenville, one year, when they moved on a
forest farm in Jefferson Township, where, for some time, they occupied a hut
built by the Indians. They remained on this farm about fifteen years, then
went to Delaware Township and remained until his death. To them were
born fifteen children, nine of whom are still living: Moses (of Jeffersonville
Township), Adam (Delaware Township), Aaron (of Greenville), Henry, Eliza-
abeth (wife of J. Reimold), Catharine (wife of B. Reimold), Daniel, William,
Savina (wife of J. Will). Politically, Philip was a Democrat. The sons are all
Democrats, and the daughters all married to Democrats. Philip died in April,
1879, aged seventy-four years. His widow is still living in Delaware Town-
ship. Henry, our subject, was married June 4, 1868, to Eliza, daughter of
George A. Miller, of Jefferson Township. Henry lived in Jefferson Township
one year, when he rented his father’s farm, in Hempfield Township, contain-
ing 126J acres, and at the death of his father he purchased seventy-six acres
of the farm. There were nine children born to them: Cynthia, Jennie, Luella,
Maria, Creola, Mable, Georgia, Cora and Edith M. In the spring of 1888 he
traded his farm for a farm in Otter Creek Townshij), near Kitch’s Corners,
where he now resides. Politically he is a Democrat. He and his wife are
members of the Lutheran Church.
HISTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
1167
CHAPTER XLII.
BIOGRAPHIES OF WEST SALEM AND GREENE.
WEST SALEM TOWNSHIP.
AHLON B. S. A.RNER, farmer, post-office Orangeville, Ohio, was born in
Lawrence County, Penn., April 12, 1836, and is a son of John and
Mary (Myers) Arner, the former a native of Westmoreland County, and the
latter of Columbia County, Penn. They were married in Lawrence County,
and reared seven children: Lavina, Mary Ann, Magdalena, Mahlon, Lydia
H., deceased; John, deceased, and Sarah, deceased. In September, 1849,
the family came to West Salem Township, where the father resided until his
death. His widow returned on a visit to her daughter in Lawrence County,
and there died. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in
politics Mr. Arner was a Democrat. With the exception of six years in the
coal business, our subject has resided on the old homestead since 1849. He
was married August 7, 1858, to Anna M. Mohr, a native of Germany, who
has borne him eight children: Alpheus C. , Margaret E., wife of Frank Aubel;
Emma J.,Philena,Lorinda, Belle L., George and Anna L. Politically Mr. Arner
has always been a Democrat and a stanch adherent of Democratic principles.
Joseph Aubel, farmer and proprietor of saw mills, post-office Greenville,
was born in Union County, Penn., March 19, 1826, and is a son of Jacob and
Catharine (Walbon) Aubel, natives of Lancaster and Union Counties, Penn.,
respectively. In the spring of 1835 they came to West Salem Township, and
died in Delaware Township, whither they had removed. They were the parents
of ten children: Julia A., deceased; Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, Daniel, Barbara,
Henrietta, Samuel, Catherine and Sarah, deceased. The parents lived and
died in the Lutheran faith. Our subject has resided in W’est Salem Township
for the past fifty-three years, and was married in the fall of 1853 to Fiana,
daughter of Abraham and Ann Ludwig, of West Salem Township. Mrs. Aubel
was born in Lehigh County, Penn., June 23, 1831, and came to West Salem
Township with her parents in 1833. She is the mother of eight children:
Levi, deceased; Franklin, Armina, wife of James Ash; Charles, JohnW. ,
Henry, Alvin and Emanuel. Mr. Aubel and wife are members of the Luth-
eran Church. Politically he is a stanch Democrat, and one of the successful
farmers of his township, and what he has to-day is the result of his own in-
dustry and energy.
Samuel ^eil, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Northampton
County, Penn., July 14, 1823, and is a son of John and Rosanna (Franken-
field) Beil, natives of Pennsylvania. In 1828 they crossed the mountains to
Mercer County, and settled in what is now the southeast corner of West Salem
Township. John Beil served in the War of 1812. He was twice married, his
first wife dying before he came to this county, and leaving three children:
David, Sally and Susan, who came to Mercer with their father, and here spent
their lives. His second wife, Rosanna Frankenfield, reared four children:
Samuel, William H. , Clarissa and Lydia, deceased. The parents both died in
this county, in the Lutheran faith. Our subject grew up in West Salem Town-
ship, and learned the carpenter trade, which he followed about forty years. In
1168
HISTOBY OP MEEOEB COUNTY.
the meantime he boiight his present farm, upon which he has resided for over
thirty years. Mr. Beil was married in December, 1845, to Mary Ann, daugh-
ter of George Mowry, of Hempfield Township, and has reared three children:
Edwin W., Reuben G. and Sarah E. The family belong to the Lutheran
Church, and politically Mr. Beil is an unswerving Democrat.
Martin L. Benninghoff, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Cherry
Tree Township, Venango Co., Penn., August 31, 1856. His father, Martin
Benninghoff, is a native of Clearheld County, Penn., born March 16, 1828,
and a son of John Benninghoff, a sketch of whom will be found in the chapter
on Greenville. Martin Benninghoff grew up in Venango County, and was
there married, October 10, 1855, to Anna Mary Gahring, a native of Germany,
who is the mother of nine children: Martin L., George H. , Jacob G. , Anna E.
(deceased), Julia A., John M. , Joseph L., Frederick W. and Jeremiah. In
the spring of 1865 Mr. Benninghoff purchased his present homestead in West
Salem Township, upon which he settled the following October, and where he
has since resided. Our subject grew up in West Salem, and received a com-
mon-school education. He was married September 19, 1878, to Miss Lizzie,
daughter of Levi and Nancy (Saul) Kamerer, a native of this county, who has
borne him one child, Eva E. Mr. Benninghoff and wife are members of the
Reformed Church, and in politics he is a Republican. In 1882 he located on
his present homestead on the Greenville and Orangeville road, and has since
been one of the leading young farmers of West Salem.
Levi Boetz, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on the site of She-
nango August 7, 1830. His father, Henry Bortz, was a native of Lehigh
County, Penn. , where he grew up and married Magdalena Litzenberger, of
that county, who bore him four sons and two daughters: Salome, deceased wife
of Henry Miller, deceased; Mary, widow of John Shoemaker; Solomon, of Craw-
ford County; Charles, of Greenville; Mandis, of Pymatuning Township, and
Dennis, deceased. His wife died, and he married Susannah Litzenberger, a
sister of his first wife, who bore him one son, Reuben, of West Salem Town-
ship, prior to their coming to Mercer County. In 1828 they crossed the Moun-
tains, and settled on the site of Shenango in West Salem Township, where
three children were born to them: Levi, of West Salem Township; Eli, de-
ceased, and Tilghman, of Greenville. The parents died in West Salem Town-
ship in the Lutheran faith. Like all the pioneers they underwent the trials
and hardships of early days, and did their full share toward the development
of Mercer County. Our subject grew to manhood on the old homestead, and
learned the shoemaker’s trade, which he followed about fifteen years. He
then engaged in farming, and has since followed that vocation. Mr. Bortz was
married April 28, 1853, to Miss Eliza, daughter of George S. and Mary (Reich-
ard) Eisenhart, natives of Lehigh County, Penn. , who came to this county in
1851, where the father died June 23, 1870, and the mother July 17, 1888.
Mrs. Bortz is a native of Lehigh County, and is the mother of five children:
Marietta U., wife of Frank Taylor, of Shenango; Alice R., wife of W. H.
Wilkerson, of North Vernon, Ind. ; Louisa, deceased; George, deceased, and
Carrie A. P. Mr. Bortz and family are members of the Reformed Church.
Politically he is a Republican, and takes a deep intei-est in the public affairs of
his native township.
Reuben Bortz, shoemaker, post-office Greenville, was born in Lehigh
County, Penn., February 1, 1821, and is the eldest son of Henry and Susan-
nah Bortz, who settled on the site of Shenango in 1828. Our subject grew
up in this county, and February 18, 1844, was married to Mary Magdalena,
daughter of Samuel Kamerer, of Hempfield Township. Four children are the
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1169
fruits of this union: William Allen, Helen, Wilhelmina and Marcus. Mr.
Bortz followed shoemaking up to within a few years ago, when he retired
from the business. His wife died March 20, 1864, in the faith of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church. He has been a life-long member of the Lutheran
Church, and in politics a Democrat. In 1862 he enlisted in Company A, One
Hundred and Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Militia, and served nine months.
William Allen, eldest son of Eeuben Bortz, was born in Hempfield Township
February 17, 1846, and, excepting two years spent in Kansas, he has always
lived in Mercer County. He was married. May 4, 1865, to Elvina, daughter
of Abraham and Anna Ludwig, early settlers of West Salem Township. Mrs.
Bortz was born on the old homestead, and has had twelve children, five of whom
are living: MarnaM., Mahlon D. La., Epaphroditus, Eva and Milburn. Mr.
Bortz and wife are members of the Evangelical Association, and in politics he
is a Democrat.
Levi G. Boetz, farmer and carpenter, post-office Greenville, was born on
the site of Shenango, August 20, 1850, and is a son of Mandis and Sarah
(Mowry) Bortz, both natives of Lehigh County, Penn. The former came to
West Salem Township with his father, Henry Bortz, in 1828, and here grew
to manhood. He married, November 1, lS49, Sarah, daughter of George
Mowry, of Hempfield Township, who blessed him with ten children : Levi G. ,
Edward H. , Ellen, deceased; Amelia, Martin C., Eliza J. , wife of Philip
Snyder, of Pymatuning Township; Emma, wife of Charles Sponsler, of Dela-
ware Township; Frank, Emanuel and Lydia. The parents located at She-
nango after marriage, and five years afterward settled on their present home-
stead in Pymatuning Township. Our subject was reared in Pymatuning,
and learned the carpenter and painter’s trade, at which he has worked about
twenty years. For the past fifteen years he has followed farming in connec-
tion with his trade, purchasing his present homestead in the spring of 1883.
He was married in December, 1873, to Margaret A. , eldest daughter of Charles
BenninghofP, of Pymatuning Township, who has had four children: Harry W.,
Clarence A., Ellen, deceased, and Oliver O. Mr. Bortz and wife belong to
the Lutheran Church, and politically he is a stanch Republican, and one of
the progressive citizens of the township.
James Brockway, farmer, post-office Jamestown, Penn., was born in Kins-
man, Ohio, February 22, 1831. His father, George Brockway, was a native
of Hartford, Conn., and about 1814-15 his father, Elias Brockway, removed
with his family to Ashtabula County, Ohio, where George grew to manhood.
About 1823 the latter came to West Salem Township, where he married
Christiana Smail, daughter of John and Mary Smail, natives of Germany, who
settled in this township in 1812-13. She reared the following children: David
W., Joseph and Jeremiah, of Kansas; James, of West Salem Township; Erne-
line, deceased wife of Samuel Livingston, of Crawford County; Alvin, Amos
and Levi, of Greene Township, and Eliza J. , deceased. The seven sons are
all living and heads of families. George Brockway and wife resided for a few
years on Big Run, in West Salem Township; thence removed to Kinsman,
Ohio, where they lived about seven years. In the spring of 1834 they returned
to Mercer County and took up their residence in Greene Township, on the
farm where their son Levi now lives. They spent the remaining years of their
lives on this place, dying June 28, 1852, and June 1, 1884, respectively. The
mother died at the home of her son James, in West Salem. George Brockway
was a Baptist from youth up to 1840, when, being a strong anti-slavery man,
and disliking the position assumed by his church on that subject, he severed
his connection therewith and subsequently became a “Free-thinker.” James
1170
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
Brockway was reared on the old homestead, and attended the district school.
He was married January 27, 1852, to Caroline, daughter of Richard and
Barbara (Greiner) Brown, pioneers of West Salem. Mrs. Brockway was born
in this township, and has had three children, viz.: William O., Richard E. ,
deceased, and James S., deceased. In the spring of 1852 our subject located
on the farm where he yet lives. He is an unswerving Republican, and one of
the enterprising, progressive farmers of Mercer County, where he has lived
more than half a century.
James R. Brown, retired farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West
Salem Township March 27, 1812, and is a member of one of the oldest fami-
lies of the township. In the year 1800 James, William, Richard and Andrew
Brown came to Mercer County, Penn. , and, after exploring the country, the
two last mentioned located in West Salem Township, while James and Will-
iam settled across the line in Trumbull County, Ohio. They were natives of
Eastern Pennsylvania, of Irish ancestry. A few years after coming Richard
Brown married Barbara Grenier, a resident of West Salem Township, and a
native of Pennsylvania, of German extraction. They reared a family of nine
children: Andrew (deceased), James R. , Sarah (deceased), William (deceased),
Lorinda, Eliza (deceased), Cunningham R. (deceased), Emeline (deceased) and
Caroline. The parents both died in West Salem Township, in the faith of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, at ripe old ages. Politically Richard Brown was
first a Whig, and afterward a Republican, and served in the War of 1812.
Our subject has always lived in West Salem, and was here married, March 11,
1834, to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Ann Speir, who was born in West
Salem Township February 8, 1808. She bore him four children: Richard C. ,
Erwin, Malinda (deceased) and Robena, wife of William Lininger. Mrs.
Brown died March 6, 1880, in the Baptist faith. Mr. Brown is a stanch
Republican, and one of the oldest citizens of the township.
Erwin Brown, farmer, post-office Greenville, son of James R. Brown, was
born on the old homestead, where he yet lives, January 22, 1837, and has
always lived in Mercer County. He was married September 26, 1859, to Sarah,
daughter of Rev. Nimrod Burwell, of West Salem Township, who has borne
him eight children: Etta (deceased), Ina C. , Elizabeth, Curtin, Malinda, Nora
(deceased), Arthur and Cora. Politically Mr. Brown is one of the leading
Republicans of the county, and is also one of its most prominent farmers and
stock dealers.
William Brown, deceased, was born in West Salem Township in 1816,
and was a son of Richard and Barbara Brown, spoken of in the sketch of his
brother, James R. Our subject grew up and spent his whole life in West Sa-
lem Township. He was twice married. His first wife was Maria, daughter
of Andrew Brown, by whom three children survive: Clorinda, wife of J. W.
Woods; Eliza J., wife of Alfred Moats, and MaryL., wife of Grover Fetter-
man. His wife died, and July 12, 1866, he was married to Mrs. Mary Ann
Brown, daughter of Alexander Nelson. She was born in Sandy Creek Town-
ship, and November 25, 1852, married James Brown, by whom she had two
children: Irwin C., and Emily L., wife of Augustus Kamerer. By her second
marriage one son, William S., was born. Both the sons reside with their
mother in West Salem Township. Politically Mr. Brown was a Republican,
and one of the respected citizens of the township, where he died June 25, 1868.
JosiAH Brown, deceased, was born on the old homestead, in West Salem
To’wnship, January 20, 1816, and was the only son of Andrew Brown, who
settled in this township in the year 1800. [See sketch of James R. Brown.]
Andrew Brown married Mary, daughter of John and Nancy McLaughlin, na-
HISTOBY OF MERGER COUNTY.
1171
lives of Ireland, who came to West Salem Township in April, 1800, where her
father died the following year. They reared five children: Sarah, widow of
Alexander Nelson; Nancy, deceased wife of James Speir, deceased; Josiah,
deceased; Lovina, wife of Jeremiah Morford, and Maria, deceased wife of
IVilliam Brown, deceased. Andrew Brown died in July, 1823, and his widow
afterward married Eichard Morford, and died July 20, 1873. Our subject
spent his whole life on the old homestead in West Salem Township. He was
twice married, first to Mary, daughter of Thomas and Susan Morford, and
reared four children by this union; Thomas, deceased; Andrew, deceased; Mal-
lissa, wife of Dr. Cushman, and Mrs. Susan Brooks. His wife died, and he
was again married, August 21, 1849, to Permelia O., daughter of Osman and
Mary Williams, of Trumbull County, Ohio. Mrs. Brown was born in that
county, and is the mother of eight children: Emma J. , wife of Samuel K. Par-
ker; Emerson O. ; Ransom J. ; Nancy A., wife of A. M. See; Minerva; Philura,
wife of A. F. See; Milo and Manley, all of whom are living. Mr. Brown was
a member of the Baptist Church many years, and died in that faith August 2,
1868. Politically he was a Republican, and served as justice of the peace two
terms. He was an affectionate father and husband, and accumulated through
the passing years a competence for himself and family. He was an honest,
enterprising, public-spirited man, took a leading interest in the public affairs
of his township, and was one of its trustworthy and most respected citizens.
Rev. Nimrod Buewell, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in North
Shenango Township, Crawford Co., Penn., September 13, 1814. He is a
son of Samuel and Hannah (Paden) Burwell, the former a native of England
and the latter of Maryland, of Irish and Scotch parentage. They were mar-
ried in Maryland, and after the birth of their first child removed to Crawford
County, Penn. They were the parents of twelve children, eleven of whom
grew to matnrity, only four of whom are now living. They died on the old
homestead in Crawford County. Our subject grew up in his native township,
and learned the tailoring trade in Sheakleyville, Penn. , where he located in
1831. He was married September 13, 1835, to Sarah B. , daughter of Thomas
and Sarah B. Phillips, old settlers of Sandy Creek Township. Two children
survive this union: Sarah A., wife of Erwin Brown, and Emma T., wife of
John B. Alexander. Mrs. Burwell died September 3, 1854, and he was again
married April 10, 1855, to Lovina, daughter of David and Christiana Arner, of
West Salem Township, and a native of Armstrong County, Penn. Four chil-
dren are the fruits of this marriage ; Nimrod Wayland, Ella (wife of Dr. R.
H. Duff), David H. and John L. , all living. Mr. Burwell united with the
Baptist Church in 1834, and January 29, 1845, he was ordained, in Vienna,
Ohio, a minister of that denomination. He took charge of three churches in
Trumbull County, Ohio, where he remained about two years, and subsequently
was pastor of West Salem Baptist Church two years, and the Greenville con-
gregation about three years. He resided in West Salem Township most of
this period, and has since been one of its well-known citizens. Politically he
is a Prohibitionist, and deeply interested in the success of the temperance
cause.
James B. Callahan, of P. L. Kimberly & Co.’s Iron Mills, post-office
Greenville, was born in Fayette County, Penn. , January 1, 1825, and is a son
of Edward and Jane (Thompson) Callahan, natives of Ireland, who immi-
grated in youth to America. They were married in Eastern Pennsylvania, and
soon afterward removed to Fayette County. In the spring of 1827 they came
to Mercer County, and after a short stay in Pymatuning Township they pur-
chased a tract of land in W est Salem Township, whereon they spent the bal-
1172
HISTOKY OP MEKCEli COUNTY.
ance of their lives, dying in the faith of the Seceder Church, in 1839 and
1850, respectively. Politically Mr. Callahan was a Democrat. They reared
twelve children: Elizabeth (deceased), John N. (deceased), Mary (deceased),
Solomon (deceased), Jane (deceased), David, Nancy, Margaret, Edward,
William, James B. and Rebecca. Our subject has lived in Mercer County
since the spring of 1827, and followed farming up to January, 1882, when
he commenced working in the rolling mill. He was married July 27, 1843,
to Mary Ann, daughter of Adam Miller, who came here from Maryland in
1802. Mrs. Callahan was born in West Salem Township October 24, 1819,
and is the mother of eight children, six of whom are living, viz. : Edward
D. , Sylvester C. , Celestie, Jane, Frank P. and Etta. Mr. Callahan and wife
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics he is a
Democrat.
Robert P. Callahan, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West
Salem Township June 3, 1829, and is a son of John N. and Elizabeth (Pat-
terson) Callahan, natives of Lancaster County, Penn. They were married
in Fayette County, Penn., and in the spring of 1827 came to Mercer County,
and settled in Pymatuning Township. Some two years afterward they
removed into West Salem, where both resided until death, which occurred
in 1871 and 1882, respectively. They reared four children: Edward W.,
deceased; Robert P. , Margaret, wife of Joseph McGranahan, and Nancy,
wife of A. D. Roberts. Politically Mr. Callahan was a Democrat, and one of
the well known, respected citizens of West Salem. Robert P. has always
lived in this county, and the greater portion of his life in West Salem
Township. He was married June 3, 1858, to Miss Eliza J. , daughter of
Adam and Frances Hill, of Greene Township. Mrs. Callahan was born in
that township, and is the mother of six children, all of whom are living,
viz.: Elizabeth, wife of Ransom J. Brown; Hiram W., Frances A., John N.,
Maggie and Mary A. Mr. Callahan is a stanch Democrat, and has filled
several of the township offices. He has always taken an active interest in
local public affairs, and is now serving as school director.
Joseph W. Calvert, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Cortland
County, N. Y., February 21, 1819, and is a son of Nathaniel Calvert, a native
of Ireland, who immigrated to New York State in boyhood, where he grew up
and married Betsy E. Gamble. They reared a large family, and in the fall of
1820 settled in Mercer County, afterward removing into Crawford County,
Penn. , where they spent the balance of their lives. The following children
survive: Mary Ann, widow of Willip,m Mossman; James, Joseph W., Martha,
widow of Aaron Kale, and William. Our subject grew up in Crawford County,
and there married Mary, daughter of John Andrews, a pioneer of that county.
In the fall of 1850 he purchased his present homestead in West Salem Town-
ship, upon which he has since resided. Six children are the fruits of his
marriage: Elizabeth, wife of James McNeilly; Margaret, wife of James
McBroom; John N. , Joseph A., Mary and Emma. Mr. Calvert and wife
are members of the Presbyterian Church, and politically he is a stanch Repub-
lican. He began life comparatively poor, but is to-day one of the prosperous
farmers of West Salem Township.
Samuel Canon, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Fayette County,
Penn., August 7, 1805. His parents, Matthew and Jane (McMillan) Canon,
were natives of Ireland, who immigrated to Fayette County, Penn. , in the latter
part of the eighteenth century, where they engaged in the mercantile and
hotel business, which proved quite successful for a number of years, the dry
goods being purchased in Baltimore, Md. , and hauled over the Allegheny
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1173
Mountains by six-horse teams, -which required six -weeks to make one trip and
incurred many hardships. He reared a family of fourteen children, Samuel,
the subject of this sketch, being the youngest. He died in 18‘29, aged seveuty-
four years; his wife survived him six years. Samuel grew to manhood in his
native county, and was there married, in March, 1832, to Mary Gibson, a
native of the same county. In February, 1833, they removed to Mercer
Countv, Penn. , and settled on the farm where he now resides, it being uncleared
at that time. Here they reared a family of seven children, four daughters and
three sons: Martha, wife of T. A. Williamson, of Greenville, Penn. ; Margaret,
widow of Joseph Andrews; Mary, Sarah, John, Samuel and Loverayne. Mrs.
Canon died March 10, 1884, aged seventy- four years; she was a consistent
member of the Presbyterian Church, to which denomination Mr. Canon also
belongs. Politically he has been a life-long, unswerving Democrat. He cast
his first vote for Jackson in 1828, and has never missed voting for the presi-
dential nominee of the Democratic party during the past sixty years. He is
one of the few living early settlers of West Salem Township, where he has
resided over fifty-five years.
John Canon, farmer, post-office Greenville, is the eldest son of Samuel
Canon, and was born on the old homestead July 12, 1843. He has always
resided in West Salem, and was married August 14, 1870, to Elizabeth,
daughter of John Blair, of that township. She is the mother of seven chil-
dren: Lindsie, Anna M. (deceased), Addie, Samuel, Mabel, Blanche and Ger-
trude. .The family belong to the Baptist Church, and politically Mr. Canon
has always been a Democrat, and is a member of the R. T. of T.
De. Heney D. La. Cossitt, a deceased pioneer physician of Mercer County,
was born in Granby, Hartford Co., Conn., May 3, 1803, and died at his
homestead, in West Salem Township, March 1. 1877. His great-grandfather,
Rene Cossitt, was a native of Paris, France, who immigrated to America and
married Ruth Porter, of Waterbury, Conn. They settled in Granby, Conn.,
and reared a family of ten children, Rene, the grandfather of our subject,
being the eldest sou. He was born in 1722, and married Phoebe Hillyer, who
bore him four sons and four daughters, Capt. Silas Cossitt, an officer in the
Revolution, being one of the number. Capt. Cossitt was born June 22,
1756, and married Sarah Shepard, born July 15, 1764, and about 1805 re-
moved from Connecticut to Vernon Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio. They
were the parents of seven sons and two daughters. Three of the sons,
Epaphroditus, James S. and Henry D. La., subsequently became well-known
physicians of Mercer County. Capt. Silas Cossitt died May 7, 1819, and his
widow again married, and survived him till February 14, 1832. Henry D. La.
grew up in Trumbull County, Ohio, and received his education at the Mercer
Academy. He began reading medicine with his brothers, Epaphroditus and
James S, Cossitt, then practicing physicians of Mercer. After the former
went west he continued under his brother James, who finally removed to New
Castle, Penn. Dr. Cossitt attended his first course of lectures at the College
of Physicians and Surgeons, Fairfield, Herkimer Co., N. Y. , in the class of
1824-25. He afterward attended lectures at Geneva, N. Y. He was married
at Winfield, Herkimer Co., N. Y. , June 9, 1825, to Miss Lydia Crandall, a
native of Plainfield, Otsego Co., N. Y. , born September 23, 1803. In August
succeeding his marriage Dr. Cossitt opened an office in Greenville, where he
practiced his profession for more than half a century. Seven children were
born to him of this union: Harriett J. , Isaac (deceased), Lydia A., Sarah E.
(deceased), Henry D. La. (deceased), Julia E. (deceased) and one died in in-
fancy. In August, 1826, Dr. Cossitt was commissioned, by Gov. Shulze,
I
1174 HISTOKY OP MERCER COUNTY.
captain of the Greenville Infantry; was commissioned major of the regiment
by Gov. Wolf, in March, 1830, and in August, 1835, lietuenant- colonel. In
July, 1833, Dr. Cossitt was appointed justice of the peace by Gov. Wolf, for
Salem and West Salem Townships, including Greenville, but he never exer-
cised the duties of the office except at weddings, and usually returned the fee
to the bride. His wife died September 25, 1857, and he was again married,
July 22, 1858, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of William and Margaret McCli-
mans, of Salem Township. Mrs. Cossitt was born in that township March 1,
1831, and is the mother of six children, all of whom are living: Henry D. La.,
Sarah Elizabeth (wife of J. A. Doyle, of Tarentum, Penn.), William Epa-
phroditus, Duran Shepard, Fred Silas and Carrie Julia. Dr. Cossitt be-
came a member of the Kush Medical Society of the Willoughby University, of
Lake Erie, Ohio, now Starling Medical College, of Columbus, Ohio, February
17, 1845, and on the 25th of the same month that institution conferred upon
him the degree of M. D. He became a member of the State Medical Society
in 1871, and in 1872 was elected its vice-president. He joined the American
Medical Association in 1872, and was also a member of the Mercer County
Medical Society. Dr. Cossitt was a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church from boyhood, and one of the early supporters of the Greenville con-
gregation. He was a life-long Democrat, and in 1862 was the choice of his
party for the Legislature, and though defeated, in a strong Republican Coun-
ty, he polled a very large vote. From the time of locating in Greenville up
to within a few days of his death he continued his professional duties with
unabating vigor, except a few years while engaged in mercantile and coal bus-
iness. His name was familiar to the people of every part of Mercer County, and
he was recognized as one of the most successful medical practitioners of this
section of the State. After practicing alone for about ten years he formed a
partnership with Dr. R. E. Breiner, which continued till August, 1842, when
he entered into a partnership with Dr. D. B. Packard. This existed until the
fall of 1857, when he took in Dr. Fielding Donaldson, yet a practicing physi-
cian of Greenville. This business relation was severed after about two years,
and Dr. Cossitt continued alone until 1874, when he formed a partnership
with Dr. B. E. Mossman, which existed up to his death. He died at his home
southwest of Greenville, whei’e he had been residing for about twelve years.
Dr. Cossitt was a man of deep convictions and strong individuality, but always
courteous and generous toward his fellow men. He possessed wonderful en-
ergy and enterprise, was generous and charitable to the needy, and stood high
both as a citizen and a physician. Ever kind and affectionate in his home
relations, his death was an irreparable loss to his family, to whom he left a
handsome estate, the legitimate savings from more than half a century of pro-
fessional toil.
Charles Diefenderfee, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Lehigh
County, Penn., August 30, 1831, and is a son of Jacob and Maria (Bear)
Diefenderfer, natives of Lehigh County. In the spring of 1836 the parents
crossed the Mountains to Mercer County, and settled on Big Run, in West
Salem Township, where their son Charles now resides. They brought with
them hve children: Mary, deceased; Henry, of Pymatuning Township; Reu-
ben, deceased; Charles, and Elvina, wife of Levi Moyer, of Pymatuning Town-
ship. Jacob and wife resided in West Salem Township up to their decease,
the mother dying in 1856, and the father in 1868, both in the faith of the
Lutheran Church. Charles grew up on the old homestead, which he subse-
quently inherited. He was married January 4, 1846, to Miss Catharine,
daughter of Jacob and Margaret Kamerer, pioneers of what is now Hempfield
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
1175
Township, where Mrs. Diefenderfer was born February 22, 1826, and there
grew up. They have reared nine children: William, deceased; Harriet, de-
ceased; Levi, Louisa, Jacob, George, deceased; Charles, Julia and Catharine.
The family belong to the Lutheran Church, and in politics Mr. Diefenderfer
is a Democrat. Mr. Diefenderfer and wife have been living on the old home-
stead since 1856, and he has always taken a deep interest in the growth of
his township.
Nelson Dingman, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Montgomery
County, N. Y., July 13, 1818. His parents, Jacob and Polly (Hosier) Ding-
man, were natives of New York State, where both spent their lives. They
had ten children, eight of whom grew up, viz.: John, deceased; Peter, Mahit-
able, Luke, Nelson, Alonzo, Hiram and Charlotte. Our subject was reared
in his native county, and in the spring of 1846 he came to Salem Township,
Mercer County, where he resided till the fall of 1865, when he located on his
present homestead in West Salem. Mr. Dingman was married November 5,
1846, to Jane, daughter of Baptist and Esther (Simpson) Brush, natives of
Ireland, and pioneers of Salem Township, in which chapter a sketch of the
family will be found. Mrs. Dingman was born in Salem Township May 7,
1826, and has reared seven children: Oliver H., Mary A., wife of Linus Bil-
lig, Andrew S. ; Emma, wife of Sylvester Hoge; Sanford W., Elmer E. and
Clara J. Mr. Dingman and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church,
and in politics he is a Eepublican. Beginning life poor he has by rigid indus-
try accumulated a nice property.
Mark Doyle, deceased, was born in County Wicklow, Ireland, May 12,
1813, and was a son of William and Anne (Dowd) Doyle, natives of that
county. His mother died in Ireland, and her husband followed his children
to Mercer County, where he died at the home of his son Mark. Six sons and
one daughter were born to William and Anne Doyle: Patrick, Mark, William,
Bridget, Peter, John and James. William and Peter are the only survivors,
and are both residents of Wisconsin. Mark Doyle grew to manhood in his
native land, and in 1836, in company with his brother Patrick, he immigrated
to Canada. He worked about one year in Hamilton, Ontario, when the Canadian
rebellion of 1837-38 broke out, and he was notified to report for duty. Not
relishing the idea of fighting for England, the hereditary foe of his native land,
he quietly left Hamilton on foot, and by traveling all night and the following
day finally reached the Niagara River in safety. After considerable difficulty he
W'as allowed to cross that stream to the American side, and felt very much
relieved when at last he stood under the protecting folds of the stars and
stripes. He made his way on foot to Trumbull County, Ohio, where he began
working at farm labor for |6 per month. His brother Patrick joined him a
few months afterward, and they worked in that vicinity about four years.
They then returned to Ireland for the purpose of obtaining helpmates to share
their homes in the New World. They there met Anne and Bridget Collin,
who came with them to America in the spring of 1842, accompanied by John
and Bridget Doyle. Patrick was married, on his arrival at New York, to Anne
Collin, and they then came westward to Kinsman, Ohio. Mark was married,
in September, 1843, by Rev. Father Mitchell, in the Mercer Church, to Bridget
Collin, who bore him the following children: Mrs. Anne Connelly, William F.,
Eliza J., wife of W. T. Phelan; Mary A. and Patrick H. , all of whom are living.
Mark and Patrick Doyle lived on rented farms in Ohio until the spring of 1851,
when they settled on the homesteads in West Salem Township, where the bal-
ance of their lives were passed. Mrs. Bridget Doyle died February 26, 1880,
and her husband survived her until May 7, 1888. They were practical mem-
1176
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
bers of the Catholic Church, and lived and died in that faith. Politically
Mr. Doyle was an ardent Democrat, and took a deep interest in the public
affairs of his township. He was one of the most energetic and successful
farmers of Mercer County, and left at his death a large estate. Mark Doyle
was recognized as a man of unbounded hospitality, and his door was ever open
to friend and stranger alike. He was a well-read man on various subjects, and
a fluent conversationalist. He was a lively, good-natured man, ever fond of a
joke, and never at a loss to tell one. His death was not only an affliction to
his family, but a loss to the community where he had lived nearly forty years.
Patrick Doyle, deceased, was born in the County Wicklow, Ireland, Jan-
uary 6, 1812, and immigrated to Canada with his brother Mark in 1836,
removing to Ohio the following year. He returned to Ireland four years later
for a wife, who came with him to New York in the spring of 1842, where
Patrick Doyle and Anne Collin were married, in the Catholic Cathedral of that
city. May 15, 1842. The brothers came westward to Trumbull County, Ohio,
where they rented farms till the spring of 1851, when they located in West
Salem. Through the passing years our subject accumulated a large property,
and at his death, which occurred November 20, 1884, he was one of the
wealthiest farmers of Mercer County. Both he and wife were practical mem-
bers of the Catholic Church, and he was a stanch supporter of the Democratic
party. No children blessed their union, and his widow still resides upon
the old homestead. Patrick Doyle was a quiet, unassuming man, upright and
honest in all his dealings, and was a hard working, energetic and successful
citizen throughout his business career. He had hosts of friends, and was
thoroughly respected by all who knew him.
William Fell, deceased, was a son of John and Elizabeth (Hartley) Fell,
and was born in Bucks County, Penn., April 2, 1756, removing to Westmore-
land County, Penn., after reaching manhood. He there married Agnes Ander-
son, born February 15, 1761. He followed weaving in summer, and teaching
school in the winter. In the fall of 1796 he and his son, George W., came
to Mercer County, and selected a piece of laud in what is now the Southern
part of West Salem Township. In the spring of 1797 they came back to
the land, built a log cabin, and commenced a settlement in the dense forest.
Mr. Fell returned to Westmoreland County early in July, leaving his son,
George W. , then a boy thirteen years old, to continue the settlement, and he
remained seven weeks longer before joining his father in Westmoreland
County. Mr. Fell moved his family to Mercer County in the spring of 1798,
and lived upon the same farm through all the hardships and privations of
pioneer days, up to his death, July 16, 1841. His wife had died twenty-one
years before, August 8, 1820. They reared a family of five children: Mary,
who married Timothy Dumars; George W. ; Miriam, who became the wife of
James Stevenson; Jonas, and Agnes, who married William McKnight. All
of these are dead, but each left numerous descendants.
George W. Fell, deceased, eldest son of William and Agnes Fell, was
born in Westmoreland County, Penn., August 31, 1784, and came with his
father to Mercer County in the fall of 1796. They made a permanent settle-
ment in the spring of 1797, and the whole family removed thereto the follow-
ing year. He was married April 14, 1806, to Nancy Ann Dumars, and located
on a portion of the old homestead. She was born in April, 1787, and reared
eight children: Mary, who still resides upon the old homestead in her eighty-
second year; Sarah, who married Frank Merry; William G. , deceased, by pro-
fession a civil engineer; Jonas, a deceased physician of Lexington, 111.; Amos
D., a surveyor of Trumbull County, Ohio; Fannie, deceased, who married
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1177
Aaron M. Clark; Hannah, wife of William Jaxtbeimer, of West Salem Town-
ship, and residing upon the old homestead, and Roxanna, deceased. Mr.
Fell was appointed justice of the peace in 1822, and served in that office for
eio-hteen years, consecutively. He followed farming all his life, and died
August 15, 1849, upon the farm which he settled in 1797. His widow sur-
vived him till September 21, 1871. Both were members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and politically Mr. Fell was a Democrat and belonged to
the Masonic fi-aternity. He lived through all the early settlement of Mercer
County, and endured the hardships and trials incident to pioneer life.
William S. Fell, farmer, post-office Orangeville, Ohio, was born on his
present homestead, in West Salem Township, October 22, 1820. His father,
John Fell, was born in Bucks County, Penn., April 11. 1781, and came with
his parents, Nathan and Ann Fell, to Mercer County, Penn., in the spring of
1798. They settled in what is now Pymatuning Township, where their grand-
sons, Aaron and Mahlon, reside. John there grew to manhood and married
Catharine, daughter of Jacob and Barbara (Miller) Campbell, who settled in
the southwest corner of West Salem Township toward the close of the last
century. After marriage John Pell located on a farm in West Salem Town-
ship, where the balance of his life was spent. He reared a family of seven
children: Elizabeth, deceased; John, deceased; Rachel, widow of Francis
Trunkey; George, deceased; Anne, widow of Harvey Tninkey, who died Sep-
tember 20, 1888; Sarah, deceased, and William S. The parents lived and
died in the Methodist Episcopal faith. In politics Mr. Fell was a Whig, and
died in 1837, his widow surviving him until 1857. He was an enterprising,
energetic, successful farmer, and was recognized as one of the leading citizens
of Mercer County. Our subject has spent his whole life in his native town-
ship, and was married September 24, 1845, to Catharine, daughter of Ezra
Marvin, of Trumbull County, Ohio. Mrs. Fell was born in that county
November 24, 1824, and is the mother of six children: Ellen, wife of D. W.
Fuller; Henriette, wife of R. A. Luce; Alice, wife of W. E. Drake; Irene,
William W. and Lillian. Mr. Fell and wife have been members of the Bap-
tist Church nearly forty years. In politics he is a stanch Republican, and one
of the prominent, enterprising citizens of the county.
Aylett R. Fell, farmer, post-office Orangeville, Ohio, was born on his
homestead in West Salem Township May 8, l829. His father, George Fell,
was born in Bucks County, Penn., September 7, 1783, and came with his
parents, Nathan and Ann Fell, to Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co., Penn.,
in the spring of 1798. George there grew to maturity, and in 1807 married
Rachel, daughter of Jacob and Barbara (Miller) Campbell, a pioneer of West
Salem Township. Soon after his marriage he settled on the farm where our
subject now lives. Ten children were born to George and Rachel Fell:
Elizabeth, Jesse (deceased), Nathan (deceased), John (deceased), Andi’ew,
George (deceased), Julia A. (deceased), Rachel, Fannie M. (deceased) and
Aylett R. The parents spent their whole married life on their homestead in
West Salem. George Fell was a member of the Baptist Church, and a Whig
in politics. He was justice of the peace eighteen years, and during his term
of service married 118 couples. He was a veteran of the War of 1812, and
died June 12, 1853. His widow survived him until 1879. He was one of the
leading farmers of Mercer County, and at his death was the owner of over
550 acres of land, all of which he made excepting 100 acres given to him by
his father. Our subject was reared on his present homestead, and was mar-
ried October 4, 1850, to Clarissa, daughter of Samuel Follett. of Pymatuning
Township. Mrs. Fell was born in New York State, and is the mother of
1178
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
three sons; Chalmers, Walter J. and Charley. Politically Mr. Pell is a
Republican. For eight years he was engaged in the lumber business, and is
one of the most successful farmers of the county.
John Ferguson, Sr., deceased, was a native of Ireland, who immigrated to
Westmoreland County, Penn., in the year 1790. He brought with him his
wife, Ann (Johnston) Ferguson, and two sons, John and James. Two chil-
dren, Martha and Kennedy, were born in Westmoreland County. His wife
died in that county, and in the spring of 1798, with his sons, John and James,
he came to Mercer County, and located in what is now the northeast corner of
West Salem Township. In 1804 he married Jane, daughter of Alexander and
Mary (Murphy) McMillen, natives of Ireland, who left at her death one daugh-
ter, Mary, now residing in Sharpsville. All of the children by the first mar-
riage are dead. John Ferguson died on the old homestead in 1842, and his
widow in 1853. They were attendants of the Seceder Church of Greenville.
O. Newton Fletcher, farmer and fruit grower, post-office Greenville, was
born in Crawford County, Penn., May 26, 1833. His grandfather, Hugh
Fletcher, was a native of County Donegal, Ireland, who immigrated to West-
moreland County, Penn., about 1795. In the summer of 1797 he visited North-
western Pennsylvania, selected a tract of 200 acres in the southwest part of
Crawford County, where he erected a cabin, made a small clearing in the dense
forest and raised crops, which he secreted for preservation from the roving
bands of Indians. Returning to Westmoreland County, he there married Sarah
Fullerton, and in the spring of 1798 brought his wife to his new home in the
wilderness. They reared thirteen children, only two of whom are now living,
and the parents spent the balance of their lives in Crawford County. Hugh
Fletcher was one of the organizers and first elders of the Seceder Church of
South Shenango, Crawford County, which had its inception in 1801. Samuel
Fletcher, the father of our subject, was the eldest son of Hugh and Sarah
Fletcher, and was born on the old homestead J anuary 2, 1802. He there grew
up and married Polly, daughter of Gershom and Nancy Hull, pioneers of
Crawford County. Mrs. Fletcher was born in Washington County, Penn.,
August 6, 1800, and reared three sons: A. Milton, O. Newton and Hugh A.
The father died near Greenville October 28, 1881, and his widow resides with
her son, O. Newton. The latter was reared in Crawford County, Penn., and
in 1868 located on his present homestead, situated on one of the most beautiful
sites near Greenville. He was married Febimary 4, 1868, to Miss Laura, a
daughter of Harvey Trunkey, of Trumbull County, Ohio. There are three
children: Harvey Trunkey and Anna Grace, both accomplished and promising
students of Thiel College, and Mary Pearl, the youngest of the family. The
family is one of the best known families in Greenville. In church they are
Presbyterian, and politically Mr. Fletcher is one of the well-known Repub-
licans of West Salem Township.
William M. Fletcher, farmer and veterinary surgeon, post-office Green-
ville, was born in what is now Greene Township, Mercer Co. , Penn. , March 5,
1835. His father, Alexander Fletcher, was born in Crawford County, Penn.,
and was a son of Hugh and Sarah (Fullerton) Fletcher, natives of Ireland, and
pioneers of Crawford County. Alexander grew to manhood in his native county,
and afterward worked for Thomas Kinsman, of Kinsman, Ohio, for several
years. He then purchased and settled on a farm in Greene Township. He
married Jane, daughter of Joseph McClurg, a native of Ireland and an early
settler of West Salem Township. They reared five children: AVilliam M. ,
Lemuel A., who died from disease contracted in the army; Sarah M. , wife of
Hugh Bean; Mary A. and Leander, deceased. The parents were members of
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1179
the United Presbyterian Church, and died upon the old homestead. Politi-
cally the father was a Democrat. William M. has always made his home in this
county. He was married December 24, 1857, to Mary E., daughter of Sam-
uel and Margaret McBroom, natives of Brooke County, W. Va., and early set-
tler of West Salem Township. Mrs. Fletcher was born in that township, and
is the mother of five children : Samuel A., deceased; Lizzie, wife of Dr. A.
O. Moreland, of Jamestown, Penn. Orran M. , James C. and William A. The
family belong to the United Presbyterian Church, and politically Mr. Fletcher
is a Democrat. He removed from Greene Township to his present homestead
in the spring of 1881. For forty years he has been a veterinary surgeon, and
devotes most of his attention to that business.
Samuel Foulk, deceased, farmer of West Salem Township, was born in
Virginia June 22, 1818, and was a son of Daniel and Elizabeth Foulk, who
removed to Trumbull County, Ohio, when Samuel was a boy. The subject of
this sketch grew to maturity in that county, and was there married to Leah,
daughter of David and Christina Arner, April 16, 1842. Her parents were
natives of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Foulk was born in Westmoreland County,
Penn., and is the mother of three children: Alvin, deceased; Elizabeth J. , wife
of Robert McMurray, of Pymatuning Township, and John H. In the spring of
1854 Mr. Foulk and family came from Ohio to West Salem Township, where
he resided up to his death, April 17, 1887. He was a Democrat, a Methodist
in belief, and an upright, honest man, kind and affectionate to his wife and
family, to whom he left a comfortable competence, the result of his own indus-
trious habits.
Jacob Gaheing, farmer, post-ojBice Greenville, was born in Wurtemberg,
Germany, December 4, 1824, and is a son of Martin and Anna (Elsiser) Gahr-
ing, both of whom spent their lives in Germany. J acob grew to manhood in
his native land, and in 1852 immigrated to Venango County, Penn., where he
was married August 31, 1859, to Amelia, daughter of John Benninghoff, of
that county. She was born in Clearfield County, Penn., December 25, 1830,
and had four children by this marriage; Lucy A., Sadie E., Christina and
Wilson J. , all of whom are living. In the spring of 1870 Mr. Gahring pur-
chased his present homestead in West Salem Township, upon which he
then settled and has since resided. His wife died in the Reformed faith,
March 28, 1882. Mr. Gahring and family belong to the Lutheran Church,
and politically he is a Democrat. He is one of the wealthy farmers of West
Salem.
Abeaham K. Haenit, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West
Salem Township December 25, 1825. His parents were Peter and Catharine
(Everhart) Harnit, pioneers of Mercer County. The former was born in
Beaver County, Penn., March 22, 1798, and was a son of Samuel and Bar-
bara A. Harnit, who were married August 9, 1795, and both of whom died in
Beaver County. Peter grew to manhood in that county, and then came to
Mercer County, where he was married January 23, 1823, to Catharine, daugh-
ter of Frederick and Catharine (Keck) Everhart, a pioneer family of West
Salem Township. Her father carried on the first pottery in this part of the
county. Mr. Harnit first located on the Cossitt farm, but soon afterward
purchased a place nearer Greenville, which he sold to Daniel Knappenberger
in the spring of 1836, and removed into the borough. He subsequently pur-
chased and settled on the Joseph B. Nelson farm, in West Salem Township,
which he also sold and again moved to Greenville. He finally bought and
settled on the farm where his sons, Abraham K. and Madison, live. He died
in Greenville January 15, 1864, his widow surviving him until February 24,
1180
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1878. They reared eight children: Samuel, Abraham K., John, Maria, Linus,
Marvin, Madison and Ann, all residents of the county except Samuel, who
lives in Alichigan. Abraham K. was reared in his native township, and mar-
ried June 10, 1856, Mrs. Sarah Smith, nee Lawton, a native of Yorkshire,
England, who has borne him five children: Silas, Catharine (wife of Oscar
Brockway), Peter, Daniel and Anna S., all living. Politically Mr. Harnit
is a stanch Democrat, and one of the oldest native residents of the town-
ship.
Jacob Hasenplug, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Centre County,
Penn., October 20, 1830. His grandfather, Henry Hasenplug, emigrated
from Germany to America during the Revolution, and after the war married a
Miss Siebold, of Union County, Penn. His father, Jacob Hasenplug, was
born in Union County July 16, 1796, there grew up and married Annie Lichty,
a native of the same county. They afterward removed to Centre County,
where Jacob operated a tannery and brewery. In the fall of 1834 they re-
moved to West Salem Township, Mercer County, and reared six children:
George E., deceased; Elizabeth, wife of Jonathan Showers; Jacob; Maria,
widow of William Dillon; John H. and Daniel. They settled in the forests of
West Salem, in a hewed log house which Mr. Hasenplug erected after coming.
The mother died in 1871, and her venerable husband, at the ripe old age of
ninety-three years, resided on the old homestead, peacefully awaiting the call
to join her in that home beyond the grave, until his death August 7, 1888.
Both died in the faith of the Evangelical Association, of which church they
were members many years. Politically he was a Republican. Our subject
has resided in West Salem since the fall of 1834. He learned the shoemaker’s
trade, which he followed at Maysville for twenty years, but since the spring of
1882 he has been engaged in farming. In the fall of 1862 he was drafted, and
enlisted in Compay D, One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Regiment. Pennsylvania
Militia, and served nine months. Mr. Hasenplug was married in April, 1855,
to Mary Ann, daughter of Jeffrey and Ann (Morford) Bentley, of West Salem
Township. She was a native of Mercer County, and reared nine children:
Elizabeth, wife of Charles Buell; Emma, wife of Squire Jewell; Elmer E. ,
Arminta, Ida, Charles, Ella, Sadie and Lorinda, all of whom are living. Mrs.
Hasenplug died in the Baptist faith May 7, 1875. Our subject is a Republi-
can, and one of the well known citizens of the township.
The Hommee Family. — Jacob Hommer, a native of Germany, and a Revo-
lutionary soldier, was one of the early settlers of West Salem Township. He
grew up in Maryland, and was twice married. His first wife was Mary Siler,
who bore him three sons and four daughters: John, Joseph, Jacob, Polly,
Lena, Susan and Elizabeth. The mother died in Maryland, and he married
Mrs. Hannah (Booth) Schaffer, and with two sons, John and Jacob, and his
four daughters, by his first marriage, immigrated to Mercer County in 1809
(Joseph remaining in Maryland), where he purchased and settled on a tract of
land partly lying within the present limits of Greenville. Two daughters,
Hannah and Rachel, were born of his second marriage. His cabin stood on
the west side, where Samuel West now lives. The parents both spent the
balance of their lives on this farm, upon which they were interred. John, the
eldest son, married Catharine Harsh, in Maryland, and after coming to Mercer
located at the Big Bend, in Delaware Township, where his father purchased
him 100 acres. He died there, and his sons still live on the old homestead.
Joseph, the second son, was born in Maryland May 15, 1791, there learned
the shoemaker’s trade, and came to West Salem Township about two years
after the rest of the family. He married Magdalena Everhart, who was born
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1181
in Westmoreland County, Penn., October 18, 1800, and came to Mercer
County early in the present century. They located on a part of his father’s
farm, where he followed the shoemaking trade. They reared seven children:
Catharine, wife of Thomas Boles, of this county; Josiah, Uriah, Mary, wife of
Martin Woodford, of Kansas; Julia A. ; Paul, deceased, and Felecia, deceased.
The parents were originally Lutherans, but afterward joined the Methodist
Episcopal Church. They died in Greenville February 28 and September 5.
1861, respectively, and are buried in the family grave yard. Joseph was a
Whig, and then a Republican in politics, and was at Erie during the War of
1812.
Jacob, the third son of Jacob Hommer, Sr., was also a native of Maryland,
and came with his parents to West Salem Township in 1809. He served at
Erie in the War of 1812, and subsequently married Mary, daughter of John
and Hannah (Booth) Schaffer, born in Maryland March 15, 1798. Her father
died in that State, and her mother married Jacob Hommer, Sr. Jacob and
Mary Hommer reared the following children: David, Jacob, William M. ,
Hannah, wife of Charles H. Fry; Joseph, deceased; Elizabeth, widow of Benja-
min Loutzenhiser ; Mary L. , deceased, wife of Samuel W est, and four died in
infancy. All of the living children are residents of Greenville. After mar-
riage Jacob settled on a part of the old homestead, where his daughter, Mrs.
Loutzenhiser, now lives. He died May 5, 1837, and his widow afterward
married Levi Gravat, and died April 6, 1875. They were members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics he was a Republican. Of the
daughters of Jacob Hommer, Sr. : Polly, first married Jacob Rusher and after-
ward John Boston; Lena, married David Haun; Susan and Elizabeth, married
Irvin and Richard Carr, respectively, of Mercer County; Hannah, became the
wife of Paul Everhart, and Rachel married William Best.
Robeet S. Howe, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born near Oil City,
A^enango Co., Penn., June 25, 1834, and is a son of Samuel and Sarah
(Sproule) Howe, natives of A^enango and Crawford Counties, Penn. , respect-
ively, and of Irish parentage. They were married in Mercer County and
settled near Oil City, and they spent the balance of their lives in Venango
County. They reared four sons and three daughters, Robert S. and two of
the daughters being the only survivors. Our subject grew up in his native
county, and went to school in the typical log building of the pioneer days.
He was married March 2, 1854, to Elizabeth, daughter of John Benninghofl',
deceased. She was born in Cherry Tree Township, Venango Co., Penn.,
September 3, 1831, and is the'mother of six living children: Emma, wife of
John McElheney; Elmer E. , Curtin J. , AVilliam B., Catharine and Eva. In
March, 1868, Mr. Howe located on his farm in AVest Salem Township, where
his son Curtin J. now lives. In 1883 he erected his residence near Greenville,
and has since resided there. The family are attendants of the Lutheran
Church, and in politics Mr. Howe is a Republican.
Alexandee and Maegaeet Huntee, natives of the County Tyrone, Ireland,
were among the early settlers of AVest Salem Township. The former was born
November 13, 1761, and the latter in April, 1768, and they were married in
the County Tyrone, Ireland, October 2, 1786. They left their native county
for America June 16, 1788, and arrived at Philadelphia August 22 following.
They remained there till August, 1790, and then removed to Cumberland
County, Penn., and in November, 1793, to Fayette County. Here they lived
till April, 1812, when they came to Mercer County and settled on a tract of
400 acres of land in West Salem Township, still principally owned by their
descendants. Alexander Hunter waa a pioneer surveyor of Mercer County,
70
1182
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
and a man of fine education and extensive knowledge. He was the principal
surveyor of this locality from 1812 up to his death, and devoted nearly his
entire attention to that profession. He reared a family of nine children:
Jane, who married Thomas Gilliland, and remained behind in Fayette County;
James, Matthew, Betty, who married James Mossman, and at his death Robert
Brion, and subsequently David Parker; Peggy, who became the wife of John
Mossman; Ebby, who married Hugh Mossman; Alexander, Hiram and Elliott,
all of whom are dead except Hiram, a resident of Wisconsin. The eight
youngest came to this township with their parents, the eldest son, James, being
then in his twenty- third year, and the youngest, Elliott, in his fifth year. The
mother died on the old homestead April 8, 1838, and her husband survived
her till March 24, 1847. They were life long members of the Covenanter
Church, and Mr. Hunter was an elder in the Greenville congregation many
years. Politically he was a Whig, and one of the prominent men of pioneer
days.
Col. SiL.is Hunter, farmer, post-office Jamestown, Penn., was born on the
homestead where he now resides May 26, 1832. His father, James Hunter,
was born in Philadelphia, Penn., December 5, 1789, and had reached man-
hood ere the coming of the family to Mercer County in the spring of 1812.
He was married February 23, 1815, to Sarah Dowlin, who died without issue
April 5, 1817. He was again married July 27, 1820, to Isabella, daughter
of Christopher and Elizabeth North. She was born in Maryland in June,
1793, and came to Mercer County with her parents when a small child, her
mother carrying her on horseback across the Mountains from Westmoreland
County, Penn., whither they had removed from Maryland. They settled in
w'hat is now Greene Township, on the farm where her nephew, Samuel
North, resides. She grew to womanhood on that farm, and upon her marriage
took up her abode on the old Hunter homestead, in West Salem Township,
where the balance of her life was ]Dassed. She had the following children
by this union: Alexander, deceased; Margaret, wife of James J. Christy, of
Kinsman, Ohio; Harrison, of Jamestown; David A., of Emporia, Kas. ;
James deceased; Silas, Matthew C. , deceased; John M. , deceased, and
Anderson McLean, of Emporia, Kas. James Hunter followed farming all
his life, and died May 4, 1869. Both he and wife were members of the
United Presbyterian Church. In politics he was a Whig and afterward a
Republican, and together with his brother Matthew served in the War of 1812.
He was an upright, honest man, and left to his descendants the record of a
spotless reputation. His widow survived him over nineteen years, and died
June 5, 1888, at the remarkable age of ninety-five years. She retained her
memory up to the last, and was always happy when relating pioneer remin-
iscences. She was kind and motherly, and her long life was a blessing to
her children and descendants. Our subject, Silas, grew to manhood on his
present homestead, and in the spring of 1856 removed to Kansas. In 1861
he enlisted in the First Kansas Infantry, subsequently serving as first lieu-
tenant in the Second Regiment Indian Home Guards, and major of the
Eleventh Regiment United States Colored Infantry, from which he was trans-
ferred with the same rank to the Fifty-seventh United States Colored Infantry.
He afterward filled the ranks of lieutenant-colonel and colonel, successively,
of the last mentioned regiment, and was mustered out December 20, 1866.
He was then, for meritorious services, commissioned first lieutenant of the
Thirty-eighth United States Infantry, with eighteen months’ advance pay, but
declined the position. Upon the sickness of his father he returned to
Mercer County, and on his death took charge of the old homestead. Col.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1183
Hunter was married February 9, 1871, to Sarah C. Sinclair, of Jamestown,
Penn., who is the mother of five children: James, Charles, Mary, Stanley and
Alice. The family belong to the United Presbyterian Church. Politically
Col. Hunter is a stanch Republican, and in 1878 was elected sherifF of Mercer
County, and served one term. He has always taken a deep interest in the
growth and prosperity of his native county.
Alexander Hunter, deceased farmer, was born in Fayette County, Penn. ,
September 20, 1801, and came with his parents, Alexander and Margaret Hun-
ter, to West Salem Township in the spring of 1812, where he ever afterward
lived. He was married June 8, 1827, to Catharine, daughter of Adam and
Catharine Miller, who came to West Salem Township from Maryland in the
fall of 1802, and settled on a farm now owned by Joseph Calvert and W. H.
Johnston. Adam Miller was a soldier in the War of 1812, and both he and
wife died in this township, Mrs. Hunter was born on the farm previously men-
tioned, July 6, 1807, and has reared a family of twelve children, eleven of
whom are living: Alexander and Adam, of Crawford County, Penn. ; Marga-
I’et, deceased; Albert, of Crawford County; Isabel, wife of James Johnston,
of Canada; Lydia, wife of John Amons, of Venango County, Penn.; Esther,
wife of Lyman Jackson, of Tennessee; Amos, of Lawrence County; Jane, wife
of John McMurray; Sarah, wife of Truman Hall, of Orangeville, Ohio; Alvin
and Manila. Mr. Hunter followed farming and resided on the old homestead
from the spring of 1812 up to his death, January 2, 1886. His widow -sur
vives him, and has been a life-long member of the Seceder and the United
Presbyterian Church, and has lived in Mercer County eighty-one years. Polit-
ically Mr. Hunter was a Republican, a straightforward, honest man, and has
left a large and respected family.
Matthew Hunter came to Mercer County with his parents, Alexander and
Margaret Hunter, in the spring of 1812. He was a soldier in the War of
1812. After coming to Mercer County he married Elizabeth Atchison. To
them were born eight daughters and one son: Margaret, deceased; Deborah,
deceased wife of James Tompkins; Jane, deceased wife of William Angelo,
deceased; her second husband was Hiram McCormick; Alexander, of Cali-
fornia; Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Morford; Mary A., widow of Samuel W.
McDowell; Isabel, wife of Philip Templeton, of Battle Creek, Iowa; Sarah,
deceased, and Esther, wife of Lyman Powers, of Wisconsin. Mrs. Hun-
ter died May 22, 1873, in the faith of the United Presbyterian Church. Her
husband survived her till December 18, 1880, when he, too, passed away.
William Harrison Johnston, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in
what is now Lawrence County, Penn., September 29, 1819, and is a son of
Edward and Nancy (Coleman) Johnston, the former a native of Mifflin County,
Penn., and the latter of New Jersey. They werematried in Lawrence County,
Penn., and in 1803 came to West Salem Township, where they settled and
lived about twelve years. Mr. Johnston was a soldier in the War of 1812.
He was a man of good education, and during his residence in West Salem he
taught school several terms, first in a log building on the farm still owned by
his descendants. He returned to Lawrence County, and leaving his family he
crossed the Mountains and followed school-teaching in Eastern Pennsylvania.
In the spring of 1835 he again came to West Salem Township and located on
his land. His wife died here in July, 1838, and he survived her until
November, 1858, both dying in the Seceder faith. They reared five children:
Polly, deceased, wife of William Wiley, of Trumbull County, Ohio; Jane,
widow of William Reed, of Lawrence County, Penn.; James M., deceased;
John C. , of Lawrence County, and William Harrison. Our subject has lived
1184
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
in West Salem Township since his sixteenth year. He was married April 18,
1844, to Margaret J. , daughter of George and Margaret (Ewing) Moore, one
of the pioneer families of Mercer County. Mrs. Johnston was born in New
Bedford, Penn., September 18, 1824, and is the mother of five children:
Nancy J. , wife of Silas Laughlin; Marilla, wife of Clinton Hobart; Emma,
wife of Henry Hyde; Lurancy, wife of Andrew Storier, and Ella, who died
April 28, 1879, in her nineteenth year. Mr. Johnston is a member of the
Baptist Church, and his wife of the Presbyterian. Politically he is a Repub-
lican, and one of the oldest and most respected citizens of the township.
Peter Klingensmith was one of the first settlers of West Salem Township.
He was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., December 2, 1776, there grew
up, and in the fall of 1796 accompanied his father, Daniel, and the Loutzen-
hisers. Kecks and Christys to the Shenango Valley on a prospecting tour. It
is claimed by his daughter, Mrs. Joseph Liiiinger, that he built a cabin on the
tract he selected (now the William Bortz farm, in the southeast corner of W est
Salem Township), and remained in the valley with a few others through the
winter of 1796-97, hunting and trapping, while the balance of the party re-
turned to Westmoreland County. Mr. Klingensmith was married in 1798 to
Catherine Smith, also a native of Westmoreland County, born February 3,
1777. They reared twelve children, the eldest, Susan, being born in the cabin
on the Shenango October 17, 1799. She became the wife of William Mc-
Laughlin. The remaining children were: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Catharine,
who married Daniel Lininger; Elizabeth, became the wife of John Merritt;
Hannah, wife of John Bowman; Peter, Isaiah, Mary Magdalena, widow of
Joseph Lininger; Philip and Daniel, all of whom are dead except Mrs. Bow-
man and Mrs. Joseph Lininger. All were born on the old homestead, settled
by Mr. Klingensmith in 1796. He served in the War of 1812, and was one of
the well-known and most successful hunters of pioneer days. He bore a very
strong antipathy to the Indian race, firmly believing that the only good Indians
were dead ones. About 1827 he sold his homestead and removed into Pyma-
tuning Township, where both he and wife spent their declining years. They
are interred in one of the old pioneer cemeteries of that locality, and many of
their descendants are residents of the county.
Daniel Knappenbeegee, one of the oldest living residents of West Salem
Township, was born in Lehigh County, Penn., April 12, 1813, and is a son of
Henry Knappenberger, who died in that county. Daniel grew up in his native
place, and there married Miss Mary Rumfelt, a native of Lehigh. In the
spring of 1836 he and wife, with two children, James and Daniel, came from
Lehigh County to West Salem Township, where he purchased and settled on
the farm upon which he still resides. He reared the following children:
James, Daniel, deceased; Reuben F., Maria, wife of Samuel West, of Green-
ville; Catharine, Lydia, wife of C. Eckeroads; John, Caroline, wife of O. Mill-
er; Emeline, deceased wife of Clarence McQuiston, and Sarah, wife of Frank
Callahan. Mrs. Knappenberger died April 22, 1881, in the Lutheran faith,
to which church the whole family belong. Mr. Knappenberger has been a life-
long Democrat, and, though old and feeble, bids fair to live several years yet.
Reuben F. Knappenberger was born on the old homestead April 10, 1840, and
has always made his home in West Salem Township. He learned the wagon-
maker’s trade in Greenville, and in the fall of 1882 started his present wagon
shop, where he has since carried on quite a successful business. He was mar-
ried January 4, 1866, to Miss Alavesta R. Biery, a native of Lehigh County,
Penn., who is the mother of two children: Wilson N. and Mary L. The fam-
ily are Lutherans, and Democratic in politics.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1185
David Liningeh, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West Salem
Township October 18, 1818. His parents, Henry and Catharine Lininger,
were natives of Virginia. Henry’s father died when the former was a small
boy, and he subsequently learned the shoemaking trade. He was married in
Virginia, and removed to Mercer County early in the present century and
settled on the farm in West Salem Township, a part of which is embraced in
the homestead of his son Jacob. Henry and Catharine Lininger reared four
sons and five daughters, viz.: Daniel, deceased; Polly, deceased wife of Isaac
Klingensmith, deceased; Sarah, deceased wife of Abraham Klingensmith,
deceased; Elizabeth, wife of Lambert Haun, of Hickory Township; Lydia,
deceased wife of Justus McLaughlin, deceased; Joseph, deceased; David;
Rebecca, wife of David Sherbondy, of Greene Township, and Jacob. After-
Henry Lininger located in this township he worked occasionally at shoemak-
ing for the pioneers, but devoted most of his energy toward clearing up his
land. Both he and wife were members of the Reformed Church, and died on the
farm where they first settled. David grew to maturity in this township, and
received very meager educational advantages. He married Miss Elizabeth,
daughter of Samuel and Sarah Artherholt, early settlers of Pymatuning Town-
ship. She was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, March 11, 1818, and has
reared the following children: Lorinda, wife of C. Hum; Joel; Ransom,
deceased; Samuel; Sarah, wife of Jacob Reimold; Catharine, deceased;
Dianthy, wife of Wendell Brockway; Ellen, wife of Sumner Brockway, and
Cora, wife of Norman Blackstone. Mr. Lininger is an adherent of the Repub-
lican party, and is one of the prosperous farmers of his native township.
Joseph Lininger, deceased, was born in West Salem Township March 15,
1816, and was a son of Henry Lininger, one of the earliest settlers of the
township. Joseph grew to manhood in his native township, and in October,
1838, was married to Mary Magdalene, daughter of Peter and Catharine
Klingensmith, natives of Westmoreland County, Penn., and pioneers of West
Salem. Mrs. Lininger was born on the old homestead, in the southeast cor-
ner of the township, now the home of William Bortz, November 17, 1817.
She has reared a family of eight children: Elmira, Nelson, Austin, Philena,
Amos, George (deceased), Thomas and Mary C. Mr. Lininger died Novem-
ber 23, 1863, and his widow is still a resident of the township. He was always
a Democrat in politics, and an upright, honest man, a good husband and kind
father.
Jacob Lininger, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on the farm upon
which he now lives, January 4, 1824, and is a son of Henry and Catharine
Lininger, previously spoken of. In early boyhood he received a few months’
schooling in the primitive log school-house of those days. He was married in
July, 1844, to Mary Ann, daughter of Jacob and Catharine Aubel, natives of
Union and Lancaster Counties, Penn. , respectively, who settled in W est Salem
Township in the spring of 1835. They spent the balance of their lives in this
county, and died in the Lutheran faith. Mrs. Lininger was born in Union
County, Penn. , in December, 1824, and is the mother of ten children : Har-
mon, Henry, William, Conrad, Irvine, Evi, Angeline (wife of Daniel Titzel),
Herbert, Andrew C. and Lestie. Politically Mr. Lininger is a stanch Re-
publican, and one of the best known citizens of the township. He began life
comparatively poor, and has accumulated a comfortable competence for him-
self and family.
William Lininger, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on the old
homestead, in West Salem Township, May 4, 1848, and is a son of Jacob Lin-
inger, previously spoken of. Our subject has always lived in this township.
1186
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
and received his education in the district schools. He was married January-
19, 1871, to Miss Robena, daughter of James E. and Elizabeth Brown, a
pioneer family of West Salem. Mr. Lininger has always followed farming,
and in politics is a stanch Republican. He is one of the enterprising, pro-
gressive young farmers of his native township.
The Lodtzenhisees were among the earliest settlers of West Salem Town-
ship, as their descendants are also among its most numerous inhabitants. In
the spring of 1800 Peter and John Loutzenhiser, accompanied by their father,
J oseph, removed from W estmoreland County to Mercer County, Penn. , whither
their brother Jacob had preceded them about three years. They were natives
of Germany, and had immigrated to Westmoreland County with their parents
in early youth, where their mother died when John was quite young. Their only
sister married a Frenchman named Probst, of Westmoreland County, and re-
mained there. Her husband was a member of the Lodge, Probst & Walker
Land Company, who owned a large amount of lands in the Shenango Valley,
including that on which Greenville was afterward laid out. Peter Loutzen-
hiser was unmarried, and settled immediately west of the site of Greenville, on
the farms now owned by James McElheney and John Loutzenhiser, Jr., which
lands have ever since been in possession of the family. His brother John set-
tled in what is now the southwest corner of West Salem Township, northeast
of Orangeville, at which point his brother Jacob had located in 1797. About
two years after his settlement was efPected Peter died, and willed his land to
his father, who soon after traded it to John, and the latter located upon it, and
resided there up to his death. His father spent the balance of his days at
John’s home. The latter married Margaret Harnit before coming to Mercer
County, and had then a family of three children: Mary, who married John
Smail, and afterward J ohn Mattocks, and reared four sons and two daughters, and
died in West Salem; Jacob, deceased, and John, deceased. The following chil-
dren were born in West Salem Township: Ann, deceased wife of James Leech,
deceased; Elizabeth, deceased wife of Solomon Callahan, deceased; Samuel, de-
ceased; William, deceased; Joseph, of West Salem Township; Sarah A., de-
ceased wife of David Callahan; David, deceased, and Margaret, wife of James
McElheney, of West Salem. Mrs. Loutzenhiser died December 29, 1840,
aged sixty-two, and her husband survived her till November 12, 1861, reach-
ing the remarkable age of ninety- two years.
Jacob J. Loutzenhisee died at his home in West Salem Township on
Wednesday morning, November 8, 1888. He was born in Westmoreland
County, Penn., April 15, 1796, and was the eldest son of John and Margaret
Loutzenhiser. Jacob grew to manhood on the old homestead west of Green-
ville, and lived in West Salem nearly eighty-nine years. He was twice mar-
ried, first to Salome Miller in 1821, who bore him ten children, eight of whom
grew up. His wife died in 1844, and he was again married March 31, 1847,
to Maria J. Paul, who is the mother of ten children. Mr. Loutzenhiser cast
his first vote for Monroe, then voted for Jackson, and since that time was a
Whig and Republican, casting his vote for Blaine in 1884. He served as
county commissioner one term, and deputy sheriff two terms, once under his
cousin, Jacob Loutzenhiser.
John Loutzenhisee, deceased, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn.,
December 15,1799, and was a son of John and Margaret (Harnit) Loutzenhiser,
who settled in West Salem Township, Mercer County, in 1800. Our subject
here grew to manhood, and April 9, 1846, was married to Catharine, daughter
of Andrew and Catharine Wade. She was born in Westmoreland County,
Penn., October 25, 1811, and her parents settled in Crawford County in 1813,
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1187
where both spent the balance of their lives. Her husband had previously
purchased the land and erected the brick residence still occupied by their son,
David, which she took possession of immediately after marriage. Three chil-
dren were born to John and Catharine Loutzenhiser : David, John A., and
Margaret C. , wife of John Speir, of West Salem Township. Mr. Loutzenhiser
operated a small distillery for a number of years, which he carried on in con-
nection with farming. Politically he was a life-long Democrat, and was
county commissioner one term. He served one term as major of a regiment of
militia, and bore the title of major among the pioneers up to his death, which
occurred September 19, 1877. His widow resides with her daughter, Mrs.
Speir. He was strictly honest and upright in all his dealings, and was
recognized as a kind-hearted, generous man. He was industrious and ener-
getic, and accumulated considerable property, which his children inherited at
his death.
Joseph Loutzenhiser, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West
Salem Township September 9, 1811, and is a son of John Loutzenhiser, who
settled in West Salem in 1800. Joseph was reared on the old homestead, and
followed farming up to early manhood. He then went to Greenville, where
for many years he was engaged in the mercantile business, and also in the
foundry and coal trade. He then purchased his present farm and flouring mill,
in which business he has till recently been engaged. Mr. Loutzenhiser has a
brick-yard on his farm, which he carried on for several years, now operated liy
his son, Charles. The latter is also proprietor of the mill. Mr. Loutzenhiser
was married February 23, 1841, to Lucinda, daughter of Jacob and Kesia
Woods, of West Salem Township. Her father was a native of Lehigh Coun-
ty, Penn., and her mother of New Jersey, and were married in this State.
Mrs. Loutzenhiser was born in Fayette County, Penn., October 28, 1819, and
removed to West Salem Township with her parents when seven years old,
where she has since lived. Her parents both died in this townshp. Five
children have been reared by Mrs. Loutzenhiser: John H., Jacob T., James S.,
Maggie, wife of Isaac Keck, and Charles D., all living and heads of families.
Mr. Loutzenhiser has been a life-long Democrat, and is one of the oldest liv-
ing pioneers of West Salem Township.
David Loutzenhiser, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in the house
he now occupies, November 1, 1848, and is the eldest son of John Loutzen-
hiser, deceased. He grew to manhood in his native township, and was mar-
ried September 8, 1876, to Miss Arminda, daughter of Bartlett and Sarah
McLaughlin, of West Salem Township. Two children have been born to them:
Clara M. and Ralph (deceased). Mr. Loutzenhiser is a Democrat, a member
of the West Salem Township School Board, and one of the prosperous farmers
of the township.
John A. Loutzenhiser, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on the old
homestead, in West Salem Township, October 13, 1850, and is a son of John
Loutzenhiser, deceased. He was reared in this township, and September 10,
1874, was married to Miss Maggie, daughter of Joseph and Nancy Lutton, of
Mill Creek Township, who is the mother of one daughter, Clara M. Politi-
cally Mr. Loutzenhiser is a Democrat, and is now serving his second term as
justice of the peace of West Salem Township. He resides on one-half of the
old farm settled by his grandfather, and is one of the progressive young
farmers of the community.
James S. Loutzenhiser, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West
Salem Township August 5, 1845, and is a son of Joseph Loutzenhiser, of this
township. He was reared in this township, and has always lived in Mercer
1188
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
County. He worked at the stave business about ten years, and about twelve
years at manufacturing brick. He was married September 23, 1867, to Sarah
A., daughter of David Sherbondy, of Greene Township, where Mrs. Loutzen-
hiser was born and reared. She has had seven children: Alfred J. , Ida M.
(deceased), Harry D., Cora M. , James S., John C. and Gib A. The family
belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Loutzenhiser is
a Democrat.
James A. McBeoom, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West Salem
Township May 2, 1847, and is a son of Samuel and Margaret (Henry) Mc-
Broom, natives of Brooke County, W. Va. , who settled in West Salem Town-
ship more than fifty years ago. They reared three sons and three daughters :
Sarah, wife of H. F. Boyd, of Nebraska; Mary E., wife of William M.
Fletcher, of West Salem; William H. , Bobert H. , James A. and Martha M. ,
deceased. The parents spent their lives in this township, where the father-
died June 2,1868, and the mother December 18, 1883, both in the Presbyterian
faith. Mr. McBroom was a Democrat in politics, a sober, industrious, suc-
cessful farmer, and a man who was highly respected by those who knew him
best. He accumulated a valuable estate, which his children inherited at his
death. James A. has always lived in West Salem Township, and was married
January 30, 1870, to Margaret, daughter of Joseph W. and Mary Calvert, of
West Salem. She was born in Crawford County, Penn., but was only an in-
fant when her parents settled in this township. Politically Mr. McBroom
is a stanch Democrat, and one of the enterprising young farmers of West
Salem.
Samuel W. McDowell, deceased, was born in Crawford County, Penn.,
May 1, 1821, and was a son of Samuel and Mary Ann (Frame) McDowell,
also natives of Crawford County, where both spent their lives. Our subject
grew up in that county, and received a good education. On the 12th of May,
1846, he was married to Miss Mary A. , daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth
(Atchison) Hunter, and granddaughter of Alexander Hunter, the pioneer sur-
veyor of West Salem. Matthew Hunter was a soldier in the War of 1812. He
opened the first blacksmith shop in Jamestown, Penn., and his eldest daugh-
ter, Margaret, was the first child born in that village. Mr. McDowell was a
carpenter and school-teacher, also followed surveying, and practiced law in
Greenville several years. In 1852 he settled in West Salem Township, where
the balance of his life was spent. Thirteen children were born to Samuel and
Mary Ann McDowell, only six of whom grew to maturity, viz. : Margaret L. ,
wife of Sylvester Callahan; Flora J. , wife of L. W. McGranahan; Thomas A.,
Ella M. , wife of R. B. Flint; Effie A. and Minnie B. Mr. McDowell adhered
to the Seceder Church, and died in that faith May 30, 1871. His Avidow is a
believer in the same faith. He was a well-educated man, a stanch, unswerv-
ing Democrat, and an enterprising, public-spirited citizen. He was upright
and honest in all his actions, and was ever kind and affectionate in his home
relations.
Andrew J. McDowell, farmer, jAost-office Greenville, was born in Steuben
County, N. Y. , May 1, 1827. His parents were James and Catharine
(McCutchen) McDowell, natives of Scotland, who emigrated from Ireland with
a family of six children about 1823, and settled in Steuben County, N. Y.
Three children were born after their coming. About 1835 the family removed
to Trumbull County, Ohio, where the father died in June, 1844. This broke up
the home, and the mother afterward died at the home of her daughter in
Clarksville, Mercer County. Andrew J. came to Greenville from , Ohio in
April, 1844, and began working in Samuel Goodwin’s Saw-mill at $11 per
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1189
month and board himself, all of which was paid in orders on Goodwin’s store.
He afterward worked eight years in a foundry as a molder, and then went
boating on the canal for three summers. He subsequently opened a livery
stable, which he carried on successfully nearly seven years. In April, 1864,
he purchased the farm upon which he has since resided, and erected his pres-
ent residence in 1879. Mr. McDowell was married September 10, 1856, to
Miss Phebe J. , daughter of Thomas and Agnes (Dumars) McFarland, the
former a native of Washington County, Penn., and the latter of Mercer
County, both of whom died in Trumbull County, Ohio. Mrs. McDowell was
born on the McFarland homestead, in Trumbull County, and is the mother of
three children: Charley E., Willie A. and Minnie A. M. Mr. McDowell and
wife are members of the Evangelical Association, and politically he is a stanch
Republican. He is one of the successful, enterprising farmers of West Salem
Township.
James McElheney, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born about one mile
north of Jamestown, Penn., in Crawford County, May 81, 1818. His father,
James McElheney, was a native of the County Donegal, Ireland, and immi-
grated to Crawford County in 1801, where he married Jane Steen. She, too,
was a native of County Donegal, and came to America with her parents when
three years old. In 1824 James McElheney and wife removed to West Salem
Township, Mercer County, and located where their son Steen now lives. They
reared four sons and two daughters: William, deceased; Jane, deceased;
James, David, Charles Steen and Rebecca. The parents died on the old -home-
stead in the faith of the United Presbyterian Church. The father was a
soldier in the War of 1812. Our subject was reared in West Salem Township,
and was married April 20, 1848, to Mrs. Margaret Stinard, daughter of John
Loutzenhiser, a pioneer of 1800. Mrs. McElheney was born on their present
homestead March 31, 1819, and married George Stinard, by whom she had
one daughter, Elizabeth, wife of David Grim, of Greenville. By her second
marriage five children have grown to maturity: Mary J. , wife of Robert
Phillips, of Sandy Creek Township; Margaret, wife of John Knappenberger,
of Sandy Creek; John, Anne, wife of Alvin Fry, of West Salem, and Oleva
B., wife of James Clark, of Greenville. Mr. McElheney and wife are mem-
bers of the Baptist Church, and in politics he is a Republican»of strong tem-
perance views. He commenced life poor, but by rigid industry and close
attention to his business affairs he has accumulated considerable property.
He and wife reside upon the farm settled by her father early in the present
century. Mr. McElheney is one of the prosperous, enterprising farmers of
the township.
John McLaughlin, son of James and Mary McLaughlin, was born in Ire-
land about 1758, and was there married May 12, 1790, to Nancy, daughter of
Patrick McLaughlin. One child, Patrick, was born in Ireland March 28, 1792,
and the following year the parents immigrated to Mifflin County, Penn. , where
three children were born to them: Mary, February 8, 1794, first married An-
drew Brown and afterward Richard Morford; Henry, who reared a family, and
went west and died, and William. In 1799 the family removed to Beaver
County, Penn. , where another son, John, was born the following spring. In April,
1800, John McLaughlin and family settled in West Salem Township, where
he died August 9, 1801. He was the first pioneer who died in that township,
and he was interred in the neighborhood. His widow married Peter Lessee,
December 4, 1802, and removed to Kinsman, Ohio, where she died. Their
eldest son, ■ Patrick, grew up in W est Salem Township and at Kinsman, Ohio,
and was married September 8, 1814, to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Mary
1
1190 HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
Smail. She was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., July 18, 1792. After j
his marriage he located at Kinsman, Ohio, but soon returned to West Salem,
where he reared nine children; Jemima, widow of John W. Woods; Mary,
widow of J. C. Morford; Sarah M., widow of James M. Johnston; Phoebe,
widow of William Morford; Simeon, George, deceased; Enos, Cyrus and Alva. |
The mother died in West Salem August 23, 1830, and her husband again mar-
ried and removed to Iowa, where he died April 20, 1859. t
Stewart McLaughlin, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on the old |
homestead, in West Salem Township, February 1, 1847. His father, Justus j
McLaughlin, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, there grew to manhood, and • i'
afterward came to West Salem Township, where he met and married Lydia, 1
daughter of Henry and Catharine Lininger, pioneers of this township. Mrs. I
McLaughlm was born in West Salem, and after their marriage they settled on |
the farm where they both died. They reared four children: Electa, wife of |
Jacob Boger; Louisa, wife of P. Dilley; Addison and Stewart. The mother |
died May 5, 1851, and her husband survived her till October 22, 1874. Polit- j
ically Justus McLaughlin was a Republican, and a highly respected citizen. |
Our subject has lived upon his present homestead all his life. He was mar- ^
ried January 11, 1883, to Miss Sadie, daughter of James W. Wise, of Hick-
ory Township. Mrs. McLaughlin was born in that township, and is the mother
of two children: William C. and Opal E. She is a member of the United
Presbyterian Church. Politically Mr. McLaughlin is a Republican, and one
of the enterprising citizens of his native township.
Albert R. McMahan, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Lords-
town, Trumbull Co., Ohio, January 24, 1846, and is a son of Thomas and
Lovina (Thorn) McMahan, the former a native of Trumbull County, Ohio,
and the latter of Morgantown, W. Va. They were married in Trumbull
County, Ohio, and were the parents of fifteen children, only ten of whom grew
to maturity, viz.: Henry, Joseph, deceased; Lemuel, Mary, James; Benja-
min, deceased; Angeline, deceased; Lewis, Albert R. and Jerusha. In the
spring of 1846 the parents removed with their family to West Salem Town-
ship, Mercer County. The father erected a saw -mill at Maysville, which he
ran two years. In 1848 he purchased the farm whereon our subject lives, and
erected a steam grist-mill, the first in this part of the county. He operated
this mill nearly twenty years, and then sold it to Philip Schuster, who ran it
until it was burned down. Mr. McMahan afterward built and operated a
saw and planing-mill in Greenville about four years. He died on the home-
stead, in West Salem, October 15, 1875, and his widow August 29, 1887.
He was a Republican in politics, and one of the most enterprising citizens of
the township. Albert R. has lived in Mercer County since he was three months
old, and grew up under the parental roof. He was married January 17,
1878, to Miss Linda, daughter of Matthias and Mary Weinland, of West
Salem Township. Five children have been born of this union: Harry, Eva,
Matthias, Thomas and Benjamin. Mr. McMahan has followed farming prin-
cipally as an occupation. Politically he is a Democrat, and one of the ener-
getic citizens of the community.
Hugh P. McMillen, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in what is now
Hempfield Township, Mercer Co., Penn., February 1, 1829, and is a son of
William and Margaret (McClimans) McMillen, the former a native of New
Jersey, and the latter of Bedford County, Penn. William McMillen was twice
married, first to Nancy Parker, of Fayette County, Penn. , and with his wife came
to Mercer County in 1800, where she died about 1816, leaving four children:
Mary, John, Alexander and Thomas, all of whom are dead. His second wife
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1191
was Margaret, daughter of William and Mary (Kitchy) McClimans, of West
Salem Township. The former was a soldier in the Revolution, and settled in
West Salem Township in 1798-99. They reared the following children by this
union: Margaret J., deceased; Nancy, William Me., deceased; Sarah, James,
Hugh P. and Thompson. William McMillen died in Hemptield Township, and
his widow in Otter Creek, both in the United Presbyterian faith. He served
in Capt. Gilliland’s company in 1812. Our subject has spent his life in this
county, and has always followed farming. He was married October 5, 1854,
to Anna Maria, daughter of Peter and Hannah (Wasser) Beaver, of Hempfield
Township. Mrs. McMillen has reared seven children: MaryH. , William P.,
deceased; Elizabeth, wife of David Kitch, of Franklin, Penn. ; Alma, Addison
C. , Ada J. and Velzora. The family belong to the United Presbyterian Church,
and in politics Mr. McMillen is a Democrat, and a descendant of one of the
oldest families in Mercer County.
John McNeilly, deceased, was born near Baltimore, Md. , February 11,
1798, to John and Agnes McNeilly, natives of Ireland, and there grew up and
learned the cabinet-maker’s trade. About 1827 he came to Mercer County,
but soon afterward returned to Mai-yland for his mother, whom he brought
back with him, and who died October 23, 1845, aged seventy- five. He worked
for the Mossmans a few years, and then purchased a part of the tract of land
on which his sons, James and John P. , now live. He married Sarah Bowman,
a native of West Salem Township, whose parents, Samuel and Mary Bowman,
were pioneers of this township. Eight children were the fruits of this union:
Mary Ann, wife of Christopher Moats, of Greene Township; Sarah J., wife of
Absalom Arner, of Missouri; Agnes, widow of Franklin Melvin; Jemima, wife
of Richard McLaughlin, of West Salem Township; Jeremiah, deceased; John
P. , James and Elizabeth. After locating on his land John McNeilly followed
farming, which he continued until a short time preceding his death, which
occurred April 18, 1886, in the eighty-ninth year of his age. Politically he
was a life-long Democrat, and filled most of the township offices, being justice
of the peace many years. He was an industrious, honest man, and was quite
successful in the accumulation of property. His widow resides on the old
homestead, at the ripe old age of eighty-six years. John P. , his eldest son,
was born on the old homestead October 31, 1844, and has always lived in the
township. He is a stanch Democrat, and a member of the K. of. P. His
youngest son, James, was born March 22, 1847, and has always dwelt on the
home farm. He was married, June 29, 1871, to Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph
W. and Mary Calvert, of West Salem Township. One son, James, is the fruit
of this marriage. Politically Mr. McNeilly is one of the leading Democrats of
the township, has filled most of the township offices, and is an enterprising,
progressive farmer.
John R. Melvin, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West Salem
Township, upon the farm where his son, Lester, now lives, August 15, 1802,
and is a son of Richard and Agnes (Watson) Melvin, natives of Ireland. They
immigrated to Wilmington, Del., in 1792, whence they removed to the Red
Stone Settlement, in Westmoreland County, Penn. In the spring of 1798
Richard Melvin came to Mercer County and selected a tract of land in
West Salem Township, upon which he built a cabin, and then returned
to his home. In 1799 he brought out his family, then consisting of his wife
and one son, James R. , and took up his residence in his cabin home.
Four children were born after their coming to the Shenango Valley: Agnes,
who died in girlhood; Sarah, who married William Hollingsworth; John R.,
and Mary, who became the wife of Michael Reed, all of whom are dead except
1192
HISTORY OR MERCER COUNTY.
Jolin R. The father died December 19, 1824, aged fifty- six years, and his
widow survived him till 1848. Our subject grew to manhood on the old home-
stead, and was married November 26, 1829, to Elizabeth, daughter of William
Woods, a pioneer of West Salem Township. She bore him eight children,
only three of whom grew to maturity : Lester, Emeline, wife of John Laird,
of Greene Township, and Franklin, deceased. Mrs. Melvin died June 2,
1846, and he was again married, April 2, 1850, to Rebecca, daughter of
Thomas Woods, of Pymatuning Township. No children survive of this
union, his second wife dying April 10, 1855. Mr. Melvin was then mar-
ried to Mrs. Harriet Fell, nee Sponsler, who bore him one son, Charles,
of West Salem. He was again married. May 10, 1870, to Annie M.,
daughter of George and Sarah Logan, of Greene Township. Mr. Melvin
has spent his whole life in West Salem Township, and both he and wife
are members of the Presbyterian Church. He has always supported the
Democratic party; has filled the office of justice of the peace fifteen years
in succession, and united seventy-five couples in marriage. He has been one
of the most prominent supporters of the public schools since their establish-
ment, and has won and retained the respect and confidence of the best people
of his native county.
Lester Melvin, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on his present
homestead September 15, 1831, and is the eldest living child of John R.
Melvin, a pioneer of West Salem Township. Our subject here grew to
manhood, and received his education in the district school of his neighbor-
hood. He was married May 31, 1855, to Miss Mary, daughter of Henry
and Salome (Bortz) Miller. The former was born in West Salem Town-
ship, and was a son of Adam Miller, who came here from Maryland in 1802,
where he died. Henry Miller and wife died in West Salem, in the Lutheran
faith. Mrs. Melvin was born in West Salem Township, and is the mother of
seven children: John, Herman, Allen, George, Ida, Susie and Lomy. Polit-
ically Mr. Melvin is a stanch Democrat, and in 1882 was elected justice of
the peace, and served one term. He was again chosen to the same office in
1888. He has served seventeen years on the school board of West Salem
Township, and has always taken a deep interest in the growth and prosperity
of his native county. He is recognized as one of the prominent, and most
prosperous farmers of West Salem.
Charles H. Melvin, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on the old
homestead, in West Salem Township, March 14, 1860, and is the youngest
child of John R. Melvin. Our subject has passed his life in Mercer County,
and received his education in its public schools. He was married September
9, 1880, to Eva, daughter of Joseph B. and Mary (McLaughlin) Nelson, na-
tives of Mercer County. Mrs. Melvin was born in West Salem Township,
and is the mother of two children: Harry Clifford and Joseph Plummer. Po
litically Mr. Melvin is a Democrat, and one ’of the progressive young farmers
of the township.
Freeman L. Miller, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Trumbull
County, Ohio, October 17, 1848, and is a son of Jeremiah and Salome (Smith)
Miller, the former a native of Mahoning County, Ohio, and his wife of Lehigh
County, Penn. They were married in Mahoning County, and reared four
children; Augusta A., Freeman L., Laura A. and Felley M., all of whom are
living. The parents were members of the Evangelical Association, and died
in Trumbull County, Ohio, the father March 18, 1877, and the mother May 9,
1884. Freeman L. grew up in his native county, attended school at Farming-
ton, Ohio, and taught in that county two terms. He was married December
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1193
29, 1869, to Miss Olive Craig, of Trumbull County, Ohio, vrbo bore him one
son, Claudius E. In 1874 he came to Mercer County, where Mrs. Miller died,
at Shenango, January 10, 1878, in the Evangelical faith. Mr. Miller was
again married December 14, 1880, to Miss Mary A. , daughter of George S.
and Mary Eisenhart, who settled on the farm where our subject now lives in
1851, and where both died. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and his wife of the Reformed. Politically he is a Republican, and
belongs to the Masonic fraternity. Mr. Miller was a telegraph operator for
fourteen years, three years at Fredonia and eleven at Shenango, but gave up
that business in the spring of 1888, and has since devoted his attention to farm-
ing and stock raising, being interested in a stock farm in Nebraska.
Moefokd Family — Joseph Morford, deceased, was born in New Jer-
sey in 1774, and there grew to manhood. In the last decade of the
eighteenth century, he came into the Shenango Valley and settled on a
tract of land in what is now West Salem Township, Mercer Co., Penn.
He built his log cabin where his grandson. Dr. Ralph D. Morford, now lives.
He was twice married, his first wife being Miss Morford, a cousin, who died
without issue. In 1804 he was again married, to Elizabeth Fell, born
September 25, 1785, and daughter of Nathan and Ann Fell, pioneers of
Pymatuning Township. With her he began improving his farm while the
Indians were yet their neighbors and deer and other wild game roamed at
will through the now beautiful Shenango Valley. They were the parents of
ten children, seven of whom grew to maturity: George, the eldest, was
married to Sarah Brown, of Vernon Township, Trumbull Co., Ohio, and
subsequently removed to Illinois, where he lived to rear a family; Martha,
born in 1809, was married to Robert Woods, of Pymatuning Township, and
moved to Illinois, where she died in 1876; Rachel, married Elisha Fox, of
Pymatuning Township, and removed to Illinois, where she resides, a widow
without issue; Benjamin, married Rebecca Stem, of Pymatuning Township,
and removed to Illinois, and there died after rearing a family; Nathan,
further notice of whom is given in this sketch ; Joseph, married Hannah Dunbar,
of Trumbull County, Ohio, where he died in early manhood, after beiug very
successful in the practice of medicine; Rebecca, married Andrew Burnett, who
at the time of marriage was a dealer in coal in Hubbard, Ohio, and afterward
removed to Greenville, where they died, leaving one son, James, who resides
in that town. All of the children are dead except Mrs. Rachel Fox, of
Youngstown, 111. Joseph Morford was a very successful farmer, and
accumulated a large estate. Politically he was first a Democrat and then a
Republican, and filled offices of trust several years. He was a quiet, unobtru-
sive man, upright and straightforward, of strict integrity in all his dealings,
and one whose opinions and judgment were held in high esteem by all who
knew him. He died March 4, 1861, his widow surviving him until July 27,
1868, being in their eighty-seventh and eighty-third years, respectively. All
of their children were born on the old homestead, and seven of them became
heads of families.
Nathan Morford was born on the homestead May 14, 1817, and grew up and
spent his whole life on the home farm, which he purchased of his father. He
was married January 10, 1841, to Miss Mary Ann Smith, a native of Cumberland
County, Penn., who had been teaching school in the neighborhood a few
years prior to her marriage. She is a daughter of John and Sarah Smith,
natives of Cumberland County, Penn., and reared a family of three children:
Nathan A., of Phoenix, Arizona; Ellen, wife of W. H. Ruhlman, of North
Lima, Ohio, and Dr. Ralph D. , a practicing physician, living on the old home-
1194
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
stead. Politically Mr. Morford was a Republican, and represented this
county in the Legislature in 1872-74. He was a man of enterprise and
public spirit, and always took a deep interest in the public affairs of his native
county. He was a Universalist in religious belief, and highly esteemed by
those who knew him best. He died February 8, 1881. He was a member of
the Masonic fraternity. His widow and youngest son reside on the old home-
stead where the husband and father passed his whole life.
Joseph Moefokd, farmer, post-of&ce Greenville, was born in Pymatuning
Township, Mercer Co., Penn., December 30, 1819. His father, Richard Mor-
ford, came to Mercer County with his parents, John and Mary Ann (Cox)
Morford, about 1803-04, who settled in Hickory Township, where both died.
John Morford was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. After coming to this
county Richard was married to Elizabeth Morford, a sister of Joseph Morford,
then living in the south part of West Salem Township, of which union five
sons and one daughter grew to maturity; James, deceased; John, William,
deceased: Ann, deceased wife of Jeffrey Bentley, of Hickory Township; Joseph
and Isaac. Mi’s. Morford died July 26, 1826, and her husband married Mrs.
Mary Brown, nee McLaughlin, widow of Andrew Brown, and removed to
West Salem Township. She bore him four children: Emeline, deceased;
Eliza, deceased; Andrew and Judson. She died July 20, 1873, and her hus-
band September 1, 1874, both in the faith of the Baptist Church. Politically
Richard Morford was first a Whig and afterward a Republican. Our subject
was reared in West Salem Township, and has always followed farming. He
was married August 14, 1845, to Elizabeth, daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth
(Atchison) Hunter, and granddaughter of Alexander Hunter, a pioneer sur-
veyor, who settled in AA'est Salem Township in the spring of 1812. Mrs.
Morford is a native of this township, and has reared three children; Maggie J. ,
Wellington and Orlando. Mr. Morford and wife are members of the Baptist
Church, and politically he is a Republican.
Joseph Nelson, deceased, came to Mercer County in 1797 and settled
in Sandy Creek Township. He had married Jane Armstrong before coming >
here, who bore him ten children: Isabel, Jane, Samuel, Betsy, James, Joseph,
Alexander, Margaret, John and Irvine, the two last mentioned being the only
sirrvivors. The parents both died in Mercer County. Alexander was born in
Sandy Creek Township August 12, 1801, and spent his whole life in Mercer
County. He was married, March 12, 1829, to Sarah, daughter of Andrew
and Mary Brown, pioneers of West Salem Township, where Mrs. Nelson was
born March 26, 1812. They reared six children: Mary Ann, widow of Will-
iam Brown; Joseph B. , Sarah J., wife of Dr. L. N. Woods, of Oregon; Mar-
garet (deceased), James AV., and Clara, wife of Monroe Saul, of Greenville.
After his marriage Alexander settled on a part of his father’s homestead, near
Sheakleyville, where he resided till the spring of 1835, when he purchased the
old homestead in AVest Salem Township, where he spent the balance of his
life. He was a member of the Baptist Church for fifty-three years, and polit-
ically he was a Republican. He died September 11, 1886, being then one of
the oldest settlers in the county. He was an honest, upright man, and bore a
high character among all who knew him. He was a good neighbor and a kind
husband and father. His widow resides on the old homestead with her son,
James AV., and enjoys good health. She has been a member of the Baptist
Church for nearly half a century. James W. was born on the old homestead
August 11, 1849, and has always resided here. He married, December 20,
1877, Amanda Etzweiler, of Harrisburg, Penn., and have three children:
Freddie E., Maggie B. and Frank A. Politically Mr. Nelson is a Republican.
HISTOBY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1195
James Nelson, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on his present
homestead February 2, 1838. His father, James Nelson, was born in Mary-
land, and came to this county with his parents, James Nelson and wife, when
a boy, and settled in West Salem Township. Here he grew up and was mar-
ried to Isabella, daughter of James McCullough, of Sugar Grove Township,
and settled where his sons, James and Samuel, now live. They reared seven
children, all of whom are living: John, Deborah, wife of W. G. W. Porter,
of West Salem Township; Hannah J. , wife of John Grover; James, Samuel,
Nancy A., wife of William McBroom, of Greene Township, and Amanda, wife
of Robert McMichael, of Meadville, Penn. The parents died on the old
homestead, in the United Presbyterian faith. The father was a soldier in the
War of 1812, and in politics a Democrat. He died February 3>7, 1867, his
widow surviving him until December 17, 1887. Our subject has passed the
most of his life in Mercer County. He was married, February 27, 1862, to
Sarah E., daughter of Samuel and Anne E. (Moffett) Dumars, and grand-
daughter of Alexander Dumars, one of the earliest and most prominent settlers
of what is now Hempfield Township. Mrs. Nelson was born in that township,
and has had six children: Annabel (deceased), James B., Maude, Sarah J.,
William D. and an infant. Politically Mr. Nelson is a Democrat, and a
descendant of one of the oldest families of the county.
Isaac Parker was a son of Samuel and Mary Parker, and was born in West
Salem Township February 24, 1815. He was a hardy pioneer boy, who de-
lighted in the pastimes of hunting and playing in the dense forest that sur-
rounded his father’s log cabin. At an early age he attended the district
school, and obtained what knowledge he could, but as he grew older he was
obliged to assist in his father’s saw-mill. His thirst for knowledge was great;
books at that time were scarce, and his father’s library contained but few vol-
umes. Such as they were he read and re-read, every spare moment being spent
in study, and by this course he mastered the rudiments of a good education.
At the age of twenty- three he married Miss Priscilla Burnett, of Hubbard,
Ohio, who was the daughter of Enos Burnett, an old pioneer, who was born
in the year 1763, and was but thirteen years old at the time of the Declara-
tion of Independence. He frequently saw Washington and his wife. After
he grew to manhood he immigrated from New Jersey to Trumbull County,
Ohio, and settled in Hubbard Township. There were but three white fami-
lies in the vicinity, though Indians were numerous. Priscilla Burnett was the
youngest daughter by his second marriage. She was married to Isaac Parker,
April 1, 1838. By this union were born two daughters. Esther M. A. S.
Parker, eldest daughter, was born February 24, 1839. She studied very hard
at school, and at the age of twelve years had finished geography, astronomy,
philosophy, and was making rapid progress in other branches. At the age of
sixteen years she commenced teaching, and ultimately between each term of
teaching she attended the best normal schools. She had a good knowledge of
all the higher branches and fine arts. Her correspondence was large. Five
years before her death she destroyed 2, 300 letters, besides postals. Her cor-
respondence continued until her death, which took place March 5, 1886. Mary
A. T. , youngest daughter, was born December 18, 1844. She was about ten
months old at the time of her father’s death, which occurred November 9,
1845. She was reared and educated by her mother, and attended different
seminaries. She is well versed in the common branches, and studied many
of the higher ones. On the 1st of January, 1866, she was united in mar-
riage to A. J. McMurren, of Brookfield, Ohio, who was a soldier in the late
Rebellion. In politics he is a Republican. By this union Mrs. McMurren is
1196
HISTOKY OP MEKCER COUNTY.
the mother of two children: Duward B. P. and Durant E. L. Mrs. McMurren
still resides on the old farm that was willed to her by her father.
Wilson Paekee, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born upon the farm
where he now resides, October 20, 1821. His father, Samuel Parker, was
born near Mount Holly, N. J. , where his parents died when he was an infant.
He there grew to manhood, and in 1804 came to Trumbull County, Ohio. He
married Mrs. Mary Bowman, nee Shetler, whose husband, Samuel Bowman,
died March 4, 1807. She reared the following children; Harriett, wife of
Abraham Artman, of Greene Township; David, deceased; Isaac, deceased;
Eliza, wife of James Burnett, of Ohio; Wilson, and Margaret, wife of Alex-
ander IVade, of Greene Township. After his marriage Samuel Parker settled
in West Salem Township, and a few years later located on the farm where his son,
Wilson, lives. Here he died, September 22, 1859, in his eightieth year, and his
widow March 2, 1875, in her ninety- seventh year. Mr. Parker was a Democrat
in politics, and filled a number of the township offices. He was a soldier in
the War of 1812, and a respected citizen of the township. Our subject has
passed his whole life on his present homestead. He was married November 27,
1843, to Elizabeth, daughter of Robert and Mary Waid, of Kinsman, Ohio. Mrs.
Parker was born at Kinsman, November 27, 1822, and reared two children;
Mary L. and William L. She died in 1851, and he was married again, October
9 of that year, to Mary Waid, a sister of his first wife, and also a native of
Kinsman. Three children are the fruits of this union: Robert, Samuel K.
and Elizabeth R. The family belong to the Baptist Church, and in politics
Mr. Parker was formerly a Democrat, but is now a Prohibitionist. He has
filled several of the local offices of his township, and has been quite successful
through life.
Samuel K. Paekee, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born on the old
homestead, in West Salem Township, January 25, 1855, and is a son of Wilson
Parker, of that township. He was married September 22, 1874, to Emma J. ,
daughter of Josiah and Permelia O. Brown, of West Salem. Mrs. Parker was
born on the old homestead where her mother now resides. She has three
children by this marriage: Millie M. , Alice E. and Royal J. W. Mr. Parker
and wife are members of the Baptist Church, and in politics he is a Democrat.
William T. Phelan, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in County
Kilkenny, Ireland, February 6, 1838, and is a son of Michael and Mary
Phelan, who spent their lives in Ireland. Our subject grew to manhood in
his native county, and in the summer of 1859 immigrated to the United States.
After visiting his brother. Rev. Richard Phelan, of Armstrong County, Penn.,
(now bishop of Pittsburgh), he went to Dayton, Ohio. He spent about four
years in that portion of the State as book-keeper and clerk in wholesale and
retail grocery houses. In 1864 he returned to Pennsylvania and spent about
one year in the oil country. He came to Greenville in the spring of 1866, and
in partnership with William Shields opened a grocery store. He continued
this business until March, 1871, when he located on his present homestead, in
West Salem Township, and has since been engaged in farming. Mr. Phelan
was married June 15, 1869, to Miss Eliza J. , daughter of the late Mark Doyle,
of West Salem Township. She w^as born in Trumbull County, Ohio, and is
the mother of eight children: Mary R. J. , Elizabeth T. , Richard M., Mark
F., Bridget C., Annie J., Johanna I. and Florence. The family belong to
the Catholic Church, and in politics Mr. Phelan is an unswerving Democrat.
He is one of the well-known and respected citizens of West Salem Township.
William G. W. Poetee, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Hick-
ory Township, Mercer Co. , Penn., July 24, 1833. His father, Luke Porter,
niSTOEY OF MERCEE COUNTY.
11U7
was born in Eastern Pennsylvania, and was a son of William Porter, one of the
earliest settlers of that township. Luke grew up in his native county, and mar-
ried Jane, eldest daughter of William Welch, a pioneer of Hickory Township.
After marriage he settled near Sharon, and removed to the farm now occupied
by our subject in 1835. He reared one son and eight daughters, and three of
the latter have since died. His first wife died here, and he was again married
and removed to Virginia, where he was killed by the cars in 1883, being then
in his eighty-ninth year. Our subject has lived on his present farm for the
past fifty-two years (it being the old homestead), and has always been engaged
in agricultural pursuits. He was married March 6, 1860, to Deborah E.,
daughter of James and Isabel Nelson, deceased pioneers of West Salem Town-
ship. They have reared six sons; Clifford C. , James L., Victor W., Vincent
M. , Bion W. and Curtis L. , all of whom are living. Mr. Porter is a Demo-
crat, and one of the leading farmers of the township.
Charles Bice, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Lehigh County,
Penn., July 26, 1819, and is a son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Bear) Rice, natives
of Lehigh County, who came to West Salem Township in the spring of 1837,
and here passed the remaining years of their lives. They belonged to the Re-
formed Church, in which faith they died. They were the parents of the fol-
lowing children: Maria, Charles, Sarah, deceased; Emma, deceased; Julia, Eliz-
abeth, Lestie, Catharine and Henry. Our subject has lived in this township
for the past fifty-one years, and has always been engaged in farming. He was
married October 2, 1842, to Abagail, daughter of Daniel and Polly (Hummel)
Goode, natives of Lehigh County, Penn. , where Mrs. Rice was also born. She
has had eleven children, eight of whom are living; Sarah, Lydia, Saimiel,
Malinda, Henry, Charles, George and Elizabeth. Mr. Rice and wife are mem-
bers of the Evangelical Association, and politically he is a Republican.
Edwin Richardson, master mechanic on the P. S. & L. E. Railroad, post-
office Greenville, was born in Stoddard, Cheshire Co., N. H. , June 17,
1835, and is a son of Franklin and Harriett (Wilson) Richardson, natives
of the same town. His mother died in 1878, and his father resides in Kansas,
at the ripe old age of eighty years. Our subject began railroading in 1853,
on the New York Central, and in 1862 came to Meadville, Penn., where he
was connected with the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad till 1869. The next
five years were spent in Kansas and Texas. In 1875 he took a position on the
S. & A. Railroad, and two years afterward became master mechanic at She-
nango, which position he has filled for the past eleven years. Mr. Richardson
was married April 26, 1864, to Miss Sarah J. Powell, of Corry, Penn. , who
has borne him three children; Frank C., Charley C., and Edwin. Both he
and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically he is a Repub
lican, a member of the Masonic fraternity, and one of the well-known railroad
men of Mercer County.
James Say, farmer, post office Greenville, was born in Butler County,
Penn., August 22, 1812, and is a son of John and Sarah (Martin) Say, natives
of Pennsylvania. His maternal grandfather, John Mai’tin, was born in Ire-
land, and served through the Revolutionary War. His parents died in Butler
County, Penn. Our subject grew up in his native county, and was married
April 12, 1849, to Nancy, daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Story) Steel, natives
of Pennsylvania, and of Irish ancestry. Her grandfather, Isaac Steel, emi-
grated from Ireland to Pennsylvania, served in the Revolutionary struggle,
and fought the Indians on the western border of the State. Mrs. Say’s father
is dead, and her mother resides in Armstrong County, Penn., at the advanced
age of ninety-two years. Mrs. Say was born in Armstrong County, April 27,
7
1198
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1824, and has reared nine children: Samuel N. (deceased), Sarah J. (wife of
D. C. Shull), John P., Malinda (wife of Alfred Bales), R. L., William, Eliza-
beth, Belle and Tillie. Mr. Say resided in Butler County until April, 1873,
when he purchased and removed to the farm north of Greenville, where he
has since resided. The family are members of the United Presbyterian Church
of Greenville. In politics he has always been a Republican, with temperance
proclivities.
Peter Simpkins, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Trumbull
County, Ohio, March 11, 1819, and is a son of Peter and Martha Simpkins,
natives of Eastern Pennsylvania, who removed to Ohio some years before the
birth of our subject, crossing the Mountains in a six-horse wagon. In 1827
they removed across the line into West Salem Township, Mercer County,
where the parents died. The father was a member of the Disciple Church,
while his wife was one of the organizers of West Salem Baptist Church.
They reared the following children : John, William, Catharine, David, Martha,
Enoch, Rebecca, Peter and Mary Ann. William and Peter are the only sur-
vivors of the family. The latter was left an orphan at the age of thirteen,
and was then thrown upon his own resources, obtaining only a few months’
schooling in the old fashioned log school-house of pioneer days. He grew to
manhood in West Salem Township, and for over sixty years has made his home
therein. He was married September 6, 1838, to Emily, daughter of Joseph
Dilley, of Pymatuning Township. She was born in Trumbull County, Ohio,
and has had twelve children, eleven of whom are living: Juliett, William,
Hasen, Mary, Joseph, Eliza, Linus, George, Almon, Perry and Florence. Mr.
Simpkins has resided on his present homestead since his marriage. For over
thirty years he was principally engaged in operating a coal mine on his farm,
where it is believed the first coal in Mercer County was mined. He also
devoted his attention to farming in connection with his coal business. Both
he and wife have been members of West Salem Baptist Church since July,
1844, and in politics he has been one of the leading Democrats of his town-
ship since early manhood.
Frederick Smith, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Germany Jan-
uary 20, 1828. His parents were Jacob and Magdalena Smith, natives of Ger-
many, who immigrated to Allegheny County, Penn., in 1830, where they resi-
ded until the spring of 1844, and then settled on the farm in West Salem
Township where our subject now lives. They reared eight children: Fred-
erick, John, deceased; Mary, wife of Peter Yeager, of Perry Township; Eliza-
beth, widow of William Mffiitney, of Greene Township; Magdalena, wife
of Andrew Kechler, of Kansas; George B. ; Christina, wife of Edward
Courtright, of Trumbull County, Ohio, and Caroline, wife of John Snod-
grass, of Iowa. The parents were Presbyterians, and died on the old
homestead, the father April 20, 1875, and the mother November 18, 1886.
Frederick has lived on his present farm since the coming of his parents in 1 844.
He was married August 25, 1887, to Emeline, daughter of James and Jemima
Gillis, pioneer residents of West Salem Township, where Mrs. Smith was born.
Politically Mr. Smith has been a life-long Democrat, and reveres the memory
of his parents, who settled here forty-four years ago.
Alexander Snodgrass, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in what is
now Greene Township June 28, 1828, and is a son of John Snodgrass, a na-
tive of Ireland, who came to Mercer County about 1825. In 1827 he married
Anna, daughter of Thomas and Isabella (McClellan) Listen, the former a native
of Ireland and the latter of Crawford County, Penn. , and who settled north of
Greenville, in West Salem Township, at an early date, where both died. John
HISTOBY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1199
Suodgrass located in Greene Township after his marriage, and there reared six
sons and four daughters; Alexander, John, deceased; Thomas, Margaret,
Isabella, Amos, Mary, William, deceased: Robert and Jane. His parents died
on the old homestead in Greene Township, in the faith of the United Presby-
terian Church. Alexander has passed his whole life in Mercer County. He
was married June 28, 1859, to Jane, daughter of John and Rachel (McMillen)
Ferguson, the former a native of Ireland, and the latter of Fayette County,
Penn. John Fei’guson immigrated to Westmoreland County, Penn. , with his
parents, John and Ann (Johnston) Ferguson, in 1790, and removed with his
father to this township in the spring of 1798. He served as captain in the
War of 1812, and spent the balance of his life in this township. Mrs. Snod-
grass has reared three daughters: Mary E., wife of John Reed, of Hempfield
Township; Rachel J., wife of Charles Reigle, of Sugar Grove Township, and
Annabel, deceased. Mr. Snodgrass and wife are members of the United Pres-
byterian Church, and in politics he is a Democrat. He and wife are de-
scendants of two old families, and are well-known citizens of this county.
Speir Family. — Among the early settlers of W’est Salem Township was
John Speir, Sr., a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, and the only son of John
Speir, a wholesale merchant of that city. At the age of twenty- one his father
set him up in the mercantile business in Edinburgh, which he carried on about
two years. In 1788 failing health compelled him to sell out his stock, and he
immigrated to Baltimore, Md. , soon afterward removing to Pittsburgh, Penn. ,
where he went into business. The dishonesty of his partner forced him to
again give up business, and he removed to Little Beaver, Beaver Co., Penn.
While in Pittsburgh he was married, in 1796, to Miss Ann Harnit, who was
born and reared near Baltimore, Md. During the Revolutionary War Mrs.
Martha Washington boarded at the tavern of her parents, at Warm Springs,
Va. , where Washington occasionally visited his wife. At that time Mrs.
Washington presented to Miss Harnit an eight-gallon iron kettle, which is
now owned by her grandson, Erwin Brown, of West Salem Township. John
Speir and wife, with their three eldest children, removed from Beaver County
to West Salem Township in the fall of 1801, locating about one mile west of
the site of Greenville. They reared the following children: John H. , born
April 3, 1797; Polly, February 2, 1799; Margaret, May 29, 1801; Annie, Sep-
tember 5, 1803; Samuel S., September 9, 1805; Elizabeth, February 8, 1808;
Robena, June 22, 1810, and James, April 26, 1813. All were reared and
died in Mercer County. The father died March 26, 1813, and his widow
afterward married Alexander Nelson, and died September 2, 1841. They
were Baptists in faith, and old-line Whigs in politics.
John H. Speir, the eldest son of John Speir, was born April 3, 1797, at
Little Beaver, Penn., and grew up in West Salem Township. He was mar-
ried in 1820 to Sarah, daughter of John Smail, a native of Germany, who
came from Westmoreland County to West Salem Township in 1812-13. They
reared twelve children; Mary Ann, deceased wife of David Artherholt, de-
ceased; Seih, of Greenville; Silas, deceased; Cordelia, widow of Joseph Mc-
Mahan; Marilla, deceased wife of Henry McMahan; Sidney, of Missouri; Evi,
of Illinois; Ely, deceased; Lynn S., of Greenville; Lyman B. , of the same
borough; John S., of Kansas, and Sarah, widow of Benjamin McMahan. The
father was a prosperous farmer of West Salem Township, and one of the local
organizers of the Republican party. He died August 11, 1860, and his
widow survived him until August 14, 1878.
James Speir was born in West Salem Township April 26, 1813, and was
the youngest child of John Speir, who settled in the township in 1801. James
1200
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
grew to manhood in West Salem, and married Nancy, daughter of Andrew and
Polly (McLaughlin) Brown. She was born in this township, and reared eight
children; Elon, Eliza, deceased wife of Eri Calvert; Polly, wife of Jacob Eeed;
Irene, Smith, Sadie, Elmina and John H. Mr. Speir learned the cai'penter’s
trade, and in connection with undertaking followed that business many years.
He afterward settled on the farm where the remaining years of his life were
passed, and where he died July 8, 1888. His wife died September 5, 1886,
in the Baptist faith, to which denomination Mr. Speir also belonged. Politi-
cally he was a Republican, and throughout his mature years was recognized as
one of the most successful farmers of his native township. Though a quiet,
unassuming man, he was nevertheless progressive and enterprising, while his
character and every-day life were strongly marked with the golden stamp of
charity and integrity.
Elon Speir, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West Salem Town-
ship September 1, 1835, and is the eldest son of James Speir, previously
spoken of. Excepting seven years spent in Ohio, our subject has always lived
in his native township. His principal vocation has been farming, though he
was engaged in the meat business one year in Ohio and six years in Mercer
County. Mr. Speir was married, March 5, 1861, to Miss Catharine, daughter
of Rev. Jacob Morris, who bore him two children: James and Catherine A.
Mrs. Speir died March 16, 1867. He was again marl'ied, March 15, 1869,
to Miss Emma, daughter of Joseph and Mary M. (Bigler) Kitch, early settlers
of Otter Creek Township. Four children are the fruits of this union: Osta,
Albert, Orra and Grace. Mr. Speir and wife are members of West Salem
Baptist Church. He is an ardent Republican, and does what he can toward
furthering the educational and religious interests of his township.
John H. Speir, farmer, post-office Greenville, youngest son of the late
James Speir, was born in West Salem Township. He was married, March 1,
1877, to Maggie C., daughter of John and Catharine Loutzenhiser, early set-
tlers of West Salem Township. Mrs. Speir was born in West Salem, and is
the mother of two children; Myrta and Elda. Politically Mr. Speir is a Re-
publican, and one of the enterprising farmers of the township.
John Templeton, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Armstrong
County, Penn., January 24, 1824, and is a son of William and Rachel (Starr)
Templeton, natives of Pennsylvania, and grandson of Philip Templeton, one
of the first commissioners of Armstrong County. They were married in Arm-
strong County, and in 1845 came to Greenville, and for two years kept the
Exchange Hotel. They then bought a farm in West Salem Township, where
they resided until death, the father dying in 1865, and the mother in 1877.
They reared nine children: Philip, Robert, who died at the age of sixty years;
John, Chambers, William, Culbertson, James Y. , Margaret, who married J. W.
James, and Mary E., who became the wife of A. R. Davis. The parents
were members of the United Presbyterian Church, and died in that faith.
Our subject was reared in his native county, and in 1846 followed his parents
to Mercer County. In the spring of 1849 he crossed the plains to California,
where he was successfully engaged in the mines nearly two years. He then
returned to Mercer County and purchased his present homestead, where he
has since resided. Mr. Templeton was married, January 5, 1852, to Sarah,
daughter of Jeremiah and Margaret (Steele) Bates, of Greene Township,
Mercer County. She was born in Crawford County, but removed to Greene
Township with her parents in childhood. Five children are the fruits of this
union: Chambers, William, John, Mary M., widow of Philip Eeimold, and
Grant. Mrs. Templeton died April 2, 1884, in the faith of the Methodist Epis-
i
j HISTOBY OF MEBCEE COUNTY. 1201
copal Church. Mr. Templeton is a Republican, and one of the largest land
owners and leading stock dealers of the county.
J. Y. Templeton, county commissioner and farmer, was born July 25, 1833,
in Armstrong County, Penn. , and is a son of W illiam and Rachel Templeton,
spoken of in the sketch of his brother John. Our subject was educated in the
disti-ict schools and in the Greenville public schools. In 1851 he was married
to Melvina Bates, daughter of Jeremiah and Margaret (Steele) Bates. Her
father was in the War of 1812, and Robert Steele, her grandfather, was a
soldier under Gen. Harrison in the same war. Our subject’s union gave him '
) four children, but only two survive: Margaret, married J. F. Turner, son of
/ Allen Turner, and has three children, Mary E., Frances M. and Julia; and
(Francis M., who married May McLaughlin, daughter of Richard McLaughlin;
Lizzie and Charles are dead. Mr. Templeton owns 118 acres of good land in
f West Salem Township, on which his son resides. He was census collector of
j the township in 1880, and was assessor of the same for two terms. In 1887
he was elected county commissioner, which position he is now filling. He be-
longs to the R. T. of T. , and he and wife are members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. He is a Republican. In 1849 William Templeton and
' four sons went to California with the view of mining. The father, Philip and
William traveled by water, while John and Chambers went overland with a mule
team. The two last remained about two years, and the others for one year,
and all were quite successful.
Feancis Teunkey, deceased, was born in Hartland, Conn., December 1,
1803, and was a son of Charles and Mary (Ganyard) Trunkey, the former a
native of France, and the latter of Connecticut. Charles Trunkey died in
Connecticut, and his widow subsequently came to Vernon Township, Trumbull
Co., Ohio, where she spent the remaining years of her life. Francis was
reared in Connecticut, but ere reaching his majority he came to Trumbull
County, Ohio. He was married, January 1, 1828, to Rachel, daughter of
John and Catharine Fell, pioneers of West Salem Township. She was born on
the old homestead, in West Salem, July 6, 1807, and is the mother of the
following children: John, Charles, Ursula, Francis, Orilla, Cyrus and George,
all of whom are dead excepting Orilla, who resides with her aged mother on
the old homestead. Soon after marriage Francis Trunkey located on a por-
tion of his father-in-law’s land, which he cleared up and improved, enduring
the usual trials and hardships incident to pioneer life. He was a plain, prac-
tical, Christian man, upright and honest, and thoroughly respected by the
community in which he resided up to his death, August 1, 1875. He died in
the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which denomination his
widow has been a life-long adherent. He was an ardent Democrat, and the
political and judicial eminence to which his eldest son, John, attained, has
made the name of Trunkey familiar in nearly every home in Pennsylvania.
*Hon. John Teunkey, late supreme judge of Pennsylvania, was descended
from an honored ancestry. On the paternal side he was of Huguenot descent,
dating back to the Revolution, his ancestor being one of the soldiers who came
over with LaFayette to take apart in our struggle for freedom. The name was
originally Tronquet. John Trunkey was born October 26, 1828, in Trumbull
County, Ohio, very near the Mercer County line. His father’s farm was partly
in Mercer County, Penn, and partly in Ohio. Here he grew up a quiet, silent
young man, not giving himself much to social pleasure, but intent on doing
his duty in the home and in the community. Feeling within himself that
there was some better thing in store for him than cultivating the soil, honora-
* Communicated.
1202
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
ble and dignified though that employment may be, he sought and obtained
what preparation was within his reach for professional life.
In the year 1849 he entered the office of Samuel Griffith, Esq., in Mercer,
and commenced the study of the law. Here the same quietness and peace
characterized him as in the home. He did not mingle much with society, but
gave diligent attention to study, striving to master the principles of law, and
make himself familiar with the rules of practice. He was admitted to the bar
in 1851, and became associated with Mr. Griffith, his preceptor, in the prac-
tice of the law. But his reading and study continued. He was very careful
in the preparation of his cases. No matter what the case was, before a justice
of the peace or the court of common pleas; whether there was involved the
matter of a few dollars or thousands, or the liberty and life of his client, every
case was most carefully and conscientiously prepared. On the 29th day of
September, 1853, he was united in marriage to Miss Agnes, daughter of the
late Hon. William 8. Garvin, who was ever the light of his dwelling, and his
advisor and comforter in the days that followed. Three children were born to
them while they resided in Mercer; William Garvin Trunkey, a member of
the bar of W arren County ; the other two are not living. God took them early
to his home above.
In 1866 Mr. Trunkey was elected to the office of president judge of the
Twenty-eighth Judicial District, then composed of Mercer and Venango
Counties. In 1876 he was re-elected to the same office. Venango County, to
which he had in the meantime removed, then, and since 1874, constituted the
twenty eighth district. In 1877 he was elected a justice of the supreme court
of this commonwealth, and entered upon its duties in January, 1878. On the
common pleas bench he was most patient and generous, listening to the tedious
details of business, hearing the arguments of counsel, giving every possible
opportunity to the parties in controversy, and saturating his own mind with the
spirit of the case, and striving to deal truly and impartially with all parties in-
volved . At the time of Judge Trunkey’ s elevation to the bench business had great-
ly increased in the courts, growing out of the great impetus given to trade by
the oil discoveries. The number of cases entered on the appearance docket, at
the August term 1866, being more than ten times greater than the number en-
tered at the corresponding term this year, 1888, and the business of the crimi-
nal courts was correspondingly larger. The result of this increase of business
was the accumulation of cases awaiting trial when the new judge came upon
the bench. A herculean task was before him, for the statute required that
all actions should be reached and have a fair opportunity of trial at least
within one year after they had been commenced. But the Judge girded
himself for the work, opening the courts at 8 o’clock in the morning, and sit-
ting until six in the evening, and often holding night sessions. The amount
of work performed therefore was prodigious. During his first year on the
bench he tried in Venango County no less than 120 indictments in the Quarter
Sessions and Oyer and Terminer, and 136 cases in the Common Pleas, and
he heard and decided 244 cases at argument courts, besides doing a vast amount
of work at Chambers, and keeping the business of the populous and important
county of Mercer well in hand. With all this pressure of business there was
no undue haste. Every man who had business with the courts felt that he
was fully heard, and his cause carefully considered. Such was the confidence
of the bar and of the people in both his disposition and ability to mete out
exact justice between litigant parties, that but few writs of error were taken to
his judgments, and such was the correctness of his rulings in the main, that, not-
withstanding the great number of novel and difficult questions which grew out
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1203
of the mining industries of this county in the earlier years of his service in
the Common Pleas, but eight of his judgments were reversed during the
eleven years that he sat in that court. As a justice of the supreme court he
manifested the same patient care and industry that had characterized his work
in the court below, listening to the arguments of counsel, making himself
familiar with the entire case, reading the “paper books,” and then carefully,
thoughtfully and conscientiously preparing the opinions assigned him, in
good, terse English, that will be a monument of his judicial acumen in the
days to come. He did not so much seek rhetorical ornament, or strive to em-
bellish his style by tropes and figures, as to set forth the truth and get at the
gist of the matter in hand. He did not even seek to parade his knowledge of
books, but to set forth the principles of the law and their application to the
matter in hand. He loved justice and truth and righteousness, and brought
them to bear in all his official work. But the last two or three years of his
labors on the bench were years of suffering and affliction. An insidious
disease was sapping the foundations of health and life, and causing the strong
man to feel the burden of his daily toil. This disease was developed in the nasal
passages, and soon approached the citadel of life, with most dangerous compli-
cations. Yet the gravity of the situation was known to but few, even of his
friends. He worked on, yet never complained, not a murmur ever escaped
his lips. On the bench hearing arguments, or in his study preparing opinions,
there seemed to be the same close mental application, although physica'l suf-
fering was wearing out his life’s energy.
In the month of June, 1887, by the advice of his medical counsel, he
went to London, England, to be treated by a medical expert. The time spent
in London was a period of great suffering, yet he was patient, resigned and
trustful, feeling that he was in the hands of a wise and kind Providence, and
that all would be well. But the time came when he felt and knew that the
end was near. He did not fear the change. Placing his hand in that of his
life partner, he spoke kindly of distant friends, and then engaged in prayer
for loved ones on that side the water, and on this side; for the church in
Franklin, the church of his love; thanked God for the gift of his Son, and
his hope of eternal life through him, and for the forgiveness of all his sins.
A little later he folded his hands on his bosom; closed his eyes for the last
sleep; a little while and the change came; the angels escorted him up to the
home, and he passed in to “ see the King in his beauty. ’ ' “ Softly as the
shadow of a summer cloud death fell on him. ” As a religious man Judge
Trunkey was eminently careful and conscientious. To him there was a yet
higher duty he owed to the church and to its great Head, than to all secular
affairs. Religion was an active principle in his life, and all he said or did
was influenced by it. After his removal to Franklin he was elected a ruling
elder in the Presbyterian Church, and at once entered upon the active duties
of that office. He delighted in visiting the poor and the afflicted, and was
generous, almost to a fault, in alleviating the wants of the destitute. At that
great convocation, the Pan Presbyterian Council, representing 20,000,000
of adherents, which opened its sessions in London in July, and in which
Judge Trunkey was to have sat as a representative from the New World,
Rev. Dr. Blakie, of Edinburgh, arose in his place, and, in a feeling announce-
ment, declared that “the death of Judge Trunkey is a great loss to Presby-
terianism in America.” He was a successful Sabbath-school superintendent.
During the two years of his incumbency of that office, he never entered the
school without the most thorough preparation of the lesson of the day.
Indeed, the secret of his success in life was, that he made a point of being
1204
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
thoroughly prepared for the matter before him by careful reading and patient
thinking.
In person Judge Trunkey was about six feet tall, slender, erect in his car-
riage, and deliberate yet quick in his movements. In manner he was always
courteous, and as approachable as a child. He had a wonderful amount of
charity and good feeling toward others. No words of bitterness or quick cen-
sure ever escaped his lips, but, on the contrary, he always had words of apol-
ogy and excuse for the evil words and deeds of those around him. There is
this crowning fact in his life: from his boyhood until he laid him down to
die, in a strange land, he led a pure, sweet and virtuous life. No one ever
heard him utter a word, or a sentence, that might not have been uttered in
the presence of any company. With all the high positions to which he had
attained and adorned, there were, in the judgment of his friends, still greater
possibilities before him. But these possibilities w^ere not to be realized in this
life, but they are and will be in the blessed life on which he has entered,
where the redeemed of the Lord shall be made kings and priests unto God.
Such a man was John Trunkey. As a star rises to the zenith without haste,
without rest, he rose to a high and higher manhood. He strove for the best
thought, the truest speech, the sincerest action. He dealt justly, loved mer-
cy, and walked humbly with God. Surely his life was a successful and happy
one. He was ha'ppy, too, in his death. It came in the fullness of his mental
vigor, before his clear sight was darkened, or his natural force abated. To
him it could not come amiss. He lived in the knowledge that life here is a
part of life hereafter, and death a transition. Immortality was not with him
a theory, but a fact, of which he was conscious. He strove to live as an im-
mortal, and death has consummated his life.
JohnTunison, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in West Salem Town-
ship, two miles north of Greenville, July 12, 1833, and is a son of James and
Hannah (Miller) Tunison, deceased pioneers of West Salem. In the last
decade of the eighteenth century, Richard Tunison, a native of New Jersey,
came from Westmoreland County, Penn., with a family of three children:
Zebulon, Sarah, who married John Klingensmith, and James, and settled
northwest of the site of Greenville. The mother died ere their coming, when
James was an infant. Richard Tunison passed the balance of his days on
the farm which he settled. James, the father of our subject, was five years
old when his father settled in this county, and he spent the rest of his life
in West Salem Township. He served in Oapt. Gilliland’s company in the
War of 1812. He married Hannah Miller, a native of Westmoreland County,
Penn., and a daughter of Christopher and Sophia Miller, who settled in West
Salem Township at an early date. They reared twelve children: Seovelia,
Amos (deceased), John, Elizabeth (deceased), Sophia, Mary, Martin, Rebecca,
Reuben, Sarah, Jennie and Samantha. The parents were life-long members
of the Lutheran Chui’ch, and in politics Mr. Tunison was a Democrat. He was
killed in Greenville, by his horses running away, October 11, 1854, and his
widow survived him until March 16, 1886. Our subject was reared on the old
homestead, and learned the blacksmith trade, at which he worked seven years.
On the death of his father he returned to the old home and took charge of the
same till the younger children had grown up. Mr. Tunison was married July
4, 1859, to Miss Margaret J. , daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth Holler. She
is a native of West Salem Township, and the mother of five children: Robert
E. (deceased), Alice A. (deceased), James S. (deceased), Addie J. and Harry J.
The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics Mr.
Tunison is one -of the leading Democrats of West Salem Township, as well as
one of its most enterprising farmers.
HISTORY OF MERCER COUNTY.
1205
Amos Tunison, deceased, was a son of James Tunison, and was born in
West Salem Township January 13, 1830, and here grew to manhood and was
married to Eliza Hubble, who bore him one son, William F. She died, and
he was again married in 1858 to Mrs. Elizabeth (Esslin) Stevenson, daughter
of William and Elizabeth (Mowry) Esslin of Allegheny County, Penn. Mrs.
Tunison had by her first husband, John Stevenson, two children: Elizabeth A.
and John E. By her marriage with Mr. Tunison she was blessed with four
children: James H. , Chambers R. , Samuel, deceased, and Amos. Mr. Tuni-
son was a Democrat, and was highly respected as an upright, honest man.
He dealt considerably in horses, and was known all over the county. He died
suddenly April 11, 1885, and was buried by the Lutheran minister, of which
faith his widow has been a life-long member.
The Woods Family were among the earliest settlers of West Salem Town-
ship. William and Mollie (Laird) Woods, natives of Ireland, immigrated to
Philadelphia and thence to Westmoreland County, Penn., about 1792. In
1797 William took up the tract of land in West Salem whereon his grandson,
Willis O. Woods, now lives, upon which he settled permanently the following
year. Four children were born ere the removal of the family to this county,
viz. : Jane, Alexander, Thomas and Rebecca. William, now a resident of Page
County, Iowa, was the first born in their new cabin home, his birth occurring
in January, 1800. Mary, John W. and Betsy were born subsequently. John
W. was born on the old homestead in 1804, and grew to manhood under the
parental roof. He was married January 6, 1835, to Jemima, daughter of Pat-
rick McLaughlin, a native of Ireland, whose parents settled in this township
in April, 1800. Mrs. Woods was born in Kinsman, Ohio, May 15, 1815, but
came to West Salem in infancy. She is the mother of thirteen children:
Laird, Electa J., deceased; Wilson, deceased; Elizabeth, deceased; John W. ,
Alexander, Simeon, deceased; Oscar, deceased; Lyman B. , Emeline, Willis O.,
Charles S. and Hattie. Mr. Woods always followed farming, and died on the
homestead March 17, 1869. He was a deacon of West Salem Baptist Church
many years, and his widow has been a life-long member of the same organiza-
tion. He was a Republican in politics, and an upright, honest and liberal -
hearted citizen, whom everyone respected. He was a kind father and husband,
and his memory is revered by numerous descendants. .
David Ziegler, farmer, post-office Greenville, was born in Lehigh County,
Penn., March 17, 1822. His parents were John and Sarah (Bortz) Ziegler,
natives of Lehigh County, where both spent their lives. David came to West
Salem Township in the spring of 1841, and about seven years afterward pur-
chased the farm whereon he has since resided. He was married January 14,
1849, to Miss Julia, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Bear) Rice, of West
Salem Township. Mrs. Ziegler was born in Lehigh County, Penn. , March
27, 1827, and came to Mercer County with her parents in the spring of 1837.
Mr. Ziegler and wife are members of the Reformed Church, and in politics he
is a Democrat. For forty-seven years he has lived in West Salem, and is one
of the prosperous farmers of the township.
GREENE TOWNSHIP.
Abraham Artman, farmer, post-office Jamestown, Penn., was born in West
Salem Township October 17, 1811. His parents, Jacob and Hannah (Fry)
Artman, were natives of Westmoreland County, Penn., where both grew to
maturity. They came to West Salem Township, where they were married
about 1809. In 1813 they returned to Westmoreland County, and resided
there five years, when they again came to West Salem Township. They reared
1206
HISTORY OF MERGER COUNTY.
the following children : Abraham, Michael, deceased; Savilla, deceased; John,
Elizabeth, deceased; Catharine and Jacob, deceased. The parents resided in
Mercer County up till death, the father dying at the home of his son Abraham
in Greene Township, and the mother some years afterward at her son John’s
home in West Salem. Jacob served in Capt. McCord’s company in the War
of 1812, and both he and wife were members of the Lutheran Church. Abra-
ham has spent nearly his whole life in West Salem and Greene Townships, and
has always followed farming. He was married November 9, 1834, to Harriett,
daughter of Samuel and Mary Parker, pioneers of West Salem. Mrs. Artman
was born in that township April 27, 1811, and is the mother of ten children,
eight of whom are living and heads of families: Samuel, Hannah, Sophia,
Abraham, Jacob, Wilson, Mary Ann and John. In November, 1834, Mr.
Artman settled on his present home farm, taking up his abode in a, small log
cabin, into which he moved with his young wife two weeks after marriage.
From that time up to the present this venerable couple have resided on the
same farm, and are among the most respected pioneers of Greene Township.
They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and though Mr. Art-
man has been a life-long Democrat, he has recently allied himself with the
Prohibition party. He is one of the successful and upright farmers of Mercer
County.
Samuel A. Christy, farmer, post-office Jamestown, Penn., is a son of
Samuel and Jane (Hannah) Christy. The father of our subject was a native
of Westmoreland County, Penn. He came to Mercer County about 1831, and
settled on the place where his son Samuel now lives. He purchased a tract of
100 acres, and engaged in farming. He died in 1849, his wife surviving him
until 1884, dying on the old homestead. Their family consisted of five chil-
dren: Andrew R. , James H. , Robert, Samuel A. and Margaret J. , all of whom
are dead excepting our subject. James H. was the only one of the family who
married. His wife was Miss Margaret J., daughter of John Richey, of Green-
ville, Penn. By this marriage they had five children, of whom two are living:
Lizzie, who resides with our subject, and Frank R. Our subject was born in
1840, on the old homestead, where he has always resided, and is engaged in
farming. He received his education at the common schools. He is unmarried,
and is one of the progressive farmers of Greene Township. Politically Mr.
Christy is a Republican.
Joseph L. Dennison, merchant clothing and gents’ goods, post-office James-
town, Penn., is a son of John and Sarah (Troutman) Dennison, and was born
December 16, 1847, in Jamestown. The father of our subject is a native of
Hickory Township, and came to Jamestown in 1842, where our subject was
reared and educated. Mr. Dennison at the age of fifteen entered the employ
of Joseph Carr, with whom he remained until he entered into partnership with
him in 1867. In 1888 he severed his connection with Mr. Carr, and engaged
in his present business. In 1880 our subject was appointed postmaster for
Jamestown, which position he filled until 1885. He is a member of the F. &
A. M. , Lodge No. 424, of Jamestown, Royal Arch Chapter No. 212, of Green-
ville, Penn., and Mount Olivet Commandery No. 30, of Erie, Penn. Our sub-
ject is also a member of the Presbyterian Church of Jamestown, Penn. He
was married in 1870 to Miss AlanaM. , daughter of the late James G. Mc-
Lean, of Pittsburgh, Penn. , and by this union they have two children : J ames
Me. and John D. Mr. Dennison takes an active interest in educational mat-
ters, and politically he is a Republican
David Gamble, physician and justice of the peace, post-office Jamestown,
Penn., was born July 31, 1831. His father was a native of Ireland, and was
HISTOBY OF MEBCEB COUNTY.
1207
twice married, his wife dyin^ in Ireland, leaving three children, one of whom,
John D. , still lives, and is a farmer of Crawford County. His father came to
America in 1821, as a missionary for the Presbyterian Church of Ireland, and,
being a classical scholar, turned his attention to the profession of teaching
for a part of his time. He first landed in Newfoundland, next came to Boston,
Mass., and then to Jamestown, where he taught a classical school for many
years. His second wife was Elizabeth Parr, a native of Ireland, and by this
marriage they had eight children: Mary A., wife of James Snodgrass; Martha,
Caroline, Dr. William J., who died in 1888; Robert, who died in 1857; Andrew
J., Hugh M. and David, our subject. Mr. Gamble was professor of languages
in the colleges of Greenville and Franklin. He died January 30, l845, in
Crawford County, Penn., his widow siirviving him till October 13, 1871. Our
subject was educated by his father, and commenced the study of medicine with
his brother. Dr. William J. Gamble, and was graduated from the Cincinnati
Medical College in 1859. He established himself in Jamestown, in 1860, and
and was actively engaged practicing for ten years. In 1867 he engaged in
the drug business, and has confined his practice to his ofl&ce on account of his
health. The Doctor was elected county coroner in 1876, which office he filled
for three years. In 1872 he was elected justice of the peace for Jamestown,
and is now serving his fourth term. He is one of the present school directors,
and secretary of the school board. He was married in 1862 to Miss Samantha,
daughter of William G. Mossman, of West Salem Township, and by this
marriage they have three children: Clara, born in 1863; Frank, born in 1866,
and Jesse, born in 1869.
John Makley, deceased, was born in County West Meath, Ireland, and
there grew to manhood. In 1839 he immigrated to the United States, and
became engaged on public works in Eastern Pennsylvania. In 1841 he located
in Greene Township, Mercer Co., Penn., on the farm where his son James now
lives, and which his brother Richard purchased in March, 1840. He was mar-
ried in Greenville, in 1849, to Ann Cullen, a native of County Wicklow, Ire-
land, who reared three children: James, Mary, wife of Peter Bnrns, and Ro-
sanna, wife of John Cullen. They began life in the forest of Greene Town-
ship, and endured the hardships and trials of pioneer days, but by steady, per-
severing industry and energy he accumulated nearly 200 acres of land, which
he cleared up and brought to a high state of cultivation. Mr. Marley and
wife were members of the Catholic Church, and reared their children in that
faith. In politics he was a stanch Democrat, and one of the prosperous farmers
of Mercer County. His wife died January 28, 1878, and he was again married,
in September of the same year, to Elizabeth Harrison, who survives him. Mr.
Marley was an upright, honest man, whose word was ever as good as his bond,
and he resided on the old homestead until his death, March 3, 1883. James,
his only son, was born on the homestead November 20, 1850, and has always
lived in the county. He was married October 31, 1876, to Margaret, daughter
of Patrick O’Donnell, of Crawford County, Penn. She was born in James-
town, Penn., and is the mother of three children: John, Patrick and Laura A.
James Marley is a Democrat in politics, and inherited the old homestead settled
by his father forty- seven years ago.
Robekt McLaughlin, farmer, post-office Jamestown, Penn. , was born in
Pymatuning Township, Mercer Co., Penn., January 6, 1828. His grandpar-
ents were Henry and Nancy McLaughlin, natives of the County Derry, Ireland,
who settled in what is now Greene Township toward the close of the last cen-
tury, where both died. They reared six children : John, Mary, Thomas, Will-
iam, Nancy and Michael, all of whom are dead. William, the father of our
1208
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
subject, was born and reared in Grreene Township. He married Rebecca,
daughter of Robert McCord, a pioneer of Pymatuning Township (whose son,
Robert, was a captain in the War of 1812), and reared a family of twelve chil-
dren; Thomas, deceased; Robert, Walker, Perry, Eleanor, Nancy, Henry,
Washington, deceased; Jonathan, Allie, Jane, deceased, and Michael, deceased.
The parents were members of the Methodist Protestant Church, and died upon
the old homestead, where their son Robert now lives. Our subject has passed
most of his life in this county, and was married June 24, 1866, to Martha A.,
daughter of George and Elizabeth Brown, natives of England, who settled in
Mercer County in 1844, where both died. Mrs. McLaughlin was born in
England, and is the mother of seven children: William (deceased), Orrin A. ,
Rollin O. , Hermer R. , Ralph S., John O. and Earl R. Politically Mr. Mc-
Laughlin is a Democrat, and one of the well-known farmers of his township.
William B. Plant, commission and produce merchant, post-office James-
town, Penn., is a son of James M. and Mary A. (Bailey) Plant, and was born
August 24, 1848, in Wayne, Ohio. He received a common-school education.
He was bred a farmer, which occupation he followed until 1877, when he
located at Jamestown, Penn., and engaged in the produce and commission
business. Mr. Plant is one of Jamestown’s enterprising citizens. He is at
present one of the members of the council and a school director. He has
been twice married. His first wife was Josephine, daughter of Alonzo
Moorse, of Andover, Ohio, who died in 1873, leaving three children: Mary,
May and Plummer. His second wife was Miss Amy E., daughter of James
Scott, of Kinsman, Ohio, and by this marriage they have four children: Scott,
Grace, Bessie and Sarah.
Porter Family. — Samuel Porter and his brother Joseph, natives of County
Armagh, Ireland, immigrated to this country about 1825. Samuel purchased
a farm of 100 acres of land one mile southwest of Jamestown, Penn., where
he lived till his death, which occurred May 31, 1875. He married Elizabeth
Cochran, daughter of Samuel Cochran, a native of Ireland, who came to this
country and settled in Greene Township. Mrs. Porter died May 1, 1875.
Their children were: Nancy, who died at the age of fifteen; Robert, who was
a member of the One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and died
from a wound received at the battle of the Wilderness; Samuel C., William,
Esther, deceased, and John, deceased. Samuel C. was born July 25, 1840, in
Greene Township, where he was reared and educated. In his early life Mr.
Porter for a number of years was engaged in teaching school in his native town-
ship. At the time of Lee’s raid into Pennsylvania, in 1863, he enlisted in the
Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania State Militia Volunteers. He is one of the present
school directors of his township. He married Mary L. , daughter of Samuel
and Nancy (Henry) Calvert, and by this marriage they have six children:
Frank C., Robert B. , William L., Nancy E., Jesse and Samuel. William,
the fourth child of Samuel, was born December 30, 1844, upon the homestead
where he was reared. He was educated at the common schools of the town-
ship and the Jamestown Seminary, and completed his education at the Iron
City College of Pittsburgh. He is unmarried, and is engaged with his brother,
Samuel, in general farming. Mr. Porter and his brother are two of the enter-
prising farmers of Greene Township. Politically they are Republicans.
James B. Robinson, publisher of the Jamestown Sentinel, post-office James-
town, Penn., is a son of Thomas and Emily Robinson, and was born March 2,
1868, at New Wilmington, Lawrence Co., Penn., was educated at the Sheakley-
ville Normal School, was taught the trade of a printer in the office of the J ames-
town Sentinel, and in 1885 purchased the same, which he has since continued
HISTORY OP MERCER COUNTY.
1209
to publish. Our subject in politics is a Republican, yet his paper is independ-
ent. He is a member of the United Presbyterian Church of Jamestown.
David Shekbondy, farmer, is a sou of Philip and Elizabeth (Shoope) Sher-
bondy. The father of our subject, in company with his two brothers, John and
Jacob, who were natives of Lehigh County, came from Westmoreland County and
settled in Mercer County in 1797, on the farm where our subject now lives.
Philip took up 100 acres and afterward purchased land until he owned some
600 acres, which he divided among his children. He was a soldier in the War
of 1812. He married in Lehigh County, and one son, John, was born to him
in that county. Their other children were Elizabeth, Catherine, John,
Mason, George, Philip, Joseph, Sarah and our subject. Mr. Sherbondy, Sr.,
died in 1838, his widow dying in 1843. He was a farmer by occupation, and
a prominent member of the Lutheran Church. Our subject was born in 1839,
and was reared on the farm where he now lives. He has always followed
farming for an occupation. He was married, in 1842, to Rebecca, daughter
of Henry Lininger, and by this marriage they have had eight children, live
of whom grew to maturity: Elizabeth, Mrs. Potter Andrews; Henry, married
Margaret Loutzenhiser; Laura, Mrs. John Smith; David, married Mary Deitz;
Sarah A., Mrs. James Loutzenhiser. Our subject is a man who never sought
office, a plain, unassuming farmer, and a good citizen. Politically he is a
Democrat.
Vance A. Stewart, farmer, post-office Jamestown, Penn., is a son of James
and Jane (Thompson) Stewart; she is a daughter of James Thompson, 'one of
the early settlers of Shenango Township. The father of our subject was born
in Hickory Township, where he resided till his death, in 1838. His widow
survives him, and lives with the wndow of her son, James, in Hemptield Town-
ship. Their family were: James, who died April 16, 1888; our subject, and
John P. , who died in Hickory Township July 16, 1884. Our subject was
born February 21, 1836, in Hickory Township where he was reared and
educated. In early life Mr. Stewart taught in the township schools, and in
1861 located in Venango County and engaged in the oil business, where he
remained some eight years. In 1869 he returned to Mercer County and
engaged in farming, having purchased his present farm previously. In 1881
our subject removed to Greenville, where he lived until the spring of 1888.
He has served as school director for his township and other township offices.
He was married in 1864 to Miss Melissa, daughter of the late Dr. Cyrus
Ramsey, of New York City. Six living childi’en are the fruits of this marriage:
Mary E. , Willard L., Virda, Myron V., Frank and Laura. He is a member
of the United Presbyterian Church of Greenville, and in politics is a
Republican.
John William Wertz, farmer, post-office Greenville, Penn., is a son of John
and Ann (Gaumer) Wertz, natives of Lehigh County, Penn. In 1835 the
father of our subject, in company with his father and grandfather, both of
whom were named John, came to Mercer County and settled in Greene Town-
ship, where our subject now lives. The great-grandfather of our subject had
three daughters, Lydia, Polly, Elizabeth, and two sons, John and Peter; the last
named remained in Lehigh County. John, the grandfather of our subject, mar-
ried Maria Adams, and their children were John, JacA, Daniel, Polly, Han
nah and Catherine, all of whom are deceased except Hannah, who is the
widow of Ephraim Roger. The father of our subject was born in Lehigh
County, and his family were: Sabina, who died January 7, 1859; Charles
Henry, of Evansburg, Penn.; James Wilson, who died July 7, 1853; Isaac
Matthias, of Forest County, Penn. ; John William, our subject; Joseph Frank-
1210
HISTOEY OP MEECEE COUNTY.
lin, who died in 1839; Julia A., wife of Fred Buck, of Greenville, Penn.;
Sarah M., of Greenville, Penn.; Eeuben Edwin, of Meadville, Penn. John,
the father of our subject, died October 23, 1856, aged fifty-two years, and his
widow May 3, 1877, aged sixty-eight years, one month and nine days. Our sub-
ject was born November 16, 1837, on the homestead farm where he was also
reared, and has always been engaged in farming. He was married January 15,
1885, to Miss Eva Elizabeth, daughter of William C. Eich, of Otter Creek Town-
ship, and they have one son, William J. Mr. Wertz is a member of the A.
O. U. W., Lodge No. 64, of Greenville, and is also a member of the Lutheran
Church. Politically he is a Democrat. Of our subject’s brothers, Charles
Henry married Rosa Kodure, and has John S. , Caroline, Adolete, Desolate,
Anna, Ella, Armitta, Frank, Bertha and Charley; Isaac Matthias married
Lidda Christbaum, and has Emma, Charles J. , William L., Harry J., Alice;
Ruben Edwin married Sarah L. McQuiston, and has Flora and Fred. Of his
sisters, Julia A. married Fred Buck, and has one child, George G.
#
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